#133: Michael Dean – The Invisible Patterns Behind Great Essays: How Essay Architecture Can Shape Your Writing and Break Through Perfectionism. London Writers' Salon Podcast

Episodi

#151: Melissa Febos — The Art of Memoir: Turn Life Into Art, Undoing Shame, and Choosing The Artist’s Life
28 giu· London Writers' Salon
Celebrated writer and memoirist Melissa Febos on the art of the memoir, the alchemy of personal experience and literary craft, and how to turn the raw material of life into art. We also her latest book, The Dry Season, where she examines the solitude, freedoms, and feminist heroes Febos found during a year of celibacy.
We also talk about:
- Writing the unspeakable and undoing shame.
- The role of research and personal obsession in memoir.
- Finding structure through inventory, list-making & reflection.
- Balancing vulnerability with privacy on the page.
- How Melissa decides what’s hers to tell—and when.
- Her advice on discouragement, creative play & sustaining the practice.
ABOUT MELISSA FEBOS
Melissa Febos is the nationally bestselling author of four books, including Girlhood, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award in Criticism, and Body Work: The Radical Power of Personal Narrative. She has received fellowships and awards from the Guggenheim Foundation, NEA, LAMBDA Literary, the British Library, and more. Her essays appear in The Paris Review, The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, and Best American Essays. She is a full professor at the University of Iowa and lives in Iowa City with her wife, poet Donika Kelly.

RESOURCES & LINKS:
📑 Interview Transcript (forthcoming)
Order a Signed Copy of The Dry SeasonPre Order The Dry SeasonThe Dry SeasonMelisa’s WebsiteWhip SmartAbandon MeBody Work“Living Like Weasels” by Annie DillardBelgian Beguines
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
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#150: Seth Godin – How To Build A Thriving Creative Writing Practice In the Age of AI. Plus, Stop Seeking Validation, Find Your Audience And Overcome Obscurity (From the Vault)
21 giu· London Writers' Salon
Legendary Seth Godin, bestselling author of Linchpin, Purple Cow, The Dip, Tribes, and The Practice on wrestling with creative resistance, getting past self-doubt, and how to build a resilient creative practice that thrives—even in an age of AI
We talk about:
Why writing isn’t about talent—but about creating the conditions for skillWhy “Do you like it?” is the wrong question to askAnd how to build a resilient creative practice that thrives—even in an age of AIHow to keep going when there’s no map and no promise of success
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About Seth Godin
Seth Godin is the author of 21 bestselling books that have reshaped the way people think about marketing, leadership, and creative work. His books have been translated into 39 languages and include Linchpin, Purple Cow, The Dip, Tribes, and The Practice. He’s also the founder of altMBA, the Carbon Almanac, and multiple pioneering ventures in the online business world. Seth writes one of the most popular blogs in the world and continues to inspire millions of creators to make and ship work that matters.
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Resources and Links:
📄 Interview Transcript (unedited)The Song of Significance by Seth Godin The Practice by Seth Godin altMBAHow to Decide by Annie Duke The War of Art by Steven PressfieldThe Carbon AlmanacElizabeth Gilbert on Hobby, Job, Career & VocationA History of Rock Music in 500 Songspurple.space
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
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#149: Tim Duggan – You Can Make Your Work More Meaningful, Plus How to Ideate And Write Bestselling Nonfiction Books
14 giu· London Writers' Salon
How can you make your life and work more meaningful?
Bestselling author Tim Duggan on ideating and writing bestselling non fiction books, creating killer opening lines and plotting. We also talk about how to unclog our creativity, find meaning in our work and life through a simple hack.
We discuss:
Tim’s outlining and editing process for non-fictionFinding the “anchor points” that define your personal valuesHow to identify and shape a powerful book questionThe case for working less, but more meaningfullyBuilding your Substack and ecosystem of trust with readersLessons from the happiest country on Earth
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About Tim Duggan
Tim Duggan is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and former media executive with a passion for meaningful work and big ideas. He co-founded Junkee Media, one of Australia’s leading independent publishers, and served as Chair of the Digital Publishers Alliance. His books Cult Status and Killer Thinking became celebrated guides for purpose-driven businesses and creatives, and his latest, Work Backwards, explores how we can redesign work and life around what truly matters. Tim also writes on his Substack OUTLET, lives in Mallorca with his husband, and speaks globally about creativity, optimism, and the future of work.

Resources and Links:
📑Interview TranscriptCult Status by Tim DugganDoppleganger by Naomi KleinScrivenerThe Work Backwards SoundtrackOUTLET - Tim’s SubstackAtomic Habits by James ClearThe Book Publicist Perplexity AIGetting Things Done by David Allen
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#148: Mark Haddon — The Writing Habit That Changed Everything: Lessons from 18 Books, Creative Doubt & Writing Without A Map
7 giu· London Writers' Salon
Mark Haddon, bestselling author of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, A Spot of Bother, and The Red House on his process writing 18 books, including his latest book Dogs & Monsters, plus how he approaches success and failure.
We discuss:
Why writing begins before you start writingCreating strong beginningsHow poetry can expand your creative rangeWriting without a mapOn self-doubt, impostor syndrome & trusting your instinctsThe value of conflict, myth, and compression in storytellingPublishing realities, artistic risk, and protecting your creative spark
About Mark Haddon
Mark Haddon is the author of the internationally bestselling novels The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, A Spot of Bother, and The Red House. His debut novel won the Whitbread Book of the Year Award and inspired a Tony Award–winning play. A multidisciplinary artist, Mark has also written award-winning poetry, radio dramas, children’s books, and TV screenplays. He teaches creative writing for the Arvon Foundation and lives in Oxford, England.
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Resources and Links:
📑Interview TranscriptMark’s InstagramMark’s booksDogs and Monsters by Mark HaddonOrigins of the Universe by Albert HinkelbeinThe Evolution of Man - Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Evolution of Man by J. JelinekConflict and Compassion Poems About WarThe Horses by Edwin Muir Poems by RS ThomasJackanoryHelm by Sarah HallTithonus| Greek MythologySappho FragmentsPaul Farley PoetEverything Ravaged, Everything Burned by Wells TowerGarnons-Williams & James SpackmanArvon’s courses
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About Arvon:
Arvon is the UK’s leading creative writing charity. For over 55 years, Arvon’s creative writing courses have been linking aspiring writers with successful authors, and they are a significant and celebrated part of the British literary landscape. Arvon passionately believes that everyone can benefit from the transformative power of creative writing. It hosts residential, online and community-based writing courses and events, embracing over 6,000 people each year, tutored by some of the most respected writers in the UK today.
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For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#147: Jane Friedman — The Publishing Industry is Changing. Here’s What Writers Should Know About Pitching, Platforms & Protecting Their Work
1 giu· London Writers' Salon
What does it take to craft a pitch that truly grabs attention in today’s publishing world? In this conversation, Jane Friedman—publishing industry expert and author of The Business of Being a Writer shares her journey into the publishing world and she shares her advice for writers looking to perfect their submission materials and navigate the ever-changing publishing landscape.

We discuss:
How to craft a compelling pitch that stands outThe balance between art and business for writersCommon myths about pitching and the publishing industrySelf-publishing vs. traditional publishing: What to knowProtecting your writing in the age of AIHow to adapt to the evolving publishing landscape and stay realistic about successUnderstanding the real costs and considerations of hybrid publishing
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Resources and Links:
📑Interview TranscriptRoxane Gay - World of WakandaMonica ByrneKate McKean SubstackJane’s WebsiteSubmissions materialsJane’s Website - publishing paths - traditional vs alt publishingCreated By HumansJane’s books
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JANE FRIEDMAN
Jane Friedman has over 25 years of experience in publishing and is a trusted voice in the industry. She is the author of The Business of Being a Writer and publishes The Hot Sheet and The Bottom Line newsletters, which are read by over 40,000 writers and publishing professionals. Jane’s expertise has been featured in major outlets like The New York Times, NPR, and BBC. She’s an educator, speaker, and a leading authority on the business of writing.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#146: Alda Sigmundsdóttir — How Blogging Changed My Life, Indie Publishing 101, Memoir, Writing About Culture With Integrity
25 mag· London Writers' Salon
Alda Sigmundsdóttir is a journalist, author, and independent publisher who has built a thriving literary life outside the traditional system. From blogging about Iceland to launching her own press, Alda has published over 11 books and grown a loyal global readership—while staying in full control of her creative work.
We discuss:
Alda’s early writing career and transition to self-publishingWhat she learned from being traditionally publishedThe freedom and responsibility of going indieHow she built and nurtured a global readershipHer approach to writing about people, culture, and the pastLessons from promoting across genres and writing memoirMindset shifts and skills that supported her success

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ABOUT ALDA SIGMUNDSDÓTTIR
Alda Sigmundsdóttir is a writer, speaker, and independent publisher based in Reykjavík, Iceland. She’s the author of over 10 books exploring Icelandic culture and society, and the memoir Daughter. She writes two popular Substack newsletters (Letter from Iceland and The Recovery Salon), runs her own publishing house (Little Books Publishing), and teaches a course on going indie.

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RESOURCES & LINKS:
📑Interview TranscriptAlda's 'Going Indie' course - LWSAUTHOR for $100 off (Valid until the end of June)Free webinar - Building an Audience for your BooksAlda’s Substack Post - Women on TopLiving Inside the MeltdownThe Little Book of the Icelanders in the Old Days Daughter - Alda’s Memoir The Recovery Salon - Alda’s Second Substack Alda’s Website
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#145: Maggie O’Farrell — Confessions of a Novelist: Writing from Instinct, Why Revision is Essential, Facing Doubt & Finding the Story’s Heartbeat (From the Vault)
18 mag· London Writers' Salon
Award-winning and bestselling author Maggie O’Farrell Hamnet and The Marriage Portrait author takes us behind the scenes of her creative process—from the early struggles of starting out to the discipline and instinct that shape her acclaimed novels.
We explore the irresistible drive to write, the role of characters in steering a story, and how she blends history with imagination. Maggie also shares her thoughts on revision, redrafting without ego, and what it really takes to endure in the writing life.
We discuss:
The insatiable urge to write and the challenges of beginning a novelLetting characters lead and reshaping a story mid-draftWeaving fact and fiction in historical narrativesWhy revision is where the real writing happensHonest feedback, creative resilience, and writing for the long haul
ABOUT MAGGIE O'FARRELL
Maggie O’Farrell is the author of Hamnet (winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award) and I Am, I Am, I Am: Seventeen Brushes with Death, both Sunday Times number 1 bestsellers. Her other works include The Marriage Portrait, The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox, After You’d Gone, The Hand That First Held Mine (winner of the Costa Novel Award), and Instructions for a Heatwave. Maggie’s work is praised for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and its ability to bring overlooked historical figures to life.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📄 Transcript (unedited)ArvonUpcoming Arvon CoursesThe Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'FarrellHamnet by Maggie O'FarrellI Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O'Farrell“My Last Duchess” by Robert BrowningAlessandro Allori's portrait of Lucrezia D’ MediciRead Zoe's notes from the interview
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This podcast was done in collaboration with Arvon, the UK’s leading creative writing charity. Arvon passionately believes that everyone can benefit from the transformative power of creative writing. It hosts residential, online and community-based writing courses and events, embracing over 6,000 people each year, tutored by some of the most respected writers in the UK today. Find out more at arvon.org.
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#144: Eleanor Anstruther – The Book Industry Rejected Me. So I Built My Own Audience on Substack; Serialising Online, Writing Literary Fiction; Being an Independent Artist, Creating Your Artist DNA
10 mag· London Writers' Salon
What if the traditional publishing world says “no”? Eleanor Anstruther—acclaimed novelist and creator of The Literary Obsessive—shares her bold leap into indie publishing, serialising fiction and memoir on Substack, and why you need an Artist DNA to draw an audience.
We discuss:
Her aristocratic background and experience living in a communeNavigating rejection and the pivot to serialising work onlineThe realities (and surprises) of building a paid readership on SubstackAdvice for writers considering serialisation and indie publishingHow to build a creative communityPractical tips: drafting, book sales, pricing subscriptions, and more
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ABOUT ELEANOR ANSTRUTHER
Eleanor Anstruther grew up in London, studied History of Art at Manchester, and spent twelve years travelling the world and starting a commune before turning to writing. Her debut novel, A Perfect Explanation, was longlisted for major prizes. Today, she serialises her fiction and memoir on Substack, where she’s built a passionate readership and runs the celebrated interview series 8 Questions. Connect with her via The Literary Obsessive on Substack.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑Interview TranscriptThe Literary Obsessive on SubstackA Perfect Explanation by Eleanor AnstrutherIn Judgement of Others by Eleanor AnstrutherContact form Glitter Balls by Michelle HowarthA Memoir in 65 Postcards & The Recovery Diaries by Eleanor AnstrutherSarah Fay SubstackBen Wakeman's SubstackSimon K JonesTroubador Publishing
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#143: Julia Cameron – How to Reignite Your Creativity Through Daily Rituals, Believing Mirrors & The Artist’s Way (From the Vault)
4 mag· London Writers' Salon
Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way and one of the most influential voices on creativity of the last three decades, shares timeless wisdom on nurturing the artist within.
We discuss:
Morning Pages and Artist Dates as tools for creative recovery.Why being of service is at the heart of writing.Writing in dialogue with intuition (and the divine).How to handle criticism, praise, and creative resistance.Stories from a life in service of art, including poetry, musicals, and spiritual practice.

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ABOUT JULIA CAMERON
Julia Cameron is the author of forty books, including her bestselling works on the creative process: The Artist’s Way, Seeking Wisdom, The Listening Path, Walking In This World and Finding Water. Her work has been translated into more than forty languages. Also a novelist, playwright, songwriter, and poet, she has multiple credits in theatre, film, and television. Her memoir Floor Sample takes behind the scenes of her extraordinary life and career as a writer and teacher.
Connect with Julia:
Twitter:@j_cameronlive
Website: juliacameronlive.com
RESOURCES & LINKS
Morning PagesArtist's DateJulia's musical: AvalonJulia's poemsJulia's memoir, published in the UK: Floor SampleAll of Julia's books
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#142: Chris Banks – How To Use AI In Your Writing , Staying Weird & Keeping Control as Creatives
27 apr· London Writers' Salon
(Interview from 2024) The founder of ProWritingAid, Chris Banks, shares his thoughts on how AI is reshaping writing, editing, and the creative process. Recorded in front of a live audience after Writers' Hour.
We discuss:
- AI as a creative partner: Can it replace writers?
- Using AI responsibly to save time, enhance editing, and elevate your craft.
- How to adapt AI tools to fit unique writing style and needs.
- Privacy & data concerns for writers and creatives.
- The importance of weirdness and the human touch in the AI era.
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LINKS & RESOURCES
ProWritingAid
Chris Banks
OFFER:
Since our interview, ProWritingAid have released their Manuscript Analysis tool. Get feedback on your whole manuscript, discover what’s working well and where you can improve your plot, characters, settings and more. Sign up (+1 free credit). Use code London20 for a discount on your subscription.
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
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ABOUT CHRIS BANKS
Chris Banks is the founder and CEO of ProWritingAid, a comprehensive writing and editing toolkit that uses artificial intelligence to helps authors, editors, and professionals improve their work. Chris built ProWritingAid to bridge the gap between technology and creativity. Chris is deeply involved in discussions about AI’s impact on the writing world and how authors can harness it to enhance—not replace—their unique voice.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#141: Jono Hey – Build a Creative Practice That Sticks: Mastering Visual Thinking, 900+ Sketches, Deep Simplicity and Collaborating with Bill Gates
19 apr· London Writers' Salon
Jono Hey, author of Big Ideas Little Pictures and creator of Sketchplanations, shares insights from over a decade of explaining the world through sketches.
We discuss:
The power of visual thinkingBuilding a new identity when changing careersKnowing when a piece is done and ready for publishingTips to get started with sketching& lessons from long-term creative projects, including illustrating for Bill Gates.
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ABOUT JONO HEY
Jono Hey is the author and illustrator of Big Ideas Little Pictures, a collection of the best of Sketchplanations—his decade-long project dedicated to explaining complex ideas through simple sketches. With a background spanning academia, business, design, product development, and engineering, Jono has helped build two successful companies and holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. His work has been featured in Bill Gates’s book How to Prevent the Next Pandemic, and he co-hosts Sketchplanations – the Podcast, where he and two friends dive deeper into the ideas behind his sketches. Find his latest work at sketchplanations.com.
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RESOURCES
📑Interview TranscriptSketchplanations.comA Sketch a Day journalMaker’s Schedule, Manager’s Schedule by Paul GrahamBack of the Napkin by Dan RoamBig Ideas Little Pictures by Jono Hey Blurb (Book Printing)Jono’s Patreon
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#140: Matt Trinetti – Building The World's Most Engaged Writing Community: Navigating Boundaries, Fostering Belonging, Harnessing the Power of Connection & the Importance of Creative Health
12 apr· London Writers' Salon
Matt Trinetti, co-founder of the London Writers' Salon, on building the world’s most engaged writing community, the role of creativity in the face of AI and the transformative power of writing for creative and mental health.
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ABOUT MATT TRINETTI
Matt Trinetti is the co-founder of London Writers' Salon, our community, dedicated to helping writers connect, make progress, and launch successful careers. With a background in career coaching and leadership development, Matt has worked with top organizations like Google and Unilever. His writing has been featured in Quartz, Huffington Post, and Business Insider, and shared by influential figures such as Tim Ferriss and Arianna Huffington.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
Join the London Writers' Salon CommunityWriters’ HourMatt's Linked-InMatt's Substack: Seeking With MattBook: The Thank You Economy, by Gary V.Book: The Art of Community by Charles Vogl Book: The Art of Gathering, by Priya Parker Escape the City
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#139: Steve Almond – The Truth About Creative Failure, Overcoming Ego, and Writing Stories That Actually Matter
5 apr· London Writers' Salon
Steve Almond, bestselling author on ‘failing’ for decades, finding flow, finding success in Hollywood, overcoming writer’s block and telling the stories only you can tell with truth and mercy.
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ABOUT STEVE ALMOND
Steve Almond is the award-winning author of twelve books of fiction and nonfiction, including the New York Times bestsellers Candyfreak and Against Football and Which Brings Me To You (turned into a Netflix show).
For four years, Steve hosted the New York Times Dear Sugars podcast with his pal Cheryl Strayed. He also publishes crazy, DIY books. His latest book is Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑Interview Transcript (Unedited)My Life in Heavy Metal by Steve AlmondTruth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow by Steve AlmondWriting Classes by SteveStory of a Poem by Matthew ZapruderSteve’s Website
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#138: Nicola Slawson – From Journalism to Book Deals: Pitching, Newsletters, and Building a Writing Life on Your Own Terms
29 mar· London Writers' Salon
Nicola Slawson, creator of the award-winning newsletter The Single Supplement, shares her journey of building a creative career on her own terms. From launching her newsletter with zero subscribers to securing a book deal, Nicola offers insights into embracing your unique story, building an authentic community, and navigating the realities of freelance journalism and book writing.
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ABOUT NICOLA SLAWSON
Nicola Slawson is a freelance journalist, writer, and public speaker. She is the creator of The Single Supplement newsletter and author of Single: Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms. Nicola is passionate about telling human stories and empowering others to embrace their own.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑Interview Transcript (Unedited)Scott Trust BursaryThe Single Supplement - Nicola’s SubstackA Single Serving PodcastLightbulb Facebook Group - For WritersSingle: Living a Complete Life on Your Own TermsVagina: A Re-Education by Lynn EnrightHow To Fail by Elizabeth DayScrivener Writing SoftwareComing Home by Rosamunde Pilcher
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#137: Sareeta Domingo – Writing Love That Feels Real, Breaking into Publishing, Writing Intimacy on the Page, and Selling Romance
22 mar· London Writers' Salon
Author and Editorial Director Sareeta Domingo on writing love stories that feel real, breaking into publishing, and crafting authentic intimacy in fiction. She shares insights on balancing her dual careers in writing and editing, the biggest mistakes authors make when submitting, and how the romance industry is evolving.
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ABOUT SAREETA DOMINGO
Sareeta Domingo is the Editorial Director at Trapeze Books (Hachette) and the author of The Three of Us and If I Don’t Have You, shortlisted for the Diverse Book Awards 2021. She edited the romance anthology Who’s Loving You and writes YA fiction under S.A. Domingo.

RESOURCES & LINKS
📑Interview Transcript (Unedited)Fattily Ever After by Stephanie YeboahAgent ProvocateurMills & BoonBefore Trilogy (films)Tia Williams (Author)The Roommate by Rosie DinanEmily Henry (Author) Dan Harmon’s 8 steps for ScreenwritingScrivenerJacaranda BooksSareeta’s InstagramSareeta’s Website
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
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Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
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#136: Tessa Hadley – The Secrets of Literary Fiction: How to Craft Powerful, Resonant Stories, Creating Compelling Stories, Publishing in your 40s, 50s and beyond
15 mar· London Writers' Salon
Best-selling Author Tessa Hadley on getting published in her 40s and beyond, the craft of literary fiction, developing character and conflict, and the importance of conflict.
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ABOUT TESSA HADLEY:
Tessa Hadley is the author of eight highly acclaimed novels, including Clever Girl and Free Love, as well as four short story collections, most recently Bad Dreams and Other Stories, which won the Edge Hill Short Story Prize. Her latest book is the novella The Party. Her work regularly appears in The New Yorker and Granta, and she has won the Windham Campbell Prize and the Hawthornden Prize. After two decades of struggling to publish, she landed her first book deal at 46 and has since become one of the most respected literary fiction writers of our time.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑 Interview Transcript (Unedited)The Party by Tessa HadleyFree Love by Tessa HadleyTom’s Midnight Garden by Philippa PearceWriters’ and Artists’ Yearbook 2025
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#135: Anne-Laure Le Cunff — The Science of Creativity: Using Tiny Experiments to Unlock Growth, Learning, and Better Writing
8 mar· London Writers' Salon
Writer, neuroscientist, and Ness Labs founder Anne-Laure Le Cunff shares insights on redefining success, writing in public, and using tiny experiments to fuel creativity. She talks about growing her newsletter from 0 to 100K+, transitioning from writing articles to a book, and the neuroscience behind sustainable ambition.
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ABOUT ANNE-LAURE LE CUNFF:
Anne-Laure Le Cunff is the founder of Ness Labs and author of Tiny Experiments. A former Google digital health lead turned award-winning neuroscientist, her research explores curiosity, lifelong learning, and mental adaptability. Her work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Forbes, and WIRED.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑Interview Transcript (Unedited)Ness Labs Newsletter Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Le CunffNaNoWriMoSara Grace Developmental Editor
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
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FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#134: Jody Eddy – Michelin Kitchens, Monks & The Cookbook Playbook: What Top Chefs Taught Me About Rituals & Success; NonFiction Proposal & Food Writing
1 mar· London Writers' Salon
Foodwriter and Chef Jody Eddy on what goes on in Michelin-star kitchens, monastic culinary traditions, and the rigorous world of food writing. From working 17-hour shifts in elite restaurants to uncovering the rituals of monks and chefs alike, she reveals the hidden ingredients of storytelling, discipline, and turning culinary ideas into bestselling books.
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ABOUT JODY EDDY
Jody Eddy is a writer, editor, and cookbook author whose work explores the intersection of food, culture, and storytelling. She has written for Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, and The Wall Street Journal and has authored several acclaimed cookbooks, including Come In, We’re Closed, North: The New Nordic Cuisine of Iceland, and Chaat. Jody Eddy is a writer, editor, and cookbook author whose work explores the intersection of food, culture, and storytelling. Her latest book is Elysian Kitchens: Recipes Inspired by the Traditions and Tastes of the World's Sacred Spaces.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
📑 Interview Transcript (Unedited)Come In, We’re Closed by Jody Eddy & Chirstine CarrollNorth:The New Nordic Cuisine of Iceland by Gunnar Karl Gíslason and Jody Eddy Chaat: Recipes from the Kitchens, Markets, and Railways of India IACP - International Association of Culinary ProfessionalsElysian Kitchens by Jody EddyOxford Food SymposiumWhat’s Good Here - Jody’s Substack
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
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For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#133: Michael Dean – The Invisible Patterns Behind Great Essays: How Essay Architecture Can Shape Your Writing and Break Through Perfectionism.
22 feb· London Writers' Salon
Essayist, editor and creator of Essay Architecture, Michael Dean on the hidden structures and key patterns within great essays.
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ABOUT MICHAEL DEAN
Michael Dean is a writer, editor, and creator of Essay Architecture. A former architect and virtual reality specialist, he now studies the hidden frameworks that make essays work.
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RESOURCES & LINKS
Michael DeanEssay ArchitectureO’Shaughnessy FellowshipEssayists on the EssayA Pattern LanguageEssay Writing as Personal Sovereignty: Shaping AI to preserve the slow craft of critical thoughtBest American Essays
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
*
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#132: Dava Sobel — The Art of Science Storytelling, Writing Hidden Histories & How a Rejected Pitch Became a Bestseller
16 feb· London Writers' Salon
Best-selling Science Writer Dava Sobel on blending science with storytelling—how to craft compelling narratives, navigate deep research, and bring historical figures to life. Plus insights on nonfiction publishing, overcoming creative roadblocks, and making complex ideas accessible to readers.
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ABOUT DAVA SOBEL
Dava Sobel is the bestselling author of The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science, Longitude, Galileo’s Daughter, and The Glass Universe. A former New York Times science reporter, she has received numerous awards for her contributions to science writing and currently edits the “Meter” poetry column in Scientific American.

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RESOURCES & LINKS
📄 Interview Transcript (unedited) Marie Curie’s NotebooksThe Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science
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This episode is brought to you by our friends at Lulu. If you're interested in self-publishing, Lulu has free resources such as helpful tutorials, templates to help you layout a book, design for print, and they have a very watchable YouTube University channel. Our community anthology is in fact published using Lulu. Check them out at lulu.com.
*
For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.
For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.
*
FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON
Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalon
Instagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalon
Facebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalon
If you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!
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#132: Dava Sobel — The Art of Science Storytelling, Writing Hidden Histories & How a Rejected Pitch Became a Bestseller