Shows
James and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus ep! Winter Writing Retreat with Lynne AinsworthLynne Ainsworth is the founder of Writers at the Woolshed, an emerging writer, and a person who 'loves hanging out with people who read and write'. She loves it so much, she not only created a pop-up festival to connect authors with regional readers and writers, she's now hosting the first Winter Writing Retreat, featuring masterclasses with Eleanor Limprecht, Betty O'Neil, Audrey Molloy, Ashley Kalagian Blunt and Lee Kofman (from eps 3, 76 and 112). In this special bonus episode, Lynne tells us how she first became a festival director, and shares details of the retreat, happening 13-18 July in Mit...2025-04-2924 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeChoosing to have children as a creative with Dinuka McKenzie and Lee KofmanWhat considerations come into choosing to have a baby for creatives? And once baby enters the picture, how do you balance parenting with your creative practice? We ask Dinuka McKenzie and Lee Kofman, two beloved past guests who happen to be both authors and parents, about their decision to have children and how they manage their writing lives as parents. Plus, James has a big announcement – you'll never guess what it is. Lee Kofman is a Russian-born, Israeli-Australian memoirist, novelist, editor and writing coach. She’s the author of three fiction books and two mem...2025-03-1152 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeSurviving second book syndrome - James and Ashley talk 'Cold Truth'Cold Truth, Ashley's new thriller, is out now. James and Ashley discuss just how difficult writing this book was, plus why she chose to set in a city that makes headlines for being colder than the surface of Mars. They also chat about real-life research, including the time Ashley learned how to pick a lock with a credit card. Plus, James horrifies Ashley with a true story about digital privacy. Cold Truth is available now from Booktopia, your local bookshop and your library. Books & authors discussed in this episode: Everyone and Everything by Nadine Cohen My Drea...2025-02-1138 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhat have we read? Every book recommendation from 2024Here it is - the annual end-of-year book recommendation extravaganza! This bumper episode contains every single edition of 'What are you reading?' from 2024, in which James, Ashley and guests discuss the books on their shelves, and why you should read them too (or not). Use it as a last-minute Christmas shopping guide or a wishlist for your own personal library in 2025. Books and authors discussed in this episode (brace yourself, this is a long list): From episode 92 (Kylie Ladd, author of 'I'll Leave You With This') The Vitals by Tracy Sorensen (Kylie) The...2024-12-171h 40James and Ashley Stay at HomeCompelling, subversive, beautiful: the books we loved most in 2024It's that time of year again - the annual Bed on a Plinth Awards, in which James and Ashley discuss the best books they've read in the last twelve months! Use this particularly eclectic list to gather Christmas gift ideas, or simply top up your own 'to be read' pile. Books & authors discussed in this episode (spoilers below!): Red River Road by Anna Downes The Last Trace by Petronella McGovern An Ambush of Widows by R.W.R. McDonald (audiobook) Seventeen Years Later by JP Pomare Girl Falling by Hayley Scrivenor The Pulling by Adele Dumont (i...2024-12-1040 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeStaying afloat with Olympic gold medallist Michael Klim'For me, the only decision was to put myself out there and become more of service to others.' Olympic gold medallist Michael Klim speaks with James about his diagnosis and life with CIDP, the same autoimmune condition James lives with. Michael discusses his childhood and Olympic career, how his worsening health affected his mental health, and how he ultimately decided to become vocal about his condition and support others. Michael Klim is a renowned Australian swimmer. He competed in three Olympic Games and won six medals, including two gold. Since 2020, Michael has lived with a r...2024-10-0849 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhen reviews get personal with Robyn Harding, author of 'The Haters'What's it like putting your creative work out in the world and discovering that some people hate it? In episode 103 of James and Ashley Stay at Home, international bestselling author Robyn Harding joins James and Ashley to explore her extensive career in writing. She shares her experience of releasing her first book in 2004, and how her journey has evolved up to the launch of her latest novel, The Haters. Robyn also shares insights into the challenges of dealing with online negativity, the psychological impact of reviews, and what inspired her to write a story centered ar...2024-09-1753 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'You had me at bog people' with Zahid Gamieldien, author of 'All the Missing Children''I wasn't even sure I was going to write a novel.' Author Zahid Gamieldien joins us to discuss his debut novel, All the Missing Children. Zahid speaks about his start writing short stories, his decision to transition to novel writing based on the advice of a publisher, and how he sees the differences between prose and screenwriting. He also speaks about the challenge of fitting in writing time while raising children, and his four-year-old son's assessment of his work. Plus, more spec fiction talk! Zahid Gamieldien is an author, screenwriter, edit...2024-08-2732 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeSurviving betrayal (and so much more) with Khin Myint, author of 'Fragile Creatures''I didn't believe that I'd stalked my partner.' In episode 101, we speak with debut author Khin Myint about the multiple strands of biography he explores in his memoir Fragile Creatures. One of these is the sudden and extreme betrayal he faced from his ex-partner, who accused him of stalking her. We also discuss the ambiguous illness his sister Theda lived with for years, at times diagnosed as depression, CFS/ME and chronic Lyme disease, and how she chose to end her life after thirteen years of symptoms and divisiveness. We also consider whether our so...2024-08-0642 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhere snark meets explosive laughter – a podcast retrospectiveWe made it to 100 episodes! In this celebration of books, reading and creative community, James and Ashley reflect on how the podcast came about, their favourite books and moments from the podcast, and how their lives, health and writing have changed over the four years since episode 1. You'll also hear from a variety of past guests and listeners, and get an update on the newest books from all our incredible range of previous guests. Plus, we announce the winner of our book pack giveaway. Authors and books discussed in this episode: Red River Road by...2024-07-161h 07James and Ashley Stay at HomeWe want you to be a part of episode 100!We want to hear from you! The 100th episode of 'James and Ashley Stay at Home' is fast approaching, and it’s going to be a very special one. To celebrate this milestone, we want you to send us a voice memo with your thoughts, comments and memories about the show, to be included in episode 100. This is open to anyone, whether you're an old listener, a new discoverer or a previous guest! Did the podcast introduce you to a book you ended up loving? Is there an episode that’s really stuck in your mind...2024-06-1303 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeCome for the misophonia with Imbi Neeme, author of 'Kind of, Sort of, Maybe but Probably Not'We've made it to episode 98! Author Imbi Neeme joins James and Ashley to discuss life with misophonia, a hypersensitivity to sounds that she describes as 'like a cheese grater against the brain'. Imbi speaks both about how she discovered that her personal experiences are shared by others, and how she's explored the condition in her latest novel, 'Kind of, Sort of, Maybe but Probably Not.' They also discuss the challenge of second books and developing a writing career in an industry obsessed with debuts. Imbi Neeme won the 2019 Penguin Literary Prize for The Spill, which was pu...2024-06-1145 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeNeeding to know – Ashley discusses narrative driveThroughout their careers, James and Ashley have each picked up some excellent writing tricks, plus developed a few of their own. Now, they’re each sharing a few of their most effective writing techniques (starting with episode 94 - James’ shortcut to compelling characters). In this episode, Ashley gives a mini-masterclass on narrative drive and shares some revelations inspired by a book she refuses to name. She breaks down the four components of narrative drive in writing and explores the importance of each. Plus, she shares the official title of her forthcoming thriller! Books and a...2024-05-1629 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'I'm Tom Cruise in Bulgaria' with Liz Nugent, author of 'Strange Sally Diamond'‘I had thought I was going to be like Harper Lee. I was going to write one book, it was going to be a massive global success, and then I would go into hiding.’ Hear from award-winning Irish author Liz Nugent, whose novel Strange Sally Diamond may have turned Ashley into a total fangirl. Liz discusses her journey from a childhood accident leading to dystonia, to finding success and self-confidence through writing, and to her recent brain surgery. Liz also dives into her latest novel, sharing insights into the creation of its unique protagonist and her wr...2024-04-0243 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeCloning, shame and principles – James shares tips on writing characterThroughout their writing careers, James and Ashley have each picked up some excellent writing tricks, plus developed a few of their own. In the coming months, they’ll each share a few of their most effective writing techniques, starting with James’ shortcut to compelling characters. British science-fiction author Karen Traviss writes remarkably nuanced characters. She also writes remarkably quickly, once tapping out 37,000 words in two days. In this episode, James delves into one of Traviss's novels to understand what makes her characters so compelling. He then shares the four questions he now always asks himself about his chara...2024-03-1231 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus ep! Learn how to run a writers group with Ashley Kalagian BluntIf you listen to James and Ashley Stay at Home, you know that both Ashley and James credit much of their skill development to their writers group. And they're not the only ones! You can hear rom com author Jonathon Shannon talk about what he learned from the group, as well as literary fiction author Amy Lovat. Like Ashley and James, they joined as aspiring writers, and their manuscripts have gone on to be published. Ashley's such a big fan of writers groups, she's put together a new on-demand workshop on the topic – and this short bonus ep tells you all abo...2024-01-1605 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'I was going to ask this privately, but...' - James and Ashley at the Boorowa Literary FestivalThe tables are turned! Recorded live at the Inaugural Boorowa Literary Festival, festival director, book lover, and all-round excellent human Jeremy Clarke interviews James and Ashley. Learn more about the Absolutely Superb Bibliothèque and Occasional Wine Bar and its upcoming literary events here! Hear the James and Ashley Stay at Home origin story! Discover the connection between wine bars and readers. Plus, get an answer to the classic question, 'You’ve just had a farm visit – how was it?' Learn more about Ashley's psychological thriller Dark Mode and get your copy here or from your local bookshop. Learn more about James...2024-01-0935 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe Bed on a Plinth Awards: The best books we read in 2023It's books wrap-up season! James and Ashley are getting on the bandwagon and discussing their favourite reads from 2023 in the first annual 'Bed on a Plinth Awards.' Books and authors discussed in this episode (warning: spoilers!): Dark Mode by Ashley Kalagian Blunt Crushing by Genevieve Novak The Sun Walks Down by Fiona McFarlane Desire by Jessie Cole Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo A Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Saunders The Wych Elm by Tana French When One of Us Hurts by Monica Vuu Fire with Fire by Candice Fox Strange...2023-12-1922 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to climb a ladder covered in butter with Laurie Steed, author of 'Love, Dad'‘I wanted to find compassion for me and for any writer out there who’s doing the best they can but it’s not working out the way they planned.’ Author Laurie Steed shares how crippling anxiety affected both his literary career and his experience of fatherhood. Before he could address the anxiety, he first had to unlearn the lessons around masculinity that prevented him from expressing vulnerability. Working with a creativity coach, Laurie has developed new ways of thinking about his writing, his career, and himself. Plus, James and Ashley discuss their own ongoing health cha...2023-11-2840 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeStarting late with Penguin Literary Prize winner Annette Higgs‘When I was a lawyer, I knew what was good enough, because if you did the job properly, you were paid, and if you didn’t do the job properly, you were sued. It was very clear-cut. With writing, you never know. There’s a lot of subjectivity.’ James speaks with Penguin Literary Prize winning author Annette Higgs about her debut novel, On a Bright Hillside in Paradise. They discuss the process of researching family ancestry to craft historical fiction, as well as the challenge of taking up writing later in life. Plus, Annette shares the story of how s...2023-11-0735 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'These men do exist:' the Dark Mode spoilers episodeAshley reveals the inspiration behind the twists and turns in her bestselling psychological thriller, Dark Mode. Together with return guest Jacinta Dietrich and self-described enthusiastic reader Ali Thomas, Ashley and James delve into every scintillating Dark Mode detail they normally can’t discuss, including the novel's real-life inspirations. Jacinta Dietrich is the author of This Is Us Now, and co-hosts Differently Brained, a podcast focussed on neurodivergent celebration and mental health awareness. Ali Thomas is a former high school English teacher and featured as part of the inaugural Boorowa Literary Festival. Upcoming events: T...2023-10-171h 00James and Ashley Stay at HomeHow hard can a book be? with Jonathon Shannon, author of 'Bound to Happen''I was still in that really optimistic, sort of naive, wonderful space as an early writer, where you think everything you write is just publishable.' Debut author Jonathon Shannon shares his journey from aspiring writer to published author – including the decision to join James and Ashley's writers' group. We discuss how he took his debut romcom from a four-word pitch to a publishing contract, the rejection of his first manuscript, and his transition to writing romantic comedy alongside his wife, author Elodie Cheesman. Plus, do you have a book you're saving to read before you...2023-09-2647 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to stop pushing yourself with Amy Lovat, author of 'Mistakes and Other Lovers'‘I conflate so many experiences throughout my life with the level of pain I was in at the time.’ Amy Lovat, debut author of Mistakes and Other Lovers and founder of Secret Book Stuff, gets real with us about the challenges of maintaining a creative practice with endometriosis. She also discusses writing about the dark side of modern evangelical Christianity, setting her novel in her hometown of Newcastle, and that time she was rushed to emergency in agonising pain and – well, you’ll just have to listen. Plus, James and Ashley receive personalised reading recommendations from this master b...2023-09-0553 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHealing from grief and loss through nature with Indira Naidoo, author of 'The Space Between the Stars'After Indira Naidoo lost her sister to suicide during the pandemic lockdowns, she unexpectedly found herself turning to nature to help her heal. Speaking with Ashley, Indira shares the journey through grief that led to her memoir 'The Space Between the Stars,' including her relationship with an especially consoling Moreton Bay fig. She describes the challenge of writing the book when she struggled even to speak her sister’s name, and delves into our innate need to connect with the natural world. Indira Naidoo is one of Australia’s most popular broadcasters and authors. During...2023-08-1529 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'A good-hearted kid in a difficult environment,' with Mark Brandi author of 'Southern Aurora'Mark Brandi is the author of four novels, including his latest, Southern Aurora. He joins us to discuss how a short story he began in 2015 became his newest novel, his choice to set the story in rural Australia in the 1980s, and how he writes so convincingly from a child's point of view. We also talk about sustaining yourself creatively over multiple books. Plus, who's going to die first – Ashley or James? Is one of us dead already? Listen to find out! Mark Brandi's bestselling novel, Wimmera, won the coveted British Crime Writers' Association Debut Dagg...2023-07-2548 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWho can I kill? with Julie Janson, author of 'Madukka the River Serpent'It wasn’t until a year into working on her novel 'Madukka the River Serpent' that Julie Janson decided to make it a crime novel. At once a story of corporate greed, environmental destruction and government inaction, 'Madukka the River Serpent' also celebrates older women who hold their families together in the face of extreme challenges. In this episode, Julie discusses the writing of her first crime novel, how she juxtaposes humour with serious political issues, and why she recommends getting involved with some outrageous men. The South Coast Writers Festival is happening 18 to 20 August at W...2023-07-0436 minJames and Ashley Stay at Home'It changed my life' – the Ray Koppe Young Writers FellowshipHow can winning an artistic residency impact your creative career? Hear from four Australian authors about their experiences entering and winning the ASA/Varuna Ray Koppe Young Writers Fellowship, and how their careers have developed since. Hannah Bent is the author of When Things Are Alive They Hum. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and Film from Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in London. She undertook further study in both directing and screenwriting at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School and has a Masters in Creative Writing from the University o...2023-06-1252 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeSurviving brain surgery with Karina May, author of 'Duck à l’Orange for Breakfast'The idea for Karina May's novel came to her while she was in the ICU, recovering from brain surgery. In this open-hearted interview, Karina shares the experience of living with a brain tumour for two decades before undergoing multiple surgeries to have it removed, and the resulting anxiety and creative inspiration she experienced. Despite now being the author of the popular romcom 'Duck à l’Orange for Breakfast,' Karina admits there was a time in her life when she didn't believe she was creative. We discuss the connection between her writing and health experiences, and what she's lear...2023-05-2343 min
James and Ashley Stay at HomeUpcoming events! Plus, win a signed copy of DenizenA bonus episode to share some exciting upcoming events. Plus, listen to find out how you can win a signed copy of Denizen! Upcoming events with Ashley: Brisbane Writers Festival Thrills and Chills – Saturday 13 May, 4-5 pm, Stale Library Queensland ($25) Author Talk, Sutherlandshire Libraries – Monday 15 May, 6.30-7.30 pm, free, RSVP required The Listening Station – Tuesday 16 May, 6.45-8 pm, Art Bau Gallery, Brookvale ($30) Enter the Dark Web – in conversation at Sydney Mechanics' School of Arts, Tuesday 30 May, 12.30-1.30 pm, free Words on the Waves Festival Shaping Australia panel – Sunday 4 June, 11.30 am - 12.30 pm, day or weekend pass Upcoming ev...2023-05-1006 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeUpcoming events! Plus, win a signed copy of DenizenA bonus episode with details of James and Ashley's upcoming events. Listen to find out how you could win a signed copy of Denizen! Upcoming events with James: Sydney Writers Festival presents James McKenzie Watson – Wednesday 24 May, 6.30-7.30 pm, Penrith City Library ($5 – book here) Sydney Writers Festival Life in the Landscape – Thursday 25 May, 11 am to 12 pm, Carriageworks ($15-$25 – book here) Yarrum Storyfest – 1-2 July, Yarrum Regional Theatre, Yarrum, VIC ($25-$40 book here) Upcoming events with Ashley: Brisbane Writers Festival Thrills and Chills – Saturday 13 May, 4-5 pm, Stale Library Queensland ($25) Author Talk, Sutherlandshire Libraries – Monday 15 May, 6.30-7.30 pm...2023-05-0906 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeFinding order in chaos with Anna Spargo-Ryan, author of 'A Kind of Magic'‘There’s a reason that this has happened. Science could predict this outcome for me, even though I feel like I’m in constant chaos.’ Anna Spargo-Ryan is the author of the memoir A Kind of Magic. In this illuminating interview, she describes the gap between what science understands and what she’s experienced over a lifetime of mental illness. Anna speaks about the profound impact one ‘silly’ suggestion from her therapist had, as well as the deficiency of language about mental illness and resulting misunderstandings. She also reads to us about the years when she faced an inability t...2023-05-0245 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeEmotional honesty in writing and life with Lee Kofman, author of 'The Writer Laid Bare'Author Lee Kofman returns to discuss her hugely popular writing memoir and guide, The Writer Laid Bare – James's favourite book of 2022! Lee dives into the concept of emotional honesty and 'nonesty' in writing and life, and why it's essential to her practice. We also discuss the importance of reading as writers and her recommendation to 'read up'. Lee explores how writers can ensure they're not writing with political blinkers, how to craft complex and realistic characters, and what part of The Writer Laid Bare has resonated most with readers. This episode offers inspiration and advice for a...2023-04-1150 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeUpcoming events! A mess of a bonus episodeIn this poorly planned mess of a bonus episode, James and Ashley each share some upcoming events. Stick around to hear the punchline to James' favourite joke. Ashley's events: Thursday 9 March, 6.30pm, Readings Carlton, Melbourne launch with Lyn Yeowart Wednesday 15 March, 8pm: online event with Better Reading, join on Facebook Live Wednesday 29 March, 8pm: online event with Global Girls Online, join on Facebook Live Thursday 30 March, 7pm: Petersham Bowling Club Sunday 2 April, 1.30 pm: Ashley at Newcastle Writers Festival, speaking about My Name Is Revenge (free!) James' events: Scone Literary Festival - March 10 - 12, Scone NSW (J...2023-03-0505 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLaunching 'Dark Mode' with author Ashley Kalagian Blunt – mini-ep #4A garden shop owner goes out for her morning run and discovers the body of a woman who looks just like her. As more murders shake the city, she fears her past is catching up with her. A riveting psychological thriller drawn from true events, Ashley's debut novel 'Dark Mode' delves into the terrifying reality of the dark web, and the price we pay for surrendering our privacy one click at a time. Ashley discusses how and why she wrote the novel, what authors inspired her, and the major mistake she made when sharing the m...2023-02-2812 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeInsights into the novel writing process – 'Dark Mode' mini-ep #2Ashley wrote 40,000 words into the first draft of Dark Mode before scrapping most of it and restarting. Then she ploughed through to the end of a clunky draft in order to create a scene-by-scene outline of the plot mechanics. The outline became the blueprint for the next major revision – the one that landed her an agent. In this ep, Ashley also talks about how she draws on her writers' group (or as James calls it, emotional focus group) throughout her writing process in order to craft her scenes and story. Plus, she shares why she's gla...2023-02-1413 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhere the ideas came from – 'Dark Mode' mini-ep #1A riveting psychological thriller drawn from true events, Ashley's debut novel Dark Mode delves into the terrifying reality of the dark web, and the price we pay for surrendering our privacy one click at a time. But it didn't start there! Ashley began the manuscript while recovering from a major rejection, and envisioned it as Black Mirror inspired spec fic. Hear how the manuscript developed into the thriller it became, and the inspiration Ashley discovered while coping with chronic illness. This is one of four weekly mini-episodes in celebration of the March 1st Australian release d...2023-02-0714 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe secret of work/life balance with Dr Hilton Koppe, author of 'One Curious Doctor'What happens when your job results in PTSD, forcing you into unexpected retirement? You write a memoir, of course! At least, that's what Dr Hilton Koppe did when he suddenly had to leave his practice as a rural GP. Hilton speaks to James and Ashley about his PTSD diagnosis, the secret of work/life, how he turned to creative writing as a form of therapeutic intervention, and seeking permission to share his patients' stories in his memoir. Hilton Koppe is a writer, workshop facilitator, podcaster and doctor living on Bundjalung land on the east coast of...2023-01-2444 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeAll the reading: the best book recommendations of 2022This special episode gathers the best 'What Are You Reading?' segments from 2022 into a comprehensive summary of book recommendations from Australian and international authors. These well-informed highlights will give you plenty of last-minute gift solutions and ideas for how to spend your Christmas gift cards! Plus, James and Ashley each declare their book of the year for 2022. Books discussed in this episode: From episode 48, with Shankari Chandran: Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell; Song of the Crocodile by Nardi Simpson (from ep 18); Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie; They All Fall Down by Rachel H...2022-12-161h 21James and Ashley Stay at HomeDigging into shame with Hayley Scrivenor, author of 'Dirt Town''When I sat down to write, it felt like I had killed someone.' Hayley Scrivenor opens up about managing creative anxiety, what it means to write through our feelings, and the experience of having her novel 'Dirt Town' debut as a number one Australian bestseller. Plus James turns the interview into a therapy session. Hayley Scrivenor is the author of 'Dirt Town', published as 'Dirt Creek' in North America. An earlier version was shortlisted for the Penguin Literary Prize and won the Kill Your Darlings Unpublished Manuscript Award. Hayley has a PhD in Creative Writing and...2022-12-0959 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLearning with a beginner's mindset with urban ecologist Darryl 'The Bird Guy' Jones'I regard my seventh book, Curlews on Vulture Street ... as my first real writing. You know, this is the one I'm most proud of. It was the biggest challenge and the one I enjoyed the most.' Urban ecologist and noted bird guy Darryl Jones joins us to share his transition from popular science to narrative nonfiction writer. Darryl discusses the importance of having a beginner's mindset, what life is like now that he's a full-time writer, buried treasure, and his experience of living with Parkinson's. And of course we talk birds! Should you feed the birds in...2022-11-1546 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to say goodbye with Jackie Bailey, author of 'The Eulogy'How do you work through a major edit on your book when you have a traumatic brain injury? And how do you write about the death of a loved one while you're grieving? Jackie Bailey, author of debut novel 'The Eulogy' and professional deathwalker, joins us to discuss her experience with both. Jackie Bailey is a professional writer and researcher and a recognised international expert on cultural diversity in the arts. She has a Creative Writing PhD from UNSW and is on the Board of Merrigong Theatre Company. Jackie is also an ordained interfaith minister, trained deathwalker...2022-10-2543 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe writer and the advocate with Al Campbell, author of 'The Keepers'Author Al Campbell joins us to discuss her debut book 'The Keepers,' a fictionalised account of her own life both as the mother of two autistic boys and the survivor of an abusive parent. Al shares the reasons behind her choice to write fiction instead of memoir, what people don't realise about the life of a full-time carer, and the struggle for disability advocacy. 'The Keepers' is a contemporary Australian novel infused with deep love and wild torment, 'about the damage done by parents who can’t love, the failures of a community that only...2022-10-0456 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe most successful episode ever: a conversation about 'Denizen'***Warning! Spoilers for Denizen by James McKenzie Watson in this episode*** Heads up, this episode of James and Ashley Stay at Their Respective Homes in Separate Cities is full of spoilers for Denizen. If you haven't read Denizen yet, you can still enjoy reading about our special double-guest episode, and then get even more excited to go and read Denizen so you can listen without spoiler concerns. Double guests? That's right, we finally get to speak with debut novelist Hayley Scrivenor, plus we welcome back our one and only repeat guest, author Jacinta Dietrich. We j...2022-09-131h 04James and Ashley Stay at HomeRest, recovery and writing with Bronwyn Birdsall, author of 'Time and Tide in Sarajevo'Author Bronwyn Birdsall joins us to discuss the writing of her first novel, 'Time and Tide in Sarajevo,' and her life after chronic fatigue syndrome. We discuss living with a mindset of rest and recovery, moving overseas and reinventing yourself, and the question at the heart of the book – how do we find hope in a world that feels beyond repair? As always, nothing in this episode is intended as medical advice. Bronwyn Birdsall grew up in Sydney. At the age of twenty-four, she moved to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and worked as an Engli...2022-08-2349 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeAshley's big newsAshley's got some exciting news she's been bursting to share, and you're just going to have to listen to this episode to find out what it is! Read more here! Get in touch! Ashley's website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt Ashley's Instagram: @akalagianblunt James' website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson James' Instagram: @jamesmcwatson 2022-08-0405 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! Denizen - Online LaunchThis special episode is a recording of Denizen’s online launch, which was live-streamed on Thursday July 21, two days after Denizen’s release. It was one of a series of launch events, alongside in-person events in Dubbo and Sydney, and ahead of tonight's Melbourne launch (6:30pm August 3 at Readings Emporium - there's still time to book!) The event was hosted by Dani Vee of the Words and Nerds podcast and live streamed via the Words and Nerds Facebook page. A video recording of the event is available there (which is worth watching for the facial expressions during the...2022-08-0255 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBehind the scenes of 'Denizen,' the debut novel from James McKenzie Watson'Denizen,' the Penguin Literary Prize winning novel from James McKenzie Watson is finally out in the world! In this episode, Ashley asks James about the experience of taking 'Denizen' from idea to published novel. He shares insights into how to seriously improve your writing craft and how to understand your work as a reflection of your life. James also answers the big question – what does his mum think of 'Denizen?' James McKenzie Watson writes fiction with a focus on health and rural Australia. His novel 'Denizen' won the 2021 Penguin Literary Prize. 'Denizen' also received a 2021 Va...2022-07-1848 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! Queer Writes Sessions Podcast: R.W.R. McDonald interviews Professor Gregory PhillipsIn this bonus episode, James and Ashley share an episode from a brand new podcast series called Queer Writes Sessions (QWS), a Words and Nerds Podcast spin-off series in partnership with Blarney Books & Art. The series is hosted by R.W.R. McDonald, who we interviewed in episode 32. Each month, QWS Podcast will interview a LGBTIQA+ writer and shout-out books and authors from our rainbow communities. We’re sharing this episode of QWS in celebration of NAIDOC Week, which celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and is a cha...2022-07-0544 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWorking doubly hard through illness with Rae Cairns, author of 'The Good Mother'After a broken finger brought on a debilitating illness, author Rae Cairns lost two years as her doctors searched for the right treatment. A bad reaction to drugs caused her hair to fall out. When her health had stabilised enough for her to return to writing, she lost her literary agent. Undeterred, Rae self-published her novel. After being shortlisted for a major award, she had a new agent and a two-book publishing deal with HarperCollins within a few weeks. Rae talks to James and Ashley about living with chronic invisible illness, coping with brain fog, and cultivating...2022-06-2146 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeExperiments in form with with Yumna Kassab, author of 'Australiana'In her exploration of life in rural Australia, author Yumna Kassab draws on horror, crime and gothic inspiration to craft a thematically linked experiment in form and style. She speaks to us about her own experiences of rural life and how her science background has influenced her experimental approach to writing. Plus, James pitches her writing on the Pilliga as Australia's answer to The Blair Witch Project. Yumna Kassab is a writer from Western Sydney. She studied medical science and neuroscience at university. Her first book, The House of Youssef, was listed for prizes including the Victorian P...2022-05-2441 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to survive a stalker with Ellis Gunn, author of 'Rattled''If he wants to follow me, I can't stop him.' After a random encounter with poet and author Ellis Gunn at an auction, a stranger decides to stalk her. Years later, she sits down to write about the experience – and realises it's connected to a lifetime of gendered abuse, including surviving both sexual assault and domestic violence. In this wide-ranging and compelling interview, Ellis discusses what she learned through the experience of writing her debut memoir, Rattled, including the psychological impacts of stalking, the reactions of her family and friends, and the concepts of agency deletion and radical em...2022-05-0350 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeA very overcomeable fear with Katherine Collette, author of 'The Competition'If you've ever dreaded public speaking, this episode is for you! Author and podcaster Katherine Collette speaks about her charming new novel The Competition, which satirises the world of competitive speaking clubs. We explore why public speaking is so intimidating for most people. We also discuss Katherine's personal experience with public speaking clubs, and how they can build both confidence and empathy. As she says, 'You sign up to learn to speak. But the real power is in having to listen.' Finally, we answer the question – is some discomfort in life necessary? Katherine Collette is a nov...2022-04-1943 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLiving with ambiguous loss with Erin Stewart, author of 'The Missing Among Us'38,000 people go missing every year in Australia, yet only a small number of these cases garner public interest. In 'The Missing Among Us,' author Erin Stewart explores the issue of missing persons from a variety of perspectives, including the lack of police resources that leave families leading their own searches, the Stolen Generations, and cults. And what drew Erin to the topic is just as fascinating. Erin talks to Ashley and James about how the ambiguity of living with chronic illness drove her interest in missing persons. 'The Missing Among Us' is 'about finding a space f...2022-03-2954 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeA sprinkling of magic with Fiona Robertson, author of 'If You're Happy'Fiona Robertson lived with migraines for years, writing short stories as a creative pursuit. Now she's free from migraines and the award-winning author of the debut short story collection, If You're Happy. Her work explores the lives of lonely people seeking happiness in a turbulent world. She tells us about the common threads that bind her stories, why they're her chosen form, and how living with unpredictable chronic illness impacted her life and creative work. Fiona is a writer and doctor. Her short fiction has been published in literary magazines and anthologies in Australia and th...2022-03-0834 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeChannelling your obsessions with with Lech Blaine, author of 'Car Crash'Lech Blaine is the author of the memoir 'Car Crash' and the Quarterly Essay ‘Top Blokes’. Here, he speaks to James and Ashley about the challenge of writing and releasing these two publications back to back during the pandemic, and the burnout that followed. He also discusses the epiphanies that writing a memoir can bring and the emotional toll of sharing so much vulnerability with readers. His writing has appeared in The Monthly, Guardian Australia, The Best Australian Essays, Griffith Review, Kill Your Darlings and Meanjin. He was an inaugural recipient of a Griffith Review Queensland Writing Fello...2022-02-2250 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe joy of the win with Dinuka McKenzie, author of 'The Torrent'When Dinuka McKenzie first sat down to write a novel, she had no dreams of publication or experience in the craft of fiction. She was the working mother of two young kids, feeling like everyone wanted something from her all the time, and in search of something that was purely for herself. Now she's the award-winning author of The Torrent, a police procedural set in small-town Australia. We talk to Dinuka about why she chose a pregnant detective as her main character, how her own experience as a working mum influenced her story, and how she managed to find...2022-02-0844 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to remake the world with Sarah Sentilles, author of 'Stranger Care'It's our 50th episode! Author Sarah Sentilles joins us to talk about her new memoir, Stanger Care. She discusses coping with unexpected loss, who counts as family, and how at heart, all of us are baby monkeys. She also shares how each of us can use our creativity to remake the world around us. Stranger Care is a memoir of Sarah and her husband’s experience with the foster system in Idaho and the ten months they parented an infant named Coco, only to return her to her loving but vulnerable mother. Sarah Sentilles is the aut...2022-01-2543 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! What does it mean?! A conversation about Earthlings by Sayaka Murata***Warning! Spoilers for Earthlings by Sayaka Murata in this episode*** After arguing about the intense and disturbing ending to Earthlings by Sayaka Murata in episode 45, James and Ashley rope past guest Jacinta Dietrich into returning to the podcast to try and figure out what might happened in the novel's closing pages. If you've read Earthlings, you know what we mean! If you haven't – well, Ashley says you can listen to this ep anyway, since this book doesn't hinge on a twist. James disagrees. Our guest is author Jacinta Dietrich, a writer and editor who holds a M...2022-01-1849 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeUsing connection to build community with author Shankari ChandranHow do we build community and a sense of self after loss, especially the kind of loss that echoes for generations? James and Ashley speak with Australian Sri Lankan author Shankari Chandran about her new novel, Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens, and how her efforts to find connection in the writing community echo her Tamil family's work to build community after being dispossessed from their homeland in the Sri Lankan civil war. Shankari discusses writing from a place of anger and love, the changing Australian publishing landscape, and how literature creates an archive of the dispossessed. ...2022-01-1142 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! In conversation with Michelle Tom for Avid Reader's Festival of Cancelled EventsThe last episode for 2021 is a special bonus interview with Michelle Tom, who James and Ashley first spoke to in episode 38 (the most downloaded episode of the year). As part of Avid Reader's Festival of Cancelled Events, James joined Michelle in conversation for an online event to discuss her memoir, 'Ten Thousand Aftershocks.' This event took place on October 18 2021. A video recording of this event is available to watch on YouTube and includes Michelle answering questions from the audience at the end of the event. See you in 2022! Get in touch! As...2021-12-1448 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhat are you reading? The best book recommendations of 2021The best (and most!) book recommendations of the year! We share the 'What Are You Reading?' highlights from a wide range of our 2021 guests, including Nardi Simpson, David Vann, Kavita Bedford, Luke Stegemann, Ruhi Lee, Joanna Nell, Fiona Murphy, Heather Taylor Johnson, Jacinta Dietrich and – of course – James and Ashley. Books discussed in this episode (all 44 of them): Bindi by Kirli Saunders The Road to Woop Woop by Eugen Bacon The End: My Struggle Book 6 by Karl Ove Knausgaard Grief is the Thing with Feathers by Max Porter Shadow Child by PF Thomése Eight Lives...2021-12-071h 05James and Ashley Stay at HomeWriting the book you need with Jacinta Dietrich, author of 'This Is Us Now'James and Ashley speak with Melbourne-based author Jacinta Dietrich about her debut book 'This Is Us Now', which explores a young couple's relationship as one of them faces a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Based on her boyfriend's experience of surviving lymphoma, the book explores two individuals who don't know where their relationship is going and have to figure out how they feel about each other, all as one of them goes through chemo. Jacinta discusses how cancer treatment 'suppresses every part of a relationship', her decision to write the book she needed to read, and how she managed to...2021-11-2339 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! CSI: TASMANIA, the Terror Australis Readers and Writers FestivalCSI: TASMANIA, the Terror Australis Readers and Writers Festival, is happening 27 & 28 November 2021, and it's entirely online! In this bonus ep, James and Ashley speak to festival director and author LJM Owen about this year's festival highlights. (This isn't a paid promo, we just love connecting readers and writers.) TAF2021 - CSI: TASMANIA online, 27 & 28 November 2021 Tasmania's International Crime and Mystery Literary Festival features more than 35 crime and mystery authors speaking across panels, books clubs and mini-masterclasses. The line-up includes David Heska Wanbli Weiden (featured in episode 40), Ann Cleeves, Val McDermid, Liz Nugent, Garry Disher, Naomi Hirahara, Abir Mukh...2021-11-1618 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLosing your baby legs: James and Ashley discuss relapse and recoveryJames is back! He and Ashley chat about his recent CIDP relapse and ongoing recovery, and how his perspective on living with chronic illness has shifted. Thankfully, the steroids haven't affected his sense of humour. Disclaimer: None of the information in this episode is medical advice, and if you're concerned about your own health, you should consult a proper medical professional. Books and authors discussed in this episode: A Carnival of Snackery by David Sedaris; The Stand by Stephen King The Joy of Creative Writing: an online workshop with Ashley Thursday 2 December, 6:15-7:30...2021-11-0933 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeAshley Stays at HomeAshley's on her own again, and without James around, things get really earnest really fast. She shares ten of her favourite quotes from a variety of books, summarising 'The Most True Things She Knows About Life and Writing' (one of them, at least, is funny.) Then she does a deepdive #WhatAreYouReading into Rutger Bregman's 'Humankind: A Hopeful History,' recommended by recent guest Lyn Yeowart. Books and authors discussed in this episode: 'A Brief for the Defense' by Jack Gilbert; Humankind: A Hope History by Rutger Bregman; Natural Causes: An Epidemic of Wellness, the Certainty of Dy...2021-10-2620 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeMisdiagnosing Van Gogh with author and editor Heather Taylor-JohnsonAshley interviews author and editor Heather Taylor-Johnson. When Heather was diagnosed with Ménière's disease at age 25, one of the many things it meant was quitting skydiving. She discusses how more than two decades of living with chronic illness have inspired her writing and led to the anthology 'Shaping the Fractured Self: Poetry of Illness and Chronic Pain'. She also shares Van Gogh's misdiagnosis with her condition, describes how a year of studying art has changed her writing process, and tells us about her latest book, 'Rhymes with Hyenas'. Learn more about Heather on her website, an...2021-10-1239 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeVigilante justice with David Heska Wanbli Weiden, author of Winter CountsJames and Ashley interview David Heska Wanbli Weiden about his multi-award-winning debut novel 'Winter Counts.' In it, they discuss the shocking American laws that let crimes on Native American Reservations go unpunished, the importance of food in cultural reclamation, and the marvel of Carhenge. Learn more about David on his website, and buy a copy of Winter Counts from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. 'Winter Counts' is a contemporary thriller about Virgil Wounded Horse, a hired vigilante on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Through it, Weiden reveals the...2021-09-2836 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhat are you wearing? with Lyn Yeowart, author of 'The Silent Listener'James and Ashley interview Lyn Yeowart, author of the rural-noir thriller, 'The Silent Listener.' In it, they discuss how Lyn's own childhood shaped the events in the book, the fascinating world of synesthesia, and why it's never too late to start writing. Learn more about Lyn on her website, and buy a copy of 'The Silent Listener' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books and authors discussed in this episode: The Spiral by Iain Ryan; Humankind, a Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman; Utopia for Realists by Rutger Bregman; How...2021-09-1448 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeHow to survive an earthquake with Michelle Tom, author of 'Ten Thousand Aftershocks'James and Ashley interview Michelle Tom about her stunning memoir 'Ten Thousand Aftershocks.' In it, they discuss the captivating and highly original structure of Michelle's book, the strange parallels between childhood trauma and earthquakes, and the transformative power of owning your narrative. Learn more about Michelle on her website, and buy a copy of Ten Thousand Aftershocks from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Join Ashley for a fun online creative workshop, Monday 6 Sept, 6:15pm AEST. Book here! Books and authors discussed in this episode: Memoir Writing For...2021-08-3153 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeOversharing and neurodiversity with authors Kay Kerr and Anna WhateleyJames and Ashley interview Kay Kerr and Anna Whateley, neurodiverse authors of young-adult fiction. In it, Kay and Anna discuss their journeys to diagnosis as adults, their upcoming second books, and their remarkable friendship. Learn more about Kay on her website, and buy a copy of her debut novel 'Please Don't Hug Me' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Learn more about Anna on her website, and buy a copy of her debut novel 'Peta Lyre’s Rating Normal' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Bo...2021-08-1741 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeDeafness, secrets and solace with Fiona Murphy, author of 'The Shape of Sound'James and Ashley interview Fiona Murphy about her memoir 'The Shape of Sound.' In it, they discuss the complexities of Deaf culture and identity, the corrosive power of secrets, and the challenges of being deaf in the healthcare industry. Learn more about Fiona on her website, and buy a copy of The Shape of Sound from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books and authors discussed in this episode Far from the Tree by Andrew Solomon; The Past by Tessa Hadley; The Iceman by John Sandford; Storm Prey by John...2021-08-0350 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBonus episode! Amy Lovat of Secret Book Stuff grills James and AshleyJames and Ashley are interviewed by Amy Lovat of Secret Book Stuff (who they interviewed in episode 34), for Amy & Laura's radio show 'Reading Makes You Better in Bed.' In it, they discuss reading habits, the history of James and Ashley's podcast, and whether or not reading really does make you better in bed. This interview originally aired on Newcastle Live Radio on June 25 2021. You can learn more about Secret Book Stuff on their website, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, or explore their various radio shows/podcast appearances. Books and authors discussed in this episod...2021-07-2734 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhy reading makes you better in bed with Amy & Laura of Secret Book StuffJames and Ashley interview Amy and Laura, multitalented writers, social entrepreneurs, and radio hosts/podcasters from Newcastle, NSW. In it, they discuss the story behind Secret Book Stuff, transformative writing, and, of course, why reading makes you better in bed. You can learn more about Secret Book Stuff on their website, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, or explore their various radio shows/podcast appearances. Books and authors discussed in this episode - Hold Your Own by Kae Tempest; - In Cold Blood by Truman Capote; - High Fidelity by Nick Hornby;2021-07-2041 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeAgeing disgracefully (and happily) with Joanna Nell, GP and bestselling authorJames and Ashley interview GP and author Joanna Nell about her new novel 'The Great Escape from Woodland's Nursing Home.' In it, they discuss positive ageing, the challenges faced by Australia's aged care system, and the runaway success of the 'uplit' genre. Learn more about Joanna on her website, and buy a copy of 'The Great Escape from Woodland's Nursing Home' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books and authors discussed in this episode Providing Good Care at Night for Older People by Diana Kerr and Heather Wilkinson; The...2021-07-0643 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeGrief and girl detectives with RWR McDonald, author of Nancy BusinessJames and Ashley interview RWR McDonald about his new novel 'Nancy Business,' follow-up to the bestselling 'The Nancys.' In it, they discuss the parallels between the original girl detective Nancy Drew and The Nancys' Tippy Chan, the art of balancing the humorous and heavy in fiction writing, and the physical toll of a creative life. Learn more about Rob on his website, and buy a copy of 'Nancy Business' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books and authors discussed in this episode: Harold Robbins (contact Rob for titl...2021-06-2238 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeAnd the winner of the 2021 Penguin Literary Prize is...A very special episode to make a very special announcement! Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt Ashley's Instagram: @akalagianblunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson James' Instagram: @jamesmcwatson 2021-06-1718 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeRecovering from childhood with Ruhi Lee, author of 'Good Indian Daughter'James and Ashley interview Ruhi Lee, author of the hilarious and heartbreaking memoir 'Good Indian Daughter.' In it, they discuss what it means to be a girl in a South Asian family, the notion of unconditional parental love, and how one generation avoids making the same mistakes as the last. Follow Ruhi on Instagram (@lee_ruhi), and buy a copy of 'Good Indian Daughter' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: 'Yes Please' by Amy Poehler; 'This Is Going to Hurt' by Adam Kay; 'Damascus' by Chris...2021-06-0838 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeA conversation from the National Writers' HouseAshley interviews a mystery guest from the Varuna Writer's House in Katoomba, NSW, where he's midway through a residential fellowship (hint: it's James). An episode for both those who've never been on a residential writing retreat and those who want to reminisce about their time at Varuna! You can learn more about Varuna and the incredible work it does supporting Australian authors here. Books discussed in this episode: 'Shadowchild' by P.F. Thomése 'The Devil in the White City' by Erik Larson Find out more about WestWords and their wonderful podcasts here:...2021-05-2526 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeBurning out with Yumiko Kadota, author of 'Emotional Female'James and Ashley interview Yumiko Kadota about her memoir 'Emotional Female,' which tells the story of her time as a junior doctor in the NSW public system. In it, they discuss the devastating effects of burnout, the difficulties women of colour face in the public health system, and the possible future directions of chronic fatigue research. Follow Yumiko on Twitter, and buy a copy of 'Emotional Female' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: 'A Room Called Earth' by Madeleine Ryan 'Earthlings' by Sayaka Mura...2021-05-1142 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLove and hoarding with Emily Maguire, author of 'Love Objects'James and Ashley interview Emily Maguire about her stunning new novel 'Love Objects.' In it, they discuss our relationships with our belongings, the psychology of hoarding, and the beauty of writing for connection. Learn more about Emily on her website, and buy a copy of 'Love Objects' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: 'Friends and Dark Shapes' by Kavita Bedford; 'The Shape of Sound' by Fiona Murphy; 'Convenience Store Woman' by Sayaka Murata; 'Emotional Female' by Yumiko Kadota; Writing in your pyjamas: a wr...2021-04-2742 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeRaising the dead with Luke Stegemann, author of 'Amnesia Road'James and Ashley interview Luke Stegemann, author of 'Amnesia Road.' In it, they discuss the parallels between South-West Queensland and rural Andalusia's violent pasts, the ongoing ramifications of near-forgotten genocides, and little black dogs that portend death. You can follow Luke on Twitter, or buy a copy of 'Amnesia Road' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: 'The Possessed' by Dostoevsky; 'Thus Bad Begins' by Javier Marias; 'A Heart So White' by Javier Marias; 'The Stranger' and short stories by Albert Camus; 'Far from th...2021-04-1346 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeSick and tired: James and Ashley talk illness and fatigueJames and Ashley listen to some audio of themselves when unwell and have a conversation about the psychological impacts of chronic ill-health, the fears and anxieties that accompany invisible illnesses, and how difficult conversations like this one are to have. Books (and cults) discussed in this episode: Far from the Tree by Andrew Solomon; Earthlings by Sayaka Murata; Children of Thunder Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson2021-03-3032 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeSea-creature days with Kavita Bedford, author of 'Friends & Dark Shapes'James and Ashley interview Kavita Bedford, author of the novel 'Friends & Dark Shapes.' In it, they discuss the isolation and anonymity that comes with modern city living, the implications this disconnect has for those grieving, and the troubled relationship Sydney millennials have with their city and its identity. Learn more about Kavita on her website, and buy a copy of 'Friends & Dark Shapes' from your local bookshop, Booktopia or wherever else books are sold. Books and authors discussed in this episode: Sidewalks by Valeria Luiselli Teju Cole Olivia Lang Sheila Heti Rachel Cusk...2021-03-1637 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWriting without a plan with David Vann, author of 'Halibut on the Moon'James and Ashley interview David Vann, author of seven internationally bestselling novels including 2019's 'Halibut on the Moon.' In it, they discuss the trauma that inspired and haunts much of his work, the creative process that fosters his raw and visceral writing style, and the difficulties even an author of his status and calibre faces in the modern publishing landscape. Just a warning: this episode contains an explicit conversation about suicide and mental illness. Learn more about David on his website, and buy a copy of 'Halibut on the Moon' from your local bookshop, Bo...2021-03-0245 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeFunny-walking pigeons with Nash, artist and authorJames and Ashley interview Nash, artist and author of 'What to Expect When You're Immigrating,' a hilarious and insightful commentary on the Australian immigration process. In it, they discuss using humour to cope with stressful situations, the challenges faced by new arrivals to Australia, and the commonalities between Sri Lanka and Melbourne (hint: its pigeons). Follow Nash on Instagram, and buy a copy of 'What to Expect When You're Immigrating' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: Halibut on the Moon by David Vann Wh...2021-02-1639 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe limits of medical knowledge with Josephine Taylor, author of 'Eye of a Rook'James and Ashley interview Josephine Taylor, author of 'Eye of a Rook.' In it, they discuss vulvodynia, a poorly understood and often debilitating gynaecological condition, how this illness has shaped Josephine's life, and the stunning novel it's inspired her to write. Find out more about Josephine at her website, and buy a copy of 'Eye of a Rook' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. You can also check out Josephine's #FridayCookBook project on Instagram and join her for her Avid Reader online event with Lee Kofman on February 9, 2021. For m...2021-02-0248 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeCrossover! Nerds at Home with Dani Vee from the Words and Nerds podcastIn this special crossover episode, James and Ashley interview Dani Vee from the Words and Nerds podcast and vice versa. It's a fascinating conversation about podcasting, health, reading, and why we're all doing what we're doing. This conversation is being simultaneously released as an episode of Words and Nerds. Big thanks to Dani for editing this chat. Find out more about Words and Nerds at the official website, or by searching for it wherever you get your podcasts. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Web...2021-01-1943 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLearning how to learn with Nardi Simpson, author of 'Song of the Crocodile'James and Ashley interview Nardi Simpson, Yuwaalaraay musician and author of 'Song of the Crocodile.' In it, they discuss Nardi's transition from writing lyrics to prose, the preservation of Indigenous languages, and the importance of non-Indigenous Australians accepting that some elements of Indigenous culture are not accessible to them. Find out more about Nardi at her website, and buy a copy of 'Song of the Crocodile' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. Books discussed in this episode: 'Bindi' by Kirli Saunders 'The Road to Woop Woop' by Eugen B...2021-01-0546 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe Best Writing Tips from 2020In the last episode for 2020, James and Ashley gather some fantastic writing tips provided by authors interviewed in the first sixteen podcasts. It features contributions from Kate Mildenhall, Anna Downes, Elizabeth Tan, Petronella McGovern and Ada Palmer. Don't forget to listen to the whole interviews these excerpts came from if you haven't already! Books and authors mentioned in this episode: "Light the Dark: Writers on Creativity, Inspiration and the Artistic Process" edited by Joe Fassler, with a piece on getting the words down by David Mitchell Shaula Evans on the logogentics writing prompt "The Perfect Wife" by J...2020-12-2233 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLiving in different universes with Ada Palmer, author and historianJames and Ashley interview Ada Palmer, historian, composer and author of the 'Terra Ignota' sci-fi/fantasy book series. In it, they discuss Ada's astonishing body of work and how she's managed to achieve it while managing a number of invisible illnesses. They also explore the impact of COVID-19 on research, the relationship between identity and disability and why the renaissance wasn't actually a great time to be alive... Find out more about Ada, her work and her writing on her website, and check out her blog, Ex Urbe. Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's T...2020-12-0852 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWanting it - James and Ashley share writing motivations, processes and more tipsJames and Ashley discuss their very different motivations for writing, the processes they use to translate that to words, and some tips they've each learnt along the way. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson2020-11-2444 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeMoulding stories like clay with Elizabeth Tan, author of 'Smart Ovens for Lonely People'James and Ashley interview Elizabeth Tan, author of 'Smart Ovens for Lonely People.' In it, they discuss the public health crisis of loneliness, the personal experiences that inspired some of these stories, and an unusual but highly effective writing prompt. Find out more about Elizabeth on her website, or buy a copy of 'Smart Ovens for Lonely People' from your local bookstore, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. Find the writing prompt discussed in this episode here. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt 2020-11-1051 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeNavigating creative anxiety with Kate Mildenhall, author of 'The Mother Fault'James and Ashley interview Kate Mildenhall, bestselling author of 'The Mother Fault' and 'Skylarking.' They discuss the craft of novel writing, the challenges of penning a second book, and the creative anxieties that plague writers. Find out more about Kate on her website and buy a copy of 'The Mother Fault' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson2020-10-2743 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeMagic cures and snake oil with Petronella McGovern, author of 'The Good Teacher'James and Ashley interview Petronella McGovern, bestselling author of 'The Good Teacher' and 'Six Minutes.' They discuss the allures and dangers of fringe healthcare, the similarities shared by many Australian communities, and the differences between writing a first and second novel. Find out more about Petronella at her website and buy a copy of 'The Good Teacher' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, Amazon, or wherever else books are sold. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson2020-10-1337 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeStuff it up, we want to hate this too! with Anthony Jeannot, comedianJames and Ashley interview Anthony Jeannot, a stand-up comedian who has spent the last decade taking a test-and-learn approach to anxiety management with the help of a professional therapist. They discuss the impacts of the COVID 19 pandemic on mental wellbeing, the mental health challenges faced by young men, and the idea of the Nintendo life. Find out more about Anthony on his website, or get in touch with him on Twitter. You can stream his debut stand up comedy album on Spotify or Apple Music, or wherever else you listen to music. You can read his article...2020-09-2944 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeLiving with chronic illness: James and Ashley talk healthJames and Ashley discuss health - more specifically, their own chronic illnesses. In this episode, they explain their conditions, discuss how these affect day to day life, and explore how illness has impacted their senses of self. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson2020-09-1535 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeThe healing power of creativity with Karin Foxwell, art therapistJames and Ashley interview Karin Foxwell, an art therapist and counsellor from South Australia’s Adelaide Hills. In this fascinating conversation, Karin describes the profound therapeutic power of art, as she's observed in her work with military and emergency services personnel who've sustained PTSD in the course of their service. She also describes a 'standard' art therapy session, discusses the therapeutic power of writing, and explains why she thinks everyone should engage in some kind of art therapy. Karin's services are facilitated by The Road Home, a charity that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of vet...2020-09-0152 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeA pack of dog lovers with Kate Leaver, author of 'Good Dog'James and Ashley interview journalist, author and speaker Kate Leaver about her new book, 'Good Dog.' They discuss the remarkable therapeutic power of dogs, extraordinary pups from around the world, and the impact canine companionship has had on Kate's own mental wellbeing. (As if that wasn't reason enough to listen to this episode, it also features a very special canine guest... albeit, a very quiet one.) Find out more about Kate on Twitter or on her website, or pick up a copy of her book (available now through Harper Collins). Get in to...2020-08-1846 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeWhere's my Man Booker? James and Ashley share writing tipsJames and Ashley tell the stories of their writing journeys to date and each offer three tips that have helped them along the way. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson Ashley's book 'How to Be Australian' was published in Australia by Affirm Press on June 1, 2020. Learn more about it and get your copy here.2020-07-1948 minJames and Ashley Stay at HomeEating caramel slice with Ashley Kalagian Blunt, author of 'How to Be Australian'James and Ashley turn the focus of their interviews inwards, with James interviewing Ashley about her new book, 'How to Be Australian.' They discuss the book's influences and inspiration, what its early drafts looked like, and how being part of a writing group transformed it into its current form. 'How to Be Australian' was published in Australia by Affirm Press on June 1, 2020. Learn more about it and get your copy here. Get in touch! Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com Jame...2020-06-2238 min