Shows
Becoming The MuseCoffee With Mbudzi
Catching up over a virtual cup of coffee in November also known as the sacred month of Mbudzi in Zimbabwe
Why is November called Mbudzi and why is it sacred? lets explore the tale over a virtual cup of coffee
Read article on Becoming The Muse
2024-11-0505 min
Two Words with Taku109. Film Community — Gugu naGogo BTSToday's Two Words: Film Community What does the future of community-led content creation look like in Australia? My filmmaker friends and I discuss the Kaleidoscope Project, our films and much more. Watch all our films Viv’s Silly Mango, Gugu naGogo, Namaste Yoga, and Yaz Queens on ABC iview: linktr.ee/kaleidoscopeproject and our video chat here. Our Collective Viv's Silly Mango Mary Duong (Writer/Producer) Rae Choi (Writer/Producer) Rachel Maxine Anderson (Director) Gugu naGogo Taku Mbudzi (Writer/Director/Producer) Namaste Yoga Ravi Chand (Writer/Pr...2022-11-2309 min
Two Words with Taku108. Safe Space — Gugu naGogo BTSToday's two words: Safe Space In this episode I discuss how I handled creative, business, emotional and cultural safety during the making of my film Gugu naGogo. I also give special thanks to some of the black and African women who have supported me and my project along the way. Karine Larché – costume designer Ratidzo Mambo – actor, producer Portia Jamu – set nurse Rufaro Ndoro – actor Aunty Emily Chifadza – community elder, actor Aunty Vongai Nzenza – community elder, actor Dorcas Maphakela – creative producer, writer, stylist Judith Mari – actor, makeup artist, stylist Mars Williamson – colourist, editor Jacqui Kairu – singer Karena Bravo – visual...2022-11-1619 min
Two Words with Taku101. Season 3 Intro — So you call yourself a writer?So, you call yourself a writer, huh? Where’ve you been published? Can we watch your films? What’s on your IMDB profile? Oh... you’ve self-published… on your blog? Oh, you’re just, sort of starting out? Oh, so are you even a real writer? Ignore all that. You are a writer. You love words. You find them delicious and eat them for breakfast. You love putting them together and tearing them apart. You love testing and teasing them. You. Love. Words. Except sometimes your own words terrify you. What do you actually d...2020-11-2203 min
Annie and AndoTaku Mbudzi InterviewAnnie and Ando chat to storyteller and podcaster Taku Mbudzi on Up Early. They’re talking about her television series which is currently in development and how to deal with your fear of public speaking. Remember […]
http://media.blubrry.com/annie_and_ando/p/joy.org.au/upearly/wp-content/uploads/sites/490/2020/07/Taku-Mbudzi.mp3
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:52 — 8.7MB)
Subscribe or Follow Us: Apple Podcasts | Android | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS
The post Taku Mbudzi Interview appeared first on Annie and Ando.2020-08-1600 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 100 — Answering Your Podcasting Questions on Instagram LIVEEpisode 100! I finally took to Instagram LIVE to answer your burning questions about podcasting. Watch the whole video, complete with show-and-tell of my recording gear at https://www.instagram.com/takumbudzi. Thank you for listening and supporting Two Words with Taku since 2017 — here's to 100 more episodes!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2020-07-1655 min
Two Words with Taku99 Episodes but a TV Show Ain't OneI've finally made it to Episode 99 of this podcast! Here's a quick update on what's happening with my TV stuff and what I'm planning for my 100th podcast episode. Thanks for listening and stay safe! xSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2020-04-2511 min
Two Words with Taku98. Pitch Perfectin' with Producer and Filmmaker Sher-Li Tan "Pitching is a verbal way of selling your story, and I like to leave something visual so they remember my pitch." — Sher-Li Tan I thought I was the Queen of Pitch Preparation until I met producer and filmmaker Sher-Li Tan. We first met at YouTube conference VidCon and she blew me away with how passionately she spruiked her projects. In this episode we talk about how she prepares for pitching her shows — everything from the documents she creates to how she researches her audience and the people she's pitching to. We also discuss how pitching can...2019-11-1644 min
Two Words with Taku97. Short Courses with Wendy Gray, AFTRS Head of Industry Program "Children's television is wonderful for people starting out in the industry because there tends to be more opportunity for people who don't have a long list of credits." — Wendy Gray I've fast-tracked a few skills after discovering the short courses offered by the Australian Film Television Radio School (AFTRS). In this episode, I chat to Wendy Gray from AFTRS about their courses and who they're designed for. We also chat about Wendy's career in the screen industry, including her extensive experience working in children's television. Friendly manners: this is not a paid endorsement. Pod...2019-11-1623 min
Two Words with Taku96. Chain of Title with Lawyer Dee Mbugua "…without the proper documentation proving the ownership of the work, there’s no protection from legal action." The world of television is full of great ideas and magic...and contracts and legal agreements that underpin how all that magic comes together. In this episode, lawyer Dee Mbugua explains what 'chain of title' means and why it's so important in the media industry. She also gives useful tips for seeking legal advice, especially when it comes to the fineprint. If in doubt, don't make a wild guess and definitely don't sign anything! Podcast Guest Profile De...2019-11-1525 min
Two Words with Taku95. Writers' Guild with Screenwriter and Podcaster Evrim Şen "The way that we can tell stories if we use audio, specifically fiction, is so interesting and diverse. Audio is such a freeing medium." I joined the Australian Writers’ Guild (AWG) so I could meet inspiring young screenwriters like Evrim Şen. We met at an Animation Writing Workshop and hit it off instantly — we're both fired up about stories for and about young people. In this episode, Evrim shares how joining the AWG is helping her writing career and how things are different in real-life writers' rooms vs what she learnt at film school. We also c...2019-11-1426 min
Two Words with Taku94. Authentic Voices with Vlogger and LGBQTI+ Advocate AJ Clementine "I love that this younger generation is being more expressive and feeling their emotions, instead of trying to not feel things. " We keep hearing that we need more authentic voices telling their own stories. But what does that look like when you’re creating a TV show with different characters? How do you, as a writer, make their stories feel authentic, if you haven’t personally lived those experiences? In this episode, I chat candidly with YouTuber and content creator AJ Clementine about why she started sharing her stories online. We also discuss how young people in the...2019-11-1342 min
Two Words with Taku93. Writers' Rooms with Screenwriter and Script Editor Wendy Hanna "Read scripts from the shows you like and shows you don't like. Have a good look at how they lay things out. " Wendy Hanna's episode is full of great tips about writing, finding other writers, growing your community of writers and even entering writing competitions. Hear how we first met at an Animation Writing Workshop and how the mock writers' room she created inspired me to re-think how I'd find writers for my show. Podcast Guest Profile Wendy Hanna is an AWGie nominated screenwriter and creative development consultant with a passion for people, chara...2019-11-1140 min
Two Words with Taku92. Funding Films with Filmmaker and Director Hawanatu Bangura "The key thing is, these funding bodies want you to contact them. They'll give you the time to explain what's required because they want people to succeed as well. " How can you fund your creative projects whilst working a day job? Who do you need on your team to make your funding applications more competitive? How important is it to create a proof of concept to get more funding? In this episode I chat to filmmaker Hawanatu about how she's managed to get her films and web series made. We also discuss the importance of...2019-11-0739 min
Two Words with Taku91. Managing Money with Xero Australia's Amanda Newton "Don't settle for a relationship with your accountant or bookkeeper that isn't working for you. " I know too many artists and creative people who don't feel comfortable talking about money — how much to charge, how to get more of it, how to manage it, how to grow it etc. I've finally had to confront my own fears and insecurities about money because my creative projects need proper funding to happen. In this episode I share how I manage the finances in my production company and how I unexpectedly scored my first investor. I've also invited Am...2019-11-0537 min
Two Words with Taku90. Producer Life with International Emmy Award Winner Meg O'Connell "You keep the ship afloat by making sure everyone feels heard and happy." I met Meg O'Connell last year at Screen Forever, a conference hosted by Screen Producers Australia. When I found out she'd worked on Doodles, a kids' show I'd been following, I asked if I could pick her brain about 'producer stuff'. She agreed! In this episode, Meg shares how she went from studying law to working in the screen industry. We also discuss what it's really like being a TV producer and her fun experiences working with young actors. Podcast G...2019-10-2835 min
Two Words with Taku89. Pitch Bibles with Screenwriter and Script Producer John Armstrong ‘You’re selling the sizzle, not the steak.” My first guest in Season 2 of the podcast is screenwriter, script producer and script editor John Armstrong. We first met at a screenwriters’ pitch event in Sydney in 2017 and have since co-created a teen drama series which is in early stage development. In this episode we discuss what goes into different story bibles from the pitch ones used to sell a television show, to the more detailed series or writers’ bible used to help writers before and during production. We also discuss the US showrunner model of c...2019-10-2855 min
Two Words with Taku88. Take Two — Finally Making TVLast November I applied for PRX‘s Google Podcasts Creator program, pitching the second season of Two Words with Taku. My pitch made it to the semi-finalist round out of 1000s of applications from around the world (OMG!),2019-08-2601 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 87 – Editor Sophie Kalagas on how to submit eye-catching articles to frankie magazineSo you’ve got an idea for a killer article you’d like to see in your favourite magazine? Sophie Kalagas, editor at frankie magazine shares some simple tips about how to get your submissions noticed. We recorded this episode in her lovely home and Woody...2018-12-0737 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 86 – Candid Chat about Fear, Creativity and Writing with Claire TontiFacing fear. Writing. More fear. Standup comedy. Zimbo politics. Aussie politics. Jokes about my Mama. Feminism. Typos in sexts. Working with kids. Developing TV characters. Running a company. Story. Creative freedom. And laughter…lots of laughter!2018-09-121h 07
Just Make The ThingTaku Mbudzi on finding your words.Taku Mbudzi is a writer, standup comedian, podcaster and a motivational speaker.
She also happens to be deeply thoughtful and full of wisdom about living and working as a creative.
Taku grew up in Zimbabwe and ventured alone over to Australia to study archtectiture when she was just 19.
She gives wonderful advice for those who’s thing is to write and also just advice generally for overcoming fear and finding the freedom to create what it is you really really want to.
You can find out more about Taku and her wr...2018-08-2800 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 85 – Lessons from Producing a Podcast for Young Public SpeakersLook Ma – I’m producing! The Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia (YACWA) invited me to train 15 young people in public speaking and I suggested we also make a podcast with their short speeches. In this episode I share what I learnt from creating...2018-07-3041 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 84 – Book Review: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi AdeyemiDear Tomi, this is the most biased book review I’ve ever given. But I absolutely loved reading Children of Blood and Bone! In this episode I share why I’m excited by the magical words woven into this African-inspired fantasy novel.2018-06-2525 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 83 – How podcasting is growing my tribe of fellow writers and storytellersFinding and growing your tribe is a two-way street. Yes, I know that doesn’t make grammatical sense, but hear me out as I explain how this podcast is connecting me to people I’m excited about…and people who are excited about me too.2018-06-0851 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 82 – I finally found my book illustrator for JoYOLOThe book based on my radio play is coming soon! JoYOLO by Taku and Peo. Omg I’m dying! I recorded this impromptu episode in a park the other day. Disclaimer: it’s raw and unedited! Then I made this quick little video – sorry the music is so loud and d...2018-06-0405 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 81 – 10 Branding Lessons from VICE, Junkee and Contiki at YMA 2018Youth Marketing Australia was simply eye-opening! I went to the YMA conference to learn about marketing to young people, but I learnt a whole lot more from watching the different speakers and how they represented their own [media] brands.2018-05-2834 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 80 – Listen Lynda.com, I Love your Software LessonsI highly recommend Lynda.com for learning Photoshop, Word and other software. Lynda.com is an online learning site with over 3,000 courses on topics like business, design, web development and multimedia skills, and software (Microsoft Office,2018-05-2114 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 79 – Teaching Young Filmmakers How to Draw a Mind MapMy Mama taught me how to mind map 20+ years ago. And now I do it all the time. For almost everything! Yesterday, I helped 19 young documentary makers generate ideas to shoot for Youthworx‘s Our Voices film project.2018-05-1024 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 78 – Pitches, Speeches and a Pit Stop in PerthAn overdue update on my mad writing adventures. I’ve recently written pitches for my kids’ TV show, an investor in my production company and for a book publisher. Also, my MC hat’s back on again, tying together speeches at government-funded symposiums ...2018-05-0831 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 77 – Manners made me a Moth StorySLAM Champion in MelbourneOur Moth StorySLAM theme was simply…Manners. Seriously, out of that whole Moth experience of discussing former in-laws on stage, having an amazing audience that responded to every beat of my story, to having my friends in the crowd cheering for me,2018-03-2111 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 76 – Tinder’s Interracial Couple Emoji Campaign’s Giving Me a HeadacheIt just sounds like a probability nightmare! Look, I completely support the heart and intent of the campaign. I used to be on Tinder, I’m currently in an interracial relationship* and I loooove using emoji^.2018-03-0513 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 75 – Unfiltered Black Panther Review by 5 Black Storytellers in AustraliaWe recorded for an hour and it feels like we didn’t even scratch the surface! Last Sunday, I sat in a Melbourne studio with four creative storytellers to review Marvel’s Black Panther movie. Between the five of us, individually, we make films,2018-03-041h 06
Two Words with TakuEpisode 74 – Be Kind to YourselfToday’s Two Words: Be Kind. “I’ve got 99 ideas and can’t pick one”. Yep, story of my life! In this episode I share how I’m kind to myself in my (creative) life. Everything from time out, napping and going out for a burger and wine.2018-02-2332 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 73 – Dixon Character Review – Three Billboards outside Ebbing, MissouriOfficer Jason Dixon is human after all. *Spoiler and profanity alert for this episode.* Watching the evolving character of Jason Dixon in Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri challenged how I want to write baddies for my own stories.2018-02-2016 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 72 – My First Screenwriting Session with a Script SupervisorKatharina Keil’s a script supervisor with 20+ years’ experience. She’s read 1000+ film and TV scripts in her career, so I nervously asked her to read one of mine. We discuss everything including characters, synopses, continuity, timing,2018-02-0759 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 71 – Co-founder Wanted for TV Production CompanyA Spontaneous Poem: Co-founder Wanted Dear Self, Who’re you kidding, thinking you can do it all alone? This stuff is getting bigger than you and it’s time to ask for help. In fact, why not just free flow into your phone what help you’re really looking ...2018-02-0409 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 70 – Which Mentors are Holding Your Hand?My screenwriting mentors are so kind to me. They’re also quick to give reality checks and sometimes say things I don’t want to hear. But I love them for that – they’re helping me tell better stories every day.2018-02-0314 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 69 – frankie, do you remember the good stuff?Yay! I’m a writing + podcasts finalist in frankie magazine’s awards. Here’s my Good Stuff Awards entry…Two Words with Taku is a podcast exploring the process of writing and storytelling in five main categories: technical writing, business writing,2018-02-0109 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 68 – Daina Reid on Directing Australian TV Drama, Comedy and SunshineDaina Reid is an award-winning Australian TV and Film Director. And she’s just lovely! In this interview, she shares how a Tropfest short film led her to leave acting and become a director. She talks about her recent work on SBS’s Sunshine TV drama and...2018-01-3135 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 67 – Split-Second Self-Doubt and Spontaneous Park Recording after Book Publisher MeetingToday’s [confronting] two words: So What? So what if I write and I speak? Who cares? Who should care? Who do I care about? Why do I care? So what? I really believe we will only see the stories that are different on our TV screens and on our radios if w...2018-01-2909 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 66 – The Sacred Joy of Producing Your Own Small (and Secret) ShowsMy Slightly Biased Review of A Melbourne Rapper’s Secret Show. Tenda McFly is a local rapper/poet who agreed to voice a character in my radio play. He recently held a secret show to share his poetry, rhymes and reason.2017-12-1832 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 65 – 10 Lessons from Entering Podcast Competitions in AustraliaKnow your story, know your brand and don’t think about the money. Here’s what I’ve learnt from applying for Nova + Acast’s Podquest, So You Think You Can Pod by The Wheeler Centre, and from NOT applying for the ABC’s One Million Dollar Podcast Fund.2017-12-1045 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 64 Pit Stop – Meeting Gary Vee and My Awkward Fan Girl MomentsGary Vee inspired me to start this very podcast. So when I heard he was speaking at a business seminar in Melbourne, I made an animated video to thank him. Then I felt a bit awkward sharing it online before I saw him speak at the event.2017-11-1429 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 63 – JoYOLO Radio Story Chapter 2 (Full)What happens to Joy and Yolanda after the audition? In Chapter 1, they each decided to audition for Professor Nhingi’s youth dance program. In Chapter 2, they’re not so sure that was the best idea. JoYOLO story synopsis: Joy loves words and comes from ...2017-11-0628 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 62 – Greeting Cards for Situations that F-ing SuckManners: this episode and these greeting cards contain profanity. Okay, so your friend’s mum has died? Your loved one has cancer? Oh and anxiety is keeping your bestie up all night? Melbourne graphic designer Lindsey Mineff from Hard Copy Cartel has ca...2017-10-2717 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 60.2 – Gerard McCulloch on Screenwriting, Satire and The Weekly with Charlie PickeringDo you watch The Weekly and Hard Quiz? This is the second part of my chat with writer Gerard McCullough. He is one of Australia’s most in-demand TV comedy writers and editors. His credits span sketch, variety, current affairs, quiz, sport,2017-10-2141 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 60.1 – Gerard McCulloch on Writing Stand-up Comedy, Sketches and SkitsLawd have mercy – Gerard McCulloch is finally on my podcast! He is one of Australia’s most in-demand TV comedy writers and editors. His credits span sketch, variety, current affairs, quiz, sport, and award ceremony formats.2017-10-2146 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 59 – Behind The Moth Melbourne with Local Producer Merrilee McCoyOMG Merrilee McCoy is magic! She’s the local producer of The Moth Melbourne StorySLAM events and in this episode we discuss all things storytelling. No filter! We cover what makes a good story to being vulnerable on stage to not relying on crap PowerPo...2017-10-1444 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 58 – Rap, Rhyme & Reason with Tenda McFly & ZIIMUSICWhat IS spoken word? I interview Melbourne rapper/poets Tenda McFly and Ziimusic about their writing and creative processes. We discuss everything from vulnerability, to narcissism to belief in self. Then we briefly debate if being a good writer is a d...2017-10-0345 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 57 – My Radio Play Cast is Developing My TV CharactersThe cast of my JoYOLO radio play is changing my character(s). Yes indeed! Collaborating with them is developing the way I think, write and feel about the characters they’re playing. In this episode, you’ll hear the first scene of Chapter 1,2017-09-2921 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 56 – My Two Cents on #VoteYes, #VoteNo and Faithless FearToday’s two hot words: Yes and No. Eesh, just look at them go Stealthily dividing a nation Whispering here Shouting there Fanning and fuelling frustration #VoteNo Some are writing in the skies #VoteYes Some are headbutting guys Yes and No Proudly predi...2017-09-2414 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 55 – I hate being called a motivational speakerMotivational vs inspirational speaker? In this episode I explain how I differentiate between the two and how that changes the way I speak on stage. Disclaimer: I’m not saying being a motivational speaker is bad. And yes,2017-09-2324 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 54 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #12 Graphic DesignIf you don’t have “design eyes”, please seek professional graphic design and book layout assistance for your book. In this episode I talk about how I approached graphic design for my picture book – and that ONE illustration that was driving me nuts.2017-09-1609 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 53 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #11 Celebrate Small MilestonesYou’ll be elated when you finally publish your book, but don’t forget to celebrate the little milestones along the way. Friendly FYI…these tips are from a 2016 video series I filmed after self-publishing a children’s book in Australia.2017-09-1605 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 52 – Identity Crisis: Am I African, Australian or Just Taku?Ok, false alarm – there’s no crisis. I know who I am. I’m proudly Taku: African and Australian. Listen as I discuss my identity with my writer friend Ghina Makari Cane. She’s writing a book about what’s it like living in/with two cultures.2017-09-1013 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 51 – Being the Underdog, Instagram and Raising Happy KidsLast year, I filmed my close friends for a fun little series on TAKU TV. I was experimenting with video editing and testing ideas for vox populi-style interviews. Listen as dancer Rita Nita talks about being the underdog in the dance industry; hear pho...2017-09-0713 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 50 – Snorkelling, Silence and Scaring my MamaSilence. ‘Twas a little awkward when Mama tried to scare me out of snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef. I love her to smithereens, but she’s always great inspiration for my stand-up comedy. Link to my snorkelling pics and the Instagram post that insp...2017-08-2715 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 49 – Lessons from MC’ing TEDxMelbourne’s Open Mic NightWhen you really want a ticket to a sold-out event, volunteer to MC it. Yep, that’s what happened and in this episode I explain how I got involved with TEDxMelbourne’s Open Mic event last Wednesday. The speech competition was won by Laura Youngson,2017-08-1233 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 48 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #10 Focus, not FacebookYou’ve got to be very disciplined with your time on social media when you’re writing and self-publishing a book. Too many distractions! At one point I went off Facebook for 3 months and that’s when I made significant progress with my book tasks.2017-08-0405 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 47 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #9 Mix with WritersWriting books and self-publishing aren’t easy things. Please don’t suffer in silence! Try to hang out with fellow writers and creatives who provide moral support for you. (You won’t feel so crazy or alone).2017-08-0406 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 46 – Google Review to Interview with My Local Printer GuruFact: I’ve never written a Google review. This episode is my way of reviewing the new printer I’ve found. Listen as I chat to Keenan Archer about $800 business cards, how to find a good printer, logos, printing-on-demand, small business and much more.2017-07-3139 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 45 – Pitch Your Podcast to Nova + Acast’s Podquest CompetitionNova’s Podquest Competition Deadline: 4 Aug 2017. In this episode I discuss how to apply for the Podquest Initiative by Nova Entertainment and Acast. It’s open to aspiring podcasters in Australia and you’d be mad not to apply if you have a cool story t...2017-07-2514 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 44 – What I’m Still Learning about ForgivenessToday’s one word is forgiveness. This morning I wrote a list of the people I need to forgive and I was shocked by how long it was. Not good! Listen as I read a blog post I wrote about forgiveness in December 2014.2017-07-2433 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 43 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #8 Know Your ReaderI wrote ‘Multicultural Me’, a children’s book about friendship, because I wanted to make it fun for kids to talk about cultural diversity in Australia. Who are you sharing your story, your imagination, your knowledge, your heart with?2017-07-1906 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 42 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #7 Read and Write MoreSupport your fellow writers – buy their books and read their work. Also, try experimenting with your writing, especially when you need a break from your book. Everything you read and write adds to the creative development process of self-publishing you...2017-07-1905 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 41 Pit Stop – The Little Podcast That CouldI’m celebrating 41 episodes of my little podcast. Yep! Check out my happy, joyful, not-holding-back-at-all photo on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/BWoZ1ONlRZC/?taken-by=takuspeaks. I’m proud, grateful and excited by what I’ve been learning throu...2017-07-1917 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 40 – JoYOLO Radio Story Chapter 1 (Full)Missed my radio story on PBS Radio today? Grab a cuppa! Here is Chapter 1 – A Different Dance, full and uninterrupted. Friendly note: it’s a work of fiction and includes some strong language here and there.2017-07-1737 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 39 – JoYOLO: My Radio Story Sneak Peek + Sound EffectsJoYOLO is my new radio story airing on PBS 106.7FM. In this episode I share a sneak peek of Chapter 1 and what inspired the whole story. I also discuss the five fun sound effects I used in producing my radio story.2017-07-1529 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 38 – Tea is for Taku + My Teapot Greeting CardsBreaking news: my favourite tea mug has cracked. And yes, I’m being a little emo and dramatic about it. Listen as I share why I love tea so much and why I can’t write without it. I also share tea-drinking memories from my childhood in Zimbabwe and why ...2017-07-0422 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 37 – Six Creative Minds Chat about Comparing Ourselves to OthersMajor mojo killer: comparing yourself to others. I ask an author, a dancer, an actress, a radio broadcaster and a pottery teacher to share their thoughts on this topic. I’m currently producing a radio story, something quite new to me,2017-07-0229 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 36 – Podcasts I Love: S-Town, Serial, The Moth and MoreS-Town creator Brian Reed is coming to Melbourne. OMG! I can’t wait to hear how he made his record-breaking podcast. 40 million downloads and counting! In this episode I review S-Town, Serial by This American Life,2017-06-2518 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 35 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #6 MotivationMaking money shouldn’t be your main motivation. So why do you really want to write a book? Why do you need to write a book? Friendly FYI…these tips are from a 2016 video series I filmed after self-publishing a children’s book in Australia.2017-06-2005 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 34 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #5 StorySo you want to publish a book? But hold on…what’s the story you will write? Is it non-fiction or fiction? Why is that story important? What’s your personal story and the connection to the work you want to publish?2017-06-2005 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 33 – The Big Issue with Wonder Woman, Homelessness and TypesettingIn this episode I review the The Big Issue Magazine’s Wonder Woman edition (dated 19 May – 1 June). I focus on the basic layout of the magazine, how the words and images work together and other things that I like about it. Photos at http://taku.com.2017-06-1444 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 32 – My Online Dating Profile is a PoemHow I really feel about online dating. Listen to the unexpected poem that recently became my online dating profile. I never thought I’d share this on my podcast but hey, this episode kinda happened whilst I was learning how to be a better podcaster.2017-06-1325 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 31 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #4 CrowdfundingCrowdfunding is a great way to raise funds. I do, however, recommend having a back-up option for self-publishing your book. I had an unsuccessful crowdfunding campaign on Pozible in 2015. I raised 26% of my $15000 goal amount and I learnt so much from ...2017-06-1204 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 30 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #3 ResearchResearch is everything. You need do your homework before you self-publish your book. Weigh up if that’s really the route you want to take. Explore what stories other writers are writing, find out who would be interested in your story.2017-06-1205 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 29 – Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs – 3. Add GraphicsHow to add graphics to your resume or CV. Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs is my technical writing series to help your CV look a bit better in Microsoft Word. In this podcast episode I talk through how to add simple graphics to your CV – mainly colourful head...2017-06-1220 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 28 – Lessons from Pitching to TV Producers at VIVID SydneyMe + TV Show Ideas + VIVID Sydney = Magic. I finally pitched my TV show ideas to TV and film producers at VIVID Sydney’s Breakfast Speed Pitch Fest on Monday. The first part you’ll hear is my reaction straight after I left the Museum of Contemporary A...2017-06-1025 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 27 – Don’t Conform: My Two Words for Young and Creative PeopleDon’t Conform, Teach Others and Please Don’t be Boring. My 15-year-old sister lives in Zimbabwe and lately I’ve been talking to her about the not-so-fun things some teenagers go through. Like trying to fit in. Especially if you’re creative or arty.2017-05-3026 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 26 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #2 Funding and FinancesFinding funding ain’t funny. Don’t quit your job…yet! Self-publishing and funding a book can be a costly process. Work out how you will find the money to publish your book. Will you work 9-5? Can you apply for a grant? Might you crowdfund?2017-05-2804 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 25 – Self-Publishing a Book: Tip #1 Reality CheckSelf-publishing a book is not for the faint-hearted. It takes courage, research and determination. These tips are from a 2016 video series I filmed after self-publishing a children’s book in Australia. Find all 20 videos on TAKU TV at https://www.2017-05-2804 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 24 – I’m the Untitled and Unentitled Queen of TryingWait…is ‘unentitled’ even a real word? My new business cards have me thinking about my title and what I really stand for. Yep, I’m trying my best and I like encouraging people to just try too. In this episode I also mention Seth Godin’s Startup School ...2017-05-2429 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 23 – Crowdfunding, Canon Cameras & Creating Community with a Photographer in Canada I’ve Never MetCreativity and community know no bounds. I’m a writer in Melbourne, Australia and I don’t like being cold. He’s a photographer in Smithers, Canada and loves to ski. We have never met and the only thing connecting us is one courageous book project.2017-05-201h 01
Two Words with TakuEpisode 22 – A New TV Show Pitch + Reliving My Shark Tank AuditionYikes! I have a new TV show pitch to present to Australian TV producers next month. My Shark Tank audition was a sobering lesson on pitching! In this episode I reflect on the blog post I wrote after that audition in 2015.2017-05-1632 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 21 – Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs – 2. Add ColourHow to add colour to your resume or CV. Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs is my technical writing series to help your CV look a bit better in Microsoft Word. In this podcast episode I talk through how to add colour to your CV so your job application doesn’t lo...2017-05-1520 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 20 Pit Stop – Magic, Mushrooms, Mountains and MiraclesThe magic of starting a podcast. Here’s an update on my stand-up comedy and what else’s been happening after twenty podcast episodes of Two Words with Taku. I was nervous about starting the podcast, but now it’s opening new doors and conversations in m...2017-05-0922 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 19 – Getting Published in Australia with Author and Maths Blogger Kerry CueGetting published is so hard! I’m in my local library with author Kerry Cue to discuss how she does it, dealing with publishers and distribution agents, when you can first call yourself a writer and other funny stories about her writing journey.2017-05-0637 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 18 – Writing [Fake] News Articles with Journalist and Author Kerry CueI discuss fake news, writing for the papers and being stereotyped with my writing mentor Kerry Cue. She spent 20+ years writing humourous op-ed (opinion-editorial) articles for Australia’s major newspapers and now she blogs about maths. Yes, maths!2017-05-0638 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 17 – My Second Book and Second Thoughts about Self-Publishing14,251 words and counting. I’m not sure self-publishing my second book is the best thing to do right now. Here’s to publisher-hunting and exploring new possibilities with better eyes and better stories. Self-publishing tips on YouTube Curious what I le...2017-05-0320 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 16 – Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs – 1. Add ColumnsHow to add columns to your resume or CV. Rogue Resumes to Sexy CVs is my technical writing series to help your CV look a bit better in Microsoft Word. In this podcast episode I talk through how to add columns to your CV,2017-05-0132 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 15 – WTFudge?! Hello to Listeners in Japan, Germany and Canada7 weeks. 15 episodes. 4 hours and 18 minutes. I’m surprised (and delighted) to discover Two Words with Taku has listeners in Japan, Germany and Canada. I’ve recorded this episode to thank everyone who’s listening.2017-04-2518 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 14 – Two Words with Melanie Joosten, Author of Berlin SyndromeI sat in my local cinema discussing the new movie Berlin Syndrome with author Melanie Joosten. She knows the movie very well – she wrote the novel that inspired it. We chat about how she first got published, her creative writing process,2017-04-2235 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 13 – Confident Cover Letters and Effective EmailsI chat with business writer Leonie about making your cover letter stand out and how to get to the point in emails. We also discuss the inverted pyramid theory – put the most important information at the top and filter down to the least important things...2017-04-1625 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 12 – Two Words with Comedian Loyiso Gola in MelbourneI sat in a café, chatting to South African comedian Loyiso Gola about writing jokes, writing for TV and collaborating with other writers. He’s in Australia for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and his show “Dude, Where’s my Lion?2017-04-0935 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 11 – Book Review – ‘Show Your Work’ by Austin KleonOne of my favourites! I give a more-technical-than-planned book review of Show Your Work: 10 Ways to Show Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon. Find him and his wonderful words at http://austinkleon.com/2017-03-2528 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 10 – OMG! My First Open Mic in Melbourne…and SingaporeI’ve got two days to prepare for my first open mic event in Melbourne. I hope my name is drawn out of the hat! I’ve also added my open mic set from Singapore Comedy Club last year. (Comedy timestamp – 9:50)2017-03-2016 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 9 – Today’s Two Typos, Autocorrect and Pubic SpeakingI made a couple of typos today – cringe! It happens to us all, or does it? Note to self: you’re a public speaking professional.2017-03-1608 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 8 – Ten Best Friends Recite my Friendship Poem on CameraOn World Friendship Day, I met my best friends in a local café and filmed them reciting my poem about friendship. I was a bit nervous as it was my first time playing video director, but I had the best cast anyone could ever ask for.2017-03-1209 min
Two Words with TakuEpisode 7 – How I Used to Hate Ballpoint Pens + Writing Faves IntroI can’t wait to record episodes about my favourite things – anything and everything that enhances my life as a writer. I’ll cover topics from stationery to software to tea and everything in between. Speaking of stationery,2017-03-1006 min