Cheryl Akle discusses the world with her favourite authors.
Stories Behind the Story: Simone Amelia Jordan on being Australia's most successful hip-hop journalist
Simone Amelia Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about how she went from a kid in the inner-west to a New York hip-hop journalist with a career spanning print, radio, TV, and digital media. Her memoir, Tell Her She's Dreamin', is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/26/2024 • 35 minutes, 46 seconds
Conversations from the Vault: Tom Keneally on exploring rural Australia through fiction
We've had some amazing guests on the podcast over the years, so we're sharing a few old favourites from the vault. Award-winning author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his extraordinary legacy and exploring rural Australia through fiction.If you enjoyed this conversation, see Tom Keneally in person at the 2024 Manly Writers Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/19/2024 • 31 minutes, 6 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Simon Rowell on good dogs and oil rigs
Simon Rowell talks to Cheryl Akle about service dogs, oil rigs and about writing a female protagonist. His latest novel, The Good Dog, is out now.Photographer: Darren James Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/11/2024 • 26 minutes, 35 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Kemper Donovan on Agatha Christie, Scriptwriting and Podcasting
Kemper Donovan talks to Cheryl Akle about Agatha Christie, and how she consistently inspires his work, from podcasts to novels. His latest book, The Busy Body, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/5/2024 • 31 minutes, 28 seconds
BE Better: Lizzie Williamson on The Active Workday Advantage
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Lizzie Williamson talks to Jane Tara about incorporating micro moves into your daily routine. Her book, The Active Workday Advantage, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/1/2024 • 30 minutes, 43 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Victoria Vanstone on how sobriety changed her life
Victoria Vanstone talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to sobriety and how it saved her life. Her memoir, A Thousand Wasted Sundays, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/31/2024 • 34 minutes, 15 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Jack Heath
Award-winning author Jack Heath talks to Cheryl Akle about what he's reading. His latest novel, Kill Your Husbands, is out now.Books discussed:If This Book Exists, You're in the Wrong Universe by Jason ParginKilling Aurora by Helen BarnesTipping Point by Dinuka McKenzieA Thousand Wasted Sundays by Victoria VanstoneShades of Gray by Jasper FfordeRed Side Story by Jasper Fforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/29/2024 • 10 minutes, 45 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Shelley Burr
Bestselling author Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Her latest novel, Ripper, is out now.Books discussed:The Banksia House Breakout by James RoxburghGood Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry PratchettTipping Point by Dinuka McKenzieThe Eleventh Floor by Kylie Orr Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/22/2024 • 11 minutes, 10 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Josephine Moon
Bestselling author Josephine Moon talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Her latest novel, The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose, is out now.Books discussed:The Takedown by Lily ChuThe Heart is a Star by Megan RogersThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyTen Steps to Nanette by Hannah GadsbyThe Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies by Alison GoodmanThe Chocolate Factory by Mary-Lou StephensTilda is Visible by Jane TaraThe Other Bridget by Rachael Johns Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/17/2024 • 14 minutes, 18 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Elizabeth Coleman on what makes a good mystery
Elizabeth Coleman talks to Cheryl Akle about writing for Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and what draws her to the genre. Her latest novel, A Dance with Murder, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/15/2024 • 21 minutes, 13 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Kate Ceberano on what inspires, humbles, hurts and sustains her
Kate Ceberano talks to Cheryl Akle about her legendary career in music and why now was the time to write her memoir, Unsung, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/11/2024 • 36 minutes, 24 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Sarah Barrie on juggling biker gangs with farm life
Sarah Barrie talks to Cheryl Akle about juggling her writing and criminal research while running her farm. Her latest novel, Vendetta, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/8/2024 • 23 minutes, 42 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: James Colley
Comedian and author James Colley talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. His debut, The Next Big Thing, is out January 30.Books discussed:Everyone and Everything by Nadine J. CohenThe Bee Sting by Paul MurrayChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/3/2024 • 12 minutes, 41 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Jodi McAlister
Academic and bestselling author Jodi McAlister talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Jodi’s latest book, Not Here to Make Friends, is out now. Books discussed:Lace by Shirley ConranTackle by Jilly CooperNever Ever Forever by Karina MayLove and Other Scores by Abra PresslerItalian Marriage by Jenna Lo BiancoLove Just In by Natalie MurrayThe Collected Works of Jackie Collins (reissues)The latest ‘Romance Class ‘releases – a self-publishing collective from the Philippines Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/31/2023 • 16 minutes, 2 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Esmé Louise James
Academic and social media superstar Esmé Louise James talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Esme’s book, Kinky History, is out now. Books discussed: Sex: Two Billion Years of Procreation and Recreation by David BakerPhilippa Gregory’s historical novelsI Don’t by Clementine Ford50 Shades of Grey by EL James Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/28/2023 • 11 minutes, 51 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Kate Mildenhall
Bestselling author Kate Mildenhall talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Kate's latest book, The Hummingbird Effect, is out now. Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet) Sidelines by Karen ViggersThe Strip by Iain RyanThe Diary of a Bookseller by Shaun BythellWomen & Children by Tony Birch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/26/2023 • 12 minutes, 40 seconds
Book Chat: Listen to our Christmas episode with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington
It's the final Book Chat of 2023, with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington discussing Christmas, Trent Dalton, Bryan Brown (again), and what everyone is reading over the summer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/18/2023 • 23 minutes, 24 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Joanna Nell on retirement and ageing gracefully
Joanna Nell talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience working as a GP, ageing gracefully and preparing for retirement. Her latest novel, Mrs Winterbottom Takes A Gap Year, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/17/2023 • 33 minutes, 46 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Joanna Nell on retirement and ageing gracefully
Joanna Nell talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience working as a GP, ageing gracefully and preparing for retirement. Her latest novel, Mrs Winterbottom Takes A Gap Year, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/17/2023 • 33 minutes, 46 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Tony Birch on surviving domestic violence, writing and family
Tony Birch talks to Cheryl Akle about his exploration of domestic violence, family and love, and how it inspired his latest novel, Women & Children, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/14/2023 • 33 minutes, 7 seconds
Lina Jebeile: on food, culture and Lebanese cuisine
Lina Jebeile talks to Cheryl Akle about their love of food, culture and Lebanese cuisine. You can find Lina at thelebaneseplate.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/11/2023 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
BE Better: Sydel Sierra on her own Metamorphosis
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Sydel Sierra talks to Jane Tara about being groomed in one of the most horrific child abuse stories you’ll hear, and her incredible journey to healing. Her book, Metamorphosis, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/7/2023 • 27 minutes, 10 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Amal Awad on the experience of migrant women
Amal Awad talks to Cheryl Akle about the experience of migrant women and the importance of cultural identity. Her latest novel, Bitter and Sweet, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/7/2023 • 33 minutes, 31 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Richard Osman on old-school mystery novels and ageing
Richard Osman talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring ageing and capturing the feeling of old-school mysteries in his latest novel, The Last Devil to Die, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/4/2023 • 42 minutes, 45 seconds
BE Better: David Michie on meditation and The Dalai Lama’s Cat
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – David Michie talks to Jane Tara about meditation, and his bestselling series The Dalai Lama's Cat. The latest book in the series, The Claw of Attraction, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/30/2023 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Jess McGeachin on growing up in a museum
Jess McGeachin talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in a museum and how it inspired his blend of science, illustration and writing in his series of picture books, Deep, Lost and High. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/29/2023 • 29 minutes, 30 seconds
Stories Behind the Story: Matt Preston on the food that shapes us
Matt Preston talks to Cheryl Akle about how food brings people together, his career, and what inspired him to write his memoir, Big Mouth, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/26/2023 • 41 minutes, 31 seconds
BE Better: Tom Cronin on meditation
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Tom Cronin talks to Jane Tara about meditation for stress, health and peace. His book, The Portal, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/23/2023 • 33 minutes, 13 seconds
Rachelle Unreich: on the brilliant life of her mother
Rachelle Unreich talks to Cheryl Akle about her mother's horrifying, heartbreaking and hopeful Holocaust experience. Her book, A Brilliant Life, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/20/2023 • 29 minutes, 50 seconds
Chris Hammer: on journalism, crime, and how his writing has evolved
Chris Hammer talks to Cheryl Akle about how his writing has evolved over time and how his career as a journalist helped him write crime. His latest book, The Seven, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/16/2023 • 33 minutes, 25 seconds
Antony Loewenstein: on the escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict
Cheryl Akle and Antony Loewenstein continue their conversation about the Israel-Palestine conflict, how it escalated, and how we move forward. His book, The Palestine Laboratory, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/15/2023 • 54 minutes, 27 seconds
Trent Dalton: on finding light in the darkest of places
Trent Dalton talks to Cheryl Akle about how we overcome terrifying tragedy and find the light in the darkest of places. His latest novel, Lola in the Mirror, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/15/2023 • 35 minutes
Bryan Brown: on his legendary career, from acting to writing
Bryan Brown talks to Cheryl Akle about how storytelling has always been a part of his life, from acting to writing. His novel, The Drowning, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/13/2023 • 36 minutes, 31 seconds
Murder and Mystery: A Crime Author Panel
Better Reading recently hosted a crime author panel with Karen Herbert, Dave Warner and David Whish-Wilson in conversation with Cheryl Akle for an evening discussing crime fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/9/2023 • 23 minutes, 46 seconds
Robyn Davidson: on trekking across 1700 miles of the Australian Outback
Robyn Davidson talks to Cheryl Akle about what inspired her trek across 1700 miles of the Australian Outback, and how she's learned to reflect on her life and her mother. Her memoir, Unfinished Woman, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/9/2023 • 36 minutes, 34 seconds
Tea Cooper: on uncovering the history of Mrs Greenway
Tea Cooper talks to Cheryl Akle about how she finds inspiration for her novels, and uncovering the history and life of Mrs Mary Greenway. Her latest novel, The Talented Mrs Greenway, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/5/2023 • 28 minutes, 22 seconds
Katrina Strickland: on The Good Weekend and the power of memoirs
Katrina Strickland talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as editor of The Good Weekend, the power of memoirs and what makes them so popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/1/2023 • 30 minutes, 13 seconds
Melissa Ashley: on giving a voice to forgotten women in history
Melissa Ashley talks to Cheryl Akle about giving a voice to the long-ignored women who shaped our understanding of the natural world – both the artists and those who made their work possible. Her latest novel, The Naturalist of Amsterdam, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/30/2023 • 28 minutes, 5 seconds
BE Better: Esmé Louise James on Kinky History
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Esmé Louise James talks to Jane Tara about sex, sex and more sex… and also some very Kinky History. Her book is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/26/2023 • 36 minutes, 9 seconds
Tara Wigley: on simplifying recipes for everyday cooks
Tara Wigley talks to Cheryl Akle about her cookbook writing process, and how she's simplifying cooking in her latest cookbook, How to Butter Toast, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/25/2023 • 31 minutes, 54 seconds
Levi Pinfold: on Harry Potter, illustrating and picture books
Levi Pinfold talks to Cheryl Akle about his illustration process, and his experience working collaboratively on The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/22/2023 • 26 minutes, 46 seconds
BE Better: Kaz Cooke on menopause
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kaz Cooke talks to Jane Tara about the highs and lows of perimenopause and menopause. Her book, It’s The Menopause, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/19/2023 • 37 minutes, 27 seconds
Rachel Matthews: on the absurdity and challenges of modern dating
Dr Rachel Matthews talks to Cheryl Akle about the obsession with never looking desperate and the modern dating landscape. Her latest novel, Never Look Desperate, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/18/2023 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
Tricia Stringer: on setting her new novel on The Ghan
Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about how ageism and The Ghan influenced her latest novel, Back on Track. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/16/2023 • 29 minutes, 42 seconds
BE Better: Penny Moodie on ODC, The Joy Thief
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Penny Moodie talks to Jane Tara about navigating the complex world of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Her book, The Joy Thief, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/12/2023 • 24 minutes, 5 seconds
Clare Fletcher: on journalism, rom-coms and writing
Clare Fletcher talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, her writing experience with Emily Maguire, and what goes into a good rom-com. Her latest novel, Love Match, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/11/2023 • 32 minutes, 58 seconds
Heather Morris: on the forgotten women of WWII
Heather Morris talks to Cheryl Akle about the brave women in WWII that history forgot, and how she shines a light on their experiences in her latest book, Sisters Under the Rising Sun. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/9/2023 • 26 minutes, 51 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #8
Welcome to episode #8 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington, where they discuss memoirs, crime authors, Dave Warner's wife, Bryan Brown, the annual Top 50 Kids list, some great new releases... and Bryan Brown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/5/2023 • 27 minutes, 56 seconds
Mariah Sweetman: on being inspired by the fastest man in Australia (her great-great grandfather)
Mariah Sweetman talks to Cheryl Akle about how both her great-great grandfather and the Deebing Creek Massacre inspired her novel. Robert Runs is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/4/2023 • 25 minutes, 9 seconds
Zeno Sworder: on illustrating the story of his parents' migrant experience
Zeno Sworder talks to Cheryl Akle about how his family's immigration story inspired his award-winning picture book, My Strange Shrinking Parents, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/1/2023 • 32 minutes, 27 seconds
BE Better: Dr Tara Swart on The Source
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart talks to Jane Tara about the brain and explains how neuroplasticity is the key to manifesting what you desire. Her book, The Source, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/28/2023 • 45 minutes, 5 seconds
Kelly Rimmer: on the WWII spies that inspired The Paris Agent
Kelly Rimmer talks to Cheryl Akle about the work involved in owning a bookstore, and the female Special Operations Executive agents of WWII who inspired her latest novel, The Paris Agent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/28/2023 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Leigh Sales: on the power of telling other people's stories
Leigh Sales talks to Cheryl Akle about storytelling, the power of journalism and its influence on the world. Her book, Storytellers, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/25/2023 • 31 minutes, 25 seconds
BE Better: Rachael Coopes on Paris for Beginners
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Actress Rachael Coopes talks to Jane Tara about finding herself again in Paris. Her memoir, Paris for Beginners, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/22/2023 • 36 minutes, 22 seconds
Lucy Leonardi: on food waste and becoming Food Wise
Photographer and food blogger, Lucy Leonardi talks to Cheryl Akle about fighting food waste and saving the planet. Her children’s book, Food Wise, written with Lucy Bell, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/20/2023 • 19 minutes, 55 seconds
Sasha Wasley: on the league of photographers that inspired Snapshots from Home
Sasha Wasley talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Snapshots from Home, and the real league of amateur photographers that inspired her. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/18/2023 • 26 minutes, 4 seconds
Melanie Saward: on exploring the cycle of intergenerational trauma
Melanie Saward talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to publication and how her debut novel, Burn, explores the cycle of intergenerational trauma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/13/2023 • 31 minutes, 59 seconds
Shelley Burr: on the challenges of writing her second book
Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about the success of her debut novel, WAKE, and how she approached writing her follow-up novel, Ripper, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/11/2023 • 25 minutes, 58 seconds
Martin Flanagan: on his harrowing boarding school experience
Content Warning: Mentions of sexual abuse Martin Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about his harrowing years at boarding school and how they impacted his life going forward. His memoir, The Empty Honour Board, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/6/2023 • 29 minutes, 2 seconds
Kate Mildenhall: on exploring all aspects of womanhood
Kate Mildenhall talks to Cheryl Akle about blending many different genres in her writing, and how she explores all aspects of womanhood in her latest novel, The Hummingbird Effect. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/4/2023 • 35 minutes, 31 seconds
Charles Prouse: On the Voice to Parliament
Charles Prouse talks to Cheryl Akle about what a 'yes' vote in the Voice to Parliament referendum will mean and why it is important. His book, On the Voice to Parliament, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/30/2023 • 34 minutes, 20 seconds
Scott Bennett: on the soldier that inspired him to write fiction
Scott Bennett talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of moving from non-fiction to fiction, the changes in his writing process, and the soldier that inspired his novel, Night in Passchendaele. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/28/2023 • 23 minutes, 44 seconds
Karen Brooks: on bringing history to life
Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of history and how she brought London's Restoration theatre to life in her latest novel, The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/23/2023 • 31 minutes, 27 seconds
Vanessa McCausland: on what it means to dream in French
Vanessa McCausland talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, women's fiction and how her experience as an au pair in France inspired her latest novel, Dreaming in French. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/21/2023 • 31 minutes, 4 seconds
Roger Simpson: on how characters evolve over time
Roger Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about creating the character of Jane Halifax and how she's evolved. His latest book, Resurrection, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/17/2023 • 24 minutes, 49 seconds
Emily Perkins: on identity, visibility and feminism
Emily Perkins talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Lioness, a brave and illuminating exploration of identity that exposes the chasm between what one believes and how one actually lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/14/2023 • 31 minutes, 36 seconds
Dianne Yarwood: on the near-death experience that inspired her debut
Dianne Yarwood talks to Cheryl Akle about her brush with mortality, its importance, and how it inspired her debut novel, The Wakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/10/2023 • 33 minutes, 24 seconds
Alli Parker: on Australia's first Japanese war bride
Alli Parker talks to Cheryl Akle about the incredible, personal true story of Australia's first Japanese war bride, and how her grandparents' love changed Australia forever. Her debut novel, At the Foot of the Cherry Tree, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/7/2023 • 32 minutes, 23 seconds
Ben Mckelvey: on trauma, change and resilience
Ben McKelvey talks to Cheryl Akle about the impact of trauma and changing the way we think about it in his memoir, A Scar is Also Skin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/2/2023 • 41 minutes, 40 seconds
Mark Brandi: on small-town life, poverty and class
Mark Brandi talks to Cheryl Akle about class and poverty in small towns and how they affect the community. His latest novel, Southern Aurora, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/31/2023 • 31 minutes, 40 seconds
BE Better: Kerri Sackville on The Secret Life of You
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kerri Sackville talks to Jane Tara about how a bit of alone time can change your life, relationships, and maybe even the world. Her book, The Secret Life of You, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/28/2023 • 34 minutes, 4 seconds
Nicole Madigan: on the disturbing phenomenon of stalking
Nicole Madigan talks to Cheryl Akle about her own experience with stalking and how it lead to her writing Obsession, a blend of memoir, investigation and expert analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2023 • 33 minutes, 18 seconds
Ayesha Inoon: on the cultural differences that shape identity
Ayesha Inoon talks to Cheryl Akle about cultural differences and how her experience immigrating to Australia influenced her novel, Untethered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2023 • 25 minutes, 52 seconds
BE Better: Amanda Thompson on Financially Fit Women
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Amanda Thompson talks to Jane Tara about women, finances, and taking control of your own future. Her book Financially Fit Women is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/20/2023 • 24 minutes, 42 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #7
Welcome to episode #7 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/20/2023 • 26 minutes, 43 seconds
Anna Funder: on feminism, marriage and Wifedom
Anna Funder talks to Cheryl Akle about what it means to be a wife, feminism, and how George Orwell's wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, inspired her latest book, Wifedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/16/2023 • 32 minutes, 52 seconds
BE Better: Bec Wilson on How to Have an Epic Retirement
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Bec Wilson talks to Jane Tara about money, health, happiness, and How to Have an Epic Retirement (at any age). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/13/2023 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Megan Rogers: on the beautiful messiness of midlife
Megan Rogers talks to Cheryl Akle about the complicated yet beautiful messiness of midlife, family, self-care, and writing her debut novel, The Heart is a Star. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/10/2023 • 33 minutes, 18 seconds
Fiona Lowe: on the Ponzi scheme that inspired her novel
Fiona Lowe talks to Cheryl Akle about the real-life Ponzi scheme that affected her community and how it inspired her latest novel, The Money Club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/7/2023 • 32 minutes, 17 seconds
BE Better: Kate Christie on The Life List
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kate Christie talks to Jane Tara about goal setting, embracing ageing, and living an audacious life. Her book, The Life List, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/7/2023 • 25 minutes, 59 seconds
Isabel Allende: on exploring the relationship between mother and child
Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl Akle about why she explores the relationship between mother and child in her latest novel, The Wind Knows My Name. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/3/2023 • 26 minutes, 52 seconds
BE Better: Melissa Levi reminds us that We Need to Talk About Ageing
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Clinical psychologist Melissa Levi talks to Jane Tara about what to expect as you get older, making plans with elderly loved ones, and her book, We Need to Talk About Ageing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/29/2023 • 35 minutes, 30 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #6
Welcome to episode #6 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/28/2023 • 26 minutes, 1 second
Susan Paterson: on exploring the power of art in her debut novel
Susan Paterson talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with the Varuna Fellowship, and how her ancestor's painting inspired her debut novel, Where Light Meets Water, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/26/2023 • 27 minutes, 42 seconds
James Comey: on the FBI, mob trials and writing crime
Former FBI Director James Comey talks to Cheryl Akle about his extensive time in law enforcement, and the real-life mob trial that inspired his debut novel, Central Park West, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/22/2023 • 32 minutes, 27 seconds
BE Better: Paul McKenna on Finding Freedom from Anxiety
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast –Self-help superstar Paul McKenna is the UK’s most successful non-fiction author. Here, he talks to Jane Tara about anxiety, the mind, subconscious re-programming and his latest book, Freedom From Anxiety, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/21/2023 • 36 minutes, 38 seconds
Naima Brown: on exploring the dark side of reality TV
Naima Brown talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience living in the Middle East and how her time in the reality TV industry inspired her debut novel, The Shot, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/19/2023 • 30 minutes, 56 seconds
BE Better: Belinda Alexandra on being Emboldened
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Belinda Alexandra talks to Jane Tara about passion, purpose and connection. Her latest book Emboldened is an exquisite part memoir, part historical non-fiction, and is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2023 • 37 minutes, 5 seconds
Nilima Rao: on exploring her cultural identity through fiction
Nilima Rao talks to Cheryl Akle about her Indo-Fijian heritage and how cultural identity influenced her debut novel, A Disappearance in Fiji, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/13/2023 • 26 minutes, 37 seconds
BE Better: Sandra Radice on Our Green Change: A Journey to Green School, Bali & Beyond
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Sandra Radice talks to Jane Tara about moving her family to Bali to join the Green School community. Her memoir, Our Green Change: A Journey to Green School, Bali & Beyond is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/8/2023 • 30 minutes, 39 seconds
Antony Loewenstein: on writing The Palestine Laboratory
Antony Loewenstein talks to Cheryl Akle about his investigation into Israel’s occupation-enforcing technologies for his book, The Palestine Laboratory, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/7/2023 • 50 minutes, 9 seconds
Lisa Barr: on her transition from journalist to writer
Lisa Barr talks to Cheryl Akle about The Unbreakables, journalism, and how her experience busting a sex-trafficking ring at seventeen inspired Woman on Fire. Both books are out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/5/2023 • 19 minutes, 19 seconds
BE Better: Helen Jacobs on how to Follow Your Heart
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Author and psychic, Helen Jacobs talks to Jane Tara about manifesting, intuition and her latest book, Follow Your Heart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/2/2023 • 25 minutes, 57 seconds
Josephine Moon: on her inspiring journey to publication
Josephine Moon talks to Cheryl Akle about being rejected over 100 times before being published, and her commitment to writing positive, uplifting novels. Her latest novel, The Wonderful Thing About Phoenix Rose, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/29/2023 • 23 minutes, 59 seconds
Stuart Black: on the abuse of corporate power
Stuart Black talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience in the corporate world and exploring the abuse of power in his latest novel, The Signatory, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/25/2023 • 29 minutes, 10 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #5
Welcome to episode #5 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/23/2023 • 22 minutes, 57 seconds
BE Better: Wim Hof on The Wim Hof Method
BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Iconic iceman Wim Hof enthusiastically chats to Jane Tara about his ground-breaking work, the research on cold immersion therapy, and his book,The Wim Hof Method Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/22/2023 • 38 minutes, 50 seconds
Jennifer Saint: on redefining Greek mythology
Jennifer Saint talks to Cheryl Akle about redefining Greek mythological characters and giving ancient women a voice. Her latest book, Atalanta, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/22/2023 • 30 minutes, 38 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #4
Welcome to episode #4 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/17/2023 • 15 minutes, 34 seconds
Tim Winton: on his body of work and ABC nature series, Ningaloo Nyinggulu
Tim Winton talks to Cheryl Akle about his body of work, including Ningaloo Nyinggulu, the ABC nature series, and being chosen as the recipient of the 2023 Lloyd O'Neill Award. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/16/2023 • 24 minutes, 18 seconds
Markus Zusak: on how The Book Thief changed his life
Markus Zusak talks to Cheryl Akle about his bestselling writing career and how The Book Thief changed his life. The Book Thief placed at #5 on Better Reading's 2023 Top 100 list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2023 • 36 minutes, 42 seconds
BE Better: Caitlin Cady on The Hope Dealer
BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Author and meditation teacher, Caitlin Cady talks to Jane Tara about inspiration, mindfulness, ritual, and her latest book, The Hope Dealer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/11/2023 • 29 minutes, 6 seconds
Armando Lucas Correa: on the rise of translated fiction
Armando Lucas Correa talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of translated fiction and how technology and social media are shaping modern publishing. His latest book, The Night Travelers, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/11/2023 • 34 minutes, 44 seconds
Candice Fox: on the success of her novels
Candice Fox talks to Cheryl Akle about co-writing, championing Australian authors and the success of her novels. Her latest book, Fire With Fire, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/8/2023 • 39 minutes, 43 seconds
BE Better: Gretchen Rubin on living Life in Five Senses
BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – New York Times bestselling author Gretchen Rubin talks to Jane Tara about living Life in Five Senses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/4/2023 • 33 minutes
Loraine Peck: on criminal ex-husbands and writing courses
Loraine Peck talks to Cheryl Akle about how creative writing courses, personal hardships and crime-related relationships inspired her writing career. Her latest book, The Double Bind, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/4/2023 • 34 minutes, 11 seconds
Brad Walls: on capturing the beauty of pools
Brad Walls talks to Cheryl Akle about their shared love of pools and why he decided to photograph them. His coffee table book, Pools From Above, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/30/2023 • 32 minutes, 45 seconds
BE Better: Dr Ahona Guha on complex trauma
BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Dr Ahona Guha talks to Jane Tara about complex trauma, and her ground-breaking book on the subject, Reclaim. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/27/2023 • 23 minutes, 47 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #3
Welcome to episode #3 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. Once a month, they’ll discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/27/2023 • 19 minutes, 40 seconds
Samantha Shannon: on the intricacies of modern fantasy
Samantha Shannon talks to Cheryl Akle about the modern fantasy landscape and what makes adult fantasy different from YA. Her latest book, A Day of Fallen Night, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/24/2023 • 35 minutes, 48 seconds
BE Better: Kath Koschel on Kindness
BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Founder of the Kindness Factory, Kath Koschel talks to Jane Tara about her book, Kindness, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/20/2023 • 34 minutes, 15 seconds
Nicci French: on balancing writing as husband and wife
Writing duo Sean French and Nicci Gerard, known as Nicci French, talk to Cheryl Akle about how they balance writing as a husband and wife. Their latest novel, The Favour, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/20/2023 • 31 minutes, 28 seconds
Rae Cairns: on the dangerous research process for her novel
Rae Cairns talks to Cheryl Akle about her intense research process, including interviewing bikies and shadowing police officers. Her latest novel, Dying to Know, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/17/2023 • 31 minutes, 42 seconds
BE Better: Georgie Collinson on The Anxiety Reset Method
BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Anxiety Mindset coach, Georgie Collinson speaks to Jane Tara about her book, The Anxiety Reset Method, which is a 12-week program for those with high functioning anxiety. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/13/2023 • 27 minutes, 11 seconds
Sally Colin-James: on the plane crash that changed her life
Sally Colin-James talks to Cheryl Akle about the plane crash that changed her life and her research process for her novel One Illumined Thread, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/13/2023 • 37 minutes, 54 seconds
Margaret Simons: on the process of writing a biography
Margaret Simons talks to Cheryl Akle about what goes into writing a biography, researching her subjects, and the life of Tanya Plibersek. Her latest book, Tanya Plibersek: On Her Own Terms, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/10/2023 • 29 minutes, 39 seconds
Pip Williams: on expanding the world of A Dictionary of Lost Words
Pip Williams talks to Cheryl Akle about the bestselling success of A Dictionary of Lost Words and the challenges of writing its companion novel, The Bookbinder of Jericho, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/5/2023 • 38 minutes, 30 seconds
Toni Jordan: on the popularity of women's fiction
Toni Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about why she's drawn to women's fiction and the popularity of the genre. Her latest novel, Prettier if She Smiled More, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/3/2023 • 29 minutes, 33 seconds
Louise Candlish: on the evolution of her writing
Louise Candlish talks to Cheryl Akle about the evolution of her writing, and exploring darker themes in her novels. Her latest, The Only Suspect, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/30/2023 • 32 minutes, 44 seconds
Alexandra Collier: on navigating motherhood alone
Alexandra Collier talks to Cheryl Akle about her decision to have a child on her own terms and how she navigates motherhood alone. Her memoir, Inconceivable, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/26/2023 • 31 minutes, 37 seconds
Ali Lowe: on shifting from journalism to writing fiction
Ali Lowe talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, publication and how Jacqueline Moriarty inspired her to write fiction. Her latest book, The Running Club, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/22/2023 • 26 minutes, 40 seconds
Jackie French: on the similarities between adults and children's fiction
Jackie French talks to Cheryl Akle about her love for Australian history and the similarities between writing adult and children's fiction. Her latest book, Becoming Mrs Mulberry, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/19/2023 • 35 minutes, 29 seconds
Charlene Carr: on IVF, motherhood and identity
Charlene Carr talks to Cheryl Akle about her IVF experience and how it inspired Hold My Girl, her gripping, heart-wrenching novel which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/15/2023 • 26 minutes, 53 seconds
Kate Legge: on Infidelity and Other Affairs
Award-winning journalist and author Kate Legge and Cheryl Akle have a candid conversation about infidelity. Kate’s memoir, Infidelity and Other Affairs, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/12/2023 • 32 minutes, 13 seconds
Rosemary Kariuki: on advocating for migrant women and refugees
2021 Australian of the Year – Local Hero Award winner Rosemary Kariuki talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from Kenya to Australia, and her inspiring advocacy for migrant women and refugees. Her memoir, A Joyful Life, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/8/2023 • 24 minutes, 35 seconds
Cassandra Austin: on moving from writing to ceramics
Cassandra Austin, the author of Like Mother, talks to Cheryl Akle about finding the magic in different creative outlets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/5/2023 • 29 minutes, 3 seconds
Bebe Backhouse: on poetry and self-discovery
Bebe Backhouse talks to Cheryl Akle about how writing his poetry collection, More Than These Bones was a journey of self-discovery. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/1/2023 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
Emilia Hart: on the Pendle Witch Trials
Emilia Hart talks to Cheryl Akle about the real-life Witch Trials that inspired her novel, Weyward, a generational story of female resilience and empowerment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/26/2023 • 29 minutes, 56 seconds
Mercedes Maguire: on the billion dollar romance fiction industry
Journalist Mercedes Maguire talks to Cheryl Akle about the billion-dollar romance industry and how it's time to break the stigma around reading romance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/22/2023 • 29 minutes
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #2
Welcome to episode #2 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. Once a month, they’ll discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip. In this episode, they discuss: - Infidelity and Other Affairs by Kate Legge. - Caroline Overington’s Audible book, Looking for Eden. - Journalist Mercedes McGuire’s article on the romance genre. - Author Rachael Johns. - Wifedom by Anna Funder, out in July. - Victory City by Salman Rushdie.- Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/20/2023 • 20 minutes, 38 seconds
Shannon Molloy: on being a voice for sexual abuse survivors
Shannon Molloy talks to Cheryl Akle about the taboo topic of male child sexual abuse, his own experiences and those he investigated for his latest book. Part memoir, part self-help, part investigative journalism deep-dive, You Made Me This Way is out now. CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses child molestation and sexual abuse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/19/2023 • 33 minutes, 11 seconds
Penelope Janu: on her passion for writing romance
Penelope Janu talks to Cheryl Akle about the mainstream rise of romantic fiction and how she came into her own as a romance writer. Her latest book, Shelter From the Storm, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/15/2023 • 33 minutes, 43 seconds
Olivia Wearne: on the policewomen of 1940s Australia
Olivia Wearne talks to Cheryl Akle about the inspiring policewomen of 1940s Australia and the feminist evolution of the crime genre. Her latest novel, The Woman Who Knew Too Little, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/12/2023 • 23 minutes, 30 seconds
Nikki Mottram: on how working as a child protection officer inspired her debut novel
Nikki Mottram talks to Cheryl Akle about how her career as a child protection officer influenced her debut crime novel, Crows Nest, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/8/2023 • 21 minutes, 22 seconds
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #1
Welcome to episode #1 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. This month, they discuss the National Cultural Policy, the Vogel prize, Hannah Richell, the success of Spare, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/7/2023 • 24 minutes, 10 seconds
Bonnie Garmus: on 98 rejections and her bestselling debut
Everyone is talking about Lessons in Chemistry, so we thought we'd reshare our wonderful Bonnie Garmus interview. Here she tells Cheryl Akle about how she received 98 rejections, before finally being published. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/2/2023 • 29 minutes, 47 seconds
Peter Doyle: on the crimes that shaped Sydney
Peter Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about Sydney's major crimes in the 1950s and how they shaped the city we know today. His latest book, Suburban Noir, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/2/2023 • 34 minutes, 14 seconds
Rebecca Heath: on exploring class and grief in The Summer Party
Rebecca Heath talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey transitioning from writing YA to crime, and how she explores grief and class in her latest novel, The Summer Party. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/29/2023 • 29 minutes, 20 seconds
Ellidy Pullin: on deciding to have her late husband's child
Ellidy Pullin talks to Cheryl Akle about deciding to have her late husband's child and keeping his legacy alive. Her memoir, Heartstrong, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/25/2023 • 29 minutes, 40 seconds
Pip Drysdale: on how different cities influence her writing
Pip Drysdale talks to Cheryl Akle about identity, self-discovery and how her writing is shaped by the different cities she's lived in. Her latest novel, The Next Girl, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/22/2023 • 29 minutes, 58 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Rachael Johns
Bestselling author Rachael Johns talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Rachael’s latest book, The Work Wives, is out now. Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)The Reading List by Sara Nisha AdamsUs Against Them by Fredrik BackmanThe Most Likely Club by Elyssa Friedland The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley HellerBridget Jones Diary by Helen FieldingThe Hemsworth Effect by James WeirRomantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/18/2023 • 11 minutes, 53 seconds
Tom Keneally: on the life and exploits of Irish patriot John Mitchel
Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about writing forgotten people back into history and the life and exploits of Irish patriot John Mitchel. His latest book, Fanatic Heart, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/15/2023 • 32 minutes, 17 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Chris Flynn
Chris Flynn talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. Chris’s latest book, Here Be Leviathans, is out now. Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-ChanLiberation Day by George SaundersThe Signature of All Things by Elizabeth GilbertDays Without End by Sebastian BarryI am Legend by Richard MathesonEdenglassie by Melissa LucashenkoGunflower by Laura Jean McKayThe Bookbinder of Jericho by Pip WilliamsReturn to Valetto by Dominic Smith Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/11/2023 • 15 minutes, 33 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Michael Moseley
Internationally bestselling author and science presenter, Dr Michael Mosley talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. Michael’s latest book, Just One Thing, is out now. Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)The Salt Path by Raynor WinnDown and Out in Paris and London by George OrwellThree Men in a Boat by Jerome K JeromeAn Open Swimmer by Tim Winton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/4/2023 • 14 minutes, 3 seconds
Nat's What I Reckon: on how cooking changed his life
Nat's What I Reckon talks to Cheryl Akle about how food can tell a story. His latest book, Life: What Nat to Do, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/1/2023 • 31 minutes, 9 seconds
Michelle Johnston: on finding stories in everyday situations
Michelle Johnston talks to Cheryl Akle about finding stories in everyday situations and exploring why we believe what we believe in her latest book, Tiny Uncertain Miracles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/1/2023 • 28 minutes, 11 seconds
What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Caroline Overington
Bestselling author and Literary Editor at The Australian, Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about the book industry, Tik Tok titles, and what she’s reading. You can follow Caroline on Instagram. Exiles by Jane HarperRecipeTin Easts Dinner by Nagi MaehashiBarefoot Kids by Scott PapeFaith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave and Sean O’HaganThe Disappearance of Josef Mengele by Olivier GuezFriends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir by Matthew PerryAlso mentioned John Irving, Colleen Hoover and Sarah Winman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/28/2022 • 14 minutes, 8 seconds
Roger Simpson: on adaptation, television and why he's drawn to crime
Roger Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about writing for television. His latest book, Halifax: Transgression, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/26/2022 • 23 minutes, 27 seconds
Fiona Palmer: on the town that inspired The Wrong Sister
Fiona Palmer talks to Cheryl Akle about how technology has changed rural writing, and the country town that inspired her latest novel, The Wrong Sister. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/25/2022 • 25 minutes, 22 seconds
Behrouz Boochani: on his 6 years on Manus Island
Behrouz Boochani talks to Cheryl Akle about his time on Manus Island Detention Centre and why Australia needs to change. His latest book, Freedom, Only Freedom, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/22/2022 • 35 minutes, 39 seconds
Nikki Crutchley: on why psychological thrillers need a killer setting
Nikki Crutchley talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with self-publishing and the haunted hotel that inspired her latest book, In Her Blood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/22/2022 • 27 minutes, 17 seconds
Sami Bayly: on her love of the natural world
Sami Bayly talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of nature and how she became a natural history author-illustrator. Her latest book, How We Came to Be: Surprising Sea Creatures, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/18/2022 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
Christine Courtenay: on the life and legacy of Bryce Courtenay
Christine Courtenay talks to Cheryl Akle about her husband's legacy and why she decided to write his memoir, Bryce Courtenay: Storyteller, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/14/2022 • 31 minutes, 19 seconds
Sally Thorne: on what the rise of BookTok means for authors
Sally Thorne talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of BookTok and what it means for the future of authors. Her latest book, Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her Match, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/11/2022 • 35 minutes, 45 seconds
Sean Wilson: on transitioning from playwright to author
Sean Wilson talks to Cheryl Akle about transitioning from a playwright to an author, and what drew him to write about Melbourne's Great Depression in Gemini Falls, his debut fiction novel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/8/2022 • 29 minutes, 28 seconds
Judy Nunn: on writing short stories
Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of writing short stories and how it differs from longer-form fiction. Her first collection of short stories, The Long Weekend, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/7/2022 • 32 minutes, 31 seconds
Belinda Alexandra: on blending historical fact with fiction
Belinda Alexandra talks to Cheryl Akle about her deep love of history and what historical fiction can teach us. Her latest book, The French Agent, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/5/2022 • 36 minutes, 8 seconds
Amaryllis Gacioppo: on identity, belonging and finding a home
Amaryllis Gacioppo talks to Cheryl Akle about the places we call home and how it affects our identity. Her latest book, Motherlands, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/1/2022 • 27 minutes, 36 seconds
Janet Evanovich: on writing Stephanie Plum
New York Times bestselling author Janet Evanovich talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from fine art to writing and her relationship with her protagonists. Her latest novel, Going Rogue, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/30/2022 • 26 minutes, 17 seconds
Paddy Manning: on the high-stakes life of Lachlan Murdoch
Paddy Manning talks to Cheryl Akle about his research into Lachlan Murdoch, the man and the empire. The Successor, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/28/2022 • 34 minutes, 54 seconds
Kathy Reichs: on writing Temperance Brennan
Kathy Reichs talks to Cheryl Akle about how she is continually developing Temperance Brennan. The latest novel in her bestselling series, Cold, Cold Bones, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/27/2022 • 29 minutes, 25 seconds
Sloane Crosley: on satirising modern dating
New York Times bestselling author Sloane Crosley talks to Cheryl Akle about the social expectations of being single and how her novel, Cult Classic, offers a satirical look at modern dating. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2022 • 32 minutes, 33 seconds
Natasha Lester: on fashion, France and historical fiction
Bestselling author Natasha Lester talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of France and fashion, and how she combines these two loves in her latest historical novel, The Three Lives of Alix St Pierre, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/20/2022 • 30 minutes, 3 seconds
Dominique Roques: on his worldwide search for perfumes
Dominique Roques talks to Cheryl Akle about his search for the best perfume ingredients across the globe, and how this inspired his memoir, In Search of Perfumes, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/17/2022 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
Kayte Nunn: on the haunting crime that inspired The Only Child
Kayte Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about writing historical fiction and the haunting crime that inspired her latest novel, The Only Child. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/17/2022 • 23 minutes, 2 seconds
Philippa Gregory: on writing women back into history
Bestselling author Philippa Gregory talks to Cheryl Akle about the women who were written out of history, and how fiction helps them reclaim their voices. Dawnlands, the third instalment in her Fairmile series, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/13/2022 • 35 minutes, 34 seconds
Victoria Hannan: on the ripple effects of grief
Victoria Hannan talks to Cheryl Akle about female friendship and the ripple effects of grief. Her latest book, Marshmallow, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/10/2022 • 27 minutes, 22 seconds
Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders: on his first short story collection in 10 years
One of Cheryl's all-time favourite guests, Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders, returns to discuss his first short story collection in 10 years, democracy, and how literature challenges a reader's point of view. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/10/2022 • 32 minutes, 44 seconds
Tea Cooper: on butterflies, teaching and historical fiction
Tea Cooper talks to Cheryl Akle about her background as a teacher, researching butterflies and writing historical fiction. Her latest novel, The Butterfly Collector, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/7/2022 • 25 minutes, 38 seconds
Melissa Doyle: on learning to be brave
Melissa Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about learning to be brave and finding hope in the stories of survivors. Her book, Fifteen Seconds of Brave, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/2/2022 • 33 minutes, 31 seconds
Craig Silvey: on exploring the bonds between dogs and humans
Bestselling author Craig Silvey talks to Cheryl Akle about the bond between dogs and humans, and what they can teach us about life. His latest novel, Runt, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/30/2022 • 37 minutes, 43 seconds
Reece Carter: on exploring darker themes in gothic children's fiction
Reece Carter talks to Cheryl Akle about writing his debut novel and exploring darker themes in gothic children's fiction. His book, A Girl Called Corpse, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/27/2022 • 25 minutes, 52 seconds
Kate McCaffrey: on gender, identity and adult fiction
Kate McCaffrey talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring gender identity in her latest novel, Double Lives, and why she moved from YA to adult fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/23/2022 • 26 minutes, 19 seconds
Sarah Schmidt: on parenthood and generational trauma
Award-winning author Sarah Schmidt talks to Cheryl Akle about mother-daughter relationships and generational trauma. Her latest book, Blue Hour, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/19/2022 • 26 minutes, 51 seconds
Julietta Henderson: on exploring sibling relationships in her writing
Julietta Henderson talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring the complexities of sibling relationships in her second novel, Sincerely, Me. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/16/2022 • 28 minutes, 22 seconds
Anna Kent: on working as a midwife in developing countries
Anna Kent talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience working as a midwife in some of the most vulnerable places on the planet, and how it changed her perspective on healthcare. Her memoir, Frontline Midwife, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/12/2022 • 38 minutes, 18 seconds
Tracey Lien: on journalism, identity, and growing up in Cabramatta
Tracey Lien talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience growing up in Cabramatta and challenging the myth of the model minority. Her debut book, All That's Left Unsaid, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/9/2022 • 25 minutes, 55 seconds
Aaron Fa'Aoso: on being Torres Strait Islander and representation in the media
Aaron Fa'Aoso talks to Cheryl Akle about football, representation of First Nations people in the media and what it means to be a Torres Strait Islander. His memoir, So Far, So Good, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/5/2022 • 27 minutes, 4 seconds
Susan White: on systematic misogyny in the hospital system
Susan White talks to Cheryl Akle about systematic misogyny and sexism in the hospital system, and her experiences working as a female doctor for more than two decades. Her latest novel, Cut, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/2/2022 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Antoinette Lattouf: on starting conversations about diversity
Antoinette Lattouf talks to Cheryl Akle about championing change and racial equality, and why diversity is so important. Her latest book, How to Lose Friends and Influence White People, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/28/2022 • 28 minutes, 45 seconds
Zoulfa Katouh: on giving a voice to young Syrian women
Zoulfa Katouh talks to Cheryl Akle about embracing her identity and how she used her novel, As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow, to shine a light on the conflict in Syria. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/25/2022 • 27 minutes, 3 seconds
Andy McNab: on his career from SAS soldier to bestselling author
Former SAS soldier and bestselling author Andy McNab talks to Cheryl Akle about his military service and how it ultimately lead to writing children's fiction. His latest book, My Mum is a Spy! is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/21/2022 • 29 minutes, 38 seconds
Clare Fletcher: on rural weddings bringing communities together
Clare Fletcher talks to Cheryl Akle about bush weddings and how they bring rural communities together. Her latest novel, Five Bush Wedding, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/19/2022 • 32 minutes, 58 seconds
Nigel Marsh: on being Smart, Stupid & Sixty
Nigel Marsh talks to Cheryl Akle about going from Fat, Forty & Fired to now being Smart, Stupid and Sixty. His latest memoir is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/15/2022 • 39 minutes, 32 seconds
J.M. Miro: on escapism in fantasy fiction
J.M. Miro talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of escapism in fantasy fiction. His book, Ordinary Monsters, the first instalment in a thrilling new adult fantasy series set in Victorian England, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/12/2022 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
Claire G. Coleman: on the connection between culture and writing
Clare G. Coleman talks to Cheryl Akle about the connection between culture and writing, and her return to her ancestral country. Her latest novel, Enclave, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/7/2022 • 34 minutes, 40 seconds
Emma Harcourt: on writing women back into history
Emma Harcourt talks to Cheryl Akle about how women are often written out of history, and how fiction allows us to finally give them a voice. Her latest book, The Brightest Star, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/4/2022 • 31 minutes, 38 seconds
Denis Knight and Cristy Burne: on co-writing Wednesday Weeks
Children's authors Denis Knight and Cristy Burne talk to Cheryl Akle about the challenges and perks of co-writing a novel. The final book in their bestselling series, Wednesday Weeks and the Dungeon of Fire, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/31/2022 • 32 minutes, 38 seconds
Larry Emdur: on being Happy As
Australian TV personality Larry Emdur talks to Cheryl Akle about his career on television, growing up in Bondi and how it shaped the person he is today. His memoir, Happy As, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/28/2022 • 39 minutes, 59 seconds
Lisa Barr: on using fiction to give voice to women
New York Times bestselling author Lisa Barr talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a journalist in Jerusalem and the rise of women's voices in fiction. Her novel, Woman on Fire, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/24/2022 • 26 minutes, 30 seconds
Margaret Hickey: on the rise of Australian rural crime fiction
Bestselling author Margaret Hickey talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of rural crime fiction and how the Australian landscape inspires her writing. Her latest novel, Stone Town, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/21/2022 • 30 minutes, 4 seconds
Julie Fison: on alcohol-fuelled violence and coward punches
Julie Fison talks to Cheryl Akle about the coward punch incident that inspired her novel, and the detrimental effects of alcohol-fueled street violence. Her novel, One Punch, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/17/2022 • 28 minutes, 39 seconds
Richard McHugh: on his career from barrister to writer
Richard McHugh talks to Cheryl Akle about his career as a barrister and how it influenced his writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/14/2022 • 32 minutes, 19 seconds
Ruth Ozeki: on winning the 2022 Women's Prize for Fiction
Ruth Ozeki talks to Cheryl Akle about winning the 2022 Women's Prize for Fiction, and how certain books find us at the right time. Her latest novel, The Book of Form and Emptiness is available now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/10/2022 • 33 minutes, 7 seconds
Matthew Spencer: on using his unusual childhood home in his debut novel
Matthew Spencer talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up on the grounds of a private school, and how he used this experience as inspiration for his crime debut Black River. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/7/2022 • 36 minutes, 26 seconds
Helen Thomas: on Melbourne's most notorious cold case
Helen Thomas talks to Cheryl Akle about the fateful phone call that brought them together, and how it helped fill in the gaps of Melbourne's most notorious cold case. The updated edition of her book, Murder on Easey Street, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/3/2022 • 24 minutes, 48 seconds
Tim Winton: on 40 years of storytelling
Four-time Miles Franklin award-winner Tim Winton talks to Cheryl Akle about his 40 years of writing, and how stories help us understand the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/31/2022 • 32 minutes, 41 seconds
Brendan Colley: on writing as a solace
Brendan Colley talks to Cheryl Akle about feeling disconnected from South Africa, and how writing has become a solace. His debut novel, The Signal Line, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/28/2022 • 27 minutes, 35 seconds
Indira Naidoo: on using writing to explore grief
Award-winning journalist and author Indira Naidoo talks to Cheryl Akle about losing her sister, and how she used writing to explore grief. Her book, The Space Between the Stars, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/27/2022 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Helen Fitzgerald: on social work and writing
Helen Fitzgerald talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a social worker and how it has influenced her writing. Her latest book, Keep Her Sweet, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2022 • 32 minutes, 8 seconds
Geraldine Brooks: In conversation with the Pulitzer Prize winner
Geraldine Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about her career, and how the Pulitzer Prize changed her life. Her latest novel, Horse, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/21/2022 • 32 minutes, 49 seconds
Nicole Haddow: on ethically growing your wealth
Journalist and author Nicole Haddow talks to Cheryl Akle about how we can invest ethically. Her book, The Ethical Investor, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/21/2022 • 26 minutes, 32 seconds
Mykaela Saunders: on First Nations speculative fiction
Mykaela Saunders on editing the first-ever anthology of First Nations speculative fiction. This All Come Back Now is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/19/2022 • 27 minutes, 10 seconds
David Knoff: on surviving 537 days stranded in Antarctica
David Knoff talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience of surviving 537 days stranded in Antarctica during the pandemic. His book, 537 Days of Winter, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/17/2022 • 30 minutes, 40 seconds
Luke Mathers: on changing curious habits
Luke Mathers talks to Cheryl Akle about the habits we form and why we struggle to change them. His latest book, Curious Habits, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/14/2022 • 31 minutes, 38 seconds
Michael Robotham: on the golden age of Australian crime fiction
Bestselling author Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl Akle about the resurgence in Australian crime fiction, and how he creates authentic characters. His latest novel, Lying Beside You, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/11/2022 • 37 minutes, 37 seconds
Melissa Fu: on the importance of place and identity in Fiction
Melissa Fu talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of identity and place, and how she adapted her novel Peach Blossom Spring from a short story she wrote about her father. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/6/2022 • 26 minutes, 34 seconds
Diane Armstrong: on her experience as a child holocaust survivor
Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as a child holocaust survivor and how her family escaped to Australia. Her latest novel, Dancing with the Enemy, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/3/2022 • 31 minutes, 33 seconds
Caroline Petit: on giving women a voice in historical fiction
Caroline Petit talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from the US to Australia, and how the forgotten wife of a 19th-century naturalist inspired her novel, The Natural History of Love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/29/2022 • 27 minutes, 16 seconds
Robbi Neal: on cancer, family and overcoming hardship
Robbi Neal talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with cancer, and how her latest novel, The Secret World of Connie Starr, was influenced by her family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/27/2022 • 25 minutes, 25 seconds
Carrie Cox: on marriage, love and loss
Journalist and author Carrie Cox talks to Cheryl Akle about how she uses fiction as a vessel to explore marriage and long term relationships. Her latest novel, So Many Beats of the Heart, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/23/2022 • 28 minutes, 58 seconds
Annabel Abbs: on why we need more food in fiction
Annabel Abbs talks to Cheryl Akle about their shared love of cookbooks and why there needs to be more food in fiction. Her latest novel, The Language of Food, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/20/2022 • 29 minutes, 50 seconds
Catherine Deveny: on honesty, dyslexia and being an ‘arts tradie’
Catherine Deveny talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up with dyslexia, being an ‘arts tradie’, and how honesty is easy. Her memoir, True North, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/19/2022 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Averil Kenny: on her deep connection to rural life
Averil Kenny talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in rural Australia and how this bleeds into her writing. Her latest novel, The Girls of Lake Evelyn, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2022 • 30 minutes, 34 seconds
Stella Rimington: on her experience as Director General of MI5
Bestselling author Stella Rimington DCB talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as Director General of the MI5 and how this translates into her writing. Her latest thriller, The Devil's Bargain, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/12/2022 • 32 minutes, 1 second
Brigid Kemmerer: on the fantasy genre boom
New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of the fantasy genre, and why we're seeking escapism more and more. Her latest book, Forging Silver into Stars, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/8/2022 • 26 minutes, 6 seconds
Liane Moriarty: on bestselling novels and award-winning TV shows
Liane Moriarty talks to Cheryl Akle about her astonishing success as a New York Times bestselling author with an award-winning TV adaptation. Her latest book, Apples Never Fall, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/5/2022 • 28 minutes, 46 seconds
Judy Cotton: on Art, New York and the constant longing for home
Artist Judy Cotton talks to Cheryl Akle about art, Tokyo and New York, and how she deals with the constant longing for Australia. Her memoir, Swimming Home, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/30/2022 • 31 minutes, 4 seconds
Jon Faine: on the Mighty Apollo and Thelma Hawkes
Journalist and broadcaster Jon Faine talks to Cheryl Akle about the legendary siblings Apollo and Thelma and his relationship to them both. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/29/2022 • 28 minutes, 50 seconds
Alix Bradfield: on growing older, well
Alix Bradfield's parents were once, officially, the oldest couple in Australia. Here she talks to Cheryl Akle about her research into growing older and her book, Energy for Life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/25/2022 • 34 minutes, 57 seconds
Damon Galgut: on exploring the complexities of South Africa in his writing
Booker Prize-winning author Damon Galgut talks to Cheryl Akle about the complexities of South Africa, and how death can bring a family together. His novel, The Promise, is out now. Damon is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/20/2022 • 29 minutes, 48 seconds
Kylie Moore-Gilbert: on how she survived 804 days in an Iranian Prison
Kylie Moore-Gilbert talks to Cheryl Akle about how she survived 804 days in an Iranian prison and her journey back home. Her memoir, The Uncaged Sky, is out now. Kylie is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/19/2022 • 36 minutes, 12 seconds
Chloe Hooper: on the power of bedtime stories
Chloe Hooper talks to Cheryl Akle about reading the right book at the right time, and how she used the stories to explore grief and loss in her memoir, Bedtime Story. Chloe is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/18/2022 • 28 minutes, 40 seconds
Sheila O'Flanagan: on loss, grief, and accepting change
Bestselling author Sheila O'Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about how reading can help us process grief, and why change is so important. Her latest novel, What Eden Did Next, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2022 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Shelley Burr: on her award-winning crime debut WAKE
Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about the success of her debut novel WAKE, which won the CWA Debut Dagger Award. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/11/2022 • 28 minutes, 31 seconds
Lauren Chater: on the gown that inspired The Winter Dress
Bestselling author Lauren Chater talks to Cheryl Akle about the 17th-century gown that inspired her latest historical novel, The Winter Dress. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/8/2022 • 23 minutes, 48 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: Who made the 2022 Top 100?
Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their old... and new favourites from this year's Top 100. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/4/2022 • 8 minutes, 56 seconds
Better Reading Top 100: Craig Silvey: on the books that shaped his childhood
The #1 spot on the Better Reading 2022 Top 100 goes to Honeybee by Craig Silvey. To celebrate, we're rereleasing this wonderful conversation Craig had with Cheryl Akle, about writing his modern classic, Jasper Jones, and the books that shaped his childhood and still influence his writing today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/2/2022 • 32 minutes, 44 seconds
Beth O'Leary: on why she loves writing romance
Beth O'Leary, the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Flat Share and The Road Trip, talks to Cheryl Akle about why she loves writing romance. Her latest novel, The No-Show, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/1/2022 • 26 minutes, 26 seconds
Eliza Hull: on breaking the stigma around disability
Musician, journalist and writer Eliza Hull talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to motherhood, and her experiences living with a disability. Her book We've Got This, the first major anthology of stories written by parents with disabilities, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/24/2022 • 27 minutes, 34 seconds
Emma A. Jane: on breaking the silence surrounding sexual abuse and mental illness
Associate Professor Emma A. Jane talks to Cheryl Akle about trauma, and why we need to break the silence surrounding sexual abuse and mental illness. Her memoir, Diagnosis Normal, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/17/2022 • 26 minutes, 43 seconds
Toni Jordan: on science, writing, and Barbie dolls
Bestselling author Toni Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of science, and how her passion for storytelling started from Barbie Dolls. Her latest novel, Dinner with the Schnabels, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/13/2022 • 30 minutes, 3 seconds
Emma Viskic: on writing a deaf detective
Emma Viskic talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of writing a deaf Private Investigator in her award-winning Caleb Zelic series. The latest instalment in the series, Those Who Perish, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/10/2022 • 28 minutes, 4 seconds
Steve Toltz: on why fear is a big part of his writing
Booker-shortlisted author Steve Toltz talks to Cheryl Akle about why fear is a big part of his writing, and how he comes up with the ideas for his novels. His latest book, Here Goes Nothing, is out in May. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/4/2022 • 36 minutes, 15 seconds
Julie Bennett: on how her love of opera influenced her writing
Julie Bennett talks to Cheryl Akle about the glitz and glamour of the Sydney opera scene, and how her family's history in the industry inspired her debut novel The Understudy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/3/2022 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Sarah Di Lorenzo: on her passion for overhauling the health of her clients
Nutritionist, Sarah Di Lorenzo talks to Cheryl Akle about her passion for health, wellness and how it’s possible to permanently lose 10 kilos in 10 weeks. Her book, The 10:10 Diet, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/30/2022 • 27 minutes, 37 seconds
Kate Thompson: on the importance of libraries and storytelling
Sunday Times bestselling author Kate Thompson talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of storytelling and the incredible true story of Bethnal Green Library during World War II. Her latest novel, The Little Wartime Library, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/27/2022 • 28 minutes, 41 seconds
Jonathan Butler: on the unsolved murder of Warwick Meale
Jonathan Butler talks to Cheryl Akle about the unsolved murder of his ancestor Warwick Meale in 1944. In his new book, The Boy in the Dress, Butler dusts off the case and chases the leads that were there all along. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/23/2022 • 28 minutes, 55 seconds
Karin Tanabe: on how she's always been a storyteller
Karin Tanabe on her career in journalism and how she's always been a storyteller. Her novel, The Gilded Years, is out now and is soon to be adapted for film by Reese Witherspoon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/20/2022 • 28 minutes, 25 seconds
V. E. Schwab: on fantasy and escapism
New York Times bestselling author V.E. Schwab talks to Cheryl Akle about writing fantasy fiction, and how it provides an escape for readers. Her latest book, Gallant, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/13/2022 • 28 minutes, 13 seconds
Jamar J. Perry: on writing diverse characters in children's books
Jamar J. Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of creating diverse characters in his debut children's novel, Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/9/2022 • 27 minutes, 39 seconds
Robert Gold: on publishing, crime fiction and working with James Patterson
Robert Gold talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience working as a sales director for a UK publishing company, and how co-writing with James Patterson lead to his debut solo novel Twelve Secrets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/6/2022 • 30 minutes, 32 seconds
Joanna Buckley: on dementia and dying with dignity
Joanna Buckley talks to Cheryl Akle about her father and grandfather's experience with Dementia, which inspired her debut novel Lily Harford's Last Request. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/2/2022 • 26 minutes, 9 seconds
Paul Callaghan: on how Indigenous thinking can change your life
Paul Callaghan talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of Indigenous thinking. His book, The Dreaming Path, examines the power of Aboriginal spirituality as a profound source of contentment and wellbeing for anyone willing to listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/27/2022 • 38 minutes, 21 seconds
Jana Firestone: on why we should embrace change
Therapist, podcaster and author Jana Firestone talks to Cheryl Akle about change, and why it's good for us. Through a blend of professional advice and personal experience, Jana's new book, Embracing Change, offers readers concrete strategies for adapting to change and unlocking potential. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/23/2022 • 30 minutes, 18 seconds
Dinuka McKenzie: on diversity in crime fiction
Dinuka McKenzie talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of diversity in crime fiction and how winning the HarperCollins Banjo Prize changed her life. Her debut novel, The Torrent, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/20/2022 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
Isabel Allende: on the inspiration for Violeta
Bestselling author and literary icon Isabel Allende sits down with Cheryl Akle in San Francisco to discuss her latest novel, Violeta, a fiercely inspiring and deeply emotional story about one woman's hundred-year life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/16/2022 • 35 minutes, 3 seconds
Lizzie Pook: on the dark history behind Australia's pearling industry
Award-winning journalist and author Lizzie Pook talks to Cheryl Akle about researching the dark history behind Australia's pearling industry. Her latest novel, Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/13/2022 • 25 minutes, 3 seconds
S.J. Norman: on the importance of diversity in writing
Award-winning artist and writer S.J. Norman talks to Cheryl Akle about their First Nations identity, and why diversity is so important to them. Their latest book, Permafrost, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/9/2022 • 28 minutes, 56 seconds
Nita Prose: on her career as an editor
Nita Prose talks to Cheryl Akle about her job as Vice President and Editorial Director at a Canadian publishing house, and how it has affected her experience as an author. Her novel, The Maid, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/6/2022 • 26 minutes, 40 seconds
Imogen Crimp: on opera, feminism and storytelling
Imogen Crimp talks to Cheryl Akle about how she's always been drawn to storytelling, and how feminism has played a role in her writing. Her debut novel, A Very Nice Girl, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/30/2022 • 28 minutes, 1 second
2021 Highlights: Rick Morton: on complex PTSD and rediscovering love
Over the summer, we've been sharing some highlights of 2021. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.Award-winning Journalist and writer Rick Morton talks to Cheryl Akle about quantum physics, journalism, growing up poor, having complex PTSD, and rediscovering love. His latest book, My Year of Living Vulnerably, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/26/2022 • 29 minutes, 30 seconds
Ethan Kross: on harnessing the voice in our heads
Award-winning psychologist and author Ethan Kross talks to Cheryl Akle about the voice in our heads and how we can harness it in our everyday lives. His latest book, Chatter, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/23/2022 • 28 minutes, 12 seconds
2021 Highlights: Michael Mohammed Ahmad: on being Lebanese-Australian and reclaiming Arab humanity
Over the summer, we've been sharing some highlights of 2021. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did. Award-winning author Michael Mohammed Ahmad and Cheryl Akle talk about being Lebanese-Australians, their parallel stories, and the normalised compromises migrants make to fit in. This is an important conversation about the lack of humanity Arabs are given and reclaiming that for their children. Ahmad’s latest novel, The Other Half of You, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/19/2022 • 34 minutes, 48 seconds
Johann Hari: on why we're losing our ability to focus
Author and journalist Johann Hari talks to Cheryl Akle about why we're losing our ability to focus, and what we can do to fix this. His latest book, Stolen Focus, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/16/2022 • 48 minutes, 11 seconds
Miriam Margolyes: on her extraordinary life story
BAFTA award-winning actor Miriam Margolyes, OBE, talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, success and love for Australia. Her memoir, This Much Is True, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/9/2022 • 35 minutes, 22 seconds
2021 Highlights: Cathy Kelly: on journalism, perspective, and how her writing has evolved
As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Kelly talks to Cheryl Akle about her early career as a journalist, and how her writing has changed over the years. Her latest book, Other Women, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/4/2022 • 33 minutes, 19 seconds
Charlotte Wood: on what art and artists teach us
Award-winning author Charlotte Wood talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of art, and what artists can teach us. Her latest book, The Luminous Solution, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/2/2022 • 34 minutes, 57 seconds
2021 Highlights: Stan Grant: on western liberalism and the state of the world
As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.Walkley Award-winning journalist and international commentator Stan Grant talks to Cheryl Akle about universal western liberalism, its virtues and the deep trouble with it, and how we are at a time of momentous upheaval and enormous geopolitical shifts. Stan's latest book, With the Falling of the Dusk, is in stores now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/1/2022 • 31 minutes, 22 seconds
2021 Highlights: Monica Dux: on Catholicism and her lapsed faith
As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.Monica Dux talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up Catholic and how she lost her faith. Her latest book, Lapsed, explores her relationship with Catholicism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/28/2021 • 36 minutes, 30 seconds
Fleur McDonald: on writing rural fiction
Bestselling author Fleur McDonald talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up on a farm, and how her writing allows her to connect with her rural background. Her latest book, Deception Creek, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/26/2021 • 31 minutes
Berndt Sellheim: on the power of writing
Writer, poet and photographer Berndt Sellheim talks to Cheryl Akle about his deep love of writing, and why he finds it so impactful. His latest novel, The Fatal Dance, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/22/2021 • 35 minutes, 49 seconds
Rebecca Herrmann: on the rise of audiobooks
Bolinda Audio founder Rebecca Herrmann talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise in audiobooks, and why so many people are drawn to audio storytelling. Bolinda is a world-leading audiobook and technology company that brings stories to life. Find them at Bolinda.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/20/2021 • 30 minutes, 55 seconds
Inga Simpson: on her treechange and opening a writer's retreat
Inga Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about how a treechange inspired her writing, and why she opened a writing retreat. Her latest novel, The Last Women in the World, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/19/2021 • 24 minutes, 29 seconds
Morris Gleitzman: on ending his popular Once series
Bestselling author Morris Gleitzman talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of bringing his award-winning Once series to a close. The seventh and final instalment in the series, Always, is out now and available in audio on Bolinda. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/15/2021 • 30 minutes, 59 seconds
Ann Patchett: reflecting on her life and career
Award-winning author Ann Patchett talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to write an essay collection, and how it helped her reflect on her life. These Precious Days, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/12/2021 • 31 minutes, 11 seconds
Dinah Jefferies: on the influence living in Spain had on her writing career
Bestselling author Dinah Jefferies talks to Cheryl Akle about her time living in Spain, and how the GFC sparked her career in writing. Her latest novel, Daughters of War, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/8/2021 • 28 minutes, 21 seconds
Christos Tsiolkas: on how his cultural heritage has influenced his writing
Award-winning author Christos Tsiolkas talks to Cheryl Akle about learning to love his cultural heritage, and what that meant for his writing. His latest book, Seven and a Half, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/7/2021 • 34 minutes, 2 seconds
Sara Foster: on the lack of maternal figures in dystopian fiction
Sara Foster talks to Cheryl Akle about the lack of positive maternal figures in dystopian fiction. Her latest novel, The Hush, is a near-future dystopian thriller that explores three generations of mother-daughter relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/5/2021 • 24 minutes, 28 seconds
Van Badham: on QAnon and the rise of conspiracy theorists
Van Badham talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of QAnon, conspiracy theorists, and what it means for the world today. Her latest book, QAnon and On, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/1/2021 • 39 minutes, 30 seconds
Garry Linnell: on one of Australia's most infamous serial killers
Walkley Award-winning journalist Garry Linnell talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, The Devil's Work, which explores the life of Frederick Deeming, an Australian serial killer who was a suspect in the Jack The Ripper killings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/28/2021 • 28 minutes, 45 seconds
David Hunt: on exploring the crazy history of Australia
David Hunt talks to Cheryl Akle about the fascinating history of Australia, and how he finds the humour in it. His latest book, Girt Nation, is out now and is the third book in the Girt series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2021 • 28 minutes, 40 seconds
Lola Berry: on learning from failure
Bestselling author Lola Berry talks to Cheryl Akle about why failing is something she looks forward to. Her new book, Fearlessly Failing, is a companion to her hit podcast of the same name. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/21/2021 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Anita Heiss: on the Aboriginal heroes of the Gundagai flood
Poet, social commentator and bestselling author Anita Heiss talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest book, Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray (River of Dreams), which shines a light on the flooding of Gundagai and the Indigenous heroes who saved many lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/17/2021 • 42 minutes, 3 seconds
Julie Kalman: on people smuggling and the criminalisation of refugees
Historian Julie Kalman talks to Cheryl Akle about people smuggling and the criminalisation of refugees in Australia. Her book, Smuggled, provides compelling insight into this defining yet unexplored part of Australia’s history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/15/2021 • 27 minutes, 6 seconds
Shane Jenek: on the genesis to Courtney Act
Shane Jenek talks to Cheryl Akle about the genesis to Courtney Act – artist, advocate, and now, author. Shane’s memoir, Caught in the Act, is out now. It's also available via Bolinda Audio with Shane narrating. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/14/2021 • 32 minutes, 18 seconds
Jessie Burton: on retelling the story of Medusa
Bestselling author Jessie Burton talks to Cheryl Akle about why the tale of Medusa was so appealing to her, and the challenges that go into a retelling. Medusa is out now and explores the infamous mythological figure with a feminist twist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/10/2021 • 27 minutes, 40 seconds
Kate Langbroek: on what the Italian way of life can teach us
Comedian, radio and television presenter Kate Langbroek talks to Cheryl Akle about why she moved to Italy with her family, and what the Italian way of life can teach us all. Her memoir, Ciao Bella!, is out now and explores her Italian adventure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/7/2021 • 29 minutes, 52 seconds
Yumi Stynes: on breaking the stigma around women's mental and sexual health
Writer, radio broadcaster and television presenter Yumi Stynes talks to Cheryl Akle about how she's breaking the stigma around everything women are thinking but not saying. Ladies, We Need To Talk, a companion book to her ABC podcast, explores the taboo topics of mental health, sex and relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/3/2021 • 31 minutes, 53 seconds
James Han Mattson: on exploring social issues through horror fiction
James Han Mattson talks to Cheryl Akle about how he explored social issues and racial relations in his literary horror novel, Reprieve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/31/2021 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Mimi Kwa: on exploring her family history
TV presenter and journalist Mimi Kwa talks to Cheryl Akle about how she explored her incredible family history in her debut memoir, House of Kwa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/27/2021 • 30 minutes, 7 seconds
Tricia Stringer: on exploring female friendship in fiction
Bestselling author Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring female friendship in fiction, and how COVID has shown us the importance of human connection. Her latest novel, Birds of a Feather, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/24/2021 • 28 minutes, 55 seconds
Karen Herbert: on how redundancy lead her to writing The River Mouth
Karen Herbert talks to Cheryl Akle about how being made redundant gave her time to write The River Mouth, and why telling stories with older characters is so important. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/20/2021 • 21 minutes, 40 seconds
Caroline Overington: on how she turned lockdown into a bestselling thriller
Associate Editor of The Australian and bestselling author Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about turning The Cuckoo's Cry audiobook into a written novel, and why she decided to set this gripping new thriller during lockdown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/17/2021 • 25 minutes, 7 seconds
John Safran: on the smoking epidemic and the rise of vaping
Filmmaker and bestselling author John Safran talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, Puff Piece, a deep dive into Big Tobacco and the vaping industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/13/2021 • 34 minutes, 9 seconds
Judy Nunn: on writing, theatre and showbusiness
Bestselling author, screenwriter and actor Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about her career in theatre and how it has influenced her writing. Her latest novel Showtime! is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/10/2021 • 26 minutes, 46 seconds
Tom Keneally: on exploring rural Australia through fiction
Award-winning author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his extraordinary legacy and exploring rural Australia through fiction. His latest book, Corporal Hitler’s Pistol, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/6/2021 • 31 minutes, 7 seconds
Damien Cave: on how moving to Australia changed his relationship with risk
New York Times Journalist and author Damien Cave talks to Cheryl Akle about his move to Australia, and how it changed the way he and his family approach risk. His latest book, Into the Rip, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/3/2021 • 35 minutes, 6 seconds
Brendan Cowell: on acting, writing and everything in between
Award-winning writer, director and actor Brendan Cowell talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest novel, Plum, and why it's so important to foster creativity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/29/2021 • 25 minutes, 34 seconds
Tim Ayliffe: on the rise of extremism in Australia
Journalist and author Tim Ayliffe talks to Cheryl Akle about politics, power, and the rise of far-right extremism in Australia. His latest novel, The Enemy Within, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/26/2021 • 30 minutes, 27 seconds
Cecelia Ahern: on how we are shaped by the people in our lives
Cecilia Ahern talks to Cheryl Akle about her Sunday Times bestselling novel Freckles, which explores how we are shaped by the people in our lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/22/2021 • 29 minutes, 32 seconds
Alison MacLeod: on the power of fiction
Alison MacLeod talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest historical fiction novel, Tenderness, an exploration of society's reaction to the infamous Lady Chatterley's Lover, and the transformative and triumphant power of fiction itself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/19/2021 • 32 minutes, 14 seconds
John M. Green: on publishing
John M. Green talks to Cheryl Akle about co-founding a publishing house, and why it's so important for us to embrace our creative side. His latest novel, Double Deal, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/15/2021 • 26 minutes, 3 seconds
Robyn Harding: on why readers are drawn to domestic thrillers
Bestselling author Robyn Harding talks to Cheryl Akle about why she's drawn to writing domestic thrillers, and what makes the genre so popular. Her latest novel, The Perfect Family, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/12/2021 • 22 minutes, 38 seconds
Thomas Mayor: on masculinity, love and culture
Thomas Mayor talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, Dear Son, a collection of heartfelt letters written by First Nations men about life, masculinity, love, culture and racism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/8/2021 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
Catherine Steadman: on pulling back the curtain on show business
Actor and bestselling author Catherine Steadman talks to Cheryl Akle about being an actress and an author, and how she pulls back the (theatre) curtain on show business in her latest novel, The Disappearing Act. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/5/2021 • 31 minutes, 10 seconds
Lisa Millar: on overcoming her fear of flying
Walkley Award-winning journalist Lisa Millar talks to Cheryl Akle about the flight that changed her life and how she overcame her fear of flying. Her memoir, Daring to Fly, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/1/2021 • 29 minutes, 27 seconds
Jake Avila: on the diving trip that inspired Cave Diver
Jake Avila talks to Cheryl Akle about what makes cave diving so dangerous, and how a diving trip inspired his action-packed thriller, Cave Diver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/30/2021 • 24 minutes, 5 seconds
Kim Lock: on using writing as an outlet for anxiety
Kim Lock talks to Cheryl Akle about her acute anxiety and how her experiences living with it inspired her latest novel, The Other Side of Beautiful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/29/2021 • 26 minutes
Karen Brooks: on challenging the male perspective of history
Author and academic Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about how her historical novels challenge the male perspective of history. Her latest novel, The Good Wife of Bath, is a feminist reworking of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/25/2021 • 26 minutes, 58 seconds
Dr Norman Swan: on the toll COVID has taken on our wellbeing
Dr Norman Swan talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book So You Think You Know What's Good for You? and why it's so important to take care of ourselves, especially during COVID. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/22/2021 • 34 minutes, 50 seconds
Imran Mahmood: on how a courtroom speech inspired his crime writing
Imran Mahmood talks to Cheryl Akle about his career as a criminal defence barrister, which inspired his crime writing. His latest novel, I Know What I Saw, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/18/2021 • 30 minutes, 59 seconds
John Doyle: on the life and career of the man behind Rampaging Roy Slaven
Screenwriter, comedian, radio presenter, and author John Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about his fascinating career, from Triple J to commentating at the Sydney Olympics. His memoir, Blessed, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/16/2021 • 29 minutes, 38 seconds
Hannah Bent: on inspiration, grief, and change
Author Hannah Bent talks to Cheryl Akle about her sister who lives with Down Syndrome, and who contracted Encephalitis with devastating consequences. Hannah discusses how a heartbreaking change in her sister inspired her debut novel, When Things Are Alive They Hum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/16/2021 • 24 minutes, 13 seconds
Pamela Hart: on cosy mysteries and home renovations
Bestselling author Pamela Hart talks to Cheryl Akle about home renovations, cosy mysteries, and her first crime novel Digging Up Dirt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/11/2021 • 31 minutes, 52 seconds
Kate Thwaites: on toxic culture in Australian Parliament
Politician and author Kate Thwaites talks to Cheryl Akle about toxic culture and misogyny in the Australian Parliament. Her new book, Enough is Enough, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/9/2021 • 30 minutes, 28 seconds
Nicola West: on setting a crime novel in her hometown
Nicola West talks to Cheryl Akle about her small-town upbringing and how her father's law enforcement background influenced her debut novel, Catch Us the Foxes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/8/2021 • 29 minutes, 11 seconds
Sophie Green: on how her spiritual beliefs influence her writing
Bestselling author Sophie Green talks to Cheryl Akle about yoga and how her spiritual beliefs influence her writing. Her latest novel, Thursdays at Orange Blossom House, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/4/2021 • 28 minutes, 27 seconds
Zakiya Dalila Harris: on being a young black woman in the publishing industry
New York Times bestselling author Zakiya Dalila Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about diversity in the publishing industry and how her own experience as a black woman working in publishing inspired her debut, The Other Black Girl. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/2/2021 • 30 minutes, 23 seconds
Kyle Perry: on overcoming the dreaded second book syndrome
Bestselling author Kyle Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about the overwhelming success of his debut, The Bluffs, and writing The Deep on the back of that. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/1/2021 • 28 minutes, 19 seconds
James Phelps: on his research into the Australian prison system
Bestselling author and journalist James Phelps talks to Cheryl Akle about his switch from writing true crime to fiction for his new novel, The Inside Man, and his research into the Australian prison system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/28/2021 • 34 minutes, 1 second
Shannah Kennedy: on allowing ourselves to be happy with Plan B
Bestselling author and life coach, Shannah Kennedy talks to Cheryl Akle about allowing ourselves to be happy when we don’t get what we planned in life. Her new book Plan B is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/25/2021 • 33 minutes, 30 seconds
Campbell Mattinson: on using writing to break down barriers of love and loss
Campbell Mattinson talks to Cheryl Akle about how his writing has changed over the years and the tragedy that inspired his debut novel, We Were Not Men. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/21/2021 • 27 minutes, 54 seconds
Michael Mohammed Ahmad: on being Lebanese-Australian and reclaiming Arab humanity
Award-winning author Michael Mohammed Ahmad and Cheryl Akle talk about being Lebanese-Australians, their parallel stories, and the normalised compromises migrants make to fit in. This is an important conversation about the lack of humanity Arabs are given and reclaiming that for their children. Ahmad’s latest novel, The Other Half of You, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/18/2021 • 34 minutes, 26 seconds
Erina Reddan: on how her childhood inspired her fiction
Walkley award winning journalist Erina Reddan talks to Cheryl Akle about her career as a foreign correspondent and how her childhood inspired her latest novel, The Serpent's Skin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/14/2021 • 33 minutes, 7 seconds
Fiona McIntosh: on what makes a good crime novel
Bestselling author Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about hiring a retired detective to help her undertake research for Mirror Man, the third instalment in her DCI Jack Hawksworth series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/11/2021 • 30 minutes, 4 seconds
Jillian Cantor: on why she chose to write about Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie
Bestselling author Jillian Cantor talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Half Life, which is a fictional reimagining of the life of two time Nobel Prize winning scientist Marie Curie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/7/2021 • 22 minutes, 55 seconds
Cassandra Austin: on feminism and how women's roles have changed
Cassandra Austin talks to Cheryl Akle about her work as a filmmaker, feminism, and how women's roles have changed in the last few decades. Her latest novel, Like Mother, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/5/2021 • 28 minutes, 55 seconds
Julia Baird: on winning the ABIA Book of the Year
Award-winning author Julia Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about winning the 2021 ABIA Book of the Year for Phosphorescence, and how the world has changed since its release. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/4/2021 • 18 minutes, 52 seconds
A.W Hammond: on researching and writing about moral grey areas in his WWII historical novel
A.W. Hammond talks to Cheryl Akle about researching the lives of those in occupied Paris during WWII, the intricacies of WWII historical fiction, and immigrating to Australia as a child. His novel, The Paris Collaborator, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/30/2021 • 27 minutes, 43 seconds
Monica Dux: on Catholicism and her lapsed faith
Monica Dux talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up Catholic and how she lost her faith. Her latest book, Lapsed, explores her relationship with Catholicism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/30/2021 • 36 minutes, 8 seconds
Ruhi Lee: on overcoming her family's expectations
Melbourne writer Ruhi Lee talks to Cheryl Akle about her pathway to writing, her family's reaction to her memoir, and what she hopes for her young daughter. Her memoir, Good Indian Daughter, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/28/2021 • 34 minutes, 19 seconds
Mary-Anne O'Connor: on her work with women's shelters and researching women's suffrage
Bestselling author Mary-Anne O'Connor talks to Cheryl Akle about her work with women's shelters, and researching women's suffrage for her latest novel, Sisters of Freedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/27/2021 • 31 minutes, 13 seconds
Kamalle Dabboussy: on his ongoing fight to free his daughter and grandchildren from the Islamic State
Kamalle Dabboussy speaks to Cheryl about his ongoing fight to free his daughter and grandchildren from an Islamic State nightmare, and the events that led to his daughter being coerced into Syria. His memoir, A Father’s Plea, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/22/2021 • 33 minutes, 56 seconds
Cindy Solonec: on her rich cultural heritage
Dr Cindy Solonec talks to Cheryl Akle about her rich cultural Nigena, Spanish and English heritage, and how she turned her PhD thesis about her family history into her book Debesa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/21/2021 • 29 minutes, 1 second
Yumiko Kadota: on being a female surgeon in a male-dominated industry
Yumiko Kadota talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges she faced as a young female surgeon in a male-dominated industry. Her bestselling memoir, Emotional Female, is out now and explores her experiences in the Australian public hospital system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/20/2021 • 34 minutes, 4 seconds
Kate Holden: on what really happened to Glen Turner
Kate Holden talks to Cheryl Akle about the brutal story behind the murder of Glen Turner, and what inspired her to write about it. Her latest book, The Winter Road, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/16/2021 • 27 minutes, 31 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 14
Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, road trips, and their love for audiobooks.Books mentioned:The Book Thief by Markus ZusakSeven Ancient Wonders by Matthew ReillyFully Human by Steve BiddulphThe Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila HarrisGood Indian Daughter by Ruhi LeeWhen Things Are Alive They Hum by Hannah BentWe Were Not Men by Campbell Mattinson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/15/2021 • 11 minutes, 11 seconds
Kathy Reichs: on her career as a forensic anthropologist, crime writer and TV producer
Bestselling author Kathy Reichs talks to Cheryl Akle about how her background as a forensic anthropologist inspired the Temperance Brennan series. The Bone Code, number 20 in the series, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/13/2021 • 32 minutes, 22 seconds
Tori Haschka: on her love of food and how it influenced her first novel
Food and lifestyle writer Tori Haschka talks to Cheryl Akle about her first novel, Grace Under Pressure, their shared love of food, and how it has influenced her career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/9/2021 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
Meredith Jaffé: on writing a book set in a men's prison
Meredith Jaffé talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to set her latest novel in a men's prison. The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison explores male friendships, and breaks down stereotypes about life on the inside. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/6/2021 • 30 minutes, 55 seconds
Dr Robert Isaacs: on bridging the divide between white and black Australia
Dr Robert Isaacs talks to Cheryl Akle about his religious upbringing, and discovering his indigenous heritage. His memoir, Two Cultures, One Story, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/2/2021 • 31 minutes, 8 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 13
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, what audiobooks they're listening to... and a surprise from author A.J. Gnuse. Books mentioned:Toxic by Richard FlanaganEmotional Female by Yumiko KadotaWhere the Crawdads Sing by Delia OwensLegacy by Nora RobertsGood Indian Daughter by Ruhi LeeFalling by T.J. NewmanUnsheltered by Clare Moleta Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/31/2021 • 11 minutes, 56 seconds
Cathy Kelly: on journalism, perspective, and how her writing has evolved
Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Kelly talks to Cheryl Akle about her early career as a journalist, and how her writing has changed over the years. Her latest book, Other Women, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/30/2021 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
Madeleine Ryan: on being diagnosed with autism while writing A Room Called Earth
Madeleine Ryan talks to Cheryl Akle about how she was diagnosed with autism while writing her debut novel, A Room Called Earth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/26/2021 • 29 minutes, 37 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 12
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, Cheryl's recent trip to Gundagai, and her new column in The Australian.Books mentioned:Debesa by Cindy SolonecThe Beautiful Fall by Hugh BreakeyThe Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly RinglandBila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray by Anita HeissThe Girl Remains by Katherine FirkinSticks and Stones by Katherine Firkin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/24/2021 • 12 minutes, 18 seconds
Richard Flanagan: on the rotting underbelly of the Tasmanian salmon industry
Booker Prize-winning author Richard Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest non-fiction book, Toxic, which uncovers the rotting underbelly of the Tasmanian salmon industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/23/2021 • 25 minutes, 31 seconds
Reverend Bill Crews: on twelve practical life lessons for the secular and spiritual alike
Reverend Bill Crews AM talks to Cheryl Akle about his straight-talking and inspiring manifesto on what it takes to be a better human and how to pay it forward, at a time when the world desperately needs it. 12 Rules for Living a Better Life is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/19/2021 • 26 minutes, 30 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 11
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, forensics, art, and their love of dogs.Books mentioned:Toxic by Richard FlanaganThe End of Men by Christina Sweeney-BairdBefore You Knew My Name by Jacqueline BublitzThe Road Trip by Beth O'LearyHow to Train Your Dog by Jen & Ryan TateHow To Mend a Broken Heart by Rachael JohnsThe Bone Code by Kathy ReichsStill Life by Amber Creswell Bell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/17/2021 • 14 minutes, 10 seconds
Christina Sweeney-Baird: on imagining a man-killing virus for The End of Men... before COVID-19
Christina Sweeney-Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about the research that went into writing about a man-killing virus in her debut novel The End of Men, and how the film rights have already sold. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/16/2021 • 28 minutes, 32 seconds
Book Chat: 2021 Better Reading Top 100
Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss the 2021 Better Reading Top 100. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/12/2021 • 10 minutes, 45 seconds
Adam Thompson: on Aboriginal heritage, muttonbirding and storytelling
Aboriginal (pakana) writer, Adam Thompson talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of maintaining Aboriginal heritage sites, muttonbirding and his journey from storytelling to writing. His debut, Born Into This, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/10/2021 • 24 minutes, 50 seconds
Nikki Gemmell: on writing about Australia's dark history
Bestselling author Nikki Gemmell talks to Cheryl Akle about colonisation, Australia's dark history, and how this inspired her thrilling new historical novel, The Ripping Tree. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/9/2021 • 35 minutes, 28 seconds
Kate Foster: on raising a neurodiverse child
Kate Foster talks to Cheryl Akle about her debut children's book Paws, and how her own experience with a neurodiverse child inspired her to write it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/5/2021 • 25 minutes, 40 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 9
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss what they're both reading… and the winning books at the Australian Book Industry Awards.Books mentioned:The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip WilliamsPhosphorescence by Julia BairdBorn Into This by Adam ThompsonSuch a Fun Age by Kiley ReidThe Animals in that Country by Laura Jean McKayA Lonely Girl is a Dangerous Thing by Jessie TuSweet Sweet Revenge LTD by Jonas JonassonThe Bone Code by Kathy Reichs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/3/2021 • 13 minutes, 23 seconds
Nicola Moriarty: on growing up in a family of storytellers
Bestselling author Nicola Moriarty talks to Cheryl Akle about how she grew up in a family of storytellers, and how she's passing on her love of writing to her daughters. Her latest novel, You Need to Know, is a family drama about the secrets we keep, the lies we tell and the truths that won't stay hidden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/2/2021 • 29 minutes, 9 seconds
Lisa Harding: on growing up around addiction and the power of escapism
Actress, playwright and author Lisa Harding talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of escapism, addiction, her childhood, and her acting career. Her latest novel, Bright Burning Things is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/28/2021 • 31 minutes, 1 second
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 8
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases... and audiobooks.Books mentioned:The Hill We Climb by Amanda GormanThe Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip WilliamsWith The Falling of the Dusk by Stan GrantSisters of Freedom by Marry-Anne O'ConnorThose Hamilton Sisters by Averil KennyA Home Like Ours by Fiona LoweMy Year of Living Vulnerably by Rick Morton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/26/2021 • 13 minutes, 14 seconds
George Saunders: on how writing can fundamentally change someone
Man Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders returns to talk to Cheryl Akle about the fundamental way writing can change someone. His latest book, A Swim in a Pond in the Rain, is a deep exploration of writing, and how the mind works while reading. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/25/2021 • 35 minutes, 48 seconds
Rick Morton: on complex PTSD and rediscovering love
Award-winning Journalist and writer Rick Morton talks to Cheryl Akle about quantum physics, journalism, growing up poor, having complex PTSD, and rediscovering love. His latest book, My Year of Living Vulnerably, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/21/2021 • 29 minutes, 8 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 7
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, the ABIA shortlist... and how they both want to travel on the Ghan!Books mentioned:Trick of the Light by Fiona McCallumThe Jam Queens by Josephine Moon Buddhism for Meat Eaters by Josephine Moon Half Life by Jillian CantorBarrenjoey Road by Neil Mercer and Ruby JonesYou Need to Know by Nicola MoriartyMirrorland by Carole JohnstoneWild at Heart by Alienor le GouvelloThe Truth About Her by Jacqueline Maley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/19/2021 • 17 minutes, 59 seconds
Stan Grant: on western liberalism and the state of the world
Walkley Award-winning journalist and international commentator Stan Grant talks to Cheryl Akle about universal western liberalism, its virtues and the deep trouble with it, and how we are at a time of momentous upheaval and enormous geopolitical shifts. Stan's latest book, With the Falling of the Dusk, is in stores now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/18/2021 • 31 minutes
Neil Mercer: on what happened to Trudie Adams
Walkley Award-winning investigative journalist Neil Mercer talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of women speaking up, and his latest book Barrenjoey Road. Content warning: Sexual assault Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/12/2021 • 32 minutes, 30 seconds
Katie McMahon: on how her love of medicine turned into a love of writing
GP and author Katie McMahon talks to Cheryl Akle about her career as a doctor, and how her debut novel, The Mistake, was written at a Fiona McIntosh writing masterclass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/11/2021 • 25 minutes, 25 seconds
Kirsty Everett: on how she survived cancer not once, but twice
Motivational speaker and author Kirsty Everett talks to Cheryl Akle about how she survived two bouts of cancer, and how she came to write her memoir Honey Blood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/7/2021 • 32 minutes, 40 seconds
Dr Sarah Woodhouse: on trauma and how to break free from it
Research Psychologist Dr Sarah Woodhouse talks to Cheryl Akle about trauma, how most of us have experienced trauma, and how you can break the trauma loop by using the latest research-based techniques that she writes about in her book, You’re Not Broken. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/4/2021 • 28 minutes, 41 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 6
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100... and elephants.Books mentioned:The Chase by Candice FoxLove Objects by Emily MaguireThe Zookeeper of Belfast by S. Kirk WalshLoud by Tana DouglasAs Swallows Fly by L.P. McMahonGreetings from Trumpland by Zoe Daniel and Roscoe Whalan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/31/2021 • 15 minutes, 2 seconds
Zoe Daniel: on America's chaotic political climate
U.S. correspondent, journalist, and author Zoe Daniel talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest book, Greetings from Trumpland which explores America's chaotic political climate and how the world has reacted to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/30/2021 • 45 minutes, 48 seconds
Kathy George: on Namibia to Melbourne and more
Author Kathy George talks to Cheryl Akle about her adventure from Namibia to Melbourne, and her debut novel Sargasso. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/29/2021 • 27 minutes, 57 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 5
Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, Better Reading Preview, the Top 100… and the 2021 Indie Book Award winners.Books mentioned:The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip WilliamsHoneybee by Craig SilveyPhosphorescence by Julia BairdThe Grandest Bookshop in the World by Amelia MellorA Room Called Earth by Madeleine RyanThe Jigsaw Man by Nadine MathesonThe Serpent's Skin by Erina ReddanThe Burning Girls by C.J. TudorThe Believer by Sarah Krasnostein Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/28/2021 • 16 minutes, 49 seconds
Tana Douglas: on being the world's first female roadie and working with legends
World-famous roadie and author Tana Douglas talks to Cheryl Akle about her debut book, Loud, where she shares her experience of becoming the world's first female roadie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/23/2021 • 34 minutes, 57 seconds
C.J. Tudor: on interviewing movie stars and becoming an award-winning author
Bestselling author C.J. Tudor talks to Cheryl Akle about the many movie stars she has interviewed and becoming an award-winning author. Her latest book, The Burning Girls, is her darkest, twistiest novel yet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/21/2021 • 32 minutes, 50 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 4
Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100… and the return of the eighties bonkbuster.Books mentioned:Walking with Ghosts by Gabriel ByrneGirl in the Walls by A.J. GnuseMy Year of Living Vulnerably by Rick MortonThis is What a Feminist Looks Like by Emily MaguireGrace Under Pressure by Tori HaschkaRuthless Women by Melanie BlakeThe Last Goodbye by Fiona Lucas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/18/2021 • 16 minutes, 25 seconds
Janet Skeslien Charles: on the unusual woman who sparked her love of France
Award-winning author Janet Skeslien Charles talks to Cheryl Akle about how she came to write her latest book, The Paris Library, and the unusual woman who sparked her love of France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/16/2021 • 28 minutes, 24 seconds
A.J. Gnuse: on writing short stories (before his six-figure deal novel)
Author A.J. Gnuse talks to Cheryl Akle about how he went from writing short stories to writing his latest novel, Girl in the Walls, which was bought in a six-figure publishing deal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/14/2021 • 29 minutes, 23 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 3
Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100, and Cheryl’s conversation with literary legend Isabel Allende.Books mentioned:The Soul of a Woman by Isabel AllendeThe Family Doctor by Debra OswaldBorn Into This by Adam ThompsonA Home Like Ours by Fiona LoweThe Codebreakers by Alli SinclairThe Rose Code by Kate QuinnYou’re Not Broken by Dr Sarah Woodhouse Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/11/2021 • 17 minutes, 28 seconds
Australian exclusive - Isabel Allende: on feminism, and approaching it joyfully and together
Bestselling author and feminist Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl Akle about how the feminist movement has changed, intersectionality between movements, and being visible. With her latest book, The Soul of a Woman, Allende hopes she will "light the torch of our daughters and granddaughters". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/9/2021 • 30 minutes, 35 seconds
Abigail Dean: on making the New York Times bestseller list as a debut author
Debut author Abigail Dean talks to Cheryl Akle about making the New York Times bestseller list with her debut novel Girl A, and how her law career helped shape the story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/7/2021 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 2
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100... and why Cheryl talks to her dog.Books mentioned:Growing Up Disabled in Australia by Carly FindlayMy Daughter's Wedding by Gretel KilleenOther People's Houses by Kelli HawkinsThe Royal Correspondent by Alexandra JoelWelcome to Nowhere River by Meg BignellDriving Stevie Fracasso by Barry DivolaRaft of Stars by Andrew J. Graff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/3/2021 • 14 minutes, 14 seconds
Kellie McCourt: on dyslexia and dropping out of university to become a poet
Journalist and author Kellie McCourt talks to Cheryl Akle about reading and writing with dyslexia, and dropping out of university to become a poet. Her debut novel Heiress on Fire is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/2/2021 • 30 minutes, 36 seconds
Gretel Killeen: on family, generational differences, and dementia
Comedian, television presenter, media personality and author Gretel Killeen talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel My Daughters Wedding which explores family, generational differences and the hardships of dementia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/28/2021 • 32 minutes, 11 seconds
Alexandra Joel: on how women are held to a higher standard
Author and former editor of Harper's Bazaar Alexandra Joel talks to Cheryl Akle about her editorial career, the success of her latest book The Royal Correspondent, and why women are often held to a higher standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/23/2021 • 30 minutes, 8 seconds
Jacqui Jones: on building positive foundations for kids
Youth worker and author Jacqui Jones talks to Cheryl Akle about how her extensive career working with children evolved into her latest book The Greatfulness Guide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/21/2021 • 26 minutes, 47 seconds
Better Reading Book Chat: episode 1
Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news... and dinner with Linwood Barclay.Books mentioned:Find You First by Linwood BarclayLight Seekers by Femi KayodeThe Funny Thing About Normal Foreman by Julietta HendersonThe One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne CroninGirl A by Abigail DeanThe Silent Listener by Lyn YeowartThe Shadow Man by Helen Fields You’ve Got to Be Kidding by Todd Alexander Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/19/2021 • 16 minutes, 23 seconds
Katherine Kovacic: on serial killers... and dogs
Author, art historian and self-proclaimed crazy dog lady Katherine Kovacic talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a veterinarian, her passion for the arts, and the story of a serial killer that inspired her book, The Schoolgirl Strangler. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/14/2021 • 28 minutes, 41 seconds
Maggie Hamilton: on why human connection is so essential
Bestselling author and publisher Maggie Hamilton talks to Cheryl Akle about the damaging effects of social media, and why human connection is so essential. Her latest novel When We Become Strangers is her culmination of these ideas and goes in-depth about how we have become isolated from each other. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/9/2021 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
J. P. Pomare: on how Maori heritage influences his writing
Bestselling author J.P. Pomare talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book Tell Me Lies, his small-town upbringing, and how Maori heritage influences his writing, Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/7/2021 • 39 minutes, 44 seconds
Richard Osman: on TV, writing... and Steven Spielberg
Comedian, entertainer and author Richard Osman talks to Cheryl Akle about his career in the TV industry, why he decided to start writing, and how Steven Spielberg obtained the rights to his latest novel, The Thursday Murder Club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/31/2021 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Anita Abriel: on her extraordinary family history and why she decided to write about it
Bestselling author Anita Abriel talks to Cheryl Akle about her family's history during World War II, and why she decided to write about it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/27/2021 • 28 minutes, 24 seconds
Kate Elizabeth Russell: on the sometimes fine line between coercion and seduction
Bestselling author Kate Elizabeth Russell talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to write about the confronting topics in her debut novel My Dark Vanessa and what inspires her writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/26/2021 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Mary Li: on her love for her family and how it changed her career
World-renowned dancer and author Mary Li talks to Cheryl Akle about her Rockhampton upbringing, the impact of her husband's bestselling book Mao's Last Dancer, and how having her daughter changed her life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/24/2021 • 30 minutes, 18 seconds
Sue Brierley: on why she chose adoption and the challenges she faced
Author and mother Sue Brierley talks to Cheryl Akle about why she chose adoption, the different challenges she faced with it, and how it strengthened her family. All things discussed in her book, Lioness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/20/2021 • 38 minutes, 26 seconds
Ceridwen Dovey: on her multicultural upbringing and how her Harvard education shaped her writing
Social anthropologist and author Ceridwen Dovey talks to Cheryl Akle about her multicultural upbringing and how her experience at Harvard shaped her latest book, Life After Truth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/17/2021 • 42 minutes, 50 seconds
Greg Quicke: on stargazing and outback astronomy
Astronomer and author Greg Quicke talks to Cheryl Akle about stargazing in the outback, and how the stars can change our perspective on life. Is the Moon Upside Down? is Greg's latest book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/10/2021 • 33 minutes, 48 seconds
Candida Baker: on communicating with horses
Candida Baker talks to Cheryl Akle about life in the theatre, moving to Australia, and coming out of the psychic closet. She has a profound connection to animals, especially horses, which she writes about in her latest book, The Heart of a Horse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/5/2021 • 30 minutes, 58 seconds
Sue Smethurst: on what sparked her career in journalism
Journalist and author Sue Smethurst talks to Cheryl Akle about her career in journalism, the family story she had to tell, and her book The Freedom Circus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/3/2021 • 28 minutes, 12 seconds
Denise Leith: on her incredible experiences traveling through the Middle East
Author Denise Leith talks to Cheryl Akle about her travels through the Middle East, shares some stories about her time there, and reveals how it shaped her new novel, The Night Letters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/29/2020 • 28 minutes, 17 seconds
Gary Disher: on publishing his first book and how crime fiction has evolved
Bestselling author Gary Disher talks to Cheryl Akle about how he published his first book and how crime fiction has evolved throughout the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/27/2020 • 30 minutes, 36 seconds
Jenny Hocking: on the Whitlam Government and the fight to release the infamous Palace Letters
Political scientist and biographer Jenny Hocking talks to Cheryl Akle about the Whitlam Government and the fight to release the infamous Palace Letters between Sir John Kerr and Queen Elizabeth II. All things explored in her book, The Palace Letters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/22/2020 • 45 minutes, 31 seconds
Fiona McIntosh: on Champagne... the history, the industry and travelling to research a novel on it
Bestselling author Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about Champagne, how travelling has influenced her writing, and the incredible story behind her newest book, The Champagne War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/20/2020 • 26 minutes, 3 seconds
William McInnes: on Christmas
William McInnes talks to Cheryl Akle about the fun and wonder in the mundane, his love of Christmas, and how both these are celebrated in his latest book, Christmas Tales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/18/2020 • 37 minutes, 9 seconds
Matthew McConaughey: on humour, values and Greenlights
Award winning actor and family man, Matthew McConaughey talks to Cheryl Akle about humour (and how we need more it), values and his new book Greenlights. And he also reflects on the year he spent in Australia as an exchange student. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/15/2020 • 36 minutes, 53 seconds
Joanne Fedler: on the female experience and finding freedom over fifty
Author Joanne Fedler talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring the female experience, and how turning fifty changes your perspective, something she explores in her new book, Unbecoming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/14/2020 • 28 minutes, 20 seconds
Monica McInerney: on releasing a book during Covid and how her childhood shaped her writing
Bestselling author Monica McInerney talks to Cheryl Akle about the experience of releasing a book during Covid, and how her childhood shaped her writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/13/2020 • 36 minutes, 31 seconds
Rebecca Higgie: on the importance of libraries and the romanticized idea of writing
Author Rebecca Higgie talks to Cheryl Akle about how libraries have evolved with the digital age, and how the writing process is often romanticized. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/8/2020 • 28 minutes, 50 seconds
Patrick Carlyon: on the Melbourne gangland killings and the city's dark history
Author and journalist Patrick Carlyon talks to Cheryl Akle about the infamous Melbourne gangland killings, and the city's dark history of crime. All things explored in his new book, Lawyer X. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/7/2020 • 26 minutes, 42 seconds
Fiona O'Loughlin: on her religious upbringing and surviving alcoholism
Comedian and author Fiona O'Loughlin talks to Cheryl Akle about her religious upbringing in a small South Australian town, and her experiences with alcoholism. Her memoir, Truths from an Unreliable Witness explores this and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/6/2020 • 27 minutes
Nigella Lawson: on why Cook, Eat, Repeat is the story of her life
Nigella Lawson talks to Cheryl Akle about how the mundane tasks involved in cooking free up her creative side, and her latest bestseller, Cook, Eat, Repeat. She also reviews Cheryl's Crème Brûlée (yes she's tried it!). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/2/2020 • 38 minutes, 34 seconds
Ben Pobjie: on life in comedy and how it shapes his writing
Comedian and author Ben Pobjie talks to Cheryl Akle about his incredible life in the comedy world, how it has shaped his writing, and his newest book, Second Best: The Amazing Untold Histories of the Greatest Runners-up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/30/2020 • 27 minutes, 59 seconds
Dawn French: on her journey to writing and making lifelong friendships
Comedian, author and actor Dawn French talks to Cheryl Akle about her inspiring journey to writing and the many connections and lifelong friendships she has made along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/29/2020 • 33 minutes, 36 seconds
Nick Bryant: on post election America and what we can expect from the results
Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl Akle about post election America, how the country got to where it is, and what we can expect moving forward. All things discussed in Nick's new book, When America Stopped Being Great. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2020 • 45 minutes, 2 seconds
Tania Blanchard: on telling her grandmother’s stories
Tania Blanchard talks to Cheryl Akle about her career from physiotherapist to bestselling author, and sharing her grandmother’s stories in The Girl from Munich, Suitcase of Dreams and now Letters from Berlin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/23/2020 • 24 minutes, 22 seconds
Belinda Alexandra: on writing, publishing and resilience
Bestselling author Belinda Alexandra talks to Cheryl Akle about her publishing and writing journey. Always fascinating, she discusses the rejection she experienced along the way - and looking back now as she publishes her 9th novel, The Mystery Woman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/22/2020 • 30 minutes, 38 seconds
Ronni Kahn: on growing up in South Africa and finding her ambition
Activist, entrepreneur and author Ronni Kahn talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in South Africa during Apartheid, finding her voice and ambition, and reflecting on what brings her happiness in life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/17/2020 • 34 minutes, 41 seconds
Stan Walker: on overcoming a painful past and singing Cheryl a song
Actor, Singer/songwriter and author Stan Walker talks to Cheryl Akle about overcoming a painful past, and even sings her a song. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/15/2020 • 33 minutes, 43 seconds
Paul Dalgarno: on polyamory and his journalism career
Paul Dalgarno talks to Cheryl Akle about his polyamorous lifestyle which he explores in his new novel, Poly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/10/2020 • 34 minutes, 23 seconds
Bradley Trevor Greive: on meeting the Bloom family and telling their story
Bradley Trevor Greive talks to Cheryl Akle about meeting the Bloom family, telling their story, and travelling the world. Sam Bloom: Heartache & Birdsong is his newest book in collaboration with Cameron and Samantha Bloom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/8/2020 • 35 minutes, 50 seconds
Fiona Palmer: on Speedway driving and rural living
Fiona Palmer talks to Cheryl Akle about her Speedway driving career, small town living, and the process of writing her novel, Tiny White Lies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/3/2020 • 27 minutes, 10 seconds
Craig Silvey: on the books that shaped his childhood
Bestselling author Craig Silvey talks to Cheryl Akle about his journey after writing his modern classic, Jasper Jones, and the books that shaped his childhood and still influence his writing today. A perfect listen if you enjoyed his new book, Honeybee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/1/2020 • 32 minutes, 27 seconds
Kate Mildenhall: on podcasts, writing and the fear of failure
Kate Mildenhall talks to Chery Akle about her own podcast, how she came to writing, fearing failure (but doing it anyway) and more. A great listen for any aspiring authors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/27/2020 • 35 minutes, 34 seconds
Richard Flanagan: on unexpected tenderness and grateful wonder
Booker Prize winning author Richard Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about the unexpected tenderness he's discovered this year, the renewed attention to the beauty of the world, and the spirit of hope and grateful wonder. All things also expressed in his latest novel, The Living Sea of Waking Dreams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/25/2020 • 36 minutes, 18 seconds
Nick Bryant: on America's decline, Trump... and on getting COVID
Foreign correspondent, Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl Akle about the political, economic, cultural and technological factors that contributed to America's decline and inadvertently paved the way for Trump's presidency. And also about him and his wife getting COVID. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/20/2020 • 37 minutes, 37 seconds
Sue Miller: on observation, character and writing about something that terrifies her
The Good Mother author, Sue Miller talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, being a reader, scholar, the point where she realised she was in charge of her inner life, and her latest novel, Monogamy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/18/2020 • 32 minutes, 43 seconds
Hazel Gaynor: on her unusual journey from self publishing to traditional publishing
Bestselling author, Hazel Gaynor talks to Cheryl Akle about the unusual route she took to publication. An excellent episode for aspiring authors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/13/2020 • 28 minutes, 36 seconds
Turia Pitt: on the small steps that lead to happiness
Turia Pitt is living proof that, with the right mindset, anything is possible. Here she talks to Cheryl about life, gratitude and Happy (and other ridiculous aspirations). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/11/2020 • 28 minutes, 47 seconds
Christine Jackman: on how to find silence in a noisy world
Journalist Christine Jackman talks to Cheryl Akle about the noisy world we live in, and how Turning Down the Noise benefits our brains, our lives and our communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/6/2020 • 33 minutes, 52 seconds
Trent Dalton: on the private conversations we have with the sky
Author Trent Dalton (and yes, that will now be on his email signature) talks to Cheryl Akle about the huge success of Boy Swallows Universe, and how his highly anticipated second novel was inspired by the sky. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/4/2020 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
Kiley Reid: a look back at her podcast with us, recorded before her success with Such A Fun Age
Kiley Reid's Such A Fun Age didn't make the Booker Prize shortlist, but we're still celebrating her longlist nomination, and all the success this sensational debut has had. Here we revisit the podcast she recorded with Better Reading, before her bestselling book was even published. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/29/2020 • 25 minutes, 34 seconds
David Sinclair Ph.D: on fasting, ageing, and a pill that will help you live longer
Renowned Harvard University geneticist David SinclairPh.D. talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in Sydney, working at Harvard, his research on ageing and a pill that will help people live longer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/28/2020 • 42 minutes, 40 seconds
Allison Tait: on podcasts, writing and being a voracious reader as a child
The Fire Star author, Allison Tait talks to Cheryl Akle about podcasts, writing children’s books and being a voracious reader as a child. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/24/2020 • 29 minutes, 50 seconds
Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage: on food, collaboration, their new cookbook FLAVOUR
Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage discuss food and collaboration, as well as their new cookbook FLAVOUR. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/20/2020 • 27 minutes, 35 seconds
Greg Woodland: on his journey from screenplay to novel
The Night Whistler author, Greg Woodland discuss obsessive plotting with Cheryl Akle, along with his background as a screenwriter and how that helped shape his novel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/15/2020 • 25 minutes, 33 seconds
Hugh van Cuylenburg: on showing up for the present moment
Hugh van Cuylenburg talks to Cheryl Akle about resilience, gratitude and happiness, and about getting better at being wherever you are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/13/2020 • 31 minutes, 21 seconds
Rose Carlyle: on her love of sailing and spending a year sailing around the Indian Ocean
Debut author Rose Carlyle's thriller The Girl in the Mirror has been a huge success - Here she tells Cheryl all about her sailing adventures, and how she incorporated that knowledge into the novel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/9/2020 • 29 minutes, 33 seconds
John Wood: on how he clawed his way to the middle
Actor John Wood talks to Cheryl about his life, his career, and his fascinating new memoir How I Clawed My Way to the Middle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/7/2020 • 37 minutes, 42 seconds
Michael Robotham: on the science of lying and the inspiration behind his characters
Cheryl Akle chats to best selling author Michael Robotham about the science of lying, TV adaptions, and the inspiration behind his characters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/30/2020 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
Nat Amoore: on the importance of storytelling and how it affects kids
Cheryl Akle talks to Nat Amoore about making reading fun for kids, the circus, and the power of storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/25/2020 • 24 minutes, 6 seconds
Anna Downes: on her colourful road to writing a bestselling debut thriller
Anna Downes has worn many different hats, including student, actress, and caretaker at a French estate... the job that inspired her bestselling debut novel, The Safe Place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/23/2020 • 29 minutes, 43 seconds
Anstey Harris: on telling tall tales when the truth isn’t interesting enough
Award-winning writer Anstey Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about the tall tales she told as a child, and how happiness is available to everyone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/17/2020 • 35 minutes, 26 seconds
Kyle Perry: on mental health, social media and its effects on teens
Author of the debut thriller The Bluffs, Kyle Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about mental health, the dangers of social media, and how it affects the youth of today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/9/2020 • 29 minutes, 56 seconds
Robyn Harding: on writing different genres, living in a small town, and the how we rely on the reading community.
Cheryl Akle chats to Robyn Harding about moving between genres, living in a small town, and the how we rely on the reading community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/2/2020 • 26 minutes, 27 seconds
Dr Randa Abdel Fattah: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #1
In episode 1, Bestselling author and academic, Dr Randa Abdel Fattah talks to Cheryl Akle about being Muslim in post 9/11 Australia, the lack of diversity in Australia's school curriculum, and how it's time for Muslim authors to be given a voice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 30 minutes, 15 seconds
Maxine Beneba Clarke: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #2
In episode 2, Maxine Beneba Clarke and Cheryl Akle discuss growing up as a POC in Australia, what happens when a child is underrepresented in what they read, and how the publishing industry needs to diversify their content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 33 minutes, 10 seconds
Will Kostakis: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #3
In episode 3, Will Kostakis talks to Cheryl Akle about LGBTQ+ representation in schools, how diversity is constantly changing, and why we must get beyond 'the struggle story' when creating diverse stories for kids. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 32 minutes, 39 seconds
Laura Bloom: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #4
In episode 4, Laura Bloom is the mother of an autistic son who has an intellectual disability. Here Laura talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of disabled characters in books, and how both her and her son are active in the Every Australian Counts movement for People With Disability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 27 minutes, 14 seconds
Deborah Abela: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #5
In episode 5, Deborah Abela talks to Cheryl Akle about the benefits of diversifying children's literature, and her work with young people in Sydney's west with organisations such as WestWords. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 25 minutes, 21 seconds
Rachel Bin Salleh from Magabala Books: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #6
In episode 6, Rachel Bin Salleh from Magabala Books talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to becoming a publisher, the importance of giving diverse authors a voice, and what the publishing industry can do to support those authors. This is the final episode in the series, A Conversation about Diversity in Children's Books, produced with a grant from The Copyright Agency Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/26/2020 • 33 minutes, 1 second
Tara June Winch revisited: on life, the land, and writing her Miles Franklin winning novel, The Yield
Tara June Winch has won the 2020 Miles Franklin Literary Award for The Yield. Here we revisit our podcast with Tara, where she talks to Cheryl Akle about her extensive travels, living in France, her connection to the land as a Wiradjuri woman, and her journey to writing The Yield. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2020 • 43 minutes, 33 seconds
Julia Gillard: on Women and Leadership
Former Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard speaks to Cheryl Akle about the influence of gender on women’s access to positions of leadership, extraordinary female leaders, and her inspiring new book, co-authored with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Women and Leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/19/2020 • 27 minutes, 22 seconds
Susan Allott: on Life in the UK and how Environment Shapes our Writing
Author of The Silence, Susan Allott talks to Cheryl about life in the UK, how our favourite authors impact us, and how our environment ultimately shapes our writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/12/2020 • 24 minutes, 25 seconds
Hayley Katzen: on finding her place in the world
South African urban academic, Hayley Katzen talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to finding 'home' on a cattle property in Northern NSW, and her beautifully written memoir about it, Untethered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/6/2020 • 32 minutes, 3 seconds
Jacqueline Harvey: on why Reading is Important for Kids, and How to Make it fun for Them at Home
Best selling kids author, Jacqueline Harvey talks to Cheryl about why reading is important for kids, and how to make it fun for them at home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/29/2020 • 20 minutes, 44 seconds
Chris Flynn: on the climate, science and the future of cloning
Mammoth author, Chris Flynn talks to Cheryl Akle about nature during quarantine, the climate, and the future of cloning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/28/2020 • 29 minutes, 42 seconds
Dugald Bruce Lockhart: on acting, writing and being the son of a spy
Dugald Bruce-Lockhart talks to Cheryl Akle about his journey to becoming an author, and the very interesting childhood he had as the son of a spy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/23/2020 • 24 minutes, 30 seconds
Lisa Ireland: on giving older people a voice in her new novel
Lisa Ireland talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, her journey to becoming an author, and creating older characters, without the stereotypes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/21/2020 • 25 minutes, 16 seconds
Melina Marchetta: on writing for a whole new age group
Award winning author, Melina Marchetta talks to Cheryl Akle about reading the way she writes – across many genres, and how it was more difficult that she expected writing her new series for a younger audience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/15/2020 • 24 minutes, 47 seconds
Peter Carey: The importance of story in troubling times #3
Two-time Booker Prize winner and three times Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Peter Carey talks to Cheryl Akle about life in New York, writing about Australia, and everything in-between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/14/2020 • 28 minutes, 53 seconds
Patrick Ness: on how complacency is the death of creativity
Award-winning author, Patrick Ness digs in deep with Cheryl as they talk about his life, fiction, YA versus adult fiction, and how he believes that complacency is creative death. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/14/2020 • 30 minutes, 53 seconds
Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley: on food, their collaboration... and the perfect hummus
Foodie, Cheryl Akle has her dream guests on today - Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley talk about food, the Ottolenghi empire, and their bestselling cookbook collaborations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/9/2020 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Anna Funder: The importance of story in troubling times #2
Acclaimed author of Stasiland, Anna Funder talks to Cheryl Akle about the public and private sides of the pandemic, and how women are crucial in these times, despite continued gender inequality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/7/2020 • 35 minutes, 8 seconds
Miranda Tapsell: life, performance and being a Top End Girl
Actress, producer and writer, Miranda Tapsell talks to Cheryl Akle about life, loneliness, growing up in Kakadu National Park, and taking the people you care about on the ride to the top. A great conversation with one of Australia’s most interesting creative powerhouses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/1/2020 • 22 minutes, 46 seconds
Kate Grenville: The importance of story in troubling times #1
Literary icon, Kate Grenville talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of story, on truth, and not believing too quickly in the stories you're told. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/31/2020 • 24 minutes, 10 seconds
Tayla Harris: AFL, boxing and 'that' photo
Aussie Rules star Tayla Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, her love of sport and the famous photo that fed the trolls. An inspiring conversation, with great young role model. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/26/2020 • 23 minutes, 25 seconds
Katherine Scholes: Africa, storytelling, and fictional pandemics
Bestselling author, Katherine Scholes talks to Cheryl Akle about isolation, not only during a pandemic, but as a writer and storyteller, and her connection to Africa, on and off the page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/24/2020 • 27 minutes, 25 seconds
Sophie McNeill: The Middle East and why We Can't Say We Didn't Know
Award winning reporter and author of We Can’t Say We Didn’t Know, Sophie McNeil talks to Cheryl Akle about her work in, and love of, the Middle East. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/19/2020 • 32 minutes, 59 seconds
Pip Williams: how Dyslexia shaped her love of storytelling
Pip Williams has written one of the most talked about books of the year - The Dictionary of Lost Words, a fictional retelling of the compilation of the Oxford English Dictionary. Here she talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of words, stories and how her dyslexia shaped that. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/17/2020 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Danielle Binks: fan fiction and a passion for books
Danielle Binks chats to Cheryl Akle about the many hats she has worn in the book industry, from writer of fan fiction to literary agent, to author. A fascinating podcast with a true reading advocate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/10/2020 • 21 minutes, 41 seconds
Lauren Chater: on life, books and Gulliver's Wife
Always fascinating, Lauren Chater talks to Cheryl Akle about Estonian lace, storytelling in unprecedented times, and Gulliver's Wife. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/10/2020 • 21 minutes, 28 seconds
Malcolm Turnbull: politics, the environment and the Liberal Party
A fascinating conversation between Cheryl Akle and former Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, where they talk politics, the environment, Julia Gillard's misogyny speech, and the book everyone is talking about, A Bigger Picture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/7/2020 • 41 minutes, 38 seconds
Jess Hill: 2020 Stella Prize winner on domestic abuse
Investigative journalist, Jess Hill won the 2020 Stella Prize for her book on domestic abuse, See What You Made Me Do. Here, she talks to Cheryl Akle about the prize, and about domestic abuse in Australia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/3/2020 • 38 minutes, 38 seconds
Kelly Rimmer: nothing compares to when readers share their personal stories
Bestselling author Kelly Rimmer talks to Cheryl about how her readers often share their most personal stories with her, and how moving that is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/26/2020 • 24 minutes, 11 seconds
Andrew Daddo Get Kids Reading: how to make reading fun
Bestselling children’s author and TV presenter, Andrew Daddo talks to Cheryl Akle about why reading to children is important and how to make it fun. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/21/2020 • 15 minutes, 34 seconds
Caroline Overington: Missing William Tyrrell
Best-selling author and Walkley Award-winning journalist, Caroline Overington, talks to Cheryl Akle about one of Australia's most baffling and heartbreaking mysteries, and her book on the case, Missing William Tyrrell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/19/2020 • 26 minutes, 39 seconds
Karina Kilmore: journalism to fiction and the tie between the two
Karina Kilmore was a journalist with more than 30 years’ experience before writing one of this year's most anticipated novels, Where the Truth Lies. Hear more about that journey as she speaks to Cheryl Akle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/15/2020 • 26 minutes, 34 seconds
Candice Fox: visiting prison in the name of research
Bestselling author, and cracking storyteller, Candice Fox chats to Cheryl Akle about the darker side of writing crime, and the joy of new motherhood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/13/2020 • 29 minutes, 58 seconds
Richard Denniss: the economic impact of COVID19
Richard Denniss, the Chief Economist of The Australia Institute, talks to Cheryl Akle about about politics and economics, and what Australia will look like post COVID-19. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/7/2020 • 53 minutes, 4 seconds
Julia Baird: things that sustain you when the world goes dark
Julia Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about tough times, including the worldwide one now, and how to find the peace and stillness to not only survive it, but thrive in it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/5/2020 • 31 minutes, 39 seconds
Ruby Hamad: white women's tears
Ruby Hamad talks to Cheryl Akle about white women's tears, in this confronting episode, reality check for the privileged position of the white woman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/29/2020 • 34 minutes, 20 seconds
Charles Firth: The Chaser and beyond
Co-founder of The Chaser, Australia's longest running fortnightly satirical newspaper, Charles Firth has Cheryl Akle laughing in this very entertaining episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/22/2020 • 33 minutes, 14 seconds
Emily Maguire: feminism... and what it really looks like
Emily Macguire's book, This Is What a Feminist Looks Like shows us how we got to where we are today — and reminds us that some battles must be fought over and over again. In this fascinating podcast, Emily Macguire discusses this with Cheryl Akle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/15/2020 • 34 minutes, 48 seconds
Tea Cooper: boarding school to bestselling author
Tea Cooper, author of The Girl in the Painting discusses her life, from England to Australia, boarding school to bestselling author. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/8/2020 • 24 minutes, 17 seconds
Adele Parks
In this episode with the fascinating Adele Parks, you'll understand how she became a bestselling author - she's a born storyteller! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/3/2020 • 25 minutes, 43 seconds
Leah Purcell
Creative powerhouse Leah Purcell talks books, films, storytelling... and the road she's taken to success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/1/2020 • 31 minutes, 14 seconds
Fiona Lowe
From midwife to community nurse for teen girls to bestselling author, Fiona Lowe shares her journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/25/2020 • 25 minutes, 44 seconds
Dr Rupy Aujla
Dr Rupy Aujla talks to Cheryl Akle about cooking and food being medicine, health, and being a medical doctor today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/23/2020 • 26 minutes, 59 seconds
Melissa Ashley
Melissa Ashley talks about the extraordinary Marie Catherine d’Aulnoy who ran a literary salon in Paris in the 1700s and published the very first fairy tale, women's lives during that time, and her novel The Bee and the Orange Tree. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/18/2020 • 26 minutes, 8 seconds
Fiona Macintosh 2
Bestselling author, Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about how it was inevitable that she would write a book about diamonds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/16/2020 • 35 minutes, 29 seconds
Pip Drysdale
Pip Drysdale talks about growing up in Africa and Australia, and her journey to becoming an author, via being an actor and musician. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/13/2020 • 24 minutes, 36 seconds
Garry Linnell
Walkley Award winning journalist, Garry Linnell talks politics and then spins a yarn about the fascinating life of William Buckley, and the book he wrote about him, Buckley's Chance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/12/2020 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
Bernadette Agius
Bernadette Agius talks to Cheryl Akle about her inspiring, heartfelt, and powerful journey as a mother of a child with Down syndrome, something she explores in her book I'm Staying at Richard's. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/4/2020 • 31 minutes, 1 second
Christian White
Christian White talks to Cheryl Akle in a follow-up podcast, on the success around his debut The Nowhere Child, and his second novel, The Wife and the Widow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/3/2020 • 30 minutes, 30 seconds
Darry Fraser
Darry Fraser talks to Cheryl Akle about her life on Kangaroo Island and finding success with her novels. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/28/2020 • 26 minutes, 52 seconds
Jeff Sparrow
Jeff Sparrow talks to Cheryl Akle about Fascism, hate and the power of troll culture on the internet, all featured in his latest book, FASCISTS AMONG USOnline Hate and the Christchurch Massacre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/26/2020 • 34 minutes, 30 seconds
Katherine Johnson
Katherine Johnson talks to Cheryl Akle about her PhD and ethnic shows, or humans zoos, which were big business in Europe during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and also the inspiration for her novel, Paris Savages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/20/2020 • 29 minutes, 53 seconds
Mary Moody
Mary Moody talks to Cheryl Akle about her incredible life and travels, and the death of her husband, which she writes about in The Accidental Tour Guide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/19/2020 • 35 minutes, 18 seconds
James Phelps
Award-winning senior reporter James Phelps talks to Cheryl Akle about footballers, true crime and the bush rangers who pulled off this country's greatest gold robbery, which he writes about in Australian Heist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/14/2020 • 24 minutes, 7 seconds
Jane Cockram
Jane Cockram talks to Cheryl Akle about to pathway she took through the book industry before writing her debut novel, The House of Brides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/12/2020 • 21 minutes, 28 seconds
Dion Leonard
Ultra marathon runner met a stray dog halfway across China's Gobi desert, and it changed his life. Here he talks to Cheryl Akle about 'Gobi' and the book he wrote about her. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/7/2020 • 23 minutes, 17 seconds
Kiley Reid
Kiley Reid talks to Cheryl Akle about race and privilege in America today and how her life influenced her debut novel, Such a Fun Age. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1/5/2020 • 24 minutes, 58 seconds
Blanche d'Alpuget
Blanche d'Alpuget talks to Cheryl Akle about life with Bob Hawke, and her biography on him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/17/2019 • 27 minutes, 27 seconds
Christos Tsiolkas
Bestselling author, Christos Tsiolkas and Cheryl Akle dig deep and discuss shame, fear, bigotry, and the most important conversation that Christos had with his mother. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/17/2019 • 40 minutes, 17 seconds
Joy Rhoades
Joy Rhoades talks about growing up in Australia, living in London and writing her latest Australian historical, The Burnt Country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/16/2019 • 28 minutes, 3 seconds
Tara Moss
Tara Moss talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, living between Australia and Canada and how the 'ranking of humans' has influenced her latest novel, Dead Man Switch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/16/2019 • 28 minutes, 38 seconds
Rachael Treasure
Bestselling author, Rachael Treasure has moved in very different directions recently - in her writing and on the land. Listen as she discusses the changes with Cheryl Akle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/9/2019 • 25 minutes, 18 seconds
Jack Charles
Australian legend, Uncle Jack Charles talks to Cheryl Akle about surviving, healing and his brilliant memoir, Born-Again Blakfella. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/8/2019 • 23 minutes, 43 seconds
Andrew Daddo
Andrew Daddo talks Cheryl Akle through his childhood, career and his love of books. A highly entertaining listen, with one of Australia's most recognisable authors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/3/2019 • 33 minutes, 21 seconds
Tricia Stringer
Bestselling women's fiction writer, Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about her background, her love of South Australia, and her path to publication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12/2/2019 • 22 minutes, 32 seconds
Jane Sullivan
Jane Sullivan talks to Cheryl Akle about the books that shape us as children, and her journey to revisit her favourite tales in her book, Storytime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/27/2019 • 29 minutes, 59 seconds
Michael Connelly
Megastar author, Michael Connelly has written thirty-three novels and has sold over seventy-four million copies. Here is talks to Cheryl Akle about his life and incredible career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/24/2019 • 30 minutes, 29 seconds
Elliot Perlman
Award winning author Elliot Perlman talks about his life With Cheryl Akle, from his childhood to working in a corporate environment, the politics that shape his stories, including his latest book, Maybe The Horse Will Talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/19/2019 • 42 minutes, 17 seconds
Dr Richard Harris and Dr Craig Challen on the Thai Cave Rescue
Richard Harris and Craig Challen talk to Cheryl Akle about their involvement in the rescue of the Wild Boars soccer team from the Thai cave, and the book they've written about the experience, Against All Odds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/18/2019 • 34 minutes, 56 seconds
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki
Dr Karl talks to Cheryl Akle about... everything! His life, his work and many other fascinating and amazing scientific facts you've never thought about... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/13/2019 • 30 minutes, 38 seconds
Tim Slee
Tim Slee talks to Cheryl Akle about his very international life and travels, and his very Australian debut novel, Taking Tom Murray Home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/11/2019 • 25 minutes, 49 seconds
Judy Nunn
Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about her childhood, life as an actress, a bestselling author and the true tale behind her latest number #1 novel, Khaki Town. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11/4/2019 • 32 minutes, 36 seconds
Jono Lineen
Jono Lineen talks to Cheryl Akle about walking, how walking makes us wiser, the power of pilgrimage, his adventures walking the world, and his book on walking, Perfect Motion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/28/2019 • 29 minutes, 57 seconds
Mem Fox
Legendary children's author, Mem Fox talks to Cheryl Akle about her life and career, and why she wrote her latest picture book The Tiny Star for her grandson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/21/2019 • 32 minutes, 28 seconds
Diane Armstrong
Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about her fascinating life, from Poland to Australia, journalism to travel, and how her career as a bestselling author began. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/13/2019 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
Heather Morris
Heather Morris talks to Cheryl Akle about the phenomenal success of her book The Tattooist of Auschwitz, and how she came to write the sequel, Cilka's Journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/8/2019 • 27 minutes, 26 seconds
Sarah Barrie
Bestselling crime writer Sarah Barrie talks to Cheryl Akle about life, a wide and varied career including equine therapy, and how she came to writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10/1/2019 • 19 minutes, 47 seconds
Lucy Bloom
Social entrepreneur Lucy Bloom talks to Cheryl about her life and what led her on her amazing journey to being one of the world's leading change makers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/23/2019 • 37 minutes, 28 seconds
Paula Saunders
US author, Paula Saunders talks to Cheryl Akle about the complexities of families, modern America and her family saga The Distance Home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/16/2019 • 29 minutes, 3 seconds
Mark Brandi
Mark Brandi chats to Cheryl Akle about growing up Italian in a small Australian town, and how that influenced his crime writing, and his latest book, The Rip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/9/2019 • 31 minutes, 26 seconds
Benjamin Law
Benjamin Law talks to Cheryl Akle about everything from his big, loud migrant family, his childhood, and his family to popular culture and structural racism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9/2/2019 • 40 minutes, 27 seconds
Adele Ferguson
Multi-award-winning journalist, Adele Ferguson talks to Cheryl Akle about her investigations into banks which helped bring about the royal commission, and her new book, Banking Bad. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/27/2019 • 29 minutes, 44 seconds
Louise Milligan - Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell
Cardinal George Pell was Australia's most powerful Catholic, jailed in March 2019 for child sexual assault. To coincide with Pell's failed appeal, Better Reading has decided to immediately release our podcast with Award-winning investigative reporter, Louise Milligan. This is a fascinating, powerful and timely conversation between Cheryl Akle and the author of Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell. This podcast explores the culture of entitlement and bullying that allowed the abusers, Pell included, to get away with their crimes for far too long. Louise and Cheryl also delve into the tragic stories of the victims, highlighting the life-long impact of their childhood abuse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/21/2019 • 51 minutes, 14 seconds
Dave Glasheen
Dave Glasheen talks to Cheryl Akle about losing a fortune and moving to Restoration Island, the unusual life he writes about in his memoir The Millionaire Castaway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/20/2019 • 35 minutes, 30 seconds
Kaneana May
Kaneana May talks to Cheryl Akle about screenwriting and the road to publishing her book, The One ... and why she loves Barbie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/20/2019 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
Morris Gleitzman
Australian Children's Laureate for 2018 and 2019, Morris Gleitzman talks to Cheryl Akle about writing children's fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/15/2019 • 35 minutes, 21 seconds
Paullina Simons
Bestselling author Paullina Simons talks to Cheryl Akle about her fascinating background and her incredible career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/12/2019 • 29 minutes, 7 seconds
Gabbie Stroud
Former teacher, Gabbi Stroud talks to Cheryl Akle about her groundbreaking essay Teaching Australia, and her book Teacher that sprang from that. She discusses what kids need from their teachers, and why she believes the education system in Australia is broken. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/6/2019 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
Tara June Winch
Tara June Winch talks to Cheryl Akle about her extensive travels, living in France, and her connection to the land as a Wiradjuri woman. Plus her latest novel, The Yield. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
8/6/2019 • 43 minutes, 26 seconds
The road to publication with Nikki Christer
Nikki Christer, the Group Publishing Director at Penguin Random House Australia talks about the publishing process, the difference between agents and publishers, why editing is so important… and what she needs in a story to encourage her to offer an author a publishing deal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 32 minutes, 59 seconds
Dialogue with Melina Marchetta
Dialogue expert extraordinaire, Melina Marchetta discusses the importance of dialogue, and how that voice defines her characters, the setting and the story she tells. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
Research and setting with Candice Fox
Candice Fox has immersed herself in both setting and research. She’s lived in LA, she’s visited a serial killer on death row, and even had dinner with an American President, all in the name of research. Hear all this and much more in this highly entertaining episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 32 minutes, 11 seconds
Character building with Belinda Alexandra
Belinda Alexandra talks about how she immerses herself in the world she’s writing about so her characters come to life. She talks about how some characters have a mind of their own… and how she even develops a full-blown crush on the occasional hero. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 30 minutes, 1 second
Story and plot development with Dervla McTiernan
Dervla McTiernan discusses plot, how important structure is in your novel, and how she approaches writing a novel. And she shares what the sign on her wall says, that reminds her what is important, every time she writes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 26 minutes, 15 seconds
The writer with Trent Dalton
Trent Dalton, the author of the phenomenally successful novel Boy Swallows Universe discusses the heart and soul of the writer and what being a writer means to him. He talks through the process of writing Boy Swallows Universe, as well as his work as a Walkley Award winning journalist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/24/2019 • 32 minutes, 43 seconds
Armando Lucas Correa
Journalist, editor and author Armando Lucas Correa talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in Cuba, life in New York, and his latest novel, The Daughter's Tale. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/16/2019 • 30 minutes, 52 seconds
Ava Benny-Morrison
Crime reporter, Ava Benny-Morrison talks to Cheryl Akle about the shocking case that inspired her to write her book, The Lost Girls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/15/2019 • 31 minutes, 16 seconds
Rebecca Hermann
Rebecca Hermann the founder of Bolinda Audio talks to Cheryl Akle about how and why she started the company, the importance of audio in publishing, and the future of audio books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/10/2019 • 39 minutes, 17 seconds
Craig Ensor
Craig Ensor talks to Cheryl Akle about his career in law and the road to writing his novel, The Warming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/8/2019 • 24 minutes, 45 seconds
Tess Woods
Author Tess Woods talks to Cheryl Akle about juggling two physiotherapy clinics with writing her latest novel, Love and Other Battles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/4/2019 • 31 minutes, 10 seconds
Tom Keneally
Acclaimed author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his life, and incredible writing career, and his latest novel Two Old Men Dying. Here at Better Reading we consider Tom to be a National Treasure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
7/3/2019 • 38 minutes, 24 seconds
Christine Courtenay
Christine Courtenay talks to Cheryl Akle about her late husband, bestselling author Bryce Courtenay, his writing, his incredible legacy and the 30-year anniversary of his novel, The Power of One. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/25/2019 • 27 minutes, 44 seconds
Victoria Purman
Victoria Purman talks to Cheryl Akle about the fascinating real-life women of her latest bestselling novel, The Land Girls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/25/2019 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
Alli Sinclair
Alli Sinclair talks to Cheryl Akle about her world adventures, climbing mountains and her new novel, The Cinema at Starlight Creek. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/18/2019 • 25 minutes, 27 seconds
Megan Blandford
Megan Blandford talks to Cheryl Akle about motherhood, her postnatal depression, and how she wrote her book, I'm Fine (and Other Lies) to help other women. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/18/2019 • 29 minutes, 35 seconds
Leigh Straw #2
Leigh Straw talks to Cheryl Akle about Australian women in crime history, including Dulcie Markham, a key figure of the underworld of Sydney and Melbourne, and the subject of her latest book, Angel Of Death: Dulcie Markham, Australia's Most Beautiful Bad Woman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/11/2019 • 27 minutes, 45 seconds
Meg Bignell
Meg Bignell talks to Cheryl Akle about going from nursing to copywriting, living on a dairy farm, and her new book, The Sparkle Pages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/10/2019 • 26 minutes, 3 seconds
Janet Fife-Yeomans
Award winning journalist Janet Fife-Yeomans talks to Cheryl Akle about how she wrote a book with Hazel Baron, the brave daughter who brought Dulcie Bodsworth, her serial killer mother to justice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/6/2019 • 28 minutes, 38 seconds
Mikey Robins
Mikey Robbins speaks to Cheryl Akle about being a history nerd, a food lover, observer of bizarre human behaviour, and combining all three in his book, Seven Deadly Sins… and One Very Naught Fruit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
6/5/2019 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
Sally Rippin
Sally Rippin talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up as an expat kids in Asia, her prolific career as a children's author, and her latest book in the Polly and Buster series: The Search for the Silver Witch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/29/2019 • 25 minutes, 37 seconds
Amanda Hampson
Amanda Hampson speaks to Cheryl Akle about long-term friendships, the freedom of ageing, how travel has changed, and her latest book, Sixty Summers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/28/2019 • 37 minutes, 15 seconds
Paige Toon
Paige Toon joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss being raised all around the world, her writing career, and her latest novel, If You Could Go Anywhere. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/20/2019 • 26 minutes, 25 seconds
Melina Marchetta
Melina Marchetta joins Cheryl Akle to discuss growing up in an Australian-Italian family, her Australian classic, Looking for Alibrandi, and her latest novel, The Place on Dalhousie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/20/2019 • 39 minutes, 16 seconds
Alice Clark-Platts
Alice Clark-Platts discusses human rights law, and what her research for her novel The Flower Girls taught her about children who kill. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/15/2019 • 28 minutes, 33 seconds
James Delargy
Irish author, James Delargy joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about his journey as a traveller, a writer, and why he chose outback Australia to set his bestselling novel, 55. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/14/2019 • 29 minutes, 8 seconds
Fatima Bhutto
Today Cheryl Akle talks to Fatima Bhutto about her life in Afghanistan, Syria and Pakistan, being raised by a single father, and how he shared a love of books and stories with her. This led to her career as a writer, and her latest novel The Runaways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/9/2019 • 38 minutes, 6 seconds
Nicole Alexander
Nicole Alexander joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss being a fourth-generation grazier, her writing career, and her latest novel, Stone Country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/8/2019 • 29 minutes, 30 seconds
Felicity McLean
Felicity McLean joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her debut novel, The Van Apfel Girls are Gone. Together they discuss Felicity's career as a ghostwriter and how that, and a run-in with Bryan Brown, led to her writing her first novel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5/1/2019 • 25 minutes, 6 seconds
Susan Hurley
Susan Hurley joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about her novel, Eight Lives, and about Susan's career in medical research, the trial that inspired her novel, and her move from the pharmaceutical industry to writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/29/2019 • 28 minutes, 47 seconds
Minnie Darke
Minnie Darke talks to Cheryl Akle about astrology and her delightful new novel, Star-crossed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/24/2019 • 29 minutes, 52 seconds
Kerry Tucker
Kerry Tucker, author of The Prisoner, talks about her journey going from a prison cell, to having a PhD and being an advocate for women prisoners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/24/2019 • 49 minutes, 2 seconds
Josephine Moon
Josephine Moon joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss ‘Uplit', Authors for Farmers and the writing community, and her latest book The Gift of Life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/16/2019 • 28 minutes, 16 seconds
Mary-Anne O'Connor
Mary-Anne O'Connor joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss growing up in a large, creative family, getting published, and her latest book In a Great Southern Land. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/15/2019 • 28 minutes, 29 seconds
J.R. Lonie
J.R. Lonie, author of The Woman From Saint Germain, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about writing, screenwriting, and when it's time to call yourself a writer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/10/2019 • 26 minutes, 2 seconds
Todd Alexander
Todd Alexander, the author of eleven books, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about leaving the city to run a boutique accommodation business and vineyard in the Hunter Valley, and his new book Thirty Thousand Bottles of Wine and a Pig Called Helga. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/8/2019 • 31 minutes, 25 seconds
Jacqueline Harvey
Jacqueline Harvey joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her passion for education, her bestselling Alice-Miranda series and her latest book for kids, Kensy and Max 3: Undercover. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/3/2019 • 22 minutes, 53 seconds
Chris Hammer
Chris Hammer, Australian journalist and bestselling author of hit crime novel, Scrublands, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about Chris's move from non-fiction to fiction, and the real-life trip around Australia that inspired Chris to write Scrublands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
4/3/2019 • 33 minutes, 16 seconds
Amy Goldstein
American writer Amy Goldstein joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her 2018 book, Janesville, a compelling and insightful portrait of one town in America's heartland, struggling to regain its footing after the closure of its General Motors plant in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. Together, Amy and Cheryl discuss the hollowing of the American middle class, the decline of the American Dream, and what Amy learnt from her time in Janesville. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/30/2019 • 41 minutes, 58 seconds
Sulari Gentill
Acclaimed Australian author Sulari Gentill joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about her latest novel, All the Tears in China, and about Sulari's fascinating life and colourful career, which has seen her move from astrophysics to law to writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/29/2019 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Zack McDermott
Zack McDermott, Brooklyn public defender turned author, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss his memoir Gorilla and the Bird, a book that details his recovery after a devastating psychotic break. Together they discuss the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the steps he now takes to maintain his mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/27/2019 • 39 minutes, 1 second
Toby Walsh
Toby Walsh, one of the world's leading researchers in Artificial Intelligence, joins Cheryl Akle to talk about his book It's Alive! Artificial Intelligence from the Logic Piano to Killer Robots. Together they discuss the scientific problems we need to solve in order to advance artificial intelligence technologies, and how scientists are developing these technologies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/27/2019 • 40 minutes, 50 seconds
Tayari Jones
Tayari Jones, American author, joins Cheryl Akle to talk about her book An American Marriage. Together they discuss how Tayari came to be a writer, and the intricacies of human relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/27/2019 • 24 minutes, 22 seconds
Kate Young
This week, Kate Young, award-winning food writer and cook, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her book The Little Library Cookbook. Together they talk about Kate's love of all things food and literature, and how she came to be a successful food writer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/24/2019 • 32 minutes, 3 seconds
Kerri Turner
Kerri Turner, historical fiction author, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her debut novel, The Last Days of the Romanov Dancers. Together they discuss Kerri's colourful career as both a dancer and writer, how her travel has informed her writing, and the importance of female representation in historical fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/21/2019 • 23 minutes, 8 seconds
Fiona Lowe
Fiona Lowe, award-winning Australian author, joins Caroline Overington (standing in for Cheryl Akle) this week to discuss her latest novel Home Fires. Together they discuss Fiona's varied career in nursing, women's health, and midwifery, as well as the many ways in which Australia influences and inspires her writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/18/2019 • 26 minutes, 30 seconds
Cassie Hamer
Cassie Hamer, first-time author with a professional background in journalism and PR, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her debut novel After the Party. Together they discuss Cassie's career journey, and how she came to be a writer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/15/2019 • 24 minutes, 40 seconds
Dervla McTiernan
Dervla McTiernan, bestselling author of The Ruin, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her latest novel, The Scholar. Together they discuss Dervla's success as a writer, and the difficulties of writing the follow-up to a bestseller. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/12/2019 • 27 minutes, 26 seconds
Brandy Scott
Brandy Scott, radio presenter and debut writer, speaks to Cheryl Akle about her new book Not Bad People, as well as her varied career and experience living abroad. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/8/2019 • 27 minutes, 9 seconds
Ben Okri
Ben Okri, award-winning novelist and poet, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss books, ideas, and the fears and anxieties that we face in today's modern world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/6/2019 • 34 minutes, 19 seconds
Jackie French
Jackie French, award-winning Australian author, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her vibrant career and to share her infectious love of books and reading.If listening to this podcast has raised any concerns for you, 1800RESPECT offers 24 hour help and support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
3/1/2019 • 31 minutes, 58 seconds
Jennifer Spence
Jennifer Spence talks to Cheryl Akle this week about her latest novel, The Lost Girls. Together they discuss the craft of writing, the power of story-telling, and the importance of books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/27/2019 • 28 minutes, 28 seconds
Michael Mosley
Dr Michael Mosley, international bestselling author and 'gut health guru' joins Cheryl Akle to discuss his latest book, The Fast 800. Together they talk about how the modern diet has changed over the past 30 years, and the everyday healthy choices that we can make to improve our lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/22/2019 • 32 minutes, 53 seconds
Literary Scandals and Hoaxes
As the scandal surrounding the less than truthful A.J. Finn grows, author and journalist Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about the impact on the bestselling author and his reputation - and they remember another literary hoax, much closer to home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/18/2019 • 43 minutes, 45 seconds
Anna Funder
Anna Funder, acclaimed and award-winning Australian author, joins Cheryl this week to discuss her bestselling book Stasiland. Together they discuss Anna's journey as a writer, and the political history of East Germany. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/14/2019 • 50 minutes, 46 seconds
Carly Findlay
Carly Findlay, writer, speaker, and appearance activist, speaks to Cheryl Akle this week about her new book Say Hello, and her experience of living with a rare skin condition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/12/2019 • 28 minutes, 32 seconds
AJ Finn
This week, Caroline Overington (stepping in for Cheryl Akle) is joined by New York Times and internationally bestselling author A. J. Finn to discuss his debut novel The Woman in the Window. Together they discuss the author's experiences working for a decade in publishing, the mental health challenges he has faced, and the incredible success of his book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2/8/2019 • 26 minutes, 24 seconds
Myffy Rigby
This week Cheryl Akle is joined by Good Food Guide Editor Myffy Rigby to discuss the 2019 Good Food Guide. Together they talk about all things food, and Myffy's incredible industry experiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.