Words and Nerds: Authors, books and literature.

TOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES

TOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES 2025 Dani and Joel chat about his brand new book Heist: The Great Chocolate Caper, planning vs the benefits of spontaneous writing, word counts and trends. Joel also confesses something about his past that inspired the book - and it's shocking! They also chat about the importance of self-care when touring, the power of poetry in bringing out the vulnerability of students, particularly boys, unraveling the patriarchy and practising courageous vulnerability.

TOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES 2025 Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Chloe Adams to discuss her debut novel, The Occupation - winner of the 2024 Penguin Literary Prize. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: nickwasiliev.substack.com/

TOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES 2025 Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Natalia Figueroa Barroso to discuss her debut novel, Hailstones Fell Without Rain.

TOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES 2025 Dani Vee and Gavin Aung Than chat about his new graphic novel Creature Clinic. They also chat about the differences between Australian and US publishers, the secrets of the industry, parenting, finding creative space and whether meditation really works.

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes for 2025. ‘It's never been so important to be a mother of boys. We have to shape how our boys view the world, particularly when it comes to women.' The first episode of the Words & Nerds new season for 2025 has landed! Kell Woods and Dani Vee chat like old friends about the importance of parenting boys and teachable moments of positive masculinity. They also chat about finding a balance between mental health and creativity. Kell and Dani delve into fairytales and appropriating them for a new context where the portrayal of women and feminism becomes a central theme. Kell Woods is an Australian historical fantasy author. She studied English Literature, creative writing and librarianship, and has worked in libraries for the past twelve years. She's the author of After the Forest and Upon a Starlit Tide.

COUNTDOWN of the top 30 most listened to episodes. It's a Kidlit takeover! Join Ky Garvey as she chats to Picture Book creatives Rory H Mather, Brent Wilson & Kirsten Ealand on their new picture books Laugh in the Bath from Little Book Press and The Big Backyard Plan from Affirm Press. The authors share what it's like to collaborate with their fellow publishing creatives including getting creative advice from their peers and what the relationship between Author and Illustrator can be like.

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes of 2025. Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, I sit down with Geoff Parkes to discuss his debut novel, When the Deep, Dark Bush Swallows You Whole. WARNING: This book contains intense subject matter, including instances of abuse and violence. Reader discretion is advised.

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes of 2025. NEW SERIES - Ever wanted to get inside the mind of an adult fiction author? This new series spotlights author through a monologue format, where authors take a deep dive into how they wrote their novel, where ideas come from, their challenges and wins, their fears, personal experiences, what it's like working with their publisher, the editing process and more. First up Mark Mupotsa-Russell, author of The Hitwoman's Guide to Reducing Household Debt, takes us through the process of writing his second book The Wolf Who Cried Boy! Check it out!

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes of 2025. Dani Vee and Adam Wallace talk about publishing vs self-publishing, and Adam shares his experiences of writing for children. Adam has sold more than 14 million books worldwide.

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes of 2025. Don't miss this chat with Dani Vee and bestselling superstar author Christian White where they chat about Christian's darkest novel yet, The Long Night. They chat about what makes a best selling book and the writing process, as well trading stories about urban legends that haunt them and the weird confessions they make because of this fear! They talk about dark places, shared anxieties and the complex relationship between mothers and daughters. This is one in depth, fun, creepy chat. Buckle up!

COUNTDOWN the top 30 episodes of 2025. Episode 752: Everything I Know About Publishing with Adam Wallace and Sue Whiting PART 1

COUNTDOWN the top 30 episodes for 2025. Dani Vee and Paula McLean have an insightful chat about storytelling, feminism, women and how the past shapes you. The One Remaining is a story of memory, endurance, loss and love. Hilary comes upon a stack of her old diaries, which document the trauma she's endured and decides she is ready to face the hidden backstory of her life. The One Remaining is a captivating story of overcoming loss, finding the courage to trust and the self-healing power of writing our stories. Paula McLean is an author, philanthropist and advocate for Australian literature. A Patron and former Deputy Chair of the Stella Prize, she now serves as their NSW Ambassador. With a background in publishing and a legacy of

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes in 2025. In QWS S4E4, Rob chats with writer and artist Catherine Johnstone (she/her) about her lyrical, hybrid memoir-in-progress and her contributions to the international anthology Stories of Place (Black Rose Writing). They talk coming out through art, the power of queer storytelling, and how creative nonfiction can blur and bend traditional forms—lyric essays, fragments, visual structure, and more. Catherine reflects on publishing with a global collective, the joy of letting go, and her hopes for the LGBTIQA+ community. She also shares thoughtful advice for fellow writers: the importance of daydreaming, embracing experimental forms, and ending the never-ending pursuit of perfection—letting go of work when it's ready “enough,” rather than endlessly chasing a mythical final draft.

COUNTDOWN 30 of the most listened to episodes for 2025. Rob chats with journalist and author Michael Burge (he/him) about his new crime fiction novel Dirt Trap (MidnightSun Publishing), a sequel to Tank Water. They discuss writing rural noir and queer history, the silences that shape small towns, and what happens when truth finally breaks through. Michael talks about blending crime-thriller pace with emotional weight, writing justice into places that resist it, and why representation in regional stories matters more than ever.

In QWS S4E11, Troy sits down with his mate Holden Sheppard and they go deep into some meaty topics, from masculinity, drinking and trauma, through to YA vs adult writing and writing gay sex. Buckle up! They dive into the fascinating origin stories behind Holden's three acclaimed novels - Invisible Boys, The Brink and King of Dirt - as well as exploring unpublished YA fantasy novel and his gay bogan novella and how they informed his path to publication. Of course the recent Invisible Boy hit tv series on Stan gets looked at too. (Also see Words and Nerds ep 727 with Dani Vee for a dedicated discussion of this series.) Things that Holden recommends: - Gus and the Burning Stones by Troy Hunter - Wrong Answers Only by Toby Madden - Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie by Alanis Morisette Other media referenced includes: - Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams - Brokeback Mountain directed by Ang Lee - The Language or the Kiss by the Indigo Girls Trigger warnings: this episode covers depression, suicidal ideation, alcohol abuse and violence. If these topics raise any issues for you, here are some support resources to consider: - Life line 131114 - Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 - MensLine 1300789978 Hosted by Troy Hunter who you can find at www.troyhuntwriter.com Troy is the author of Gus and the Missing Boy and Gus and the Burning Stones Follow Troy on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/troyhunterwriter/ #QWSPodcast #LoveOzYA #Gayauthor #Queerwriting #adultfiction #WordsandNerds #LGBTQIABooks #YoungAdult #bromosexual

A Recording of the Dymocks Adelaide YA SPECTACULAR Panel “Why YA is Here To Stay” on Wednesday 14th November 2025. Episode Description: We've got something a bit different and a bit special for Radelaide Reads this month: a recording from the Dymocks Adelaide YA SPECTACULAR event - on Wednesday 14th November 2025 a panel of seven (yes, SEVEN) YA authors, assembled at Dymocks Rundle Mall to discuss the topic of why “YA Is Here to Stay”. It was a phenomenal event, in front of a huge crowd, and many people who couldn't attend asked whether there was any chance it was recorded. Well lo and behold I did strategically position a microphone to capture the brilliance. Here's a list of the authors (Instagram handles and latest book titles) who made up the panel: @vikkiwakefield (moderator) This Is How We Change The Ending @allaynewebster Maisy Hayes is Not for Sale @lkclipstone Tenderly I Am Devoured @mikelucasauthor One By One They Dissappear @sharonkernot Birdy @margot.mcgovern This Stays Between Us And me @ceceadam The Locked Room With special guest appearance by Becky Lucas ( @beckybookingagent )

Debut Revisited is a special series hosted by ‘Date with a Debut' host Nick Wasiliev, where established authors sit down to discuss their entire writing journey, from debut to the present day. In our third and final episode of this miniseries - and the final episode for 2025 - Nick sits down with Jane Harper, discussing her career from The Dry all the way to the latest release, Last One Out. Enjoy this show or Date with a Debut? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Author Bibliography: The Dry / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/194mv9 Force of Nature / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Z6gZMX Exiles / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/zxJ7or The Lost Man / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/6y4JYq The Survivors / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/vPA7Jv Last One Out / Jane Harper: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/dO6mMj Other Books Mentioned: Mad Mabel / Sally Hepworth: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/7aYZvg Watermelon / Marian Keyes: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/xL17g1 Killing Floor / Lee Child: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/jeqv9P Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone / Benjamin Stevenson: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/554Vv2 The Hiding Place / Kate Mildenhall: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Vx1G7O The Forsaken / Matt Rogers: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/raoVZQ Big Feelings / Amy Lovat: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/zxJ7Yr PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Jane Harper Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:X3 Episode Number: #58 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Clare Keighery (Pan Macmillan Australia) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Quizzmas - Stuff Your Stockings Episode 4 hosted by Dani Vee and Adrian Beck

Debut Revisited is a special series hosted by ‘Date with a Debut' host Nick Wasiliev, where established authors sit down to discuss their entire writing journey, from debut to the present day. In the second episode of this new miniseries, Nick sits down with Tigest Girma, discussing her career from debut Immortal Dark all the way to the latest release, Eternal Ruin. Enjoy this show or Date with a Debut? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Author Bibliography: Immortal Dark / Tigest Girma: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/7a66Bd Eternal Ruin / Tigest Girma: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/aOEmgj Other Books Mentioned: Ninth House / Leigh Bardugo: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Bn4Jg9 Kindred / Octavia E. Butler: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/OePQqA One Dark Window / Rachel Gillig: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/dO60BQ PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Tigest Girma Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:X2 Episode Number: #57 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Georgina Harrison (Hachette Australia) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Everything I Know About Publishing is a new series where Dani Vee asks the best of the best in the industry to tell her all the secrets of publishing. Rory H Mather provides honest and candid answers about whether publishers owe writers anything, how to submit, the importance of honing your writing and having a successful career in an impossible industry.

Debut Revisited is a special series hosted by ‘Date with a Debut' host Nick Wasiliev, where established authors sit down to discuss their entire writing journey, from debut to the present day. In our maiden episode of this new series, Nick sits down with Holden Sheppard, discussing his career from debut Invisible Boys all the way to the latest release, King of Dirt. Enjoy this show or Date with a Debut? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Author Bibliography: Invisible Boys / Holden Sheppard: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Bn4AbJ The Brink / Holden Sheppard: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/nXmboM King of Dirt / Holden Sheppard: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/6y4qom Other Books Mentioned: Gus and the Burning Stones / Troy Hunter: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/3J4Oon Breath / Tim Winton: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/vPAbxL Holding The Man / Timothy Conigrave: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/dO6Zn2 PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Holden Sheppard Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:X1 Episode Number: #56 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Fremantle Press, Text Publishing, Pantera Press FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present. ____ Let me know if you have any questions.

Date with a Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, in our final episode of Series 3, Nick sits down with Emma Clancey to discuss her YA fantasy debut, This Dream Will Devour Us. Also, stay tuned for an exciting new miniseries announcement at the end of the podcast! Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: This Dream Will Devour Us / Emma Clancey: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/RG7z2g Other Books Mentioned: Bat Eater / Kylie Lee Baker: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/JKAdJ7 Of Flame and Fury / Mikayla Bridge: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Dy75Bn The Farm / Jessica Mansour-Nahra: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/ramyxv All The Missing Children / Zahid Gamieldien: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/K0gKr9 The Poppy War / R.F. Kuang: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/55oRKN PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Emma Clancey Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:21 Episode Number: #55 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Reem Galal (Allen & Unwin Children's) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Dani Vee and Adam Taor chat about Bodypedia - A Brief Compendium of Human Anatomical Curiosities. No stone is unturned in this episode and they discuss interesting topics such as which side of the face is better for selfies and engagement, brain glue, travelling sperm, pleasure and shame and why Issa Newton stuck a pin in his eye. Everything you need is right here!

Stuff Your Stockings Episode 2 with Adrian Beck, Tina Strachan and Lucie Stevens. This pop-up podcast gives 2025's debut kidlit authors their moment under the Christmas tree!

Date with a Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Nick Croydon to discuss his debut speculative fiction novel, The Turing Protocol. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: The Turing Protocol / Nick Croydon: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/55ozV3 Other Books Mentioned: The Peak / Sam Guthrie: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/N97EZb As I Walked out One Midsummer Morning / Laurie Lee: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/MA7EJ2 Slaughterhouse 5 / Kurt Vonnegut: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/GK71e9 PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Nick Croydon Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:20 Episode Number: #54 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Tace Kelly (Affirm Press), Biarta Parnham, Piper Daly (Biased) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

COUNTDOWN the top 30 most listened to episodes for 2025. Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. For the first episode, we travel to the 2025 Newcastle Writers Festival for a live episode with Zahid Gamieldien, Lisa Kenway and Natasha Rai on their books All The Missing Children, All You Took From Me, and An Onslaught of Light. WARNING: all three books contain intense subject matter, with An Onslaught of Light containing suicidal themes and scenes. Listener and reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you care about has been affected by this, help is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Stuff Your Stockings Episode 2 with Bethany Loveridge and Shara Curlett. This pop-up podcast gives 2025's debut kidlit authors their moment under the Christmas tree!

Stuff Your Stockings Episode 1 with Adrian Beck, Carla Salmon and Gisela Ervin-Ward. This pop-up podcast gives 2025's debut kidlit authors their moment under the Christmas tree!

Join us for a special Takeover as Date with a Debut host Nick Wasiliev chats with Daniel Tomane about ‘The Fists of the Father', the world of boxing, trauma, and men raising men. WARNING: This book contains intense subject matter, including topics of domestic violence and suicidal themes. Listener and reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you care about has been affected by this, help is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Buy The Fists of the Father: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/Wy1E1J

Date with a Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Dr Anastasia Hronis to discuss her debut non-fiction self-help book, The Dopamine Brain. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date with a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: The Dopamine Brain / Dr Anastasia Hronis: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/POMePe Other Books Mentioned: Smartphone Nation / Dr Kaitlyn Regehr: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/xLgeWk When Nothing Feels Real / Nathan Dunne: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/GKMxeE PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Dr Anastasia Hronis Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:19 Episode Number: #53 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Penguin Random House Australia FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Dani Vee chats to Inga Simpson about the gorgeous picture book, illustrated by Tannya Harrickson. They discuss the resilience of nature, a real life story of survival and living in destructive bushfires.

The NaNoGang are back with the final episode for 2025. Did anyone make it to 50,000 words? Listen to writing tips, fun facts and where to next. It is a rambunctious episode to end the month!

Everything I Know About Publishing with Dani Vee and A.L. Tait. If you want to know everything about publishing tune into this new series where seasoned authors tells us everything they know about the publishing industry with a deep dive into their publishing journey. Find out the greatest lesson A.L. Tait has learned, tips for writers, the importance of feedback, the writing process for middle grade novels and how to get published. If you want to know everything about publishing listen now!

Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Jessica Mansour-Nahra to discuss her debut novel, The Farm. TRIGGER WARNING: this podcast and book discuss topics of depression, domestic violence and miscarriages, so reader and listener discretion is strongly advised. If you or anyone you know is struggling, help is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date With a Debut is featured as part of the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: The Farm / Jessica Mansour-Nahra: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/ramyxv Other Books Mentioned: Feast / Emily O'Grady: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/55vG32 The Water Cure / Sophie Mackintosh: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/kOrvXL Nightwatching / Tracy Sierra: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/aOMzmR PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Jessica Mansour-Nahra Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:18 Episode Number: #52 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Holly Jeffrey, Kirstin Corcoran (Hachette Australia) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Dani Vee and William J Byrne chat about his new book The Warrumbar

Sami is an international award-winning author and illustrator whose favourite topics tend to be the ones most people like to avoid... such as 'ugly' animals, parasites, poo stories and more. She has published six books and has been shortlisted for/won over 20 awards (check them out below). Four of her books are non-fiction and are part of The Illustrated Encyclopaedia series: The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals, The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Dangerous Animals, The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Peculiar Pairs in Nature and The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Extinct Animals.

Dinuka McKenzie chats with Mark Mupotsa-Russell about his new novel: The Wolf Who Cried Boy. They discuss writing an adult story from a child's perspective, the life event that sparked this unique thriller, and how to explore social issues and big emotions while keeping the narrative propulsive.

With 20 days into NanoWriMo has anyone made their writing goals? We also hear from a mystery author giving great advice on how to nail an ending and the messy process of writing.

New QWS Podcast Episode S4E10 Michael Burge Rob chats with journalist and author Michael Burge (he/him) about his new crime fiction novel Dirt Trap (MidnightSun Publishing), a sequel to Tank Water. They discuss writing rural noir and queer history, the silences that shape small towns, and what happens when truth finally breaks through. Michael talks about blending crime-thriller pace with emotional weight, writing justice into places that resist it, and why representation in regional stories matters more than ever.

Everything I (Don't) Know About Publishing with superstars Pip Harry and Kate Foster. They chat about the opaque publishing industry and the changes they'd like to see occur in the publishing industry. They discuss writing market versus writing an author wants to write, the importance of creatives having access to data, and balancing creativity with business. An episode not to be missed if you want to know more about publishing.

Join the NanoGang for episode 3 after two weeks of doing NaNoWriMo. How did they go? How many words did they write and are they going to get through the danger zone?

Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Natalia Figueroa Barroso to discuss her debut novel, Hailstones Fell Without Rain. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date With a Debut is featured in the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: Hailstones Fell Without Rain / Natalia Figueroa Barroso: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/kOrzLV Other Books Mentioned: Dirt Poor Islanders / Winnie Dunn: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/VxMZoj The Tribe / Michael Mohammed Ahmad: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/EEM9QD PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Natalia Figueroa Barroso Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:17 Episode Number: #51 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Sarah Valle (University of Queensland Press) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Dani Vee chats to bestselling author Trent Dalton about his new novel Gravity Let Me Go. They chat about being obsessed with art, an impossibility of achieving life work balance, writing the darkest part of ourselves, parenting and testicles (you read that right!) LISTEN NOW!

Join the NaNoGang after one week of writing and see how they went and compare your own journey! Not only that but we have a fantastic writing tip from Trent Dalton and special guest Margot McGovern, who loves horror and tells us all about the tropes, while scaring Cristy.

Don't miss this chat with Dani Vee and bestselling superstar author Christian White where they chat about Christian's darkest novel yet, The Long Night. They chat about what makes a best selling book and the writing process, as well trading stories about urban legends that haunt them and the weird confessions they make because of this fear! They talk about dark places, shared anxieties and the complex relationship between mothers and daughters. This is one in depth, fun, creepy chat. Buckle up!

Radelaide Reads is a brand new spin off series where SA author Adam Cece shines a light on talented South Australian authors and illustrators. Today Adam chats to not one, but two debut SA fantasy authors, S.K. Neilson and Barbara J. Rosie, about the path to publication for their debut fantasy books: Singing Down the Sky and The Brazen Dragon. Sarah and Barb chat about how it can be an uphill battle to publish fantasy in Australia, but how they both found success via the Fiona McIntosh Masterclass National Conference and IFWG Publishing, a small traditional publisher, known for comics, but making inroads in Australia in speculative fiction and young adult/middle grade fiction. They also talk about their writing processes, how it might be a good omen to always have pandas present when you are pitching to publishers, and Adam struggles to say the simple word alumni!

The Nano Gang are back with a lot of fun, nonsensical gibberish and some hot tips. We aim to write 50,000 words in one month and inspire other writers to come on the journey. We give advice on how we're going to get there, what has sparked our curiosity and we go on many tangents!

Dani Vee and Paula McLean have an insightful chat about storytelling, feminism, women and how the past shapes you. The One Remaining is a story of memory, endurance, loss and love. Hilary comes upon a stack of her old diaries, which document the trauma she's endured and decides she is ready to face the hidden backstory of her life. The One Remaining is a captivating story of overcoming loss, finding the courage to trust and the self-healing power of writing our stories. Paula McLean is an author, philanthropist and advocate for Australian literature. A Patron and former Deputy Chair of the Stella Prize, she now serves as their NSW Ambassador. With a background in publishing and a legacy of supporting the voices of women, Paula brings a thoughtful perspective on purpose, creativity and the power of storytelling.

Date With A Debut is a podcast hosted by writer Nick Wasiliev: shining a light on debut authors, their incredible books, and their journeys to publication. This week, Nick sits down with Chloe Adams to discuss her debut novel, The Occupation - winner of the 2024 Penguin Literary Prize. Enjoy the show? Drop us a review, it really helps the show out! You can also support and follow Nick on Substack: https://nickwasiliev.substack.com/ Subscribe on Podbean to never miss an episode: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/3mRME5IMoSJx Date With a Debut is featured in the Australian literary platform Words & Nerds. Check out all shows on the platform here: https://danivee.com.au/podcasts/ BOOKS: Debut Feature: The Occupation / Chloe Adams: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/kO6dod Other Books Mentioned: A Guest of the Emperor / Russell Savage: https://bit.ly/3J2OSSr Enter Ghost / Isabella Hammad: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/BngL2q Cliffs of Fall and other Stories / Shirley Hazzard: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/bOXdVk Homegoing / Yaa Gyasi: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/4G9VEo PRODUCTION NOTES: Host: Nick Wasiliev Guest: Chloe Adams Editing & Production: Nick Wasiliev Podcast Theme: ‘Chill' by Sakura Hz Production Code: 3:16 Episode Number: #50 Additional Credits: Dani Vee (Words & Nerds), Georgia Boonen (Penguin Random House Australia) FOLLOW NICK WASILIEV (+ DATE WITH A DEBUT): A LITTLE IDEA PODCAST: Feed SUBSTACK: nickwasiliev.substack.com WEBSITE: www.nicholaswasiliev.com YOUTUBE: @NickWasiliev_Official INSTAGRAM: @nickwasiliev TWITTER/X: @Nick_Wasiliev FACEBOOK: Nick Wasiliev TIKTOK: @nickwasiliev © 2025 Nick Wasiliev and Breathe Art Holdings ‘Date With A Debut' is a Words and Nerds and Breathe Art Podcasts co-production recorded and edited on Awabakal Country, and we pay our respects to all elders past and present.

Episode 764: Dani Vee and Penny Tangey chat about her new book Music Camp, the importance of creativity, climate change and what Penny has learnt about the publishing industry. Penny Tangey is the author of novels Loving Richard Feynman, Clara in Washington, Stay Well Soon, As Fast as I Can, picture book Granbad, an Aussie STEM stars biography on clinical scientist Creswell Eastman and the book we'll chat about today Music Camp.