Podcasts about Affirm Press

When Kerstin Pilz discovered that her charming husband Gianni had been cheating on her while he was dying, she had to decide what to do next (R)She had fallen madly in love with this Italian man when she was in her 40s.The two married and began travelling the world together.Then Gianni suddenly fell ill.As he was in the hospital undergoing surgery for life-threatening cancer, Kerstin discovered her husband was not the man she thought he was.Further informationLoving my Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband is published by Affirm Press.Originally broadcast in June 2024.This episode of Conversations was produced by Nicola Harrison and presented by Sarah Kanowski.It explores narcissism, narcissistic personality disorder, infidelity, terminal cancer, caring for your spouse, marriage breakdown, illness, betrayal, grief, writing, origin stories, love, lust, trust, couples counselling, couples therapy. cheating, dying, grief.Find out more about the Conversations Live National Tour on the ABC website.

Erna Walraven was one of the first female zookeepers to work at Sydney's Taronga Zoo in the 1980s. Despite practical jokes from her male colleagues, like animal dung in her gumboots, Erna kept her nerve.She was born in The Netherlands, to parents who were involved in the Dutch resistance during World War II.Erna's love of languages took her to Spain, where she lived for many years with her widowed sister and young nephew.It was there she met a penniless Australian backpacker and fell in love, starting Erna on the path to the rest of her life.Erna's memoir Hear Me Roar is published by Affirm Press.This episode was produced by Alice Moldovan. The executive producer of Conversations is Nicola Harrison. This interview was presented by Sarah Kanowski. 

Justin Heazlewood fled a complicated early life in Tasmania searching for fame as an artist on the mainland. Recently he moved back to his home town of Burnie, and realised community is where you find it.Justin Heazlewood grew up in Burnie, a coastal town on the North West coast of Tasmania.For years he imagined his hometown as somewhere he had to leave, especially if he was going to be any kind of artist.And there were other, more personal reasons that made staying in Burnie complicated.Justin's Mum has schizophrenia, and growing up he was often forced into the role of being her carer.It was something he did his best to hide from his friends and other people in his life.So after school, Justin headed to the mainland and began a life as a comedian and a songwriter.But a few years ago, he found himself returning to his home town for good. This episode of Conversations explores mental health, caring for parents, parents with mental illness, small towns, leaving your hometown, big city life, regional Australia, creatives in regional Australia, mother son relationships, returning home, community, fame, triple j, bedroom philosopher, radio, writing, music, musicians, learning guitar, grandmothers.Get Up Mum is published by Affirm Press and Justin's new book, Dream Burnie, celebrates the creative humans like him making art far from the big cities, and some of the teachers who recognised the young artists while they were at school.You can learn more about Justin's book Dream Burnie online.The Young Carer's Hotline is open Monday-Friday on 1800 422 737

It's not exactly chalk and cheese, but it's not far from it, with the combination of authors in this episode. Victoria Brownlee's third novel 'Eat Your Heart Out' (Affirm Press) is a food fight with a difference as rival food writers vie for the much sought-after biographer's byline for a high-profile, high maintenance French celebrity chef. Is it a dream job or a nightmare? That's a great story, as is Victoria's, which she shares with Kevin. Angelika von Sanden is a trauma counsellor and through her work and life has observed first hand the healing powers of our beloved canine companions. More by chance than design, she compiled the initial chapters that have become this incredibly helpful book 'Sit. Stay. Grow' (Hardie Grant Australia). It is the only self-help book you will find that has no humans, which is unique and remarkable. All thanks to our podcast partners CSCG. When it comes to the volatile world of finance, change is constant, whether it is tax, super, loans or the share market. The best people to help you navigate all the change and make the most of your hard work is the team from CSCG. Call them on 03-9974 8333 or visit their website at cscg.com.au to find out more about the range of services they offer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luna's World. The Process of a Series in the Making On today's show, Liv and I chat to a teacher librarian who has helped transform school libraries into a hub of energy and fun and has signed a 4-book series with one of our favourite publishers. We go behind the scenes to look at the process of a book series in the making. Plus, Liv reviews a magical middle grade book that's in stores now.    Today's special guest is a teacher librarian and a big supporter of getting quality books in the hands of kids. We first met her by her social media handle, ‘Hayley in the Library'. And we've had her on the show several times over the last few years, chatting about what kids are reading, and how libraries have changed to become a real hub of energy, fun and learning. Now she's written about it, and turned this theme into a 4-book series with Affirm Press.   She's popped in today to share this amazing journey from teacher to author with us, her process for writing, her interactions with editors and publishers, and the transformation of an idea for a book into a realised dream. Everybody please give a big cheer for the wonderful, Hayley Gannon.

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.

Dani Vee and Victoria Brownlee, author, writer and editor, covering food, travel and lifestyle across Australia and France, chat about their passion for food, celebrity obsession and toxic work places. They talk about writing fun books and the most stressful scene of the book that makes the book unputdownable! With Victoria having had various publishers, she chats about what she has learnt about publishing including the need to survive rejection and be brave to throw away words that aren't working. They also talk about Paris and romance in books. Her latest novel, 'Eat Your Heart Out' is published by Affirm Press. Publisher: Affirm Press Music Credit: Happy Corporate Whistle, published by Four Track, Composed by Andre Albrecht

This episode of No Hair Just Finance, we're excited to have Dr Peter Coleman as our guest. Peter holds a PhD in cultural studies from Monash University, where he also tutored in Eastern religion and philosophy. After transitioning from academia, he embarked on a career in the not-for-profit sector, where he now works as a consultant. Beyond his professional career, Peter is a registered marriage celebrant and even an occasional tarot-card reader. Peter's latest book, Australia's Most Bizarre Crimes, was published in July of this year and is available in all good bookstores through Affirm Press. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP's extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

In this episode, I speak with Katie Rose. Katie is a yoga teacher, ayurveda guide, doula, and author with over 25 years of experience in the wellness world. Her popular online courses have helped hundreds of women from all over the world empower themselves. She is the founder and host of the annual Bhakti Women Online Yoga Summit and the author of several internationally available books, including ‘Mindful Living' (Rockpool Publishing) and ‘The Yoga of Birth.' Most recently, she authored 'Trust Life, Trust Yourself, Find Peace' (published by Affirm Press). She also happens to have been my very first in-person spiritual mentor- learn more about this story in the episode. Katie helps women move from feeling stuck and overwhelmed to living vibrant, creative, and abundant lives. She lives in Sydney, Australia, with her five children in a loud and busy household, where her meditation practice keeps her sane! Bhakti Club Women's Wellness Mini Course Exclusive GoldenTime waitlist invite!

This special live recording of The First Time Podcast took place on May 23, 2024 at Carriageworks on Gadigal Land for the Sydney Writers Festival. Podcast co-host, Kate Mildenhall spoke to guests Melanie Saward, James Colley and Charlotte Wood about their books, their paths to publication and the writing life. 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. She's widely published in literary journals and anthologies and is currently awaiting sign off on her PhD. In July, her first romantic comedy novel, Love Unleashed, will be published by Penguin Random House. James Colley is the author of the debut romantic comedy novel The Next Big Thing from Pantera Press. He's the head writer of ABC TV's Gruen and Question Everything. Charlotte Wood is the author of seven novels and three books of non-fiction. Her books have won or been shortlisted for various prizes including the Stella Prize and the Prime Minister's Award for Fiction. Her latest novel is Stone Yard Devotional which has been shortlisted for Age Book of the Year, ABIA Literary fiction of the year, the Christina Stead Prize for Fiction and longlisted for the Miles Franklin Award. Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com

Few of us who have a keen interest in history and literature - particularly  Australian history and literature - will not have heard of Henry Lawson and his short story - 'The Drover's Wife'. First published in 1892, Lawson's story centres on an unnamed woman living in the outback, in an isolated hut, with her four children while her husband is away droving.   One day, she and the children spot a snake disappearing under the house.  To keep her children safe, she puts them to bed on top of the table and with her faithful snake-dog ‘Alligator', keeps vigil, waiting for  the snake to re-appear so she can kill it.  During the long dark hours of night, she reflects on her life in the time since her marriage to the drover - giving us a glimpse into the hardships endured by women like her; fighting against the elements, loneliness and other dangers in order to protect her family and home while her husband is away.  It's a story that's inspired several adaptations - including 'The Story Thief' by debut novelist Kyra Geddes. Published this year by Affirm Press 'The Story Thief' is a poignant, clever story that explores the space between fact and fiction through Lillian Taylor: a woman born in the very year Lawson published his much-celebrated story.  I was delighted to have the chance to chat with Kyra about her novel on the podcast recently.

What does a Publicist do? You've signed with a publishing house, now what? On today's show,  we chat to a publicist from Affirm Press, one of this country's favourite publishing houses, all about what to expect when your book gets accepted. What assistance do you receive? What media? How do they present you and your book to the world? And what your role is in the process. Plus, Liv reviews two awesome new picture books. All on today's show, it's gunna be huge.  Today's special guest began her working life in journalism before moving into the exciting and busy world of book publishing. Today she works as a much-loved publicist at Affirm Press based in Melbourne Australia.   She's popped in today to share with us exactly what a publicist does. How they differ from marketing, and how her job is all about assisting authors and illustrators get the most out of their publishing experience. Everyone please welcome the amazing and wonderful, Dana Anderson.

This week on "Radio Architecture with Ilana Razbash", Ilana's special guest is Dr Lee Kofman. Lee is the author of six books, including a book on writing, "The Writer Laid Bare" (Ventura Press, 2022), memoirs "Imperfect" (Affirm Press, 2019), which was shortlisted for Nib Literary Award, and "The Dangerous Bride" (Melbourne University Press, 2014). She is the co-editor of "Rebellious Daughters" (Ventura Press, 2016) and editor of "Split" (Ventura Press, 2019), which was longlisted for ABIA Awards – anthologies of memoir by prominent Australian authors. Her short works have been widely published in Australia and overseas, and her blog was a finalist for Best Australian Blogs 2014.

It's been a long five years since I last chatted with BM Caroll. In the time since, she has written another four novels - one of which is her newest release 'One of Us is Missing' published by Affirm Press. A thoroughly gripping novel that follows the O'Sullivan family after the unimaginable happens: one of them goes missing during a a Cold Play Concert in Sydney. Thrilling and terrifying in equal measures, I couldn't put this one down. I was delighted to have the chance to welcome Ber back to the podcast recently to chat about her terrific new novel.

S3E6 Queer Writes Session: R.W.R. McDonald with Avi Duckor-Jones New Podcast Episode Alert!  In this episode Rob chats with Avi Duckor-Jones about his debut novel, Max, published by Affirm Press in May 2024. Join us as we chat with Avi about the experience between writing Max, a novel, and Swim, his award-winning novella. We dive deep into the concept of author identity and how it intertwines with their work and discuss the pressure of book promotion with disclosure. Plus, get an insider's look at Avi's time on Survivor and how it influenced his writing!  Along the way, Avi shares invaluable writing advice that you won't want to miss. Tune in for an episode packed with insights and inspiration.  Avi's shout out books this episode are: People from the Pit Stand Up and Party Legend by Sam Duckor-Jones We the Animals and Blackouts by Justin Torres What Belongs to You by Garth Greenwell Queer Writes Session (QWS) Podcast, a Words & Nerds spin off series hosted by Rob aka R.W.R. McDonald and Jonathan Butler, in partnership with Blarney Books & Art in Port Fairy. Books mentioned and reviews can be found on QUEER WRITES SESSIONS | Blarney Books and Art Resources mentioned and a transcript for this episode's interview is available at QWS Podcast · R.W.R. McDonald https://rwrmcdonald.com/

Pip Fioretti is a Sydney-based author who has been writing fiction since 2006 alongside a career in visual arts.  In the 2021 Sydney lockdown and inspired by walks she'd taken though the arid rangelands of western NSW, Pip wrote the first draft for a novel that would become her first crime novel - 'Bone Lands'. Released by Affirm Press at the end of March, 'Bone Lands' is a highly evocative, compelling and somewhat confronting novel which delves into Australia's dark past and prosperity built on the back of the pastoral industry.  A thoroughly engrossing, sobering novel that heralds a bright future for one of Australia's newest outback noir writers.  I enjoyed a wide-ranging, fascinating chat with Pip for the podcast recently. 

Cynthia Morahan reviews Loving My Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband by Kerstin Pilz published by Affirm Press

Any book that explores the role fate plays in our lives is always going to be one I will enjoy.  So it was with great interest that I read Rhianna King's and brilliant debut novel ‘Birds of a Feather' published at the end of March by Affirm Press.  Rhianna is a Melbourne-based author who has spent more than two decades working as a communicator in the public and not for profit sector. During the long lockdowns of 2020 and 2021,  Rhianna fancied company of people other than those she was in lockdown with and so decided to create characters with whom to spend time with. The result was 'Birds of a Feather': an absolutely delightful novel about forbidden romance, second chances, taking yourself beyond your comfort zone and of course, fate.  I laughed, I cried and just fell in love with this charming and assured story from a talented newcomer.  Rhianna and I had a wonderful chat for the podcast recently about her inspiration, writing, visiting London and... what we would do if we won the lotto!

Are your kids looking for something new to read? Are you a middle grade fiction writer? Do you write memoir? Are you looking for an agent? If you answered YES to any of these questions, today's episode is for you. I was thrilled to review Over the Mountains and Through the Desert, the third book in the middle grade fantasy series, Seven Wherewithal Way, by author Samantha-Ellen Bound, published by Affirm Press.If you're wondering what's happening with the memoir, I give a brief update on that. Hint: it involves seeking representation from a literary agent.Buy Seven Wherewithal Way: Over the Mountains and Through the Desert  from your bookshop or online at:Collins booksellersBooktopia DymocksQBD BooksReadings.More about author Samantha-Ellen Bound: samanthaellenbound.com.Support the showConnect:W: theunlockedcreative.comIG: @unlocked_creativeSupport the show I write, record, edit and produce the show. By supporting the show, you'll get a shoutout in a future episode and the warm glow of knowing you're helping new writers everywhere to start and finish writing their first book!

What's your fridge looking like right now? Author and sustainable living researcher Dr Kate Luckins discusses her ingenious ‘The Fridge Edit' to help reduce waste, save cash and boost nutrition.    WANT MORE FROM KATE? To hear today's full interview, where she discusses how to live a health-led sustainable lifestyle...search for Extra Healthy-ish wherever you get your pods. For more on her book Live More With Less (Affirm Press, $34.99) see here. For more on Kate, see @sustainablelife.style or her site here.    WANT MORE BODY + SOUL?  Online: Head to bodyandsoul.com.au for your daily digital dose of health and wellness. On social: Via Instagram at @bodyandsoul_au or Facebook. Or, TikTok here. Got an idea for an episode? DM host Felicity Harley on Instagram @felicityharley.  In print: Each Sunday, grab Body+Soul inside The Sunday Telegraph (NSW), the Sunday Herald Sun (Victoria), The Sunday Mail (Queensland), Sunday Mail (SA) and Sunday Tasmanian (Tasmania). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam's mum worked several jobs to make ends meet when he was a child, they moved a lot, and money was tight. But Sam's mum always made him feel like he had a say in their future. Sam tells Maggie why this was so important to him, and why he's imparting it to his daughter today.  LINKS: Sam Drummond on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/samuelgdrummond/ and Sam's book can be found at Affirm Press https://affirmpress.com.au/browse/book/Sam-Drummond-Broke-9781922848475/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ROB MILLS is a born entertainer, he is singer- songwriter, presenter, actor, MC, author and media personality. He has built an impressive career across screen & stage for nearly 20 years and in more recent times he has developed into an accomplished presenter and subsequently an author. Rob first came to the nation's attention in 2003 as a finalist on the first series of Australian Idol. Subsequently he spent 3 years as Erinsborough villian and series regular in Neighbours, where he played the ever troubled Finn Kelly. He is currently performing the role of William Shakespeare in the brand-new smash hit musical "&Juliet" at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne. Last year saw Rob playing the role of Corny Collins in the Melbourne season of the 20th Anniversary of Hairspray the Musical. He has also had celebrated roles in musical shows Wicked, GHOST, Jesus Christ Superstar, Grease, Chess, Puffs! and on screen in Neighbours, Winners and Losers, the Peter Allen Telemovie, Dancing With The Stars, The Masked Singer, Have You Been Paying Attention and has been a regular on Carols by Candlelight. Rob has enjoyed hosting all the colour from Flemington across Network Ten's Spring Racing Melbourne Cup Carnival coverage for the past few years and presenting travel and tourism stories on the Nine Network's Postcards. In 2022, Rob was on Dancing With The Stars – ALL STARS, where we wowed the judges and the home viewers with his impressive Latin and Ballroom moves. He recently released his first book exploring what it is to be a modern Aussie man- ‘Putting On A Show' and is available through Affirm Press. We chat about being the Moomba king, life after fame and Australian idol, ego, taking ownership, emotions, his new book, losing his singing contract, his favourite day February 2nd, embracing your weird, entertainment, success and plenty more! The video footage of this entire chat is now out as well (one day after release)! So check them out on YouTube under Michael Kahan Check Rob out on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robmillsymills/ Website: https://www.robmills.net.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobMillsyMills/ book (Putting on a Show): https://www.booktopia.com.au/putting-on-a-show-rob-mills/book/9781922806420.html ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/funnyinfailure/ https://www.facebook.com/funnyinfailure/ and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. https://www.instagram.com/michael_kahan/ https://twitter.com/Michael_Kahan

Jane Tara is an author and wanderer who is best known in Australia for her role as general manager of Better Reading - one of Australia's largest online book communities. Jane is the author of more than 100 books, several plays and five novels. Recently, Jane's new novel, 'Tilda is Visible' was released by Affirm Press. A wonderfully surprising, quirky, funny and spellbinding book that I absolutely adored. A must read for ALL women. I was thrilled to welcome Jane to the podcast to chat about Tilda is Visible.

Liz Foster is a Sydney-based author originally from Britain who began her writing journey some seven years ago.  'The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices', published by Affirm Press is her first novel. And listeners, it's a cracker.  A thoroughly enjoyable read about marriage, parenting, fraud, infidelity and…of all things…goat's cheese! I was delighted to have the chance to speak with Liz about her book and journey on the podcast recently.

On today's show, we have Liv at the newsdesk with the latest kid lit news, including The Big Bookish Arvo.  Plus, we chat to a debut author about a fun picture book and her amazing author process.   Bethany Clark is a writer, editor, and a strategic communications consultant who after many years working behind the scenes in the publishing industry found herself as the chief manager of snacks for a small child.    Her debut children's picture book You've got yogurt in your nostrils is a joyous celebration of the glorious mess babies create when they learn to eat. It's published by Affirm Press and is in stores now. And to tell us all about it, along with her author journey, and perhaps even a few tips on marketing a book, please welcome, Bethany Clark.

Leaving the world of academia when creativity came knocking has paid off for Pip Williams. She's the bestselling author of "The Dictionary of Lost Words" and "The Bookbinder of Jericho", and speaks with Sarah about the ideas that light her up and inspire her to write. In this conversation, Pip mentions two books that were references for her writing: "The Surgeon of Crowthorne" by Simon Winchester and "Testament of Youth" by Vera BrittainAlso written by Pip Williams, "One Italian Summer".Pip Williams: Web - https://pipwilliams.com.au/Affirm Press: https://affirmpress.com.au/FB + Insta: @affirmpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leaving the world of academia when creativity came knocking has paid off for Pip Williams. She's the bestselling author of "The Dictionary of Lost Words" and "The Bookbinder of Jericho", and speaks with Sarah about the ideas that light her up and inspire her to write. In this conversation, Pip mentions two books that were references for her writing: "The Surgeon of Crowthorne" by Simon Winchester and "Testament of Youth" by Vera BrittainAlso written by Pip Williams, "One Italian Summer".Pip Williams: Web - https://pipwilliams.com.au/Affirm Press: https://affirmpress.com.au/FB + Insta: @affirmpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Charlotte Dallison about career transitions, vintage fashion, writing, living out of a suitcase, and how to be fabulous. Direct download: Tranquility du Jour #609: How to be Fabulous Subscribe in your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more. New to Tranquility du Jour? Learn more here. Upcoming Events June 30: My 50th Birthday & Fun Announcement July 15: Mid-Year Virtual Retreat Video Interview https://youtu.be/BKuLNNJpAGs Our Guest: Charlotte Dallison Charlotte Dallison is a writer, vintage fashion expert, podcast host and the founder of Chez Charlotte Vintage. She writes freelance for a range of publications based across the globe, and runs a Substack named Blonde not Beige Mail. Her first book, How to be Fabulous, a guide to finding your secondhand style, is set to be published by Affirm Press in December, 2023. Keep up with her on Instagram @charlottedallison. Find Our Guest Substack: https://charlottedallison.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottedallison/ Vintage Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chezcharpod/ Website: https://www.charlottedallison.com/ Let's Connect Receive inbox love through Love Notes: invites, inspiration, and more. Browse my 6 Books and planners. Follow along on Instagram and YouTube. Shop seasonless, vegan, locally-made, eco-friendly fashion: TDJ by Kimberly. Share a review on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or Goodreads and you may hear it shared on the show.

The ABC Sports presenter describes his life at 17, a year dominated by football, girls, beer, and a serial killer stalking his neighbourhood (R)

The ABC Sports presenter describes his life at 17, a year dominated by football, girls, beer, and a serial killer stalking his neighbourhood (R)

Kate (finally!) has some book news! And responds to a listener question on defining the stages of the editing process. Our featured book segment is brought to you by Affirm Press and we are delighted to be talking to Pip Williams about her second novel, THE BOOKBINDER OF JERICHO. Pip Williams was born in London, grew up in Sydney, and now lives in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia with her family and an assortment of animals. She has spent most of her working life as a social researcher, studying what keeps us well and what helps us thrive. She is the author of the memoir One Italian Summer, published by Affirm Press to wide acclaim. Her first novel, The Dictionary of Lost Words was published in 2020 and became an international bestseller. Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com or get in touch via Twitter (@thefirsttimepod) or Instagram (@thefirsttimepod). You can support us and the making of Season Six via our Patreon page. Thanks for joining us!

The Final Draft podcast is all about books, writing and literary culture. We're dedicated to exploring Australian writing, looking into the issues that drive our storytelling to discover more from the books you love. These are the stories that make us who we are. Shirley Le is a Vietnamese-Australian writer from Yagoona. She is a Creative Producer at Sweatshop: Western Sydney Literacy Movement. Shirley's writing has been published in Kill Your Darlings, The Griffith Review, Meanjin and several Sweatshop anthologies. My old bio used to say (Shirley is currently working on her debut novel with Affirm Press.) but now it's out and we are talking about Funny Ethnics Sylvia has just dropped a bombshell on her parents; she's dropping law to focus on her writing. It's a blow few parents are equipped to take and Sylvia's parents are only too quick to remind her of their struggles fleeing Vietnam for a better life in Australia. As Sylvia's father points out the perilous future awaiting artists (he's not quite so polite in his phrasing) Syliva takes us on a trip through her life and the perennial clash between her dreams and the expectations of her family and community. Final Draft is produced and presented by Andrew Pople Want more great conversations with Australian authors? Discover this and many more conversations on Final Draft every week from 2ser. Get in touch with Andrew and Final Draft. We love to hear about what you're reading! Twitter - https://twitter.com/finaldraft2ser  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/finaldraft2ser/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/finaldraft2ser/ 

Emma Hislop reviews Golden Days by Caroline Barron, published by Affirm Press

Today I've got a terrific Sydney novel… Shirley Le is a Vietnamese-Australian writer from Yagoona. She is a Creative Producer at Sweatshop: Western Sydney Literacy Movement. Shirley's writing has been published in Kill Your Darlings, The Griffith Review, Meanjin and several Sweatshop anthologies. My old bio used to say (Shirley is currently working on her debut novel with Affirm Press.) but now it's out and we are talking about Funny Ethnics Funny Ethnics opens with Sylvia Nguyen dropping a bombshell on her parents; she's dropping out of law school to focus on her writing. It's a blow few parents are equipped to take and Sylvia's parents are no exception. Sylvia has prepared a speech in English and Vietnamese to reassure them she is not turning her back on her culture, but they are prepared to point out her mistakes bilingually. Sylvia's dilemma is one faced by many second generation children of migrants. Somehow though, knowing that she is well supported amongst the diaspora populations of Western Sydney is small consolation as Sylvia tries to live with her feet in both worlds. When I spoke with Shirley about Funny Ethnics she described Sylvia's story as occupying the hyphen between Vietnamese and Australian. While Sylvia's parents are only too quick to remind her of their struggles fleeing Vietnam for a better life in Australia, Sylvia can only fight against her own struggles. And that means facing the stifling boredom that comes with academic excellence whilst leaning towards her creative impulses. Sylvia's father is quick to point out the perilous future awaiting artists and Le shows us a world where a creative young person might win literary awards or stand on stage performing self loathing comedy. The novel shifts us back and forth throughout Sylvia's young life. We travel from public school to private high school. From bizarre tutoring experiences to the kaleidoscopic reality of university cliques. Through Sylvia, Le shows us the wildly discordant reality of Sydney with its Fried Chicken Line seemingly splitting the city. While Sylvia knows where she comes from she also understands that everyone she meets will see that place with different eyes. The racism that isn't supposed to exist dogs Sylvia's growth as she struggles with location, body image and culture. All are battlegrounds between the identity her family has raised her in and the world where she is growing up. This is a world of bricks wrapped in PAuline Hanson headlines hurled through windows and people nominally paying lip service to cultural diversity as they window shop at the buffet of cultural appropriation. Through all this we see Sylvia finding her voice and noting that amongst the fraught is the bizarre, and the injustice sometimes comes with a side of the sardonic.  I got a lot out of Funny Ethnics because it showed me the familiar through new eyes and allowed me to rediscover Sydney in ways I probably should have been paying attention to before now Funny Ethnics - Event Launch  09 Mar, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm (with Benjamin Law) Better Read Than Dead, 265 King St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia Loved this review? You can get more books, writing and literary culture every week on the Final Draft Great Conversations podcast. Hear interviews with authors and discover your next favourite read! Book Club is produced and presented by Andrew Pople Want more great conversations with Australian authors? Discover this and many more conversations on Final Draft every week from 2ser. Get in touch with Andrew and Final Draft. We love to hear about what you're reading! Twitter - https://twitter.com/finaldraft2ser  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/finaldraft2ser/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/finaldraft2ser/ 

This week's episode features a conversation with Bold Darling member Georgie Dent.   Georgie is a writer, author, former lawyer and prominent advocate for women, gender equality, children and families. She is the executive director of The Parenthood, a not-for-profit parent advocacy group that campaigns for paid parental leave and access to quality early childhood education and care.  Georgie is the best-selling author of Breaking Badly, a memoir that was published by Affirm Press in May 2019 to critical acclaim.  The book shares her account of her nervous breakdown, which is the topic of our conversation. We cover:  What tendencies/patterns she can see that hinted at her challenges later on  Perfectionism and how that manifested in her life  What life was like when she was approaching her breakdown The experience of the breakdown itself  Her road to recovery and what helped What the turning point was when she realised that she were getting better Her biggest learnings from the breakdown What Georgie would say to any other woman who might be struggling with her mental health right now How to support someone who's having mental health challenges If you are finding life challenging right now, please do know that you are NOT alone and that you can be well and happy with the right support for you.  You can find more about Georgie on her website - georgiedent.com - and connect with her on Instagram at @georgiedent_. To find out more about the work of The Parenthood, visit the website at theparenthood.org.au, or find it on Instagram at @TheParenthood.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a real honor to recently interview Mark Beretta on Sports Legends with Bevo. Mark is currently the Channel 7 Sunrise Sports Presenter, a Journalist and Author and has been in the media now for over 30 years. We discussed his media journey and the early days when he first began as a sports radio reporter in the 90's. We also spoke about Mark's stellar water-skiing career and the journey which led to him becoming a 10-time Australian water ski champion. Mark's passion for sport has led to him recently publishing a book called Mark Beretta's Greatest Moments in Australian Sport. The book is published by Affirm Press and available at all your usual book outlets. Thanks so much to Mark for his time, to Brendan Fredericks from https://www.bfrederickspr.com/ for teeing up the chat and to the team at PodBoothfor a great job of filming and editing the video. Photo credit : Seven Network.

Our first international recording! Kate is logging on from the Michael King writers centre (i.e. her New Zealand residency) and has been walking up volcanos, writing in her journal and doing *some* work on her forthcoming book. Meanwhile Katherine is Melbourne and it is wet. It has been wet forever. Lots of great things to read / watch / listen to including * Returning to Adelaide by Anne Freeman * Seeing Other People by Diana Reid * Where Shall We Begin (podcast) by Esther Perele * Thrust by Lidia Yuknavitch * Bad Sisters (Netflix) * George Saunders Substack      This episode our featured book segment is brought to you by Affirm Press and we are delighted to be talking to Sean Wilson about his debut novel GEMINI FALLS. Sean Wilson is a writer, playwright and communications professional from Perth, Western Australia. His short stories have been published in Australian and international journals, anthologies and literary magazines including Island and Narrative, and he was previously shortlisted for the Patrick White Playwrights Award by Sydney Theatre Company. He now lives in Melbourne with his fiancée. Gemini Falls is his first book. Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com or get in touch via Twitter (@thefirsttimepod) or Instagram (@thefirsttimepod). Don't forget you can support us and the making of Season Five via our Patreon page. Thanks for joining us!

'Give me your children' is one of the most harrowing and disturbing speeches in history, It was delivered by Chief Elder and Nazi appointed representative of the Jews in the Lodź ghetto, Chaim Rumkowski. In the speech, Rumkowski announces that children under ten, the elderly, and the sick and infirm will be handed over to the Nazis to fulfill deportation demands, in order to save the rest of the ghetto. Holocaust survivor Abram Goldberg was in the ghetto's main square on that terrible day, and heard the speech and the screams of the crowd. In this episode he talks about Rumkowski, the leader's controversial and tarnished reputation, as well as Abram's own incredible story of survival, including a heart breaking promise to his mother at the train station at Auschwitz. Assisting 97 year old Abram in our interview is Fiona Harris, the co-author of his recent memoir, 'The Strength of Hope' (Affirm Press, 2022). Fiona has written children's books and co-produced and starred in the hit series, 'The Drop Off'. The reenactment of Rumkowski's speech is voiced by Tobias Menzies (The Crown, Outlander, Game of Thrones for Almeida Theatre's 'Figure of Speech' series. It is on YouTube Speakola is made entirely by Tony and supported by listeners. There is a Patreon page which you can join If you want to offer Tony regular support. Also welcome credit card donations,  which can be monthly or one off. Subscribe to our newsletter if you want a fortnightly email setting out great speeches by theme. Speakola is sponsored by DocPlay. Sign up here for 45 days free on the world's best documentary streaming site, then if you choose to continue, $7.99/m. The documentary 'A Film Unfinished' about a Nazi propaganda film in the Warsaw ghetto is excellent. Tony will share photos and write about his day with Abram and Fiona for his writer blog, Good one, Wilson. Email comments or ideas to tony@speakola.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I'm very pleased to present an exclusive audio version of the first 20 pages of my new book Hanging Ned Kelly, which is published this week by Affirm Press. Here's what it's about:HANGING NED KELLYWhen it came time to hang Ned Kelly, the deed fell to the nightman-turned-quack-doctor-turned-drunken-chicken-thief Elijah Upjohn. Such is life indeed. Upjohn was the latest in a long line of 19th century flogging hangmen who were allowed to run amok because they did the dirty work of the establishment that allowed officials to keep their hands clean. Despite being duly appointed ‘finishers of the law', Upjohn and his fellow boozing bunglers were so hated they were often hunted by angry mobs.In Hanging Ned Kelly, the tale of Elijah Upjohn becomes the rusty scalpel that slices open the underbelly of colonial Victoria – an underworld seething with serial killers, clueless cops, larrikin vigilantes, renegade reporters, racist settlers, furious fallen women and cunning waxwork showmen. Looming over them all: the depraved hangmen... and Australia's most infamous outlaw.Hanging Ned Kelly is available on 27 September at all good bookstores and online retailers.To support Forgotten Australia and access early ad-free and bonus episodes:Apple: http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustralia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate and Katherine Catch Up PLUS Featured Book CUT by Susan White Kate has been gadding about at Melbourne Writers Festival, Katherine is still waiting to hear back re her MG novel and they have an epic number of reading and listening recommendations. Diaries, upcoming events, a desperate plea to get a contact for the Duffer Brothers...it's a full ep. This episode's featured book segment is brought to you by AFFIRM PRESS and we talk to Susan White about her new novel (and first for adults) CUT, how her time as a doctor in hospitals informed the exploration of misogyny and sexism in her novel and the writing advice she loves most. Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com or get in touch via Twitter (@thefirsttimepod) or Instagram (@thefirsttimepod). Don't forget you can support us and the making of Season Five via our Patreon page. Thanks for joining us!

John M. Green's cracking art heist, underworld thriller FRAMED is a ripper of a read. The main character JJ is a whip-smart Aussie art conservator who finds herself lured into a dark web of intrigue, deception and murder after she believes she spots a long-lost masterpiece through the window of a luxury apartment. It's a wild ride that spans locations around the globe. John is the author of six crime thrillers including FRAMED and turned to writing after a career in law and investment banking. He co-founded Affirm Press in 2008 with the goal to invest in and nurture the next generation of Australian readers and writers.Disclosure: These show notes contain Booktopia affiliate links, meaning I get a little commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you AND authors get a book sale (including me!).Your host is Emily Webb author of:Suburban True Crime: Cases you'll never forget and some you've never heard of Suburban True Crime (audiobook)Angels of Death: Doctors and Nurses Who Kill Follow Emily on Twitter https://twitter.com/emilybwebbInstagram https://instagram.com/emilywebbcrimeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emilywebbcrimeFacebook facebook.com/emily.webb.podcaster.authorWebsite: https://www.emilywebbcrime.com/Listen to Killer Content on:Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/killer-content-with-emily-webb/id1539843342Google Podcasts https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9yc3MuYWNhc3QuY29tL2NyaW1lLWZpY3Rpb24tZnJpZGF5 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1gxxA7IcoTIcarh6sPgbEIKiller Content is a Smartfella production. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen in to this inspiring chat with food critic and author Jess Ho, who grew up Cantonese in Melbourne and worked for years in the "hospo" industry. They open up about dealing with their mental health and body image, and how they learnt to stand true to who they are.  WANT MORE FROM JESS? You can grab Jess' book, Raised By Wolves, ($29.99, Affirm Press), here. Check out her website, here, or follow her food musings on Instagram @thatdamnjessho.  WANT MORE BODY + SOUL?  Online: Head to bodyandsoul.com.au for your daily digital dose of health and wellness. On social: Via Instagram at @bodyandsoul_au or Facebook. Or, TikTok here. Got an idea for an episode? DM host Felicity Harley on Instagram @felicityharley.  On YouTube: Watch Body + Soul TV here. In print: Each Sunday, grab Body+Soul inside The Sunday Telegraph (NSW), the Sunday Herald Sun (Victoria), The Sunday Mail (Queensland), Sunday Mail (SA) and Sunday Tasmanian (Tasmania). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jess Ho has worked in plenty of sexiest, racist and toxic environments. The food critic and author shares their wisdom on how to stay healthy-ish when life and work is…challenging.  WANT MORE FROM JESS? To hear today's full interview, where Jess opens up about navigating body image in Asian culture...search for Extra Healthy-ish wherever you get your pods. You can grab Jess' book, Raised By Wolves, ($29.99, Affirm Press), here. Check out her website, here, or follow her food musings on Instagram @thatdamnjessho.  WANT MORE BODY + SOUL?  Online: Head to bodyandsoul.com.au for your daily digital dose of health and wellness. On social: Via Instagram at @bodyandsoul_au or Facebook. Or, TikTok here. Got an idea for an episode? DM host Felicity Harley on Instagram @felicityharley.  On YouTube: Watch Body + Soul TV here. In print: Each Sunday, grab Body+Soul inside The Sunday Telegraph (NSW), the Sunday Herald Sun (Victoria), The Sunday Mail (Queensland), Sunday Mail (SA) and Sunday Tasmanian (Tasmania). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode Kate and Katherine catch up and talk about all the stuff, including Alice Walker's journals, Jennifer Egan's new novel The Candy House, Sentimental Garbage podcast (again) and The Writers Room podcast, (not the Charlotte Wood one [also excellent] the one that's about the writing of the TV series And Just Like That.)   The Featured Book segment is brought to you by Affirm Press and we talk to author Caroline Petit about her new book The Natural History of Love.  Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com or get in touch via Twitter (@thefirsttimepod) or Instagram (@thefirsttimepod). Don't forget you can support us and the making of Season Five via our Patreon page. Thanks for joining us!

This episode Katherine sympathises with Kate about her covid cancellations and they talk the history of efficiency, books they are loving and an iso-worthy list of binge watching recommendations. The Featured Book segment is brought to you by Affirm Press and we talk to author Katherine Tamiko Arguile about new book Meshi: A personal history of Japanese food.     Check out show notes for this episode on our website www.thefirsttimepodcast.com or get in touch via Twitter (@thefirsttimepod) or Instagram (@thefirsttimepod). Don't forget you can support us and the making of Season Five via our Patreon page. Thanks for joining us!

Each month we celebrate an Australian debut release of fiction or non-fiction in the Kill Your Darlings First Book Club. For February that debut is The Cost of Labour by Natalie Kon-yu, out now from Affirm Press. Natalie was nine weeks pregnant when the trembling began. Two weeks later she checked herself into a mental health unit. Rather than a woman with a health concern, the doctors saw Natalie as a vessel carrying precious cargo. This loss of agency carried on through childbirth and into her early years as a mother. Natalie discovered that she was far from alone. In fact, her experience typifies the inequalities that weigh heavily on child-bearing women, as well as the devaluation of what is still perceived as ‘women's work'. With bracing clarity and verve, Kon-yu tackles the outdated institutions, expectations and ideologies that hold us hostage as parents. The pressure is building and the cost on families is stacking up. Something has to give. Drawing on personal narratives, history, social research and interviews, The Cost of Labour tackles the expectations that keep us all hostage to a dynamic unfit for contemporary society and offers hope for a way out of the trap. Our theme song is Broke for Free's ‘Something Elated'. Sound production by Lloyd Pratt. Further reading: Read a review of The Cost of Labour in our February Books Roundup. Read about Natalie's favourite books and reading habits in this month's Shelf Reflection. The Cost of Labour is available now from your local independent bookseller. (more…)

Rebecca leans in to the trope of lesbians and cats, adopting not one but seven to appease her animal loving wife.Rebecca Starford is the author Bad Behaviour: A Memoir of Bullying and Boarding School and novel The Imitator. She is the Co-founder and Publishing Director of Kill Your Darlings magazine and a former editor at Text Publishing and Affirm Press. Bad Behaviour is currently in development with Matchbox Pictures for adaptation into a TV series. Rebecca recently completed a PhD at the University of Queensland, where she has taught creative writing.Queerstories an award-winning LGBTQI+ storytelling project directed by Maeve Marsden, with regular events around Australia. For more information, visit www.queerstories.com.au and follow Queerstories on Facebook.The Queerstories book is published by Hachette Australia, and can be purchased from your favourite independent bookseller or on Booktopia.To support Queerstories, become a patron at www.patreon.com/ladysingsitbetter See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

'Playing what's in front of you' is a tip used by sports players. It means leaving your baggage on the side, being present and reacting to the situation in front of you. Let's take the sports talk and apply it to stressful situations in our own lives. Links ‘Be Resilient and Thrive: 170 Ways to Bounce Back Stronger’ – Affirm Press by Patrick Lindsay - https://bit.ly/be-resilient-book . Follow The Space on Instagram @thespace_podcast and https://bit.ly/thespace_instagram. Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram @novapodcastsofficial and https://bit.ly/novapodcasts_instagram. CreditsHost: Casey Donovan @caseydonovan88 - https://bit.ly/caseydonovan88_instagram.Writer: Amy Molloy @amymolloy - https://bit.ly/amymolloy_instagram.Executive Producer: Elise Cooper.Editor: Adrian Walton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ABC Sports presenter describes his life at 17, a year dominated by football, girls, beer, and a serial killer stalking his neighbourhood

Meet the Far Eastern Curlew, perilously close to disappearing, subject of this Episode of The Bird Emergency. Every year as the days begin to get shorter in the marshes of the Arctic, the entire population of Eastern Curlews leave their breeding grounds in northern hemisphere and embark on a 10,000km journey to the coast of Australia, potentially calamitous for a bird that cannot swim! If the trip becomes too arduous and a bird is exhausted, drops into the sea below, further reducing the limited population. The Far Eastern Curlew has undertaken this back-and-forth for tens of thousands of years, following the invisible flyways along the coasts of Australasia, the Indo-Pacific, east Asia to the Arctic Circle, in what is one of the most taxing migrations of any bird. Harry Saddler was so fascinated by this migration, the effort it places on the birds and how people view the birds as they pass through so many human territories.  His discoveries about the places and the challenges the Eastern Curlew overcomes, prompted Harry, an award-winning writer from Melbourne, to share his knowledge about this migration with the world. Sometimes a book is a total surprise & this little tome by Harry Saddler sure is. How can an unknown & unnoticed bird be the subject of a real page-turner? Because this bird has an amazing story! Good Reading magazine said in a review, ‘It might be surprising that Saddler can wrangle a whole book centred on just one, relatively little-known species of bird, but there is no shortage of material." Enjoy this conversation about an exceptional bird, & it's perpetual journey between Australia and the Arctic, as much as I did! Such a great story, told by a master storyteller. Check out the book here at Affirm Press, or ask your local bookshop to get it for you (if they don't already have it!). Harry is active on Twitter, and shares a lot about the birds he sees around his home and workplace, described as only an award-winner author can. I recommend following him @mondaystory  Currently trying to get some eyes and subscribers on The Bird Emergency on YouTube, so I can put a bit more effort into the video side of things, so if you would like more visual content, please subscribe, and I will watch with interest if that's what you want! Follow The Bird Emergency on Twitter @birdemergency or contact me on the website thebirdemergency.com In the next episode, Dr. Ben Sullivan tells us how the Hookpod is saving seabirds all over the world, making fishing less harmful to the birds of the sea and the ocean.