Best Writes4Women Podcasts (2025)

1
Beyond Fantasy: Lynnette Noni's Genre Shift 42:16

9d ago42:16

42:16

What happens when a best selling Fantasy author does a sneaky genre swap? Guest host Jo Riccioni welcomes bestselling author Lynette Noni to discuss her genre shift and new book, 'Wandering Wild.' They explore the departure from Noni's typical fantasy genre to YA contemporary, featuring a Hollywood actor and an Australian teen navigating a survival…

1
AI and Publishing: Tracey Spicer and Sandie Docker 44:45

23d ago44:45

44:45

If you only listen to one episode of W4W this year, THIS is the one you need to make time for. Pam talks AI, its implications and the future of writing with two women on the frontlines of championing artistic rights, journalist @traceyspicer and writer @sandiedocker. We promise, you’ll leave this episode informed, aware, determined and hopeful abou…

1
Breaking New Ground: Emily Maguire’s Foray into Historical Fiction 43:53

1M ago43:53

43:53

In this episode of Writes for Women, guest host Mary-Lou Stephens sits down with historical fiction author Emily Maguire to discuss her latest novel, 'Rapture', set in the ninth century. They delve into Maguire's transition from contemporary fiction, the extensive research involved, and the challenges of writing historical content while maintaining…

1
The Art of Persistence: Lauren Keegan's 15-Year Writing Journey 1:00:45

2M ago1:00:45

1:00:45

Join Pamela Cook on Writes for Women as she chats with Lauren Keegan about her debut novel 'All the Bees in the Hollow.' Learn how Lauren's background in perinatal psychology shapes her storytelling and character development. Discover the intriguing folklore of Lithuanian beekeeping and the challenges of writing historical fiction. Support the show…

1
Indie Publishing 101: Real Journeys with Sal Gallaher and Kirsten Nixon 48:01

2M ago48:01

48:01

Navigating the Journey of Indie Publishing with Sal Gallagher and Kirsten Nixon. In this episode of Rights for Women, host Pamela Cook delves into the world of indie publishing with guests Sal Gallaher and Kirsten Nixon. Sal discusses her novel 'Secrets in the Lakes', her journey through editing, and the challenges of self-publishing. Kirsten share…

1
Venetian Vibes: Tess Woods on Setting and Storytelling 47:48

3M ago47:48

47:48

WRITING LOVE, LOSS & VENICE What happens when a bestselling author walks away from publishing—only to return with her biggest book yet? This week on Writes4Women, Pamela chats with Tess Woods about her five-year break from writing, rediscovering her passion, and the inspiration behind The Venice Hotel. Tess shares the highs and lows of her journey,…

1
Chrissie Bellbrae on Writing and Resilience 44:09

3M ago44:09

44:09

STITCHING STORIES TOGETHER How do you turn fragments of family history into a novel that spans generations? This week on Writes4Women, Pamela sits down with Chrissie Bellbrae to talk about the magic of uncovering forgotten stories, the inspiration behind The Florentine Quilt, and what happens when real-life twists shape our creative journeys. Chris…

1
Weaving Worlds: The Art of Storytelling with Kell Woods 50:44

4M ago50:44

50:44

WRITING FAIRYTALES FOR GROWN-UPS What does it take to turn folklore into a rich, immersive novel? This week on Writes4Women, guest host Jo Riccioni chats with the brilliant Kel Woods about crafting historical fantasy, blending research with imagination, and the writing process behind her stunning books After the Forest and Upon a Starlet Tide. Kel …

1
The Writer's Mind with Megan Dalla-Camina 56:54

4M ago56:54

56:54

Welcome to Season 6 of Writes4Women! Join host Pamela Cook and Megan Dalla-Camina, a leader in women's empowerment and leadership and author of 'Women Rising', as they delve deep into the psychological aspects of writing, discussing inner critics, procrastination, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. Both authors share personal anecdotes on how th…

1
The Year That Was: Writing Wins, Fails and Goals for 2025 1:00:06

5M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

Looking for inspiration as you wrap up the year? Ready to dive into the highs and lows of the writing life, with insights from writers who’ve truly walked the path? This week on Writes4Women, it’s our 2024 Wrap-Up Episode! Join @pamelacookwrites as she chats with guest hosts @rachaeljohnsisanauthor @maryloustephenswriter, @joriccioni, and her VA @a…

1
How to Write Gripping Fiction that Stands Out with Nikki Gemmell 51:19

6M ago51:19

51:19

Struggling to find your unique voice or create stories that truly resonate? Wondering how to weave big ideas into page-turning narratives? This week on Writes4Women with @pamelacookwrites, best-selling author @nikki.gemmell shares the secrets behind her latest feminist literary thriller, Wing, and how she transformed personal experiences into power…

1
A Paige-Turning Plot: Vanessa McCausland’s Secrets to Success 49:31

6M ago49:31

49:31

Struggling to write a story that hooks readers? Feeling unsure about how to balance plot, character, and big ideas? This week on Writes4Women with Pamela Cook, Vanessa McCausland shares the secrets behind her latest novel, The Last Illusion of Paige White, and how she overcame the exact challenges you might be facing as a writer. Here’s how listeni…

1
Tips for Editing a First Draft: A Solo Episode with Pam 53:13

6M ago53:13

53:13

Ever wanted to know how to edit a first draft? In this week’s solo episode Pamela Cook focuses on the craft of editing, sharing all of her insider tips–from structural elements, point of view, voice and more. With resources and insights galore, this episode is like a free mentoring session with one of Australia’s best-love writing coaches. SHOWNOTE…

1
From Dreams to Reality: Sandy Barker's Journey in Publishing 47:35

6M ago47:35

47:35

Join us for a fascinating chat with Sandy Barker, an Australian author known for her travel-inspired romance and rom-com novels. With 12 books under her belt, Sandy shares insights into navigating the publishing industry, the importance of determination and resilience, as well as tips on keeping the joy of writing alive. We discuss her latest books…

1
Whales, Words & Wisdom: A Deep Dive with Joanne Fedler 53:49

7M ago53:49

53:49

Jump into the latest episode of Writes4Women where Pamela Cook chats with international bestselling author Joanne Fedler about her enchanting new book, 'The Whale's Last Song.' Joanne and Pamela share deep discussions on the writing process, the transformative power of words, and the inspiration drawn from the sea. Get a sneak peek into Jo's journe…

1
From Music to Words: Gillian Wills’ Journey 1:05:41

7M ago1:05:41

1:05:41

Summary: Join us in this week's episode as guest host Laura Boon chats with Gillian Wills about her new novel, Big Music! Discover how Gillian pours her rich background in music into her writing, creating a riveting tale that intertwines passion, politics, and power plays within the world of classical music. Learn about her transition from a musici…

1
The Joy of Historical Christmas Novels with Mary Anne O'Connor 38:13

7M ago38:13

38:13

This week, guest host Mary-Lou Stevens chats with bestselling author Maryanne O'Connor about her delightful new historical Christmas novel, MARY CHRISTMAS. Discover how this fun and festive romance came about while also getting insights into the writing journeys of both Mary-Lou and Maryanne. Plus, hear about exciting updates from Writes4Women and …

1
Exploring Fantasy Worlds with Madeleine Te Whiu 1:00:30

7M ago1:00:30

1:00:30

Guest host Jo Riccioni chats with fantasy author Madeleine Te Whiu about her Assassin trilogy's final instalment, crafting complex characters, balancing a vet nursing career with writing, and insights into her creative journey. Madeline's passion for books began when she was growing up in rural South Australia. Her youngest memory of books is sitti…

1
Writing Her Story: The Power of the Feminine with Megan Dalla-Camina 49:21

8M ago49:21

49:21

Unlock the secrets of radical confidence, take steps to silence that inner critic and learn the profound distinction between the Hero’s and Heroine’s Journey in this week’s bumper episode with Megan Dalla-Camina, author of WOMEN RISING. Megan Dalla-Camina is the Founder and CEO of Women Rising and a world leading expert in women’s leadership. A cel…

1
From the Archives: Dive into Deep Point of View with Lisa Hall-Wilson 34:34

8M ago34:34

34:34

In this 'From the Archives' episode of Writes for Women, host Pamela Cook sits down with award-winning author and mentor Lisa Hall-Wilson, author of 'Method Acting for Writers', to explore the craft of writing in deep point of view (DPOV). Pam and Lisa chat about the nuances that distinguish DPOV from limited third-person narrative, the flexibility…

1
A Celebration of Books and Writing: A Round Up of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival 42:23

8M ago42:23

42:23

Did you see Pam and some of the Writes4Women gang at the Northern Beaches Readers Festival last weekend? In this week’s episode Pam gives you her top takeaways after spending a weekend with amazingly talented writers and shares her exciting news! SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast W4W…

1
From Horses to Heartstrings: Christy Cashman’s Fiction Journey 58:22

8M ago58:22

58:22

This week on Writes4Women, host Pamela Cook sits down with Christy Cashman, author of The Truth About Horses, for an unforgettable chat about her writing journey, from film to fiction. In this episode, Christy dives deep into the creative process behind her emotional debut novel—a coming-of-age story about a girl, her connection to horses, and the …

1
Under the Influence: 4 Books That Shaped My Writing with Joanna Nell 45:04

8M ago45:04

45:04

What books have most shaped your writing? In this week’s episode, @pamelacookwrites returns to her ‘Under the Influence’ series where she chats to @joanna_nell_writer about the books that have made a big impact on her career. Prepare to add to your TBR pile because this episode is jam-packed with recommendations and writing advice Timestamps: 00:44…

1
From the Archive: Stacey McEwan on Tik Tok for Authors 59:47

9M ago59:47

59:47

This week we have an 'out of the archive 'episode featuring a chat with fantasy author and book tok sensation Stacy McEwen. Pam chats to Stacey about the importance of social media for authors, especially TikTok, and provides practical tips for creating engaging content. Stacy discusses her TikTok journey, which began during the pandemic, and how i…

1
Crafting Holiday Magic: Publishing a Christmas Anthology 56:07

9M ago56:07

56:07

This week on Writes4Women, Pamela Cook sits down with authors Anna Foxkirk and Megan Mayfair to delve into their holiday anthology, 'The 12 Tropes of Christmas.' From their unique journeys to publication and the joy of writing communities to essential health tips for writers, discover the magic behind their latest collaborative project. Plus, Megan…

1
RWA Conference Round Up 40:33

9M ago40:33

40:33

Host Pamela Cook discusses her experiences at the recent Romance Writers of Australia conference held in Adelaide. She provides a detailed overview of the event, including a variety of sessions on writing, social media strategy, and career longevity in romance writing. Key highlights include discussions on current trends in the romance writing indu…

1
Writing Women’s Lives: Casey Nott with Anne Freeman 52:48

10M ago52:48

52:48

Join contemporary fiction writers Anne Freeman and debut author Casey Knott as they delve into their engaging novels 'Forgotten' and 'Me that You See.' In this episode, Anne and Casey discuss the extraordinary challenges their female protagonists face, from grappling with lost memories to navigating unexpected life changes. Tune in to hear about th…

1
Crafting A Psychological Thriller: Insights from Debut Author Lisa Kenway 48:05

10M ago48:05

48:05

Where would you be without your writer friends? And how do you go about writing a novel readers won't be able to put down? Dive into the suspenseful world of psychological thrillers with debut author Lisa Kenway on this week's episode of Writes4Women. Tune in as Lisa shares the long journey to publication behind her gripping novel ALL YOU TOOK FROM…

1
Under the Influence: 4 Books that Shaped My Writing 34:18

10M ago34:18

34:18

Join host Pamela Cook in this week's episode of Writes4Women for a deep dive into the books that have significantly influenced her writing journey. Discover how THE HOURS by Michael Cunningham captured women's lives, THE ARTISTS’ WAY by Julia Cameron unlocked creativity, and Tim Winton's works enriched settings and characters. Explore the emotional…

1
Write From the Heart with Sandie Docker 58:50

10M ago58:50

58:50

In this episode of 'Writes for Women,' host Pamela Cook is joined by multi-published Australian author Sandie Docker to discuss her latest novel, 'The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir.' Sandie shares insights into her inspiration for the story, the challenges of writing dual timelines, and the emotional depth of her characters. The discussion also delves…

1
Mastering the Hybrid Hustle with Sasha Wasley 59:13

11M ago59:13

59:13

This week on Writes4Women, get encouraged to reimagine your pathway to publishing. Pamela Cook hosts the unstoppable Sasha Wasley, diving into her riveting journey as a hybrid author. Don’t miss Sasha’s insights on being resilient in publishing, generating multiple revenue streams, and the exciting prospects of mixing traditional and indie publishi…

1
Wild Joy: Donna Cameron's Literary Path 51:48

11M ago51:48

51:48

What’s an eco-thriller and what does Tim Winton have to do with this week’s author’s latest book, THE REWILDING? Find out in the latest episode of Writes4Women with host Pamela Cook and novelist Donna Cameron. Donna shares her journey from playwright to novelist, the deep character psychology, the crucial role of hope, and the joys of writing that …

1
Murder, Mayhem, and Manuscripts: A Deep Dive with Crime Writer Sara Bailey 1:03:06

11M ago1:03:06

1:03:06

In an interview it would be a crime to miss, thriller author and guest host Rae Cairns goes deep on the writing process with acclaimed police procedural best selling author, Sarah Bailey. Sarah spills the beans on her dynamic writing process, from initial ideas to final edits. Don’t miss insights on creating gripping tension, managing ethical dilem…

1
What I Wish I'd Known About Publishing: A Debut Author Panel 1:09:08

11M ago1:09:08

1:09:08

Ever wondered how debut authors navigate the rollercoaster of their first publication? In this insightful episode of Writes4Women, Pam chats with debut novelists Maxine Fawcett, Jill Valentine and Helen Signy. From the emotional highs and lows of the writing process to the triumphs and challenges of getting published, this episode is packed with ca…

1
Keeping the Publishing Dream Alive with Lisa Darcy 47:14

12M ago47:14

47:14

How do you keep the publishing dream alive when the going gets tough? In this heartfelt episode of Writes4Women, Lisa Darcy joins Pam for an open-book conversation packed with reflections and practical tips. Discover how to stay motivated and keep reaching towards your publication goals, even in challenging times. Lisa also talks about re-inventing…

1
NYT Bestselling Author Katherine Center Writes For Joy 50:48

12M ago50:48

50:48

Feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of writing? Join Maya Linnell as she chats with New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center on the Writes4Women Podcast! Catherine shares her journey of moving from a slow burn to success, her love for the joyful process of writing, and the art of self-encouragement. Discover how hope and humor blend seam…

1
Five Reasons to Write When Publishing Hurts 31:32

1y ago31:32

31:32

Sometimes publishing hurts, but that doesn’t mean you should give up on writing! Pam gets personal in this special Heart 2 Heart episode of Writes4Women, giving you 5 reasons you should keep writing that DON’T include signing a book contract. If the sometimes fickle publishing industry has you a bit down, have a moment with Pam and find your mojo a…

1
From Historical Fact to Fiction with Julie Bennett 35:16

1y ago35:16

35:16

Guest host Mary-Lou Stephens chats to fellow historical fiction author Julie Bennet about her second novel, The Lost Letters of Rose Carey. A former journalist Julie's novels are inspired by her experiences on stage as a child extra in the newly-opened Sydney Opera House (The Understudy) and now by her research into the life of 1920's movie icon An…

1
How to Stay Published with Ber Carroll 1:07:25

1y ago1:07:25

1:07:25

Discover the inspiring story of Ber Carroll in this captivating episode of Writes4Women. Join us as we trace her 20-year publishing journey, from the release of her debut novel to her latest work, ONE OF US IS MISSING. Gain invaluable insights into Ber's process of dealing with publishing highs and lows, her approach to creating compelling family d…

1
Writing Issue Based Fiction with Karen Viggers 59:41

1y ago59:41

59:41

In this episode host Pamela Cook chats to Karen Viggers about her recent release Sidelines. The novel centres around a violent brawl at a suburban junior soccer game. Some onlookers are shocked. But others saw it coming. Rivalry, parental pressure, coaching bias, inequity, and many other factors have played a part in turning Saturday mornings into …

1
Getting Your Debut Novel Published with Renae Black 45:09

1y ago45:09

45:09

Today's episode features rural romance author Renae Black, and is all about getting your debut novel published. Renae is the author of Red Dirt Home, published by HQ Harper Collins. Renae Black's family stretches back at least three generations of farmers on both her mum and dad's side. She spent her formative years growing up on a property north o…

1
Writing Historical Fiction: Lauren Chater, The Beauties 59:59

1y ago59:59

59:59

Lauren Chater is the author of the historical novels The Lace Weaver, Gulliver's Wife and The Winter Dress. Her latest book, The Beauties is a seductive story of rivalry, artistic passion and a woman bold enough to use her beauty as a weapon. It's a dual timeline, multiple point of view narrative set in the seventeenth century written in Lauren's b…

1
Jenna Lo Bianco on Getting A Three Book Deal 38:58

1y ago38:58

38:58

Jenna Lo Bianco is a writer, educator, PhD Candidate, and advocate for Italian language education in Australia. She is the author of the newly released contemporary fiction title, The Italian Marriage, the first of three books all set in Italy. With nearly 60 publications to her name, Jenna is trusted nationally and internationally to write about a…

1
Write the Book You Want to Read with Tate James 46:43

1y ago46:43

46:43

Tate James, USA Today Bestselling Author of Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Urban Fantasy chats to host Pamela Cook about life as an indie author and her reverse harem Maddison Kate series. Unable to find enough of the books she wanted to read, Tate turned her hand to writing reverse harem novels. Since then she has written over 45 novels and hit …

1
Best Selling Author Brenda Novak: In Conversation with Rachael Johns 38:19

1y ago38:19

38:19

Brendan Novak is the New York Times bestselling author of over 75 books. She has been writing for over 25 years, and began when she found her childcare provider drugging her children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep. Horrified and not able to trust anyone with her babies anymore, she needed something to do while working from home. …

1
Sweet Delights: Mary-Lou Stephens on writing The Chocolate Factory 1:08:06

1y ago1:08:06

1:08:06

Mary-Lou Stephens talks to host Pamela Cook about her second historical fiction novel, The Chocolate Factory. As the title suggests it's a tale of intrigue and romance, woven into the factual story of the beginnings of the Cadbury chocolate factory in Tasmania. Mary-Lou talks about the inspiration for the novel, the pressures of writing 'the second…

1
Out of the Shadows: Jane Tara on Writing Tilda is Visible 54:29

1y ago54:29

54:29

Guest host Meredith Jaffé, author of The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah and The Tricky Art of Forgiveness, chats to Jane Tara about her new release Tilda is Visible. Jane has published over a hundred children's books, several plays ya in romance novels, as well as travel and educational books and journalism. She spent 13 years wandering the world and …

1
Choreographing Memories: Kathryn Abdul-Baki on Writing Memoir 48:22

1y ago48:22

48:22

Something a little different this week as host Pamela Cook chats to novelist and memoir writer Kathryn Abdul-Baki about her memoir Dancing into the Light, a beautiful story of growing up between two cultures and coming to grips with grief. Kathryn was born in Washington, DC to a Palestinian father and an American mother, and grew up in Iran, Kuwait…

1
Dervla McTieran: In Conversation with Rae Cairns 1:05:42

1y ago1:05:42

1:05:42

Rae Cairns hosts a compelling interview with bestselling crime author Dervla McTiernan, who shares insights on her latest book WHAT HAPPENED TO NINA?. The conversation delves into McTiernan's writing process, the evolution of her craft from her first book to her ninth, and the thematic exploration of toxic relationships and the weaponization of med…

1
Championing Romance: Amy T Matthews with Guest Host Rachael Johns 45:43

1+ y ago45:43

45:43

Dr Amy T. Matthews is an award-winning author, an Associate Professor in Creative Writing at Flinders University, and the co-host of the podcasts Word Docs and Love on Campus. Her most recent release, Someone Else's Bucket List, a P.S. I Love You for the digital age, is about an outgoing social media influencer who leaves crippling medical debt beh…

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Writes4Women Podcasts

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