Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading
Cheryl Akle discusses the world with her favourite authors, exploring the stories behind their books and the writing process. Each episode features in-depth conversations that reveal the inspiration and craft behind beloved works. The podcast is hosted on Acast.
Episodes
Stories Behind the Story: Nina Kenwood on Books, Writing and People Skills
What happens when a lifelong book lover becomes a writer? Nina Kenwood joins Cheryl Akle to talk about her new novel People Skills, a slow-burn romance set around a literary festival, and the winding path that led her there. From obsessing over The Baby-Sitters Club and John Marsden as a teenager to abandoned manuscripts, a 10-year writing group and writing a rom-com while parenting a newborn, Nin
Stories Behind The Story: Ash Williams on Almost Killing It in Hollywood
What happens when an Australian comedian heads to Hollywood with big dreams and no idea what’s coming? Ash Williams shares the wild, hilarious and unexpected stories behind Almost Killing It in Hollywood, from chasing big opportunities to the moments that didn’t quite go to plan. His latest work, Almost Killing It in Hollywood, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informatio
Stories Behind the Story: Tess Woods on The Cairo Bridal Shop and Finding Her Way Back to Writing
Three sisters disappear from a bridal shop at the foot of the pyramids. That’s where Tess Woods’ new novel, The Cairo Bridal Shop, begins. Tess joins Cheryl to talk about the very personal story behind the book, her Egyptian heritage, her beloved grandmother and the unexpected journey that took her from physiotherapy to bestselling author. The Cairo Bridal Shop is out now. Hosted on Acast. See ac
Stories Behind The Story: Yumna Kassab on Parramatta, Belonging and the Stories That Shape Us
Yumna Kassab joins Cheryl Akle to talk about the stories, memories and sense of place behind her new book. Yumna shares how growing up Lebanese-Australian in Parramatta shaped her writing, her unusual path from studying science and teaching to becoming an acclaimed author, and how a short story competition led to her first book, The House of Youssef. She also talks about her unique writing process
Everyone Has a Story: The woman who carried 15 children and gained 2 more in death
In the first episode of Everyone Has a Story, Sivine Tabbouch tells Cheryl the extraordinary story of her mother, Amina, who raised 15 children.Amina’s life was shaped by family, love, loss and extraordinary strength. As she grew older and her health declined, Sivine became her carer and found new ways to communicate with her mother.But the story takes an unexpected turn after Amina’s death, when
REWIND: Stories Behind the Story: Karen Brooks on brewing, her writing journey and bringing history to life through fiction
From the archives: Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl about her family-run brewery in Hobart, the influence of feminism on her writing, how she approaches research for her historical fiction, her connection to fantasy stories and what lies ahead in her writing journey.If you haven’t read The Whisky Widow yet, add it to your TBR on the What Are You Reading app. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for
REWIND: Stories Behind The Story: Blanche d’Alpuget on the Life and Legacy of Bob Hawke
In this replay of Stories Behind The Story, we remember acclaimed Australian author Blanche d’Alpuget, who joined Cheryl Akle in 2019 to talk about her extraordinary life, her writing career and her relationship with former Prime Minister Bob Hawke.Blanche shares the story of how she first met Bob, what drew her to write his biography, and what it was like to spend 25 years together. She also refl
Stories Behind The Story: Nadine Browne on finding her voice and trying to belong in the literary world
Nadine Browne talks to Cheryl Akle about her debut novel Gone Guru, a funny and chaotic literary mystery inspired by her own experiences as a writer in New York. She discusses imposter syndrome, class and cultural differences between Australia and America, and how her experiences of leaving religion, finding her voice and trying to belong in the literary world ultimately shaped Gone Guru, which is
Stories Behind The Story: Kbora and Razia Ali on identity, belonging and resilience
Sisters Kabora and Razia Ali talk to Cheryl Akle, sharing their family’s journey from Afghanistan to Australia. Exploring identity, belonging and resilience, Kabora reflects on becoming the first woman of Afghan descent to join the Australian Army at 18. The sisters also share how their family’s history and Kabora’s personal experiences came together to create the book. Their memoir, First of Her
Stories Behind The Story: Hannah Richell on The Unexpected Ways Life Can Transform After Loss
Hannah Richell joins Cheryl Akle to talk about grief, love, writing and the unexpected ways life can transform after loss. Hannah shares how writing her memoir after the death of her husband Matt became an act of release, remembrance and connection, and reflects on rebuilding a life that holds both profound grief and new joy. A moving conversation about the love we carry, the stories that shape us
Stories Behind The Story: Hannah Richell & Michelle Prak on Their Favourite Phases When Writing
Hannah Richell (The Search Party, The River Home) and Michelle Prak (The Rush) have a laugh and talk about their books One Dark Night and The Rush. Learn more about the two authors, how Prak's sons have helped her edit her books, Richell's favourite phase when writing, and as always, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for mor
Stories Behind The Story: Holden Sheppard & Peter Polites on Their Unique, Diverse Backgrounds
Holden Sheppard (Invisible Boys, The Brink) and Peter Polites (Down The Hume, God Forgets About the Poor) chat about the adaptation of Holden's book Invisible Boys, the LGBT+ community in Perth and Sydney and their unique, diverse backgrounds. Learn more about the two authors, their cultural influences, their writing processes, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of "Authors on Au
Libby Trainor Parker on Finding Healing Through Advocacy
Libby Trainor Parker talks to Cheryl about endometriosis, chronic pain, infertility, pregnancy loss, grief, and finding healing through advocacy, storytelling, and foster care. Her book, A Common Misconception, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Sarah Trad on Hospitality and Building Her Dream House
Sarah Trad talks to Cheryl Akle about Lebanon and the culture’s deep connection to hospitality, her travels around the world, renovating and creating her dream house, and the influence of her mother. Her cookbook, Beit Trad, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Joan Sauers on Film and Mysteries
Joan Sauers talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of mystery series, the writing skills she learned from her father, Hollywood, and the differences between writing novels and screenplays. Her latest book, Murder at Thornwood Park, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Victoria Purman on Journalism, Publishing and Vintage Books
Victoria Purman talks to Cheryl Akle about her former career in journalism, her path into publishing, her writing routines, and her love of both vintage and contemporary books. Her latest novel, The Marriage Trap, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: What Are You Reading? The App with Caroline Overington
Cheryl talks to Caroline about Better Reading’s new project, What Are You Reading? The App, an Australian, community-focused book tracker that lets readers log and follow their reading directly from their phone. Think of it as Goodreads and StoryGraph had a baby - but this one grew up Australian. Best of all, it's FREE. Download the app today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inform
Stories Behind The Story: Francesca Albanese on War and Power
Francesca Albanese talks to Cheryl about the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, the impact of technology on modern warfare, and her career in academia and the United Nations. Her book, When the World Sleeps, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Dervla McTiernan on Ruthless Editing and Finding Home in Australia
Dervla McTiernan talks to Cheryl about her brain tumour diagnosis, her writing routine, the brutality of editing, and how living in Australia has reshaped her connection to her Irish heritage. Her new book, Three Reasons for Revenge, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Antoinette Lattouf on Books, Battles and Breaking Barriers
Antoinette Lattouf talks to Cheryl about her childhood, her love of reading and writing, her legal dispute with the ABC, and the lessons she’s drawn from the inspiring women featured in her new book Women Who Win, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Ann Mossop on the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival
Cheryl talks to Ann Mossop, Artistic Director of the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival, for a special episode of Stories Behind the Story. Together, they explore this year’s festival theme, highlight standout events, and discuss the exciting lineup of attending authors. The 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival runs from 17–24 May, with tickets now available via the official festival website. Hosted on Acast.
Stories Behind The Story: Mali Cornish on Life, Law & Her New Novel
Cheryl talks to Mali Cornish about her relationship with her own mother, her career in law, and how becoming a parent reshaped her perspective on life. They also explore the inspiration behind her new book, The Missing Mother, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Kate Mildenhall & Kate Forsyth on the Complexities of Writing
Kate Mildenhall (The Hummingbird Effect, The Mother Fault) and Kate Forsyth (Psykhe, Dragonclaw) have a laugh and talk about the complexities of writing. Learn more about the two authors, Forsyth's impressive and long writing career, Mildenhall's new kids book, and as always, the publishing industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat
Stories Behind The Story: Rosalie Ham on Ageing, Connection and Look After Your Feet
Rosalie Ham talks to Cheryl about the beauty of ageing, the impact of her novel The Dressmaker, and her earlier career in aged care. She also reflects on the importance of staying mobile and how social connection supports overall wellbeing. Her new book, Look After Your Feet, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Mohammed Massoud Morsi on Journalism and Belonging
Mohammed Massoud Morsi talks to Cheryl about belonging, his career in journalism and the ways propaganda can shape worldviews. He reflects on the power of tradition and culture, as well as the personal losses that have influenced his life and writing. His book, The Hair of the Pigeon, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Linda Martin on Her Journey from Editor to Author
Linda Martin talks to Cheryl about her career in publishing, editing techniques she's uncovered over the years, and her transition from editor to author. She also highlights the value of writing competitions and celebrates the richness of the Australian writing and reading community. Her book, A Tale of Two Publishing Houses, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Durkhanai Ayubi on Displacement, Food and Hope
Durkhanai Ayubi talks to Cheryl about displacement, the beauty of food and its power to bring communities together. She also reflects on hope, resilience, and her family’s restaurant, sharing how these experiences have shaped her writing. Her book, She Who Tastes, Knows, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: James Colley & Christian White on Crime, Comedy and Their Kids
Christian White (The Ledge, Clickbait) and James Colley (The Next Big Thing, Gruen) have a laugh and talk about writing with their partners, the difference between crime and comedy (and how they're also strangely similar), and how their habits have impacted their kids. Learn more about the two authors, James' inspiration behind his debut, Christian’s love for the film industry, and as always, the
Stories Behind The Story: Bernice Barry on Historical Fiction, Botany and Writing
Bernice Barry talks to Cheryl about the magic of writing, the ways readers connect to stories, the complexities of historical fiction, Bernice’s transition from nonfiction to fiction, botany, Bernice's writing routine, and more. Her new book, The Names of a Hare, is out now Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind the Story: JP Pomare and Michael Robotham on Crime and Twists
JP Pomare (Seventeen Years Later, In The Clearing) and Michael Robotham (Bombproof, When You Are Mine) talk about what it means to be guilty, their book tour in New Zealand and the crazy twists and turns that unfold during crime investigations. Learn more about the two authors, the reason behind the title of JP's newest book, tips and tricks on how Michael writes sequels, and as always, the publis
Stories Behind the Story: J.A. Stevens on Disability and Writing Her First Book
J.A. Stevens talks to Cheryl about her unique childhood, creating miniature love stories with her sister, and how living with a disability has shaped both her life and her writing. She also reflects on the importance of diversity in modern literature and the power of seeing complex characters on both the page and on screen. Her debut novel A Change of Pace is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.co
Stories Behind the Story: Matt Stanton and Sarah Ayoub on Family and Kids Books
Matt Stanton (Funny Kid series, The Odds series) and Sarah Ayoub (The Yearbook Committee, The Cult of Romance) have a laugh and reminisce on their relationship, their children and how they write books. Learn more about the two authors, how Matt wrote his latest Funny Kid novel, the different challenges Sarah faces when writing novels and kids picture books, and as always, the publishing industry i
Stories Behind The Story: John M. Green on Writing, Editing and A.I.
John M. Green talks to Cheryl about the power of asking “what if,” how the editing process can transform a book, the challenges and rewards of writing across different genres, and his thoughts on how AI is changing the world. His new book Staged is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Ian Kemish on Global Diplomacy and the Australian Economy
Ian Kemish talks to Cheryl about the Australian economy, how global conflicts ripple across borders, and his decades of experience working in Australian foreign affairs. He also reflects on the complexities of diplomacy, the challenges of navigating international relationships and what it means to engage with a rapidly changing world. His new book, Two Islands, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See aca
Stories Behind the Story: Michael Mohammed Ahmad on Community, Grief and Writing
Michael Mohammed Ahmad talks to Cheryl about supporting his community, how his writing has evolved over time and the deeply emotional heart of his latest book, Bugger. He also reflects on grief, vulnerability and what it means to write difficult themes and ideas. Bugger is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Crime Special with Christian White & Tim Ayliffe
Join Cheryl Akle as she sits down with Christian White (The Long Night) and Tim Ayliffe (Dark Desert Road) for an insightful conversation about the Australian literary landscape. Together, the three explore the surge in Aussie crime and thriller books, the realities and roadblocks of getting published, and what it really takes to build a career as an Australian author. Hosted on Acast. See acast.c
Stories Behind The Story: Joanna Nell and Ali Lowe on Families and Hard Work
Joanna Nell (Mrs Winterbottom Takes a Gap Year, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village) and Ali Lowe (The School Run, The Trivia Night) talk about their families and the hard work that goes into publishing a book. Learn more about the two authors, Ali's writing ritual, which involves a candle, Joanna's process on assessing in editing notes, and as always, the book industry in this new e
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #12
Welcome to episode #12 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Christian White on How His Daughter Changed His Writing
Christian White talks to Cheryl about how becoming a parent has reshaped his writing and expanded his worldview, the influence his daughter now has on his creative process, and the unforgettable moment he spotted a stranger reading one of his novels in the wild. His latest book, The Long Night, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Rachel Perkins on Her Father, Colonisation and Australia's Future
Rachel Perkins talks to Cheryl about the continuing impact of colonisation on First Nations communities, the extraordinary legacy of her father, Charles Perkins, and his lasting influence on Australia. Rachel also speaks about the importance of the Aboriginal Australian flag as a symbol of identity and unity, and shares insights from The Australian Wars, the book she co-edited with Stephen Gapps,
Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #11
Welcome to episode #11 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington, where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Loubna Haikal on Heritage, Immigration and the Power of Cooking
Loubna Haikal talks to Cheryl about their Lebanese heritage, displacement, immigration and the quiet beauty of cooking with others. She also reflects on the collaborative process behind Don’t Ask the Trees for Their Names, the powerful collection she edited and co-wrote with eight other Arab women. The book is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind the Story: Andrew Sloan on the Human Experience and the Future
Andrew Sloan talks to Cheryl about the human experience, the role of therapy, the future of our society and the inspiration behind his new book, Why Things Feel F*cked, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Heather Rose on Inspiration, Writing Across Ages and Shifting Worldviews
Heather Rose talks to Cheryl about how worldviews have changed over time, discovering the story behind her latest book, A Great Act of Love, the moment she knew she wanted to be a writer, the influence of her father, and the difference between writing for children and adults. A Great Act of Love is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Omar El Akkad on Truth & Ignorance, From Guantánamo to Gaza
Omar El Akkad joins Cheryl to discuss his latest book, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. Together, they explore his experiences reporting from places like Guantánamo Bay, examine the dangerous allure of ignorance, and reflect on the Gaza War and how it has shaped both their lives and the world. One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This is out now. Hosted on Acast. Se
Stories Behind The Story: Susan Wyndham on Elizabeth Harrower and a Life in Literature
Susan Wyndham talks to Cheryl about researching her latest book Elizabeth Harrower: The Woman in the Watch Tower, how her mother’s love of books shaped her own, her career in journalism, and her path to becoming one of Australia’s leading literary editors. Elizabeth Harrower: The Woman in the Watch Tower is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Jessica Mansour-Nahra on Her Debut, Pregnancy and Creativity
Jessica Mansour-Nahra talks to Cheryl about writing her debut novel, The Farm, how her love of storytelling began, and the emotional challenges she experienced while pregnant. She shares what the publishing journey looked like for her and talks about the deep connection between creativity and motherhood. The Farm is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Marika Sosnowski on Law, Creative Writing, and the Making of 58 Facets
Marika Sosnowski talks to Cheryl about how her background in law shapes her writing and the challenges of merging academic insight with creative expression. She shares her deeply personal and complex writing process, the role of human connection in her work, and how legal systems can shift depending on who is interpreting them. Her debut collection, 58 Facets, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acas
Stories Behind The Story: Greg Haddrick on The Mushroom Murders and the Art of Storytelling
Greg Haddrick talks to Cheryl about his acclaimed career in film and television, what drew him to the chilling real-life case of The Mushroom Murders, the complexities of covering the high-profile Erin Patterson trial, and the challenges faced by jurors. His latest book, The Mushroom Murders, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Chris Hammer on Journalism, Storytelling Craft and His Latest Thriller
Chris Hammer talks to Cheryl about his lifelong love of writing and how his career in journalism, including international reporting for Dateline, shaped his storytelling. He reflects on developing his craft, transitioning from nonfiction to fiction, and how fellow author Benjamin Stevenson helped bring Scrublands to life. His latest novel, Legacy, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
Stories Behind the Story: Soren Tae Smith on Grief, Motherhood and Finding Solace in Storytelling
Soren Tae Smith talks to Cheryl about the deeply personal process of writing her memoir, Honey from the Ground. She reflects on the loss of her son, the ongoing journey through grief, and the emotional challenges of continuing to parent after such a profound loss. She also shares how she discovered her desire to write, her love of novellas, and the role storytelling has played in her healing. Her
Stories Behind The Story: Tim Winton on Ningaloo, the Power of Nonfiction and His Creative Process
Award-winning author Tim Winton joins Cheryl to talk about his first nonfiction book for children, Ningaloo. He shares fascinating facts about the iconic reef and its diverse marine life, the creative challenges of making science both fun and visually engaging, and reflects on why this story is important to him and his hopes for the future. Ningaloo, which was illustrated by Cindy Lane, is out now
Stories Behind The Story: Garry Disher on Being an Aussie Author, Touring Germany, and What Makes the Hirsch Series Unique
Garry Disher talks to Cheryl about his pride in being an Australian author, his book tours in Germany, what sets his Hirsch series apart from other crime novels, and the complexities of Australia’s police forces. His latest book, Mischance Creek, is out September 30, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Allison Rushby on Writing Across Genres, 25 Years of Storytelling, and the Journey to Slashed Beauties
Allison Rushby talks to Cheryl about the differences between writing historical fantasy and middle grade fiction, her career before becoming an author, 25 years of writing books, and the highs and lows of publishing her latest novel, Slashed Beauties, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Chris Hammer & Caroline Overington on Aussie Books and The Rise of Self-Publishing
Chris Hammer (Scrublands, The Valley) and Caroline Overington (Last Woman Hanged, The Cuckoo's Cry) talk about Australian books, self-publishing and how their books have changed over time. Learn more about the two authors, how the TV adaptation of Scrublands has impacted Chris, Caroline's work at The Australian, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors. Hosted on
Stories Behind The Story: Melina Marchetta & Tess Woods on Their Writing Journeys, Venice and Writing Different Genres
Melina Marchetta (Looking for Alibrandi, The Piper's Son) and Tess Woods (The Venice Hotel, Beautiful Messy Love) have a chat about Melina's career, Venice and the difficulties of writing different genres. Learn more about the two authors, the importance of Looking for Alibrandi, not only for Melina, but also for Tess, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors. Hos
Stories Behind The Story: Jackson Harvey & Alex Towler on Building Big with LEGO®, Creative Collaboration, and Their Exhibition in Sydney
Jackson Harvey & Alex Towler talk to Cheryl about their LEGO® exhibition in Sydney, how they first met, what goes into creating their impressive builds, the impact LEGO® has had on their careers and lives, and the highs and lows of life on a press tour. Their book A New World Rises: Tales of a LEGO® Future, which they co-wrote with Cristy Burne, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priva
Stories Behind The Story: Lauren Chater & James Bradley on Being an Artist and the Impacts of the Pandemic
Lauren Chater (Gulliver's Wife, The Winter Dress) and James Bradley (Clade, The Resurrectionist) talk about how they met, being an artist and the lasting impacts of the pandemic. Learn more about the two authors, how Sydney impacted James' career, the difficulties of writing, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 9: Megan Kelleher
Megan Kelleher talks to Cheryl about the many ways people share stories, her personal journey of self-discovery, the influence of her family on her worldview, and the significance of NAIDOC Week. Her debut, Snake Talk, which she co-wrote with Tyson Yunkaporta, is out September 2, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast.
Stories Behind The Story: Michael Robotham & Dinuka McKenzie on the art of crafting interesting characters
Michael Robotham (The Suspect, Good Girl, Bad Girl) and Dinuka McKenzie (The Torrent, Taken) discuss Michael's 20 years of publishing, the hardships of writing, the crime genre, what inspires their books and the art of crafting interesting characters. Learn more about the two authors, their publishing history, the number of words they've had to sacrifice, and of course, the publishing industry in
Stories Behind The Story: Jacqueline Harvey & Kristin Darell on how they got into the publishing industry
Jacqueline Harvey (Alice-Miranda series, Kensy and Max series) and Kristin Darell (Taronga Presents series and Football Fever Series) share some laughs and talk about what inspires their books, how they got into the publishing industry, and believe it or not, koala poo. Learn more about the two authors, how Jacqueline once spied on MI6, Kristin's experience at Taronga Zoo, and as always, the book
Stories Behind The Story: Caoilinn Hughes & Bri Lee on the differences between young and older readers
Caoilinn Hughes (The Alternatives, Orchid & the Wasp) and Bri Lee (Eggshell Skull, Who Gets to Be Smart) share some laughs and talk about their latest books, the differences between young and older readers, how they met and how their books have impacted both their own lives and the lives of others. Learn more about the two authors, how they went on a 'Mafia Tour', the impacts of success, and o
Stories Behind The Story: January Gilchrist on Writing Beginnings, Blue Mountains Adventures, and Finding Her Voice at a Retreat
January Gilchrist talks to Cheryl about the beginnings of her writing journey, her adventures in the Blue Mountains and the transformative experience of attending a writing retreat. She also shares insights into the path to publication that ultimately led to her novel, The Final Chapter, which is out July 29, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 8: Cheryl Leavy
Cheryl Leavy talks to Cheryl Akle about the moment she realised she wanted to write her debut and its emotional connection to her mother, the role of poetry in contrast to First Nations language, her family heritage and its ties to the Stolen Generations, and the deeper meanings she’s woven into her own poetry. Her debut, Yanga Mother, which was illustrated by Christopher Bassi, is out now. Fresh
Stories Behind The Story: Karen Brooks on Brewing, Her Writing Journey and Bringing History to Life Through Fiction
Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl about her family-run brewery in Hobart, the influence of feminism on her writing, how she approaches research for her historical fiction, her connection to fantasy stories and what lies ahead in her writing journey. Her latest book, The Whisky Widow, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 7: Marly Wells
Marly Wells talks to Cheryl about the inspirations that led her and her mother to co-write their first book, the global conflicts shaping today's world, embracing self-pride, her First Nations heritage, and the journey from manuscript to publication. Her debut, Desert Tracks, which she co-wrote with her mother, Linda Wells, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Cop
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 6: Joshua Gilbert
Joshua Gilbert talks to Cheryl about the history of agriculture in Australia, First Nations agricultural practices, the Equal Wages decision, the beauty of coming together, and the story of his family and the community they’ve been part of. His debut, Australia's Agricultural Identity - an Aboriginal yarn, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's Th
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 5: Wanda Gibson
Wanda Gibson talks to Cheryl about publishing her picture book, the influence of her childhood on her writing and illustrations, her connection to the Lutheran church, the impact the book has had on her and her family, and how her life has evolved over the years. Her debut, Three Dresses, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. H
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 4: Lenora Thaker
Lenora Thaker talks to Cheryl about her Aboriginal Australian heritage, the impact of World War II on First Nations communities, her passion for writing and for Cairns, and the first book she ever read, which ended up sparking her love of reading. Her debut, The Pearl of Tagai Town, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 3: Natalia Figueroa Barroso
Natalia Figueroa Barroso talks to Cheryl about her family's immigration journey, the deep longing many migrants feel for their homeland, the influence of her childhood on her writing and the pivotal role her grandmother played in getting her published in The Spanish Herald. Her debut, Hailstones Fell without Rain, is out August 5, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Co
Stories Behind The Story: Fiona McKenzie Kekic on Turning Real-Life Experience and Industry Sexism into Page-Turning Fiction
Fiona McKenzie Kekic talks to Cheryl about her parents, the real-life experiences that shaped her novel, her career in television, the groundbreaking book that exposed sexism in Australia's TV and news industry, and the journey to publishing her latest work, Eva Reddy's Trip of a Lifetime, which is out July 29, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 2: Steve MinOn
Steve MinOn talks to Cheryl about his unique cultural heritage, the significance of names, his career in advertising and how personal experiences shaped his first book. His debut, First Name Second Name, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 1: Luke Patterson
Luke Patterson talks to Cheryl about the art of poetry, the ways he weaves identity into his work, the significance of place in his writing, his First Nations heritage and the impact of his travels across Europe. His debut, A Savage Turn, is out August 12, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy f
Stories Behind The Story: Jenny Ashcroft on How Real-Life Anonymous Letter Scandals Shaped Her Narrative
Jenny Ashcroft talks to Cheryl about real-life anonymous letter cases, the thrill of writing historical fiction, and the power of community in the book world. Her latest novel, Secrets of the Watch House, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Michael Robotham on His 19th Book, Publishing Challenges and Bringing His Books to Screen
Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl about his nineteenth novel, the evolution of the acclaimed Joe O'Loughlin series, the shifting landscape and challenges within today’s publishing industry and his experiences transforming his gripping stories into successful film and television adaptations. His latest book, The White Crow, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Rachel Paris on How Power Imbalances and Toxic Masculinity Have Influenced Her Writing
Rachel Paris talks to Cheryl about the challenges of navigating rejections, the timing of book releases, and the importance of perseverance. Her latest work, See How They Fall, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Angie Faye Martin on How Her Aboriginal Heritage Influenced Her Debut
Angie Faye Martin talks to Cheryl about the challenges she encountered while writing her first book, her journey as a writer, the influence of her First Nations heritage on her identity and her career in government. Her debut, Melaleuca, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Marian Keyes on Finding Joy, Feminism and Recovery Through Writing
Marian Keyes talks to Cheryl about the life experiences that shaped her books. From her journey through addiction and recovery to her reflections on feminism, resilience and finding happiness in unexpected places, Marian shares how writing became both a lifeline and a source of joy. With her trademark wit and honesty, she reveals how personal hardship can fuel creativity and connection. Her latest
Stories Behind The Story: Madeleine Cleary on Dedication and Teamwork Behind Crafting Compelling Narratives
Madeleine Cleary talks to Cheryl about her path to publication, the importance of collaboration with editors, and how balancing a full-time job with writing has shaped her creative process. Her latest work, The Butterfly Women, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stories Behind The Story: Omar Sakr on How Art Can Serve as Both Witness and Weapon
Omar Sakr talks to Cheryl about resistance, censorship, and the power of poetry to bring clarity, connection, and hope in turbulent times. His latest work in collaboration with illustrator Safdar Ahmed, The Nightmare Sequence, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
