Shows
NatterS3 EP7 Jane CaseyIn this episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle are joined by bestselling crime writer Jane Casey for an honest and captivating chat about the craft behind her gripping novels.Jane opens up about her writing journey, from the spark that started it all to the pressure of keeping readers hooked across a long-running series. She shares how she crafts clever stories, develops memorable characters, and balances the demands of writing with everyday life.The trio also explore the distinctive voice of Irish crime fiction, the role of music and setting in creating...2025-05-0837 minNatterS3 EP6 Caroline MaddenSummary:In this inspiring episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle chat with author Caroline Madden about her journey to publishing The Marriage Vendetta, navigating the writing process, and the power of perseverance, community, and comedy in storytelling. A must-listen for writers and book lovers seeking insight, laughter, and a dose of creative motivation.Key points covered in this episode:Why persistence is a writer’s greatest toolThe challenges (and rewards) of writing humour in fictionThe value of editors, mentors, and writing communitiesWhy supporting new voices in literature mattersFrom th...2025-04-2433 minNatterS3 EP5 Dr Caroline WestIn this episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle sit down with author, academic, and podcaster Dr Caroline West to explore her deeply moving book Wrong Women: Selling Sex in Monto, Dublin’s Forgotten Red Light District.Together, they unpack the layered history of Monto, once a red-light district in Ireland and reflect on the lives of the women who lived and worked there. From historical exploitation to contemporary stigma, this conversation delves into the complex realities of sex work, the language we use to describe it, and how society continues to shape the narratives of marginalised wo...2025-04-0955 minNatterS3 EP4 Catherine KirwanIn this episode, Kate and Michelle sit down with crime fiction author Catherine Kirwin to uncover the fascinating journey behind her writing career. From her childhood on a farm in County Waterford to her time studying law at University College Cork, Catherine shares how life's unexpected moments led her to become a published author.She opens up about balancing her sociable introvert nature with the demands of being a writer, the inspiration behind her debut novel, Darkest Truth, and the challenges of the publishing world. Catherine also dives into her latest book, The Seventh Body, revealing...2025-03-1938 minNatterS3 EP3 Carmel HarringtonIn this heartwarming episode of The Natter Podcast, bestselling author Carmel Harrington takes us on a journey through her life, her writing, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From the adventures that have shaped her worldview to the unconditional love of her dog, George Bailey, Carmel shares her philosophy on happiness—an active pursuit rather than just a feeling.She also delves into the emotional depth of her characters, the hidden layers of human nature, and the inspiration behind her book, The Stolen Child. Through family history, travel, and the power of storytelling, Carm...2025-03-0530 minNatterS3 EP2 Amy JordanIn this thought-provoking episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with acclaimed writer Amy Jordan to discuss her latest novel, The Dark Hours. The conversation dives deep into the themes of aging, trauma, and the evolving representation of older women in literature. Amy introduces us to Julia Harte—a retired detective wrestling with her past—and explores how violence leaves a lasting imprint on both individuals and society.Beyond the book, Amy offers an intimate look into her creative process, sharing the emotional journey of writing, the therapeutic nature of storytelling, and...2025-02-1935 minNatterS3 EP1 Mary WatsonIn the Season 3 premiere of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with award-winning author Mary Watson to discuss her latest book, The Cleaner. This insightful conversation delves into themes of home, belonging, revenge, and identity. Mary also reflects on her experiences navigating life between South Africa and Ireland.They explore the impact of technology and social media on childhood, the dynamics of power and inequality, and the emotional journey of writing and publishing a book. Mary also shares a personal story behind The Cleaner, inspired by her experience of cleaning one night at a show...2025-02-0528 minNatterS2 EP8 Liz NugentSeason 2 Finale Alert!In the thrilling conclusion to Natter Season 2, Kate and Michelle sit down with the incredible Liz Nugent, a multi-award-winning author celebrated for her gripping novels and unforgettable characters.Liz pulls back the curtain on her creative process, sharing how she crafts those jaw-dropping first lines and complex, layered characters. She opens up about balancing the fear of failure with the pressure of success and reveals how her stories have deeply resonated with readers around the globe.Whether you’re a writer, a book lover, or someone chasing th...2024-12-1126 minNatterS2 EP7 Sinead MoriartyJoin Kate and Michelle as they sit down with bestselling author Sinead Moriarty to discuss her latest books and her journey as a writer. Sinead shares her unique ability to switch seamlessly between genres and offers insightful reading recommendations. They explore her dedication to writing for children and tackling important topics like the refugee crisis, climate change, and divorce.Sinead opens up about living with arthritis, navigating chronic pain, and how creativity has been a lifeline in her career. She reflects on the invaluable support from fellow authors, the importance of paying it forward, and offers...2024-11-2731 minNatterS2 EP6 Allison KeatingIn this thought-provoking episode, psychologist and author Allison Keating explores the concept of "psychological disruption" and the urgent need for a "soft revolution" in how we approach mental health and self-care. Keating sheds light on the overwhelming impact of chronic anxiety and constant information overload, which affect our mental health and overall well-being. She challenges societal pressures that prize productivity over rest, urging listeners to prioritise self-care, acknowledge their limits, and embrace small moments of joy—or "glimmers"—to counteract anxiety.Throughout the conversation, Keating dives into the unique impact of anxiety on women, who often carr...2024-11-1348 minNatterS2 EP5 David McGowanIn this episode, we sit down with Irish funeral director and author, David McGowan, as he sheds light on the often-taboo subject of death and the profound role funeral directors play in supporting those who grieve. David shares heartfelt stories from his career, from unexplained events hinting at a spiritual presence to heartwarming moments of animals sensing loss, such as a dog’s farewell to its owner.He emphasizes how pets can provide unmatched solace to those experiencing grief and the importance of including all family members in funeral arrangements to honor the deceased fully.2024-10-3046 minNatterS2 EP4 Roisin MeaneyIn this heartwarming episode, Natter hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with the beloved author Roisin Meaney, who has written over 20 novels and is known for her captivating storytelling. Roisin shares her deep love for both reading and writing, offering a glimpse into her current reading list and exciting plans for future books.Listeners will be inspired by her journey from teaching in Dublin to becoming an internationally published author.Roisin reflects on her time as a teacher and how it has shaped her storytelling. She highlights the power of kindness and the...2024-10-1640 minNatterS2 EP3 Sam BlakeIn this engaging episode, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with bestselling writer Sam Blake to dive deep into her world of storytelling, mentorship, and literary success.They kick things off by swapping book recommendations and discussing what’s currently on their reading lists.Sam opens up about her role as a mentor to aspiring authors, her involvement in the popular writing resource Writing.ie, and how she balances writing, mentoring, and her duties as the chair of the Society of Authors—advocating for fair pay and support for writers everywhere.Th...2024-10-0230 minNatterS2 EP2 Christine Dwyer HickeyIn this insightful podcast, acclaimed Irish author Christine Dwyer Hickey, winner of multiple literary awards, delves into her latest novel, Our London Lives, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound connection between her life experiences and her literary work. Christine shares her deep affection for the city of London, where she spent formative years as a young woman, and discusses how living and working there influenced her narrative style and creative process. She reflects on her journey as a writer, starting from her childhood, and how growing up in a literary household shaped her craft. Her father’s close fr...2024-09-1841 minNatterS2 EP1 Lynda La PlanteJoin Kate and Michelle as they dive into a captivating conversation with Lynda La Plante CBE, the legendary crime writer behind the acclaimed 'Prime Suspect' series. In this episode, Lynda opens up about her memoir 'Getting Away with Murder', her dual career as both an actress and a writer, and the meticulous research that fuels her gripping stories. Lynda shares fascinating anecdotes from her life, revealing the inspirations behind her bestselling books. The discussion also highlights the power of women supporting women, the significance of love and kindness, and Lynda’s deep passion for animals. Additionally, she...2024-09-0443 minNatterEP6 Kitty MurphyIn this episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle interview Kitty Murphy, author of the Dublin Drag Mystery series. Kitty shares her love for crime and Agatha Christie novels, as well as her introduction to the world of drag.She discusses the impact of drag on her life and how it inspired her writing. The conversation also touches on homosexuality in Ireland.Throughout the episode, the importance of celebrating and accepting people for who they are is emphasized. In this conversation, we discuss various topics related to life, love, and writing. They appreciate the...2024-08-2134 minNatterEP5 Siobhan MacGowanThis week, Kate and Michelle are joined by author Siobhan MacGowan where we discuss:Siobhan's upbringing & childhoodSiobhan's Novels "The Trial of Lotta Rae" and "The Graces"Her career in copywriting, journalism & musicThe PoguesHer late brother & music Legend, Shane MacGowanAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.Books, Irish Author, Literature Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-0732 minNatterEP4 Anne TiernanAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Anne Tiernan! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-1737 minNatterEP3 Edel CoffeyAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Journalist & Broadcaster Edel Coffey! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-0326 minNatterEP2 Andrea MaraAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Andrea Mara. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-1922 min
NatterEP1 Jeanine CumminsAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Jeanine Cummins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-0538 min