Episodi
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Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen join Kate and Michelle to talk about their latest novel, Our Deadly Summer, a darkly funny thriller following two best friends who spend a summer at a Long Island country club in the early 2000's, witness something they should never have seen, and spend the next twenty years trying to forget it.
The duo share how their own J1 experiences and the reckless freedom of life before smartphones shaped the book, why they deliberately set it in a pre-tracking, pre-social media world and what it felt like to take their writing in a new direction while holding onto the warmth and female friendship that has always defined their work.
They also open up about how their co-writing process actually works, from flipping a coin to decide who writes the dreaded first chapter, to editing each other's work so thoroughly that they often forget who wrote what, to the discipline required to keep moving when a deadline is closing in.
A warm, funny and refreshingly candid conversation about creative partnership, nostalgia, female friendship and what it really takes to keep writing.
Key takeaways for writers:
Starting is always the hardest part.Co-writing demands that you let go of being precious about your own words, the book matters more than who wrote which line.Writing simultaneously rather than waiting for the other person to finish keeps momentum going and beats procrastination.Dual timelines and shifting perspectives are exciting but difficult. Expect to rewrite yourself into corners and out of them again.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
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Caroline Foran joins Kate and Michelle to discuss her new book, Everything I Wish I'd Known About Anxiety, a practical roadmap for anyone who has ever felt frightened by their own mind and desperate for a way through.
Caroline shares the story behind the book, why she designed it as a sequential road map rather than a menu of options and why she is more confident about this book than anything she has written before. She explains why anxiety is not something to be cured but overcome and what that distinction actually means in practice.
She also unpacks two of the book's most illuminating ideas: why morning anxiety is so much more intense than most people expect, and the very real neurological reason for it, and why scrolling through social media is one of the worst things an anxious nervous system can do, even when it feels like a way to relax.
Caroline opens up about her own journey from being physically crippled by anxiety in her twenties, to the extraordinary role her mother played in pulling her through, challenges of parenting and what that has required her to unlearn about parenting.
A warm and deeply honest conversation about anxiety, self-compassion, the nervous system and what it really means to get your life back.
Key takeaways for anyone living with anxiety:
Anxiety is not a flaw or a failing. It is a nervous system response that can be meaningfully overcome.The foundational work matters. Skipping to the fix without laying the groundwork is why so many people go backwards.Morning cortisol is biological, not personal. Moving your body is an effective response.Social media is a slot machine for your nervous system. Even knowing that, stepping back is hard but the difference is immediate.Self-compassion is not a platitude. Meeting yourself where you are is the only real starting point.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
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Episodi mancanti?
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Louise O'Neill joins Kate and Michelle to discuss her new novel, Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone?, a story of twin sisters, a Hollywood casting that changes everything and the discovery of a storage unit twenty years later that forces Chelsea to ask whether she ever really knew her sister at all.
Louise unpacks how the Paris Hilton storage unit scandal influenced parts of the book, why she set it against the Y2K celebrity era, and what it meant to write about two women on opposite sides of a system that rewards compliance and punishes those who refuse to play along. She also reflects on the very real parallels between that era and what young women are navigating today.
She opens up honestly about handling the publicity of promoting new books, the tension between wanting your book to reach readers and balancing your energy levels during promotions and why being good at something doesn't always mean you enjoy it. Louise also talks about writing her memoir, due out in September.
A rich, wide-ranging conversation about sisterhood, navigating writing multiple books and holding onto hope when the world keeps giving you reasons not to.
Key takeaways for writers:
Being good at publicity and enjoying it are two very different things, knowing the difference matters.Writing nonfiction requires finding a voice that is distinct from your fiction voice, even when it is your own.The most powerful character dynamics often come from showing two sides of the same experience.Holding onto hope is not naive, for writers exploring dark themes, it is essential.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Bestselling Irish author Louise Nealon joins Kate and Michelle to talk about her much-anticipated new novel, Everything That Is Beautiful. A story of three women, an Irish wedding and the traumatic secret that has kept them from each other for years.
Louise unpacks how the novel came together, why she made truth itself the central tension of the book and what it means when people are right about something but still cause damage in the way they reveal it. She reflects on the fine line between honesty and being too harsh within families, and the question that sits at the heart of the novel!
She also opens up about the very real pressure of following a debut as celebrated as Snowflake. A deeply honest conversation about storytelling, the subjectivity of truth, imaginary friends and why the best writing often comes from getting out of your own way.
Key takeaways for writers:
Placing impossibly high literary expectations on yourself is one of the fastest ways to stop writing altogether.Characters surprise you, the excitement of not knowing where they'll go is often what keeps you at the desk.A "scenes I'd like to see" document can be a more generative planning tool than a chapter-by-chapter outline.The sentences you agonise over most are sometimes the ones readers fly past.Finishing the book is the only thing you actually have to do, everything else follows from that.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Bestselling Irish author Ruth O'Leary joins Kate and Michelle to discuss her latest novel, The Last Week of Him, the story of three women reunited in the west of Ireland after receiving a shocking WhatsApp message about the sudden death of their secondary school golden boy.
Ruth walks through exactly how the book came together, she also reflects on the central question she hopes the book raises for readers and book clubs: how well do we really know our friends when so much of our insight into their lives comes through social media? And does a difficult upbringing ever truly excuse the way we treat people?
Away from the page, Ruth shares stories from over twelve years working as a film and TV extra, from playing a nun beside Russell Crowe to running up Wicklow fields as a Viking.
A joyful, generous conversation about storytelling, friendship & writing.
Key takeaways for writers:
A strong visual concept, can anchor an entire novel before you write a word.Using a tight timeframe as a structural scaffold keeps your plot grounded and your pacing sharp.Writing detailed character bios with reference images before drafting helps bring fictional people to vivid life.Location is not just backdrop, it actively shapes what your characters can and cannot do.Epilogues matter: if you are invested in your characters, your readers will be too.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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After many years of writing, journalist and Sunday Times Ireland political editor Jennifer Bray finally landed her dream book deal and âThe Lies Between Usâ was worth every moment of the wait.
In this episode, Jen joins Kate and Michelle for an honest conversation about the long road to publication. She reflects on the early manuscripts that didn't make the cut, the emotional chaos of being on submission and why she believes persistence is the single most important quality a writer can have.
She also digs into the concept of the "thoughtful rejection", how detailed feedback from agents, though hard to hear, can completely redirect a writer's journey for the better.
A must-listen for anyone who has ever wondered whether to keep going. Spoiler: keep going.
Key takeaways for writers:
Every unpublished manuscript teaches you something, don't dismiss the ones that don't make it.Treat detailed rejection feedback as a signpost, not a dead end.Research agents carefully and show you understand what they're looking for.Strong, believable characters are the foundation of great fiction.Persistence is one of the only things that separates published writers from unpublished ones.Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
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Bestselling Irish author Edel Coffey joins Kate and Michelle to discuss her latest thriller, In Glass Houses.
Edel explores how growing up in South County Dublin, walking past peacocks and palatial homes whilst living in a estate, shaped her fascination with class divides and privilege. She discusses the sliding doors moments that change lives forever, how generational wealth creates different moral outcomes and the topic of how we all think we're good people until doing the right thing actually costs us something.
For writers, Edel shares her brilliant practical approach: she wrote much of her debut novel in 15 to 20 minute bursts whilst waiting at the school gates, treating her story like a sourdough starter that needed feeding daily. She's honest about the nature of publishing success and having to continually raise the bar but reveals she's finally feeling more confident in her craft.
Plus, Edel discusses what home truly means when you live far from your roots, her recent militant stance on smartphones and teases a secret project in a completely different genre that's been obsessing her for five years.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
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Welcome back to Season 5 of Natter, this week we are joined by bestselling author Sam Blake as she unveils the inspiration behind her latest book, Your Every Move.
Discover how real-world research shapes her strong, complex characters and how social media influences modern crime narratives.
Listeners will gain insights into balancing creativity with research, crafting memorable characters, and protecting your work from AI copyright theft. Perfect for writers and readers alike, this episode is a masterclass in storytelling and resilience, urging you to manifest your goals and keep stories alive.
Key Takeaways:
Manifestation requires action to achieve results.Knowing your story's end can enhance creative flow.Authentic settings deepen reader immersion.Unrelated ideas spark innovative storytelling.Persistent effort is crucial for successNatter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this captivating and final episode of Season 4 of Natter, we welcome the esteemed Irish novelist Cecelia Ahern! Cecelia, whose debut novel "P.S. I Love You" became an international bestseller and a beloved film, shares her journey through the literary world, having sold over 25 million copies.
The discussion delves into her latest work, "Paper Heart" a novel that is uplifting, exploring the life of a woman named Pip who learns to take control of her destiny. Cecelia reflects on the inspiration behind her characters, how she maintains creativity, and the evolution of the publishing industry, from traditional methods to the digital age. She discusses the joy she finds in storytelling.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of creativity, resilience, and the power of narrative to transform lives. Join us for an inspiring conversation that will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to embrace your own story.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join us for an insightful conversation with Sophie Morris, a health food advocate, entrepreneur, and author who has carved out a distinctive path in the culinary world. We discuss Sophie's transition from studying business economics to discovering her true calling at Ballymaloe Cookery School, and hear about the ups and downs of building her cookie dough business from the ground up.
Sophie talks about how her supermarket comparison videos gained widespread attention online, and shares her views on why ingredient quality matters more than calorie counting. We explore her commitment to food education and supporting small-scale producers through direct purchasing. Sophie also talks about her book "Sophie's Swaps".
The conversation also touches on Sophie's experience of managing both motherhood and a growing career, and the lessons she's learnt along the way. Whether you're interested in food, small business, or personal growth, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this captivating episode of Natter, we sit down with the brilliant Felicity Hayes-McCoy, author of the beloved Finfarran series. Felicity shares her journey from acting to acclaimed writer, revealing the inspirations behind her heartwarming stories that celebrate the extraordinary within the ordinary. We delve into her latest work, "Once a Year".
Join us as Felicity discusses the power of storytelling, the importance of community, and Felicity opens up about her writing process, the transition from scriptwriting to novel writing, and the joy she finds in crafting narratives that resonate with readers across generations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will leave you uplifted and eager to explore the world of Felicity Hayes-McCoy.
This episode is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring writers and book lovers alike, offering a glimpse into the mind of a writer who continues to inspire with her words and wisdom.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this captivating episode, we sit down with the talented Catherine Doyle, an award-winning and internationally bestselling author known for her young adult and children's fiction. Catherine shares her journey from a book-loving child to a celebrated author whose works have been translated into multiple languages. We explore her inspirations and how they shaped her own writing style.
We also delve into her creative process, the challenges of writing during the pandemic, and the joy of collaborating with Katherine Webber on the "Twin Crowns" series.
Throughout the episode, Cat's passion for storytelling shines through as she reflects on the power of books to create communities and inspire young readers. Whether you're a fan of fantasy, romance, or simply love a good story, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the world of an author who continues to enchant audiences worldwide. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most exciting voices in young adult fiction today.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join us for a captivating episode of the Natter Podcast as we sit down with Dr. Marie Cassidy, the former state pathologist of Ireland. Dive into her fascinating career, where she unravelled mysteries and brought closure to countless families. Discover her transition from forensic pathology to bestselling author, and explore the themes of her latest novel, "Deadly Evidence." Marie shares her insights on the evolving landscape of forensic science, the emotional weight of her work, and her journey into writing.
In this episode, Marie opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her career, including the cases that still linger in her mind. She discusses the societal changes impacting crime and justice, and how her experiences have shaped her views on life and death. With her characteristic wit and wisdom, Marie reflects on her current phase of life, embracing new adventures and creative pursuits.
Don't miss this intriguing conversation filled with wisdom, humour, and a touch of Scottish charm. Whether you're a fan of true crime, literature, or simply love a good story, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Tune in for an unforgettable journey through the life and mind of Dr. Marie Cassidy!
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join us for an insightful chat with Dr. Harry Barry, a leading figure in Ireland's mental health landscape. In this episode, Dr. Barry shares stories from his latest memoir, "Beneath the Surface," revealing personal experiences of resilience and the power of empathy. He discusses his journey from a GP to a bestselling author, offering a fresh perspective on emotional distress and mental health.
Dr. Barry highlights the importance of self-acceptance, differentiates between emotional distress and mental illness, and explains how vulnerability can be a source of strength. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of life's challenges and the connections that help us overcome them. Don't miss this chance to learn from a true mental health advocate.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing vulnerability and self-acceptance.Distinguishing emotional distress from mental illness.The healing power of empathy and connection.Tune in to be inspired by Dr. Barry's wisdom and experience.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join hosts Kate and Michelle on this captivating episode of Natter as they sit down with the remarkable Sophie White, a bestselling author and celebrated podcaster. Sophie takes us on a journey through her literary career, sharing the inspirations behind her acclaimed works, including her latest book, "Such a Good Couple."
In a heartfelt discussion, Sophie opens up about the personal challenges she has faced, from navigating mental health to grief. She reflects on the impact of grief and the healing power of storytelling, offering listeners a glimpse into her world of creativity and resilience.
Discover how Sophie balances her personal and professional life, and gain insights into her approach to writing and life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of storytelling & resilience, tune in for an inspiring conversation with Sophie.
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this captivating episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle welcome the extraordinary Heather Morris, the author behind bestsellers like "The Tattooist of Auschwitz" and her latest, "The Wish." Heather opens up about her unexpected journey from a career in social work to becoming a celebrated storyteller, sharing how her encounters with remarkable individuals have shaped her writing. The conversation delves into the art of listening, a skill Heather honed through her career.
Listeners will gain insight into Heather's creative process, including the challenges and rewards of writing stories that transcend her own experiences. The episode also explores the themes of love, resilience, and hope that permeate Heather's work, as well as the emotional weight of carrying others' stories. Heather discusses the importance of capturing the voices of those who cannot tell their own tales and the delicate balance of honoring their truths while crafting the stories.
Join us for an inspiring dialogue that touches on the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides, the role of fiction in educating and enlightening, and the enduring impact of stories on our understanding of history and humanity. Whether you're a fan of Heather's work or new to her stories, this episode offers a profound exploration of the connections that bind us all. Tune in and keep turning the pages with Natter!
Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this deeply moving episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with academic and author Mary Ann Kenny to explore her remarkable journey through grief, psychosis, and recovery following the sudden death of her husband, John.
Mary Ann opens up about the raw and personal story behind her book The Episode, detailing her descent into psychosis, the complexities of psychiatric treatment, and her path to healing. Together, they delve into the power of storytelling, the urgent need for advocacy within mental health care, and the persistent stigma that surrounds mental illness.
Key Points:
Mary Ann shares the story behind her book The EpisodeThe realities of psychosis and navigating psychiatric careHow grief and trauma shaped her mental health journeyThe role of storytelling in breaking stigma and fostering understandingWhy compassion and advocacy are crucial to improving mental health supportWith honesty and grace, Mary Ann reflects on trauma, resilience, and the ongoing journey of self-belief. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and recognising that mental health exists on a continuum that affects us all.
The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle are joined by bestselling crime writer Jane Casey for an honest and captivating chat about the craft behind her gripping novels.
Jane opens up about her writing journey, from the spark that started it all to the pressure of keeping readers hooked across a long-running series. She shares how she crafts clever stories, develops memorable characters, and balances the demands of writing with everyday life.
The trio also explore the distinctive voice of Irish crime fiction, the role of music and setting in creating atmosphere, and how writers can embrace their individuality while staying authentic to their readers and themselves.
Key Points:
Jane Caseyâs journey from aspiring writer to bestselling authorThe challenges of sustaining reader interest across a book seriesThe influence of music and setting in creating a productive atmosphereThe power of authenticity and writing for both readers and loved onesWhether youâre a fan of crime writing or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the genreâs most respected voices.
The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle chat with author Caroline Madden about her journey to publishing The Marriage Vendetta, navigating the writing process, and the power of perseverance, community, and comedy in storytelling. A must-listen for writers and book lovers seeking insight, laughter, and a dose of creative motivation.
Key points covered in this episode:
Why persistence is a writerâs greatest toolThe challenges (and rewards) of writing humour in fictionThe value of editors, mentors, and writing communitiesWhy supporting new voices in literature mattersFrom the nuances of writing humour in literature to the crucial role of editors and mentors, this episode is packed with insight for aspiring writers and passionate readers alike. Caroline shares the importance of community, how life experiences shape creative expression, and why supporting emerging voices in writing matters more than ever.
Whether youâre deep in your own manuscript or simply love stories about the writing life, this conversation is a warm, honest, and inspiring natter you wonât want to miss.
Natter is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle sit down with author, academic, and podcaster Dr Caroline West to explore her deeply moving book Wrong Women: Selling Sex in Monto, Dublinâs Forgotten Red Light District.
Together, they unpack the layered history of Monto, once a red-light district in Ireland and reflect on the lives of the women who lived and worked there. From historical exploitation to contemporary stigma, this conversation delves into the complex realities of sex work, the language we use to describe it, and how society continues to shape the narratives of marginalised women.
Key points covered in this episode:
The hidden history of Monto and its lasting impact on Irish societyHow language influences our understanding of sex work and sexualityThe role of stigma, shame, and societal perception in shaping womenâs livesGenerational divides in sex education and attitudes towards sexual freedomEthical remembrance and the importance of telling difficult truthsCarolineâs personal journey and what drives her work in advocacy and educationMoments of resilience, hope, and community among women in marginalised spacesCaroline brings both personal insight and academic insight to a discussion that spans generations and challenges long-held beliefs. Thereâs talk of compassion, community, and the urgent need to honour voices that have been silenced for too long.
This episode highlights history, an invitation to challenge assumptions, and a moving reminder of the power in telling untold stories.
Natter is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland!
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