Auscast Literature Channel

Welcome to Academia Month, where the vibes are casual but the thoughts are deep

In this episode of Around the School Table, Ben Sacco offers a fresh perspective on classroom behaviour. Drawing from his book ‘Disruption in Schools: Understand me before you mark me!’, he challenges traditional approaches to student discipline and reframes disruption as a signal, not simply a setback. With a decade of experience in education, policy, and innovation, he blends research and real-world strategies for today’s schools. This interview explores the three underlying causes of disruption: intentional choices, personal challenges, and survival responses. Each requires a different approach. Rather than applying blanket consequences, Ben advocates for non-intrusive accountability, responding with both empathy and structure. Listeners will learn how to create psychologically safe classrooms that support both teachers and students. When the right conditions are in place, explicit teaching becomes far more effective. Ben explains how teachers can build these environments through relational trust, clear expectations, and connection. The conversation also covers mobile phone bans, educational policy, and school leadership. Ben argues that policies should reflect the reality of students’ digital lives. Banning tech, he suggests, may forgo key teachable moments. Instead, he calls for guidance, boundaries, and better digital literacy education. Principals, teachers, parents, and policymakers each have a role in creating safe, inclusive schools. From cultural shifts to clever routines like “hot chocolate mornings,” Ben shares the small, powerful changes that shape meaningful learning environments. This episode is a must for anyone invested in improving school culture and student wellbeing. Ben Sacco offers a powerful call to rethink disruption and transform it into opportunity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not ready to say goodbye to Western month yet? Good! Neither are we! It's the last week of our cast takeover and we’re lucky enough to have a cheeky fifth Thursday – which means it's time for Amy & After Dark! These are the late-night episodes where we get cosy and yap about all the things that don't fit into our regular podcast schedule. At the behest of Amy, our holidaying host, we tucked into some popcorn and s'mores with all the table manners of a band of backwoodsmen and sat down to watch Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. This 1954 technicolour Western (directed by Stanley Donen, with music and lyrics by Gene de Paul and Johnny Mercer, and starring Howard Keel, Jane Powell and, crucially, Julie Newmar as our dear Dorcas) is an Academy Award–winning smash hit from the golden age of Hollywood studio musicals. For some of us, it's a classic comfort watch and for others it was a brand new experience but, bless our beautiful hides, boy do we have a lot to say about it! In this episode we chat about everything from barn raising dance battles, to the cultural and political climate of 1950s USA, to the colonial impulses at the heart of Hollywood’s fascination with Ancient Rome. MENTIONS

Cameron Peverett may have stumbled into special education, but his leadership journey has been anything but accidental. In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis is joined by Cameron Peverett, principal at Lake Colac School and current president of the Principal Association of Specialist Schools (PASS). From humble beginnings and unexpected opportunities to pioneering best-practice leadership, Cameron shares a refreshingly candid account of what it takes to lead in the complex, rewarding world of specialist education. Driven by a “yes, and” mindset, Cameron reflects on how his adaptability and commitment to equity have shaped his leadership approach across several Victorian specialist schools. He explains how instructional leadership, strong school culture, and trust-building strategies combine to transform student and staff outcomes, especially in schools where disadvantage is a daily reality. Listeners will gain insight into the systems Cameron uses to support teachers while reducing cognitive load, from evidence-based planning practices to collaborative professional learning structures. He also explores the fine balance between instructional consistency and teacher creativity, and how modelling presence—being in every classroom, every day—has helped reshape culture and trust. This conversation also dives into the broader implications of specialist education today, including the importance of data-informed teaching, the challenge of building team trust in politically complex environments, and the rewards of student-centred leadership. Whether it’s a quiet moment in the car, kicking a footy with students, or being challenged by past pupils at McDonald’s, Cameron draws deep motivation from his school community. Packed with practical strategies, leadership wisdom, and heart, this episode is a masterclass in purposeful, people-first leadership that gets results. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our amazing host is off galavanting in the mountains and in her absence we read Amy Barry's latest release, Seven Brides for Beau Mcbride. ⋆˖°.

In this episode, Kristy Miller and Suzanne Litchfield share their journey founding Turrun Primary School on a greenfield site. In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis explores how they built a school identity rooted in local Indigenous language and meaning. From day one, Principal Kristy Miller and Assistant Principal Suzanne Litchfield focused on core values—respect, care, kindness and personal best—as the heartbeat of every decision. This audio interview covers how they handled constant change and heavy cognitive loads. They explain their innovative hiring: prioritising “good humans” over skill sets and trusting gut instincts. Discover how they navigated Australia’s teacher shortage by sticking firmly to their high standards—even if that meant non-appointments. The pair also explain why they’re transforming open-plan learning spaces into calmer, wall-based classrooms, supported by evidence on reducing cognitive overload in students. You’ll learn how these leaders fostered a strong, culturally rich school community speaking over 20 languages. Turrun’s leadership built from the ground up ensures every student, staff member and family feel known and valued. Kristy and Suzanne also detail their ‘At Turrun Guides’—short, sharp staff resources that create consistency, clarity and a human‑first school culture. If you’re interested in adaptability, values-driven leadership and school culture, this episode offers practical lessons. Plus, hear how Turrun Primary balances administrative rigour with intentional, daily human connection—even as the school grows. It’s an inspiring example of shaping a school’s soul from the very start. Powered by: xuno.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPOILER ALERT! Cast takeover month continues as Abby, Harry, and Payton interrogate— I mean interview bestselling author Amy Barry about her latest release and our July book club pick, Seven Brides for Beau McBride! Learn what Harry REALLY thinks about this book, why Abby fantasises about getting stuck on fences, and whether or not Payton is a brown-noser, this week on Amy &. Mentions: The McBrides of Montana by Amy Barry Frontiers of the Heart by Tess Lesue Someone Else’s Bucket List by Amy Matthews 'Entangled: The Exegetical Process of a Romance Author' by Amy Matthews ‘The Wicked Problem’ developed by Horst Rittel and Melvin Webber in the 1973 article, ‘Dilemmas in a General Theory of Planning’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis speaks with Kendall Lange and Wendy Tregenza from North Mandurah Primary School in Western Australia. Kendall Lange, the principal, and Wendy Tregenza, leader of the school’s Specialised Learning Programs for Autism (SLP-A), share real-world strategies for supporting autistic students and fostering inclusive school communities. Kendall Lange and Wendy Tregenza explore how schools have shifted from one-size-fits-all methods towards personalised support that embraces every student’s strengths. They offer insights into recognising invisible disabilities, setting individual education plans (IEPs), and building a culture where all students feel happy, connected, and successful. The conversation covers the complexities of autism diagnosis, emphasising collaboration between schools, families, and medical professionals. Kendall Lange and Wendy Tregenza highlight how tools like visual timetables, break cards, and token economies help autistic students transition into mainstream classrooms. Their program focuses on guiding students to full participation, using a strength-based approach and neurodiversity-affirming strategies. Listeners will hear how North Mandurah’s model influences broader educational practice, including reverse integration programs in high schools and sharing inclusive practices with other schools. Kendall Lange and Wendy Tregenza stress that passion and mindset matter more than specialisation when building teaching teams—creating adaptable, compassionate learning environments. Whether you're a principal, teacher, or parent, this episode with Kendall Lange and Wendy Tregenza offers actionable advice on creating truly inclusive schools. Their experience shows that inclusion is not just about programs or policies; it’s about relationships, flexibility, and always seeing the person behind the challenge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian Castro's “The Chinese Postman” is a meditation on old age with a central character whose life mirrors his own. The story strays into fiction when the protagonist, Abe Quin, begins a correspondence with a woman seeking refuge from the war in Ukraine. This acclaimed work of autofiction is short-listed for this year’s Miles Franklin Award. + In Bronwyn Rivers’ menacing thriller “The Reunion” five friends meet for a weekend on a lonely property in the Blue Mountains. Ten years earlier they were amongst a group of six who went hiking in the area …only five returned. Now the survivors are being stalked by someone who wants to know what really happened to their friend Ed – it seems everyone has something to hide. + Our very assiduous random reader, Lesley, is currently reading “Pompeii” by Robert Harris and “Under the Banner of Heaven” by Jon Krakauer. She’s listening to the audio version of “Limberlost” by Robbie Arnott. Piled on her tsundoku are “The Island of Sea Women” by Lisa See, “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach, The Shardlake Series by CJ Sansom and “Kairos” by Jenny Erpenbeck. Guests Brain Castro, author of “Chinese Postman”Bronwyn Rivers, author of “The Reunion” Other books that get a mention: Brian mentions a poem by TS Eliot, “The Waste Land” Bronwyn mentions inspirational crime writers Agatha Christie and PD James Sarah mentions the DS Walker series of thrillers by Patricia Wolf Annie is reading Charlotte McConaghy’s “Wild Dark Shore” INSTAGRAM@giramondopublishing@hachetteaus@bronwynriversauthorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Put on your cowboy boots and grab a partner for the square dance, because we ain't finished talkin' cowboys just yet! ⋆˖°.

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis talks with Paul James, ICT Manager at St Ignatius College in Geelong—a school where technology is no longer confined to the IT office but woven through every aspect of school life. From cybersecurity to AI-driven classroom tools, James is helping reshape how schools operate, protect, and innovate. As the person responsible for all things with an electric current—from audiovisual systems to network security—James explains how artificial intelligence is creating safer, smarter learning environments. Using tools like Darktrace, the school’s network learns to recognise normal behaviour and can detect threats in real time, reducing manual monitoring and freeing up valuable time. But AI isn’t just bolstering security. James and his team are experimenting with AI platforms like Cursor and ChatGPT to solve real operational challenges. From automating learning management tasks to developing user-friendly dashboards that help educators track assessments and reporting, these tools are transforming daily processes—allowing the IT team to focus less on troubleshooting and more on creative problem-solving. The discussion also explores the human side of AI in schools. James reflects on how technology can be made more approachable by giving software personality, and how plain-English interfaces can help teachers and coordinators interact meaningfully with complex systems. The potential for AI to tailor student learning, personalise teacher insights, and even help with sustainability initiatives is also unpacked. Beyond the immediate benefits, James raises thoughtful questions about AI’s role in education equity. While the tools are widely accessible, the impact will depend on school leadership, culture, and community engagement. This conversation is a compelling look at how AI, used thoughtfully, can enhance—not replace—human connection, creativity, and care in our schools. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Howdy! Amy is off on holiday so we (the collective & of AMY &) have taken this opportunity to do a sneaky takeover of the pod

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis speaks with Anthony Rowe, principal of Huntingdale Primary School in Melbourne — a pioneering bilingual school where students navigate their learning in both English and Japanese from their very first day. With half the curriculum delivered in Japanese, including subjects like mathematics—the school challenges traditional education models and is achieving remarkable academic outcomes. Rowe explains that far from being a barrier, bilingual education enhances student capability, building resilience and cognitive flexibility. Mathematics, often described as a language in itself, proved the ideal entry point for the school’s 50/50 bilingual programme. The results speak for themselves: Huntingdale’s mathematics outcomes significantly outperform similar schools across Victoria, a testament to both pedagogy and perseverance. Beyond the numbers, Huntingdale fosters cultural fluency and global citizenship. With students from over 40 cultural backgrounds, the school community embraces traditions such as the Japanese Undōkai sports day, classroom rituals like bowing, and artistic exploration of Japanese masters like Yayoi Kusama and Hokusai. These daily experiences cultivate curiosity, respect, and connection. The discussion also touches on the challenges of integrating students who join in later years without Japanese language foundations, and how the school’s robust support structures—including tailored learning plans and dedicated language support—help bridge the gap. Rowe reflects on leading a bilingual teaching team, the cultural nuances that shape collaboration, and the importance of aligning language programmes with local community needs and secondary pathways. For Huntingdale graduates, bilingualism isn’t just an academic asset—it’s a springboard to future studies, global careers, and enriched worldviews. This episode is a fascinating exploration of how language, culture, and education can combine to create more than just dual fluency—they can create confident, adaptable learners ready for a complex world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi Booklovers! This week, Amy & the podcast team sat down to chat about Melanie Saward's novel, Love Unleashed, for Pride Month! We discuss the boundaries of genre, bisexual representation, the sheer quantity of layers and depth that Melanie has weaved into this narrative, relationships and love, and the importance of community. Melanie Saward is a proud Bigambul and Wakka Wakka woman. She is a writer, editor, and university lecturer based in Tulmur (Ipswich), Queensland. Her debut novel Burn was published by Affirm Press in September 2023 and she’s also had work published in the literary journals Griffith Review, Meanjin, Overland, Kill Your Darlings, and has fiction published in the anthologies Flock: First Nations Stories Then and Now, and New Australian Fiction. Her first romantic comedy novel, Love Unleashed, was published by Penguin Random House in 2024. Follow Melanie on IG: @littleredwrites Check out more from Melanie here: littleredwrites.com.au Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Check out our YouTube for video content: AmyAndPodcast Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor, stuntman and voice artist, Neil Fanning’s entertainment career has spanned over 35 years. With more than 50 movie, television and commercial credits to his name, Neil’s versatility and experience continue to be highly sought after. Most notably Neil performed the voice of Scooby-Doo in both international blockbusters, Scooby-Doo and Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. Among his other film credits are Elvis, Nim’s Island, Daybreakers, Peter Pan, Crocodile Hunter – Collision Course and Jackie Chan’s First Strike. TV appearances include Sea Patrol, Wanted, Mermaids along with many others and numerous commercials. Neil has also lent his unique voice talent to international movie studios including USA studios Warner Bros and Walt Disney Pictures. Neil continues to perform in the film and television industry and in the corporate entertainment sector writing, producing and performing over 15 interactive comedy characters and as an MC for major corporate events in Australia and internationally. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel and Eddie talk to one of the best gaming experts in voice acting today. Jay Anthony Franke is an American screen and voiceover actor who first rose to prominence as Jake Sommers in the hit ‘90s NBC teen sitcom California Dreams, where he rocked the screen as the leather-clad lead guitarist. As a voice actor, Jay is widely known for his portrayal of J. C. Denton in the critically acclaimed, award-winning video game Deus Ex, and can be heard in fan-favourites Mass Effect: Infiltrator & Black Desert Online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this third week of Pride month, Amy & Justina and Harry interview THE Patrick Lenton, author of In Spite of You, who joins us for a wildly honest chat about queerness, the chaos of writing, and the unexpected beauty of Gimli and Legolas. We dive into craft, community, and smile with equal delight about the splendour of the romance community! Patrick Lenton is a journalist and writer who lives in Melbourne. He is an amazing comedy writer and a regular arts and culture commentator in the media, having appeared on The Project, ABC's The Mix, ABC Breakfast, and more. His independent publication, Nonsense, covers comedy, queer news and culture, and his debut rom-com novel, In Spite of You, releases this year (2025). LINKS Pre-order your copy of In Spite of You here. Find Patrick Lenton on instagram: @patrick_lenton . . . and his queer culture and comedy newsletter, Nonsense, here. Watch the full episode on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Bradley introduces his latest novel; one of crime in a time of climate crisis. The desperate search for a missing child is set against a terrifying Sydney of the future, where sea levels are rising with the temperature and the social divide has become a chasm. + Catherine Jinks, known for her children’s fiction, has turned her deft writer's hand to adult thrillers. In ‘Panic’ her main character Bronwyn leaves town when the fallout from a misjudged text inflames the wrath of social media. However, worse awaits her in the country where conspiracy theorists and escapees from society have created a hell of their own. + Our young random reader Arlo recommends The Star Wars trilogy and anything by Roald Dahl. Guests James Bradley, author of “Landfall”. His other books include the novels “Wrack”, “The Deep Field”, “Clade” and “Ghost Species”, a book of poetry, “Paper Nautilus”, and a work of non-fiction, “Deep Water”. Catherine Jinks, author of “Panic”. Her other thrillers include “The Attack” and “Shelter”. Her children’s books include “Traitor’s Mask” and “Demon Thief”. Other books that get a mention: Michaela’s been reading “The Accident” by Fiona Lowe. You can find Sarah’s interview with Fiona in Episode 40 of Tsundoku. As part of her judging gig for the Ned Kelly Awards, Cath has discovered “Home Truths” by Charity Norman and “Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter” by Nicci French. James Bradley mentions “Dream Hotel” by Laila Lalami, “Human Nature”by Jane Rawson and “Is a River Alice” by Robert Macfarlane INSTAGRAM @penguinbooksaus@ghostspecies @catherinejinksauthor @text_publishingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis talks with Craig Ainsworth from Westport Public School about how a modest chess program in a low socio-economic school achieved elite educational outcomes over 18 years. Far from just a lunchtime club, Craig’s program developed students’ physical control, emotional intelligence, intellectual stamina, and creative thinking—all through the game of chess. Ainsworth shares that success wasn’t about innate giftedness, but about effort and process. Using a structured approach—such as the KM-PPS framework (King safety, Material, Pawn structure, Position, Space)—students learned to handle pressure, make strategic decisions, and apply consistent critical thinking under stress. Chess became more than a game; it was a vehicle for building resilience and a growth mindset. The program had broad academic impacts, boosting students’ performance in both maths and literacy. Notably, it also shattered stereotypes: many of the top players were athletic or quiet students who, through chess, discovered untapped cognitive strengths. Craig emphasises that coaching was not passive—it required active engagement, questioning students about their decisions, and creating an environment where learning was mutual. A key to the program’s longevity was its self-sustaining culture of mentoring. Elite players trained the next cohort, creating a legacy of peer-led excellence. Even though the program paused when Craig left in 2018, its ripple effects are seen in students now pursuing high-level studies and careers. When asked why chess still matters in the age of AI, Craig affirms that machines can analyse but not create. It’s human creativity, developed through tools like chess, that remains irreplaceable. This episode is a testament to how traditional games, paired with intentional teaching, can unlock transformative educational experiences—especially in places where they’re least expected. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis speaks with Nikki Bonus, founder of Life Skills Group and the digital platform Life Skills Go. The conversation dives deep into the intersection of emotional intelligence, student well-being, and readiness to learn—arguing that emotional regulation is foundational to academic success. Bonus explains how Life Skills Go serves as a “student-facing technology for good” by helping children identify and manage their emotions daily. Drawing on neuroscience and trauma-informed practices, the platform provides real-time data on students’ emotional states, offering teachers actionable insights without disrupting classroom learning. One example: a quick morning check-in reveals if a student is emotionally regulated and ready to learn. If not, teachers are equipped to engage with empathy rather than discipline. Central to the platform’s philosophy is the understanding that emotions aren't good or bad—they’re data. Recognising, normalising, and validating feelings like anger or worry builds self-awareness and trust. As Bonus explains, being seen—truly seen—can make all the difference in a child’s day, improving engagement and creating a sense of belonging. The discussion also touches on National Check-In Week, a post-COVID initiative that revealed how many students mask distress. Bonus argues for cultural change within schools: data on student well-being should be as critical as academic metrics. Real-world examples show how unnoticed emotional patterns can surface through data, leading to early intervention and support. The episode ends with a call to action: rather than waiting for policy shifts, schools should act now using the tools and research available. Bonus’ message is clear—emotional literacy isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for learning, and schools have the power to transform lives by prioritising it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Around the School Table, host Steve Davis visits Leigh Johnson, principal of Harkaway Primary School—a small, 150-year-old school nestled in Victoria’s scenic hills. Despite its modest size and absence from the national spotlight, Harkaway has gained international recognition for its innovative, student-centred approach to education, especially around resilience and disaster preparedness. Johnson describes Harkaway’s unique charm, rooted in deep community ties and aesthetic appeal. Many families bypass other schools to enroll there, drawn by its relational culture and meaningful learning experiences. The school’s educational philosophy is anchored in a "child-centred disaster risk reduction" manifesto developed collaboratively with students and experts. Its four pillars are: involving children in learning about risks, dismantling outdated myths, connecting students with real-world experts, and empowering them to teach peers. The school’s learning environment encourages action-based education. From participating in water quality monitoring with River Detectives to co-designing a climate education game with Indonesian schools, students engage as scientists and global citizens—not just learners. Harkaway also embraces the idea of "failing successfully." Inspired by Finland’s National Day for Failure, the school celebrates mistakes as part of the learning process, helping build student resilience and normalise the iterative nature of discovery. Johnson emphasises the value of understanding individual learners and acting on that knowledge—a principle he believes any school can adopt. The episode is a compelling portrait of how a small, rural school is pioneering meaningful, globally connected education rooted in empathy, inquiry, and agency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this second week of Pride month, Amy & Justina, Payton, and Millie try to talk broader queer fiction, get distracted by queer romance again, but ultimately persevere to talk first queer classics, genre fiction with incidental queers, and their hopes for future queer fiction. LINKS Watch the full episode on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Must there always be a boy one and a girl one? Is there only one way to write a queer HEA? What's the difference between representing queer people and queering the genre itself? Amy & Harry, Abby, and Justina are kicking off Pride Month with a discussion about all of this and more. Mentioned: Female Masculinity and The Queer Art of Failure by Jack Halberstam.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & the podcast team don their oodies and pyjamas to sit down After Dark and have a conversation about the topics that don't make it into our four-week schedule. This week, as part of smut month, we discuss the rise in dark & taboo romance novels. What is dark romance? Why are these narratives more popular now more than ever? Should we be concerned about the easy access to these novels as they are sold and distributed by department stores? Where do these novels belong on the shelves? No question, no matter how taboo, is off the table. This episode deals with adult content. Please take note of the content warning at the beginning of the video and take care of yourselves. LINKS Watch the Live Bookclub on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi Booklovers! This week, Amy & the podcast team sat down to chat about Christina Lauren's Beautiful Bastard and all things smut-tastic! Where are the lines between romance, erotica and porn? What makes sex in a rom-com novel 'good'? We explore the length, width and depth of this very slippery topic! Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners and best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The #1 international bestselling co-author duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fiction and has produced twenty New York Times bestselling novels together. They are published in over 30 languages, have received multiple starred reviews, been inducted into the Library Reads Hall of Fame, named Amazon and Audible Romance of the Year, a Lambda Literary Award finalist, and been nominated for several Goodreads Choice Awards. They have been featured in publications such as Forbes, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Time, Entertainment Weekly, People, Today, O Magazine and more. Follow Christina Lauren on IG: @christinalauren Follow Christina Lauren on Facebook: ChristinaLaurenBooks Check out more from Christina Lauren here: ChristinaLaurenBooks Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Check out our YouTube for video content: AmyAndPodcast Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Grenville is best known for her book “The Secret River” published in 2005 which became an analogy for white settlement of Australia. More than two decades on, and following the defeat of the Voice referendum, Grenville has taken another journey through that same country which her ancestors settled, resulting in her latest book, “Unsettled”. In this episode, Kate Grenville chats to Annie Hastwell about the importance of facing our true history. Guest: Kate Grenville INSTAGRAM: @blackinkbooksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & Harry talk with special guests, the legendary duo Christina Lauren! Through the laughs, we discuss the upcoming re-release of their 'Beautiful Series', we talk all things smut, its place in our day and age (hint, it's still incredible and we all love it), and where the unsexiest place is in an office for... Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners and best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The #1 international bestselling coauthor duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fiction and has produced twenty New York Times bestselling novels together. They are published in over 30 languages, have received multiple starred reviews, been inducted into the Library Reads Hall of Fame, named Amazon and Audible Romance of the Year, a Lambda Literary Award finalist, and been nominated for several Goodreads Choice Awards. They have been featured in publications such as Forbes, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Time, Entertainment Weekly, People, Today, O Magazine and more. Follow Christina Lauren on IG: @christinalauren Follow Christina Lauren on Facebook: ChristinaLaurenBooks Check out more from Christina Lauren here: ChristinaLaurenBooks Follow the Amy& Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy& BookClub: Amy & BookClub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & series regulars, Payton Hogan and Justina Ashman, are joined by (soon-to-be) Dr. Georgia Nicholls to discuss sex in the rom com novel, where we ask questions like: What is smut? Does smut offer positive sex education? Are male modes of sexual pleasure being privileged in the rom com novel? And why are romance heroes so Big and heroines so smol?! LINKS Find Aya de Léon here: ayadeleon.com Watch the Live Bookclub on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel Sallis reflects on her podcasting journey and how "This is My Voice" came to be. We want to invite YOU to get in touch with if you have any feedback, want us to ask a voice artist a question, or would like us to cover a particular topic. Thank you to everyone who is a part of our wonderful community, we appreciate you taking the time to listen.Thank you again for your support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s officially smut month! Amy and series regulars Millie Heffernan and Abby Guy are joined by our special guestie Izzie Duffield (who also writes as Elizabeth Stevens as well as many other names). Come with us as we dive into fantasy smut! What is smut in romance and what happens when you add guys with huge wingspans into the mix? Find Izzie’s work here. Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single “Same Old” here. Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cath discovers the people in Damien Wilkins’ life who inspired his latest novel, “Delirious”. It’s an emotionally powerful novel about families, ageing and the surprising ways second chances come around. + Annie visits Orchard Books in the Adelaide Arcade where she receives a masterclass in styling a warm, inviting and delightfully idiosyncratic second-hand bookshop. + Our random reader recommends “Time of the Child” and “This is Happiness” by Niall Williams. Guests: Damien Wilkins, New Zealand author of “Delirious”... and 14 other novels. Nick Patrick and Kate Treloar, owners of Orchard Bookshop, Adelaide Arcade. Other books that get a mention: Cath recommends her holiday reads; “Molly Keen; A Life” by Sally Phipps and “Overtaken” by Alexei Sayle Annie recommends “The Tenderness of Wolves” by Stef Penney INSTAGRAM @thwupbooks@orchardbookshop @damienwilkins103See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & the podcast team sit down to discuss Aya de Léon's romantic suspense novel, Side Chick Nation, as part of our Climate Fiction month! Aya de León is an acclaimed writer of poetry, prose, stage, and screen. She teaches creative writing at UC Berkeley and is the 'acquiring editor for a new climate justice fiction imprint Fighting Chance Books, which will publish stories of people taking collective action in the here and now to solve the climate crisis' (ayadeleon.com). LINKS Find Aya de Léon here: ayadeleon.com Watch the Live Bookclub on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & Justina chat with Jennifer Mills, a celebrated writer of climate fiction and dystopian novels and author of The Airways (2021), Dyschronia (2018) and Gone (2011). Her latest book, Salvage, is out on May 27. Join us as we chat about ambiguous utopias, the ethics (or lack thereof) of space billionaires, and the responsibility we have to each other and the world in the face of climate emergency. Pre-order Salvage here. Find more of Jennifer's work here. For a chance to win Side Chick Nation by Aya de León (our book of the month!) or Overstory by Richard Powers click here! Our theme music is by Mass Wisteria. Stream their single "Same Old" here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & Payton talk with special guesties Dr Alex Cothren and Dr Rachel Hennessy about climate-fiction writing and scholarship – but we’re fun nerds, I promise. You can find Alex’s satirical short stories in basically any literary mag you could possibly think of, and by August 2025, his debut anthology Playing Nice Was Getting Me Nowhere will be published by Pink Shorts Press. Rachel Hennessy is an award-winning author of five novels and her most recent, City Knife, concluded her "cli-fi-ish" dystopian YA/Teen trilogy, The Burning Days. Take a deep breath and relax that heart-rate because we’re here to discuss how we might find hope and eschew defeatism in these trying times. Pre-order Alex's anthology here. Find Rachel's latest novel here. Ready to read some cli-fi? For a chance to win Side Chick Nation by Aya de León or Overstory by Richard Powers click here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I do voices! The late great Robin Williams quote from his classic film Mrs. Doubtfire is "I do voices" and we do too. In this episode Rachel and Eddie recap season ones interview Voice Off challenges with a variety of wonderful guest highlights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & season regulars, Payton and Millie, are joined by special guestie Melanie Ross to talk climate fiction. Listen in as we talk climate disasters, the subtlety of cli-fi, and the potential of a forest's imagination.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & the podcast team sit down for our very first live bookclub where we chat, with earl grey cocktails (and tea) in hand, about all things Pride and Prejudice. From Mr. Darcy's exorbitant Pemberley and the reality of where this generational wealth comes from, the misjudgement of Lydia Bennet, and what Mr. Collins' hinge profile would look like, no topic of conversation is off limits. LINKS Watch the Live Bookclub on YouTube: @AmyAndPodcast Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah is joined by Candice Fox who reflects how her “scrappy” upbringing in Bankstown and her Dad’s work in the local prison informed her crime writing. It still makes her a magnet for people willing to share their dark and strange story ideas.+Annie takes you to the launch of “Splinter”, a new literary journal, to meet its editor, Farrin Foster. In the tradition of such journals Splinter will be a place for new writing of any kind to get a showing, and a welcoming forum for South Australia’s literary community.+Sarah recommends “Australian Gospel: A Family Saga” by Lech Blaine Our random reader recommends “Technofeudalism: What killed capitalism” by Yanis Varoufakis and “Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy. GuestsCandice Fox, author of “High Wire”Farin Foster, editor of “Splinter”You can find more information about “Splinter” here: https://splinterjournal.com/ INSTAGRAM@candicefoxauthor@penginrandomhouse@splinterjournalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn the art of exploration with Adelaide's own Tamara Linke, as Eddie and Rachel learn about referencing voices, accents and how to experiment with sampling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week our host, Amy Matthews, is joined by season regulars Justina Ashman and Harry Stewart...But wait! There's more! Today, we are graced by two iconic guests. They are the masterminds behind the smash-hit For the Love of Austen series, including the joyous Emma of 83rd Street and well-loved Elizabeth of East Hampton. It's none other than the authors of contemporary Austen reimaginings, Audrey Bellezza and Emily Harding! Grab your tea (or your favourite Austen-era cocktail) and settle in as we dive into how these authors bring classic characters into the modern world, and what Mr. Darcy might look like with a smartphone. LINKS Follow Audrey and Emily on IG: @audrey.and.emily Follow Audrey Bellezza on IG: @audreybellezzawrites Follow Emily Harding on IG: @emilyhardingwrites Check out more from Audrey and Emily here: audreyandemily.com Check out more from Emily Harding here: emilyhardingdotcom.com Follow the Amy & Podcast on IG: @amyandpodcast Join the Amy & Bookclub: Amy & Bookclub Follow Amy Matthews on IG: @amymatthewsauthor Follow Amy Barry on IG: @amybarryauthor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy & season regulars, Payton, Harry, and Abby, demonstrate just how far our conversations can digress (like why, exactly, Harry would be a beaver), and discuss which song Jane Austen is going to sing when she joins us for karaoke. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn the art of exploration with Adelaide's own Tamara Linke, as Eddie and Rachel learn about referencing voices, accents and how to experiment with sampling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.