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Better WordsOur 2024 favouritesWelcome to our favourite episode: the yearly wrap! We're sharing our reading stats, 2024 goals and the books, TV, film and audio we loved in 2024. Make sure you're also following us on Substack. On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to – and we try to keep these separate from regular episode recommendations. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! Thank you for joining us in 2024 an...2025-03-021h 29Better WordsChildhood, community and bookselling with Jennie GodfreyJennie Godfrey was raised in West Yorkshire and her debut novel, The List of Suspicious Things, is inspired by her childhood there in the 1970s. Jennie is from a mill-working family, but as the first of the generation born after the mills closed, she went to university and built a career in the corporate world. In 2020 she left and began to write. She is now a writer and part-time Waterstones bookseller and lives in the Somerset countryside.Our interview begins at 24.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we sha...2025-01-281h 06Better WordsBehind the glamour of Hollywood and writing about writers with Pip DrysdalePip Drysdale writes ‘sexy-cool’ thrillers with a dash of witty humour. She grew up in Africa, Canada, and Australia, became an adult in New York and London, and lives on a steady diet of coffee, dreams, and literature. Her books — The Sunday Girl, The Strangers We Know, The Paris Affair and The Next Girl — have been bestsellers. She currently lives in Sydney and we're chatting about The Close Up. Our interview begins at 15.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should re...2024-11-251h 02Better WordsHow we can live in the wake of trauma with Melanie ChengMelanie Cheng is a writer and general practitioner. She was born in Adelaide, grew up in Hong Kong and now lives in Melbourne. Her debut collection of short stories, Australia Day, won the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript in 2016 and the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Fiction in 2018. Room for a Stranger, her highly acclaimed first novel, was published in 2019. Today we're discussing her new novel, The Burrow. Our interview begins at 31.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two thing...2024-11-111h 16Better WordsFrom writers rooms to writing a novel with Steph TisdellSteph Tisdell is a rising star of the comedy scene in Australia. Her acting credits include Class of ’07, Total Control, Bump and Netflix Original Love is in the Air, while her writing credits include Fisk, Bump and Rosehaven. Steph lives in Meanjin with her pet parrots, Parky and Eddie. Today we're delighted to discuss her first novel, The Skin I'm In. *There is a lot of swearing in this ep*Our interview begins at 27.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we...2024-11-021h 06Better WordsWhat it means to be experienced with Kate YoungKate Young is a writer and cook. Her award-winning Little Library Cookbooks feature food inspired by beloved works of literature. After a sunny Australian childhood, spent indoors reading books, she moved to London, which suited her much better. She now lives in a converted mill in a Gloucestershire town. Today we're discussing her debut novel, a queer rom-com called Experienced.Our interview begins at 30.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is...2024-10-281h 25Better WordsTelling authentic teenage stories with Gary LonesboroughGary Lonesborough is a Yuin man, who grew up on the Far South Coast of New South Wales as part of a large and proud Aboriginal family. Gary was always writing as a child, and continued his creative journey when he moved to Sydney to study at film school. Gary has experience working in youth work, Aboriginal health, child protection, the disability sector (including experience working in the youth justice system) and the film industry, including working on the feature film adaptation of Jasper Jones. His debut YA novel, The Boy from the Mish, won multiple awards. It was...2024-10-171h 05Better WordsRecent reads and musical performancesWelcome to a bonus episode where we catch up on things we've recently bought, read and watched. We've shared bits of this over on Substack, where we post monthly wraps of things we've loved. Books and other things mentioned:Caitlin's trip to PEI Anne of Green Gables by LM MontgomeryI Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue* (listen to Caitlin chat about it here)The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia ThompsonThis Summer Will Be Different by Carley FortuneThe American Roomate Experiment by Elena ArmasThe Movement by Petra HůlováIf You Change Yo...2024-09-2759 minBetter WordsThe strange timing of stories and juggling creative careers with Sophie GreenSophie Green is an author and publisher who lives in Sydney. In her spare time she writes about country music on her website, Sunburnt Country Music. Sophie's debut novel, The Inaugural Meeting of the Fairvale Ladies Book Club, was a Top Ten bestseller and was shortlisted for the Australian Book Industry Awards for General Fiction Book of the Year 2018, longlisted for both the Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year 2018 and the Indie Book Award for Debut Fiction 2018. Her following novels were also published internationally. Today, we're talking about her new book, Art Hour at the Duchess...2024-08-231h 03Better WordsRomance tropes and quitting TV production to become an author with Amy HuttonAmy Hutton writes contemporary romantic comedies from her home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. An award-winning Television Producer by trade, she walked away from a successful career in network television, to follow her dream of becoming an author. Amy is a Romance Writers of America and Romance Writers of NZ Award Winner and the 2023 runner-up in the Romance Writers of Australia Emerald Award. Amy's debut rom-com Sit, Stay, Love was released in August 2023. Love from Scratch was released in June, 2024. Our interview begins at 17.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day...2024-08-081h 08Better WordsBig love stories and being published in a foreign country first with Emma SteeleEmma Steele was born and raised on the west coast of Scotland before studying law at The University of Aberdeen. Working as a solicitor in Edinburgh, she continued to dabble in her childhood passions of art and creative writing for several years. Emma now writes big love stories with a twist, and with a particular focus on phenomena. The stunning city of Edinburgh is generally her setting of choice, but she likes to weave in elements of the wider world too. The Echos of Us is her first novel.Our interview begins at 30.00 We've got a...2024-07-311h 18Better WordsForms of masculinity and coming of age with Avi Duckor-JonesAvi Duckor-Jones trained as a lawyer before gaining his MA in creative writing from Victoria University's International Institute of Modern Letters in 2013. His travel writing has been published with BBC Travel, The NZ Listener and Lonely Planet, among others. Avi has worked as a writing instructor and trip leader for National Geographic, directed a school in Ghana, and is the winner of the reality television competition Survivor New Zealand. His first book, Swim, won the 2018 Viva la Novella award. He currently lives on Waiheke Island with his wife and two children, where he enjoys open-water distance swimming and works...2024-07-241h 12Better WordsInside East Berlin and never giving up on getting published with Josie FergusonBorn in Sweden, to a family of writers and readers, Josie Ferguson moved to Scotland when she was two. She returned to Sweden in her twenties, where she completed a vocational degree in Clinical Psychology (MSc). Upon graduating, she moved to London to pursue a career in publishing, something she had dreamed about since delving into fictional worlds as a child, hidden under the duvet with a torch.She later moved to Asia in search of an adventure and a bit more sun. She currently works as a freelance book editor in Singapore, where she lives with...2024-07-161h 28Better WordsGhostwriting, ego and art with Liam PieperLiam Pieper is an author and ABIA-winning ghostwriter. The first was a memoir, The Feel-Good Hit of the Year, shortlisted for the National Biography Award and the Ned Kelly Best True Crime award. His second was the Penguin Special Mistakes Were Made, a collection of funny true stories. He was co-recipient of the 2014 M Literary Award, winner of the 2015 Geoff Dean Short Story Prize, the inaugural creative resident of the UNESCO City of Literature of Prague, and the 2018 National Library of Australia Creative Arts Fellow for Australian Writing. His novels are The Toymaker, Sweetness and Light and Appreciation, which...2024-05-021h 31Better WordsThe expat experience and TV writing with Brydie Lee-KennedyBrydie Lee-Kennedy is an Australian TV writer. She has written on shows for Netflix, Apple TV and Disney. In a former life, she was a cabaret performer, kid's party entertainer and sex columnist. Today, we're discussing her debut novel Go Lightly. Our interview begins at 26.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come s...2024-04-241h 26Better WordsA novel in stories and exploring family dynamics with Emma DarraghEmma Darragh spends most of her time on Gadigal and Dharawal Lands. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Wollongong, where she works as a sessional academic. Her writing has appeared in numerous Australian publications, including Cordite, Westerly, Meniscus, TEXT, and The Big Issue Fiction Edition. Emma’s debut novel-in-stories, Thanks for Having Me, is published by JOAN.Our interview begins at 25:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of...2024-04-031h 00Better WordsFood, family and expectation with Lottie HazellLottie Hazell is a contemporary literary scholar, board game designer and writer in Warwickshire. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing and her research considers food-writing in 21st Century fiction. Today, we’re discussing her debut novel Piglet. Our interview begins at 16:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! C...2024-03-2757 minBetter WordsTeenage pregnancy and abortion in Northern Ireland with Kelly McCaughrainKelly McCaughrain is a YA writer from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Her first book, Flying Tips for Flightless Birds won the Children's Books Ireland Book of the Year Award and NI Book Award. She was the Queens University Belfast Children's Writing Fellow 2019-2021. Her new YA, Little Bang, is about teen pregnancy and was published by Walker Books in January 2024. When she's not writing she's mentoring teen writers with Fighting Words NI or travelling in her ancient VW campervan, Gerda. Our interview begins at 27.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the m...2024-03-131h 20Better WordsWelcome to Better Words PodcastWelcome to Better Words. Hosted by book-loving besties Caitlin and Michelle. We share interviews with authors talking about their books, writing and publishing journey. We've got a Substack publication as well! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! 2024-03-0401 minBetter WordsOur 2023 favouritesWelcome to our favourite episode: the yearly wrap! We're sharing our reading stats, 2024 goals and the books, TV, film and audio we loved in 2023. Make sure you're also following us on Substack. On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to – and we try to keep these separate from regular episode recommendations. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! Thank you for joining us in 2023 an...2024-01-291h 43Better WordsFancying your friend, writing with heart, and publishing prejudice with Matt CainMatt Cain is an author, broadcaster and former journalist. He was Channel 4’s first Culture Editor, Editor in Chief of Attitude magazine and currently a presenter for Virgin Radio Pride UK. He grew up in Bolton in England’s north and now lives in London. Today, we’re discussing his upcoming novel, One Love. Our interview begins at 28.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old edit...2023-12-281h 29Better WordsTelling uncomfortable stories about complicated people and with Huma QureshiHuma Qureshi is an award-winning author and journalist. Her memoir How We Met: A Memoir of Love and Other Misadventures was shortlisted for the Books Are My Bag Indie Readers Award. Her short story collection, Things We Do Not Tell the People We Love was longlisted for several awards. She has also worked and written for The Guardian and The Observer, among other publications. Today we’re discussing her debut novel, Playing Games. Our interview begins at 24.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two thin...2023-12-211h 28Better WordsTeenage friendship circles and writing processes as a new mum with Megan WilliamsMegan Williams won the 2022 Text Prize for her debut YA novel Let’s Never Speak of This Again. She lives in Brisbane with her husband and their three children.Our interview begins at 14.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! And take a look at our festive recommendations here...2023-12-141h 01Better WordsAdult work experience and lessons from a marathon with Michelle UptonMichelle Upton writes short stories and novels examining our darkest fears and illuminating hope and possibility. Born in Birmingham, Michelle emigrated to Australia in 2006 and is proud to call herself Australian. Michelle has a Bachelor (Hons) degree in Literature with Psychology, and before having children, she was a primary school teacher. Her debut novel, Terms of Inheritance, was shortlisted for the HarperCollins Australia 2021 Banjo Prize. She lives in Brisbane with her family. Today, we're discussing her second novel, Emergency Exit Only. Our interview begins at 22.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day o...2023-12-061h 16Better WordsString Theory and writing rom-com as a straight man with Jonathon ShannonJonathon Shannon is a Sydney-based writer and creative director. His work has been recognised at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, screened at the St Kilda Film Festival, and is housed in the permanent archives of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Bound to Happen is his debut novel.Our interview begins at 00.21.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old e...2023-11-221h 21Better WordsAn accidental bestseller and the life-changing world of amateur drama with Janice HallettJanice Hallett is the author of three best-selling novels. Her debut, The Appeal, was awarded the CWA Debut Dagger of 2021. Her second novel, The Twyford Code, was named Crime & Thriller Book of the Year in the British Book Awards 2023. The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels was an instant Times and Sunday Times bestseller on its launch in January 2023. Janice is a former magazine editor, award-winning journalist, and government communications writer. As a playwright and screenwriter, she penned the feminist Shakespearean stage comedy NetherBard and co-wrote the feature film Retreat. Today, we're discussing her festive novella returning to the...2023-11-081h 22Better WordsInherited trauma and Australian Jewish culture with Elise Esther HearstElise Esther Hearst is a Melbourne-based playwright and author, working and living on Boon Wurrung country. She studied Creative Arts at Melbourne University and playwriting at the Royal Court Theatre in London. Upcoming productions include A Very Jewish Christmas Carol (Melbourne Theatre Company) and Yentl (Malthouse Theatre). One Day We’re All Going to Die, published by Harper Collins Australia, is Elise's debut novel. Elise is currently working on her second novel. Our interview begins at 18.00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we...2023-10-251h 15Better WordsThe highs and lows of small town life and re-discovering sport with Clare FletcherClare Fletcher was born and raised in regional Queensland, Australia. Her debut novel, romantic comedy Five Bush Weddings, was published in 2022, and today we're discussing the follow-up, Love Match. Clare also co-hosts That Rom Com Pod with fellow author (and previous Better Words guest) Karina May. Our interview begins at 00:28We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates t...2023-10-171h 22Better WordsEnduring mysteries, serial killers and the dark web with Ashley Kalagian BluntAshley Kalagian Blunt is the author of Dark Mode, an internationally published psychological thriller. Her earlier books are How to Be Australian, a memoir, and My Name Is Revenge, collected fiction and essays, which was a finalist in the 2018 Carmel Bird Digital Literary Award. Her writing appears in the Sydney widely across Australian publications, and she co-hosts James and Ashley Stay at Home, a podcast about writing, creativity and health, and teaches creative writing. Originally from Canada, she has lived and worked in South Korea, Peru and Mexico. Our interview begins at 18:00*Please note this b...2023-05-161h 25Better WordsThe romance of French cuisine with Karina MayKarina May is a Sydney-based former magazine journalist turned digital marketer, avid reader and writer of lively love stories that span the globe. When she's not dreaming up her next meet-cute, you'll likely find her rescuing her paperback from the bath, or out guzzling espresso martinis in the name of research. We're discussing her new novel, Duck á l'Orange for Breakfast. Our interview begins at 21:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is...2023-05-091h 07Better WordsHaunted houses and horrifying insects in Vietnam with Trang Thanh TranTrang Thanh Tran writes speculative stories about food, belonging and the Vietnamese diaspora. When not writing, they can be found over-caffeinating on iced coffee and watching zombie movies. She Is A Haunting is their debut novel.Our interview begins at 00:19We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen to. The beauty of Substack is you can revisit all our old editions and comment on our episode updates to share your thoughts. Come say hi! Caitlin r...2023-05-021h 06Better WordsAuthentic wish fulfilment and green flag romance with Claire ChristianClaire Christian tells stories: she is a writer, theatre maker and facilitator. She has three novels published with Text publishing. Beautiful Mess won the Text Prize in 2016. It’s Been A Pleasure, Noni Blake was released in 2020. She has had the great joy of directing Michelle Law’s smash hit comedy Single Asian Female since 2017. She is a proud member of the Mama’s Boys theatre collective whose hip-hop theatrical explosion Brothers Book Club premiered in 2022. Her Plays Lysa and the Freeborn Dames, Talking to Brick Walls, Hedonism’s Second Album and The Landmine is Me are available through Playlab...2023-04-261h 24Better WordsOwning your sexuality and overcoming shame with Josh SilverJosh grew up on a farm in the Lake District before moving to Manchester with his family, where he spent his teenage years loving the city. He moved to London to train at RADA as an actor and has performed in the West End and on Broadway. After deciding to change careers, Josh began training as a mental health nurse and, at the same time, started writing his first book. Josh lives in Manchester with his husband* and their dog Dodger.*Since we recorded this, Josh and David got married! Congratulations! (Take a look at their handsome...2023-04-181h 29Better Words'Dumb bitch lit' and situationships with Genevieve NovakGenevieve Novak is a writer from all over, but who now lives in Melbourne on Wurundjeri land. She writes romantic comedies, women’s fiction, and columns for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald that make men on Twitter very upset. Her first novel, No Hard Feelings, was released in 2021, and her second novel, Crushing, is out now.Genevieve's corgi Victor also joins us and you'll hear him in a few places. Our interview begins at 20:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two...2023-04-111h 08Better WordsVerse novels and accidentally writing a 'pandemic book' with Karen ComerKaren Comer is a freelance editor and presents writing workshops to children and adults. Earlier in her career, she worked in educational publishing and was the editor for the children's art magazine BIG. She lives in Melbourne. Grace Notes, a YA verse novel, was published in February 2023 with Hachette. Her MG verse novel, Sunshine on Vinegar Street, will be published in June 2023 with Allen & Unwin.Our interview begins at 00:12:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share recommendations for two things we reckon you should read/watch/listen t...2023-04-041h 09Better WordsPlaying games and solving puzzles with Leanne YongLeanne is an Asian-Australian author of Singaporean and Malaysian heritage who loves writing the diaspora experience into contemporary and fantasy fiction.She started her career as an IT business analyst (boring – her words, not ours!) and is now an escape room creator (much more interesting). She has designed internationally recognised games with her partner that weave unique puzzle mechanics with narrative.Although she lives in Sydney, Brisbane is where her home is. Our interview begins at 0:19:00We've got a Substack publication now! On the last day of the month, we share rec...2023-03-211h 09Better WordsThe Re-Read: Our 2022 favouritesIt's our favourite episode of the year – our favourite books, films, TV and audio of the year. Thank you for joining us in 2022 and supporting our wonderful authors. We've started a Substack for Better Words to give you extra mini recommendations each month outside of our podcast episodes. Come join us! You can also find us Storygraph: Michelle and Caitlin.Season 10 (can you BELIEVE?!) will be in your ears in a few months.We're keeping recommendations brief. If we've featured or discussed the book before, we'll link to the episode....2023-01-251h 19Better WordsThe Re-Read: Michelle's wedding and what we read on our UK tripWe're switching things up for Season 9: Welcome to The Re-Read. In this mini-season, we check in with a selection of past guests to find out what they've been working on. Expect lots of books, some babies and plenty of chat. This season works a little differently, without book recommendations from us at the start of each episode. But we promise you'll still get plenty of books added to your TBR!We're kicking things off with a wrap-up of our travels, including some of the wonderful books we read along the way. Plus, a few other...2022-12-071h 21Better WordsSketch comedy and owning our mistakes with Hayli ThomsonHayli Thomson lives in Sydney, Australia, and writes novels about candid characters for anybody who ever watched Jo March leap a fence and longed to be her best friend. Bizarrely, during her teen years, Hayli was afflicted with a 'headache' every third Monday in September, when she was left with no option but to stay home from school and watch her favourite female comedians collect Emmys live on the other side of the world. The Comedienne's Guide to Pride is her debut YA novel. Our interview begins at 00:17:00Caitlin recommends: Abbie Chats (pilot episode)2022-07-131h 15Better WordsTheatre kids, reality TV and studying pop culture with Jodi McAlisterJodi McAlister is an author and academic. In her author life, her latest books are Libby Lawrence Is Good At Pretending, a campus rom-com about theatre kids with too many emotions, and Here for the Right Reasons, playing with reality TV tropes. As an academic, she researches romantic love and popular culture and is a Senior Lecturer in Writing, Literature and Culture at Deakin University.Our interview begins at 16:00Caitlin recommends: The Summer I Turned Pretty (TV series)A frivolous and fun YA rom-com that feels really nostalgic of YA from the 2010s. 2022-07-061h 12Better WordsLiminal spaces, burnout and female friendship with Abigail BergstromAbigail Bergstrom has written for national publications and worked in the publishing industry for a decade. She has edited and represented countless bestsellers, building some of today’s biggest book brands and working with some of the industry’s most prominent voices. She was nominated for Literary Agent of the Year 2020 at the British Book Awards and is an intersectional feminist campaigner who co-founded the campaign ‘This Doesn’t Mean Yes’ which was covered in the media internationally. She lives in London with her boyfriend and her Italian Greyhound, Luca. Today we’re discussing her debut novel, What A Shame. 2022-06-291h 13Better WordsWriting a book about grief that isn't sad with Lauren DraperLauren Draper is a Melbourne-based writer and marketing professional. She is a graduate of RMIT’s Professional Writing and Editing program and now works in children’s publishing—she loves nothing more than a story infused with magic, hijinks and a touch of nostalgia. The Museum of Broken Things, her debut novel, was acquired after it was shortlisted for the 2020 Text Prize. Her work has also been longlisted in the 2019 Richell Prize and has appeared in various non-fiction publications. She grew up in Western Australia, mostly on land but often in water. She now lives in Melbourne with a strugg...2022-06-221h 05Better WordsFemale anger and family curses with Mary WatsonMary Watson is from Cape Town and now lives on the west coast of Ireland. She’s worked as an art museum guide, library assistant, theatre duty manager, and an actor in children’s musicals. She has a PhD from the University of Cape Town where she taught for many years. She won the Caine Prize in 2006, and the Philida Award in 2022. She writes short stories, young adult fantasy and thrillers. Her YA debut, The Wren Hunt, was shortlisted for the Irish Book Awards. Today we are discussing her new YA novel, Blood to Poison.Our interview begi...2022-06-1554 minBetter WordsGrowing up Lebanese and writing for a new audience with Sarah AyoubSarah Ayoub is a journalist, bestselling author and academic with a PhD in migrant Australian YA literature. She is a Stella Schools Program ambassador, has mentored the youth curators of The Sydney Writers' Festival YA program, contributed to the anthology Arab, Australian, Other: Stories on Race and Identity and most recently been a judge for the NSW Premier's Literary Awards. Sarah was elected to the board of the Australian Society of Authors in 2021 and is currently working on her first novel for adults as the writer-in-residence of Sweatshop Literacy Movement. She regularly appears at writers festivals and schools, discussing...2022-06-081h 09Better WordsWriting about tricky topics in romantic comedy with Mhairi McFarlaneMhairi McFarlane was born in Scotland (which is why her unnecessarily confusing name is pronounced Vah-Ree). After working as a journalist, Mhairi started writing novels. She lives in Nottingham with a man and a cat. Today, we're discussing her (totally bloody wonderful) eighth novel Mad About You.Our interview begins at 00:22:00Mini book club: This is Not a Book About Benedict Cumberbatch by Tabitha Carvan*When was the last time you felt unapologetic and obsessive joy for something? We loved the way this book explored joy and passions and encouraged us to pursue t...2022-05-111h 17Better WordsPublic speaking clubs and the process of writing a novel with Katherine ColletteKatherine Collette is a novelist, podcaster and engineer living in Melbourne. Her debut novel, The Helpline, was published in the US, UK, Germany and Italy. Her second novel The Competition was published in February 2022. She also co-hosts the writing podcast The First Time.Our interview begins at 00:12:20P.S listen out for who next week's guest is!Caitlin recommends: Blood Moon by Lucy CuthewAn emotional and moving YA verse novel about cyberbullying and periods. Michelle recommends: The No-Show by Beth O'LearyA brilliant, fun and heartfelt c...2022-05-0454 minBetter WordsDiabetes and choosing words carefully with Carly NugentCarly Nugent lives in Bright, Victoria. Her short fiction has featured in numerous publications, including the Bellevue Literary Review and Award Winning Australian Writing. Her first novel, The Peacock Detectives, won the Readings Children's Book Prize, was a CBCA younger readers Honour Book, and was shortlisted for the Text Prize, the Australian Book Design Awards and the Sisters in Crime Davitt Awards. But today we are discussing Sugar, her first novel for young adults. Our interview begins at 00:16:15Caitlin recommends: All My Mothers by Joanna GlenA sweeping familial drama exploring all the m...2022-04-2057 minBetter WordsMeet cutes, puzzles and publishing with Kimberley AllsoppKimberley Allsopp has had her work appear in Kidspot, The Sunday Telegraph and WHIMN (now Body & Soul) and she co-hosts the rom-com podcast, Meet Cute, which allows her to justify some of her otherwise questionable life choices. Kimberley has worked in bookselling and publishing since 2008. Today we're discussing her debut novel, Love & Other Puzzles. Our interview begins at 00:13:50Caitlin recommends: Camp by L. C. Rosen.A fun queer summer camp novel where Randy attempts to catch the eye of Hudson. Michelle recommends: The Handover by David M BarnettA h...2022-04-061h 06Better WordsOur 2021 favouritesWe've finally got our act together to share with you our favourite fiction, films, TV and audio of the year. Thank you for joining us in 2021 and supporting our wonderful authors. (You can blame Michelle's full-time reporting contract for why this is going live in February and not January)Season 8 will be in your ears in March! We're keeping recommendations brief. If we've featured or discussed the book before, we'll link to the episode.Listen to our Non-Fiction November wrap up to hear our fave non-fiction for 2021.We'll mark...2022-02-091h 00Better WordsFestive recommendations for ChristmasIn this festive bonus episode, we share some Christmas reads. Michelle's recommendationsOne Day in December by Josie Silver: A sweet rom-com about missed opportunities and love at first sight.Dracula by Bram Stoker: If you’re experiencing a winter Christmas or dreaming of one, then experience the classic that inspired a thousand stories.Caitlin's recommendationsDash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Leviathan: Cute YA rom-com set in New York. Delightful and magical!The Gift by Cecelia Ahern: Did we mention we int...2021-12-1516 minBetter WordsNon-fiction November RecommendationsIn this bonus episode, Michelle and Caitlin share some of their favourite non-fiction reads from 2021 just in time for #NonFictionNovember.Before we get into our recommendations, here are some of the books we've discussed and featured on the podcast in 2021...Trivial Grievances by Bridie Jabour (listen)The First Time I Thought I Was Dying by Sarah Walker (listen)Every Lie I've Ever Told by Rosie Waterland (listen) Cultish by Amanda Montell (listen)Michelle's recommendationsThe Five by Hallie Rubenhold: This is a fascinating historical examination of the five women murdered by Jack th...2021-11-2034 minBetter WordsThe future of dystopia and exploring the mother-daughter bond with Sara FosterSara Foster was born and raised in England but now lives in Perth with her husband and young daughters. She has previously worked as an editor in-house at HarperCollins UK and then freelance and has worked on many popular titles. She loves dystopian fiction so much that she’s studying the genre for a PhD at Curtin University. So it will come as no surprise that today we are discussing her somewhat dystopian book, and her latest novel, The Hush.Our interview begins at 21 minutes. Mini book club: Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry by Joy...2021-10-261h 00Better WordsGaming, esports and fanthropology with Alexis NeddAlexis Nedd is a Senior Entertainment Reporter at Mashable where she writes about TV, movies and video games with a sci-fi and fantasy focus. Her writing has appeared across numerous online publications. Today we are pleased to be chatting about her brilliant debut young adult novel, Don’t Hate the Player. Our interview starts at 13 minutes. Michelle recommendsThe Appeal by Janice HallettTold entirely through correspondence, this novel is SO addictive and perfect if you’re looking for something to get lost in.Caitlin recommendsThe Babysi...2021-10-1953 minBetter WordsHorror films, acting dynasties and the strange limbo of grief with Danielle BinksDanielle Binks was one of the very first people to join us on Better Words, but we’ll be honest the sound quality is pretty bad so don’t try to listen! Anyway, our guest has supported the show from the very beginning and is one of the biggest champions of Australian literature for young adults and children. She is a literary agent and editor - the person who helped several of our previous guests secure their publishing deals. In 2017, she edited the first #LoveOzYA anthology of short stories. Her debut middle grade novel, The Year the Maps Changed was ...2021-10-051h 29Better WordsUnlikely friendships, dads in YA and feedback from your favourite authors with Tobias MaddenTobias Madden has a special place in our hearts - a friend of the show and someone we are DYING to one day have a coffee with. Our guest grew up in Ballarat and worked for 10 years as a performer touring Australia and New Zealand with musicals including Mary Poppins, CATS, Singin' in the Rain, and Guys and Dolls. We first spoke to him for Better Words in 2019 when he edited and published Underdog, the first #LoveOzYA short story collection for previously unpublished Aussie writers. In 2019, he also wrote a cabaret show, Siblingship, which played to sold-out audiences and...2021-09-211h 08Better WordsFinding characters, PS I Love You and lessons from 18 novels with Cecelia AhernCecelia Ahern almost needs no introduction. She is the best selling novelist at 21 when her first book PS I Love You was published and later made into a hit film. Since then she has published 17 other books, sold more than 25 million copies of her books in more than 40 countries. Her highly acclaimed collection of stories, Roar, is being adapted for Apple TV and stars Nicole Kidman and several other huge names. Her latest, and 18th novel, Freckles is out now. Our interview begins at 18 minutes. Mini book club: It's Not You, It's Me by Gabrielle Wi...2021-09-141h 17Better WordsWhat makes a 'suspense' novel and leaving law for writing with Sonia VeltonSonia Velton grew up living between the Bahamas and the UK. She has worked as a solicitor at an international law firm and lived in the Middle East for eight years. She has since moved back to England where she lives with her three children. Her first novel, Blackberry and Wile Rose, was a historical fiction inspired by real characters and events. Her latest novel, The Image of Her, is something entirely different and that's what we're chatting about today.Our interview starts at 15 minutes. Michelle recommendsYou're Dead to Me A...2021-09-071h 05Better WordsDramatic teen years and telling stories to find ourselves with Samera KamaleddineSamera Kamaleddine is a Sydney-based journalist who spent the early part of her career writing about boys, annoying parents and friendship dramas in the teen magazines we grew up reading - Dolly and Girlfriend. She loves the beach and can be found there whenever she’s not writing (and sometimes when she is). Her debut novel for young adults, Half My Luck, has just been released after winning The Matilda Children's Literature Prize through Harper Collins.Our interview begins at 17 minutes. Mini book club: Space Hopper by Helen FisherA poignant and uplifting con...2021-08-241h 07Better WordsMillennial malaise, trivial grievances and what really matters in life with Bridie JabourBridie Jabour is the opinion editor of Guardian Australia. She has previously worked as a journalist for NewsCorp and Fairfax, where she has reported on social affairs, politics and regional issues. She has worked in the Canberra press gallery and was a reporter for Brisbane Times after starting her career at the Gold Coast Bulletin in Queensland. She writes commentary on feminism, inequality, and pop culture, and appears regularly on The Drum, Triple J and ABC Radio Sydney. She is the author of the novel The Way Things Should Be, but today we are discussing her new non-fiction collection...2021-08-171h 16Better WordsImagining alternate histories and fighting fascism through English literature with Jane ThynneJane Thynne was born in Venezuela and moved around the world with her parents and two brothers before settling in London. She is a journalist and writer who has published several historical fiction novels. Today, though, we are discussing her chilling new alternative history Widowland. Our interview starts at 19 minutes. Michelle recommendsThe Miseducation of Evie Epworth by Matson TaylorAn uplifting and joyful novel about a young woman in the 1960s finding her place in the worldCaitlin recommendsAcknowledgements by Becky LucasA br...2021-08-0357 minBetter WordsLife (and writing) after The Flatshare with Beth O'LearyBeth O'Leary is one of the biggest names in contemporary fiction at the moment. Her debut novel, The Flatshare, has sold over half a million copies and her second novel, The Switch has been optioned for film by Steven Spielberg’s production company. Today we’re thrilled to be discussing her brand new novel, The Road Trip.Our interview starts at 21 minutes. Michelle recommendsIt's a SinBeautiful and compelling, make sure you've got tissues at the ready. Caitlin recommendsZero ChillA fun and enjoya...2021-04-271h 09Better WordsFeminism in a nuclear winter and anger as fuel for writing with Claire ZornClaire Zorn is a multi-award-winning author of young adult literature. Her resume of awards is incredibly impressive including the Children’s Book Council of Australia awards, the Inky Awards, the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, and multiple state Premier’s awards. Today we are discussing her new novel When We Are Invisible, a sequel to her stunning post-apocalyptic debut The Sky So Heavy. Our interview starts at 16 minutes. Caitlin recommends:Fisk (TV show)An enjoyable and witty new ABC sitcom by comedian Kitty Flanagan. Perfect for fans of Utopia or Rosehaven. Miche...2021-04-201h 05Better WordsGreek tragedies, feminist gothic literature and the power of teaching with Phoebe WynnePhoebe Wynne worked as a teacher for eight years, teaching Classics in the UK and English Language and Literature in Paris. She left teaching to write and we’re delighted today to be talking about her first novel Madam, which has been described as gothic fiction with a feminist twist perfect for fans of Madeline Miller and Margaret Atwood. Our interview begins at 26 minutes. Mini book club: Expectation by Anna HopeWe found this a really fascinating book about friendship and relationships and what we hope our lives will be. It's one of thos...2021-04-151h 23Better WordsCreating a music icon and oral history narratives with Dawnie WaltonDawnie Walton was born and raised in Florida, but now lives in Brooklyn New York with her husband. She earned an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop in 2018 and has a journalism degree. She was formerly an editor at Essence and Entertainment Weekly. Her debut novel, The Final Revival of Opal and Nev has been described as a “firecracker” and an “utterly fresh take on finding one’s voice, on systemic racism and sexism, on freedom of expression”. Our interview starts at 16 minutes. Michelle recommends:The Lucky Escape by Laura Jane WilliamsCaitlin reco...2021-04-071h 04Better WordsCulturally diverse storytelling and the complexity of migrant experiences with Rebecca LimRebecca Lim is a writer, illustrator, editor and lawyer. She is the author of over twenty books and has been nominated for multiple awards. She is a co-founder of the Voices from the Intersection initiative to support emerging young adult and children's authors and illustrators who are First Nations, People of Colour, LGBTIQA+ or living with disability, and is a co-editor of Meet Me at the Intersection, a groundbreaking anthology of YA #OwnVoice memoir, poetry and fiction. Today, we are discussing her latest novel for younger readers, Tiger Daughter. Our interview begins at 26 minutes.Mini bo...2021-03-301h 07Better WordsViolence against women, the 'perfect victim' myth and slow writing with Leanne HallLeanne Hall is an author of and specialist in young adult and children’s fiction. Her debut novel, This Is Shyness, won the Text Prize and was followed by a sequel, Queen of the Night. Her novel for younger readers, Iris and the Tiger, won the Patricia Wrightson Prize for Children’s Literature at the 2017 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards. This week we're diving into her beautiful and haunting YA novel, The Gaps. Just a note a warning before listening: This episode deals with discussions of violent crime against women. It was recorded in late February 2021, before Sarah Ev...2021-03-231h 18Better WordsBreak-up revenge, queer friendships and anti-running propaganda with Laura KayLaura Kay is a writer and editor. She has an MA in American History from the University of Sheffield, and now lives in London with her wife and cat. In 2018, Laura was selected as one of the 10 PRH WriteNow mentees. She is based in London and The Split is her first novel.Our interview starts at 20 minutes.Mini book club: The Boy from the Mish by Gary LonesboroughWe both adored this funny and heartwarming queer Indigenous YA novel, set in a rural Australian community, about seventeen-year-old Jackson finding the courage to explore...2021-03-1658 minBetter WordsDating advice, queer rom-coms and writing for an American audience with Sophie GonzalesSophie Gonzales is a young adult author who lives in Melbourne. When she isn’t writing, she can be found ice skating, performing in musical theatre, and practising the piano. Today we’re talking about her brand new contemporary novel, Perfect on Paper.Our interview starts at 11 minutes. Michelle recommends: No Shame by Tom Allen“A brilliant comedic memoir. Anyone who has felt socially awkward or out of place will find this very touching”Caitlin recommends:Wandavision“If you haven’t watched it and you like superhero...2021-03-1059 minBetter WordsWriting funny and publishing in a pandemic with Abigail MannAbigail Mann is a Norfolk native living in London, surviving on a diet of three-shot coffee, bourbon biscuits and vegetarian sausage rolls. The manuscript which became her debut novel was runner-up in the inaugural Comedy Women in Print award in 2019. Thanks to the pandemic she has just celebrated the paperback publication of her debut, the Lonely Fajita, and will soon celebrate the publication of her second novel Sister Surprise. We usually try to avoid talking about the Panny D (British for this whole pandemic nightmare), but in Abigail’s case it’s an essential part of the conve...2021-02-231h 11Better WordsOur 2020 favouritesWe’re sharing our favourite films, books, TV and audio of the year. Because we all know the 2020 has given us PLENTY of time to consume new content. Thanks for joining us this year and for supporting us. We can’t wait to be back in your ear holes in 2021 for Season 6.Adult fictionCaitlin:Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason (listen to the interview)The Lost Love Song by Minnie DarkeAll Our Shimmering Skies by Trent DaltonMichelle:The Cows by Dawn O’Porter (and her second novel So Lucky)The Th...2020-12-271h 03Better WordsCelebrating your truth and pimping pain with Arvin AhmadiArvin Ahmadi grew up outside Washington DC, graduated from Columbia University, and worked in the tech industry prior to becoming a full-time writer. He now lives in New York City and has published three books. He’s joining us today to talk about his latest novel, How It All Blew Up. Interview starts at 18 minutes. Note: right near the end Arvin's Airpods died so he drops out and jumps back in again. Caitlin recommendsDash and Lily (based on Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn)Mich...2020-12-0159 minBetter WordsFat acceptance and living life unapologetically with Stephanie YeboahStephanie Yeboah has been part of the fat acceptance and body positivity movement since 2014. She has since then written for multiple publications and her own blog about intersectionality in the body positivity movement, Beauty standards within the community and self-love. Today we are discussing her brilliant debut non-fiction memoir/self-help guide Fattily Ever After. Interview starts at 30 minutes.Mini TV club: The Crown (Season 4)Spoiler alert: we will be discussing some key components of Season 4 of The Crown. You've been warned! (More than, you know, the fact it's based on real events).2020-11-251h 31Better WordsFame and music stardom in YA with Frances Chapman Frances Chapman was born in Henley-On-Thames in England and she spent her childhood pinballed between continents before settling in Sydney. She worked as a journalist and social researcher for several years before she became a freelance writer in 2015. Her debut novel, Stars Like Us, was published by Hardie Grant Egmont in July 2020 after winning the Hardie Grant Egmont Ampersand Prize in 2018, and the Varuna-Black Inc Publisher Introduction Program in 2017. Interview starts at 22 minutes.Caitlin recommendsIt Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne. Michelle recommendsThe Reckless Afterlife of...2020-11-181h 15Better WordsThe fluidity of adolescence and reflections on life and success with Meg RosoffMeg Rosoff spent 15 years working in advertising before writing her first novel. That book, How I Live Now, has since sold over one million copies in 36 territories, won prestigious awards and been adapted into a film. Her subsequent novels have been awarded or shortlisted for multiple awards including the Carnegie Medal. Although she was born in Boston, our guest now lives in London with her husband, daughter and dogs.Interview starts at 15 minutes.Caitlin recommends2 brilliant fiction podcasts: Next Stop and Little Did I KnowFor fans of rom-coms and uplifting...2020-11-031h 06Better WordsFairytale retellings and creating new narratives with Kalynn BayronKalynn Bayron is an author and classically trained vocalist. She grew up in Alaska, which apparently means skiing and ice-skating in PE class. She studied opera in college, trained in ballet and can play the clarinet. As if all of that isn’t talent enough, she’s recently published her debut novel, Cinderella Is Dead.Interview starts at 20 minutesMini book club: Read with Pride (Paper and Hearts Society Book 2)We enjoyed this YA novel about the importance of diverse and inclusive books (even if it did give us flashbacks to high school stre...2020-10-2855 minBetter WordsNobel prize winners and the craft of short stories with Laura ElveryOur guest this week is an award winning writer, she has a PhD in Creative Writing and Literary Studies, her work has been published in Overland, Griffith Review, The Big Issue fiction edition and more. She has won the Josephine Ulrick Prize for Literature, the Margaret River Short Story Competition, the Neilma Sidney Short Story Prize and the Fair Australia Prize for Fiction. Her first book was a finalist in the Queensland Literary Awards and her second book, Ordinary Matter was published on September 1st. Ordinary Matter is a short story collection inspired by the first 20 times women won...2020-10-201h 01Better WordsViolence, isolation and a changing Ireland with Louise O'NeillIreland is a land known for its literary exports and our guest this week is certainly adding to the country’s reputation for impeccable fiction. Louise O'Neill is from West Cork and has been described as a feminist powerhouse. Her first two novels, Only Ever Yours and Asking For It, were written for young adults but tackled very tough topics including sexual assault and consent. Her books have won multiple awards and been bestsellers on the Irish fiction charts. Her latest novel and her second adult fiction, After the Silence, was published on September 3 and, at the time of re...2020-10-131h 14Better WordsThe sorrow and bliss of writing life with Meg MasonMeg Mason started her career at the Financial Times and The Times of London - definitely not too shabby! Since then, she’s been published in major Australian newspapers, The New Yorker, Sunday Style, GQ, Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. She has written a memoir and a novel, but this week we are discussing her second novel, Sorrow and Bliss.Caitlin recommendsSplitting Up TogetherA two-season US sitcom about a couple who find out getting divorced is the best thing they could ever do for their marriage. Michelle recommendsL...2020-10-061h 02Better WordsAsexual pride and publishing as a teenager with Alice OsemanAlice Oseman is a formidable young writer. Alice's first book was published when she was just 19. Now at 25, our guest has already published four celebrated novels and written and illustrated a much loved graphic novel series. Alice's latest novel, Loveless, is a celebration of friendship and coming out as asexual and aromantic.Interview starts at 12 minutes.Mini-book club: Heartstopper by Alice OsemanConfession: We haven't read many graphic novels before! We love Heartstopper. It is the PERFECT queer love story.In this interview, we chat about:Why we need more b...2020-09-3055 minBetter WordsFolklore and circus 'freaks' with Nydia HetheringtonNydia Hetherington grew up in Leeds in the north of England and moved to London in her twenties to start an acting career. She studied at a renowned French theatre school and went on to create her own theatre company. Her debut novel, A Girl Made of Air, was published in September.Interview starts at 12 minutes. Caitlin recommendsLove Struck by Bronwyn SellPerfect for pretending you were allowed to travel to an exotic tropical location for summer this year. Michelle recommendsThe Science of Storytelling by Wi...2020-09-2254 minBetter WordsWriting romance and escapist fiction with Laura Jane WilliamsLaura Jane Williams is an incredibly talented storyteller who has written columns for numerous magazines, published two non-fiction books and has just celebrated the release of her second fiction novel. Her debut fiction Our Stop was a smash hit in the UK summer in 2019 and The Love Square is set to be just as popular, having been described as “clever, hilarious and a total unbridled joy to read".We've refreshed the podcast format a tiny bit to include just one recommendation for each of us in the introduction. But if you want to skip straight to our in...2020-09-0858 min
Better WordsFrom obsession to contemporary YA with Phil StamperPhil Stamper is currently celebrating the publication of his debut novel The Gravity of Us! He grew up playing piano, writing and looking up at the stars in rural Ohio and now lives in New York City. We talked to him about the space program, reality tv and of course his new book. The Gravity of Us is a queer love story set against the backdrop of a modern space program. Before the interview, Caitlin and Michelle share a few uplifting and joyful recommendations. Interview starts at 14:30.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook...2020-03-171h 02
Better WordsFinding your own voice with Anna WhateleyAnna Whateley has a PhD in young adult fiction, first class honours in English Literature and Post-Grad Certificate in Education. We're delighted to talk to her today about her debut YA novel, Peta Lyre's Rating Normal. We chat about her journey to publication and how she's spent years trying to understand her own neurodiversity and exploring that through the novel. Ahead of that wonderful chat, Caitlin and Michelle talk about their recent reads (superheros and outer space are mentioned) and TV favourites. Interview starts at 13:38.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to...2020-03-031h 02
Better WordsWriting about the big questions with Emery LordEmery Lord is the amazing young adult author of Open Road Summer, The Start of Me & You, The Names They Gave Us and When We Collided. She is currently celebrating the publication of her fifth novel, The Map From Here To There. We talked to Emery about her writing process, how she started writing, how her first novel was published and The Great British Bake Off! Before the interview, Michelle and Caitlin talk about snow, rainy weekends and our latest TV binges. Interview starts at 21:30.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to...2020-02-111h 15
Better WordsA love letter to people watchers with Libby PageIn this episode we chat about writing, friendship, people watching, outdoor swimming and breakfast foods with Libby Page. Her debut novel The Lido has been sold into 20 territories and is one of Michelle's favourites. Her second novel, The 24 Hour Cafe was just released in Australia and the UK. Before the chat, Caitlin talks about both movies she saw on the weekend, Michelle's latest reality tv obsession and our current reads. Interview starts at 19:05.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and...2020-01-2858 min
Better WordsNew chapters and special places with Vanessa McCauslandWelcome to 2020! Vanessa McCausland has worked as a journalist for 17 years, is currently the weekend editor at kidspot.com.au and her novel The Lost Summers of Driftwood was just released! We talked to Vanessa about how she separates creative writing from work plus the themes and inspirations for her novel. To start, Michelle and Caitlin chat about what they were reading, watching and listening to over Christmas break. Interview starts at 12:10.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave...2020-01-141h 06
Better WordsDistance doesn't matter with Tara EglingtonToday's guest is the wonderful Tara Eglington! Tara joins us to talk about her fourth novel, The Long Distance Playlist. We discuss the inspirations for the story and main characters, the role music plays in the novel and her creative process. You can listen to the offical The Long Distance Playlist playlist on Spotify here. Before the interview, Michelle and Caitlin share their very own friendship playlist! Interview starts at 16:30.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating...2019-12-2259 min
Better WordsInside an indie publisher with Bella PearsonThis episode is our very first inside look into publishing! We chat to Bella Pearson from Guppy Books about her experience in the publishing, the amazing books she's worked on, some of the challenges in the industry and publishing children's books. Before that, Michelle and Caitlin are getting into the Christmas spirit with lots of recommendations! Interview starts at 16:00.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating or review.
2019-12-101h 01
Better WordsThe vulnerability of life writing with Bri LeeToday's guest is a lawyer and an award winning, critically acclaimed writer. We are so excited to have Bri Lee on Better Words! We talked about Eggshell Skull, the newly released Beauty, other writing projects and her campaign to have the Queensland Law Reform Commission review consent and 'mistake of fact' laws (consentlawqld.com). To start, Michelle and Caitlin talk about tea and their recent reads. Interview starts at 13:30.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating or...2019-11-121h 02
Better WordsWriting the stories we needed with Nina KenwoodIt Sounded Better In My Head seems to have been the talk of the Australian bookstagram community for the past few months. Nina Kenwood has worked in the book industry for over a decade, including with Melbourne’s iconic Readings bookshop. After winning the 2018 Text Prize, her first novel was published in Australia in August (and will be out in the UK and US in early 2020). We talked to Nina about her writing and publishing journey, body positive characters and how much we love Aussie's summer Christmas.
To start, Michelle and Caitlin are talking about how the se...2019-10-291h 04
Better WordsWielding our power with Julie MayhewOur first guest for season 4 has done just about everything. Julie Mayhew is an author, radio dramatist, playwright, screen writer, actress and journalist. We chat with Julie about her new book, Impossible Causes, what it's like to write across so many mediums and separating the world you create from the world you live in.
Before that, Michelle and Caitlin discuss what they've been watching, reading and listening to over the break. Interview starts at 20:40.
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and...2019-10-151h 06
Better WordsWhile you were writing with Ali Berg and Michelle KalusThe Book Ninjas are back! We welcome Ali Berg and Michelle Kalus back to Better Words to discuss their second bookish rom-com, While You Were Reading. We explore the changes in writing a second book and the publication challenge of including real #bookstagram shots in the novel. In the introduction, we're talking about Yesterday, Parenthood, Luther, and the weird CATS trailer.
*Interview starts at 20m*
Check out the shownotes here.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating or review.
2019-07-2348 min
Better WordsWritten in the stars with Danielle WoodDanielle Wood, Minnie Darke or Angelica Banks? Our guest goes by a few names but we just called her Danielle. You've probably seen Star Crossed on your Instagram and whether you follow astrology or not, it's a very fun read. We talked to Danielle about her inspiration for Star Crossed, her interest in astrology, writing and her experiences in journalism. In our intro, Michelle talks about her weekend trip to Liverpool and Caitlin discusses what she's been watching and reading. Interview starts at 16:20.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and...2019-07-091h 05
Better WordsEmbracing and loving YA with Michael EarpMichael is a editor, bookseller and writer who loves children's and young adult literature. While chatting to him, we spent the whole conversation gushing about books. Key topics include Kindred: 12 #LoveOzYA Stories, Underdog Short Stories and his experience in the bookish community. In our first internationally recorded introduction, Michelle tells us about her first few days in the UK and Caitlin talks about her latest aerial activities.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating or review.
2019-05-281h 01
Better WordsWomen make history with Clare WrightWe learned a lot in this episode and we hope you do too. Clare Wright is a historian and award winning author. She talked to us about the Australian's women suffragette movement and how women won the right to vote. We also chatted to Clare about her research, writing process and making history cool again. Before that, listen to Caitlin and Michelle's last in person (for them) introduction for a while, as Michelle gets ready to move to the UK.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave...2019-05-141h 16
Better WordsCreating your authentic with Sara TaskerHow can we live as our most authentic selves? Sara Tasker is a writer, photographer, business coach, podcaster, Instagram guru and author. She joins us to talk all about the process of writing and putting together her book and living a creative life. Our chat goes off on many tangents, which proves how much we love to talk! Before the interview, hear about Caitlin's encounter with a friendly kangaroo and Michelle's new crime podcast Predator.
Join our Facebook group to continue the conversation. Follow us on Instagram @betterwordspod and please subscribe and leave a rating or review.2019-04-301h 13
Better WordsBody positive and pop culture obsessed with Jenna GuillaumeTo celebrate the release of What I Like About Me, we welcome author and journalist Jenna Guillaume. We discuss her journey to publication, the wonderful character of Maisie, rom coms, Dirty Dancing, body positivity and more. Michelle and Caitlin also discuss the Oscars, catching up on movies and the Jonas Brothers.
2019-03-051h 05
Better WordsScarred not scared with Michelle ElmanMichelle Elman is an all-round fabulous woman. She's spoken at TEDx and has built a powerful social media following after the #scarrednotscared tag went viral. Her memoir Am I Ugly? is a moving journey through multiple surgeries and the way they've shaped her body confidence. Michelle explains how she learned to love her body and how you can too. Listen up pod squad, it's time to share the love.
2018-10-101h 11
Better WordsWhen ideologies clash with Randa Abdel-FattahMichelle is back from her holiday! But that's not the most exciting thing! 'Does My Head Look Big In This?' and 'When Michael Met Mina' author Randa Abdel-Fattah joins us for an amazing discussion. Michelle and Caitlin say 'wow' a lot and just soak up everything Randa says.
2018-07-1054 min
Better WordsBook ninjas unite with Ali Berg and Michelle KalusWant to spread the bookish love? Ali Berg and Michelle Kalus are Melbourne's own book ninjas and their mission to add a little literature to everyone's day has become a national success. This week they're joining us to talk about Book on the Rain and their brand new YA debut based on the venture.
2018-06-0554 min