Episodes
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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, Dublin’s 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 women’s livesGenerational divides in sex education and attitudes towards sexual freedomEthical remembrance and the importance of telling difficult truthsCaroline’s 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. There’s 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!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Kate and Michelle sit down with crime fiction author Catherine Kirwin to uncover the fascinating journey behind her writing career. From her childhood on a farm in County Waterford to her time studying law at University College Cork, Catherine shares how life's unexpected moments led her to become a published author.
She opens up about balancing her sociable introvert nature with the demands of being a writer, the inspiration behind her debut novel, Darkest Truth, and the challenges of the publishing world. Catherine also dives into her latest book, The Seventh Body, revealing how real-life events, compelling characters, and a strong sense of place shape her gripping crime stories.
Whether you're an aspiring writer, a crime fiction fan, or just love a good story about tenacity, creativity, and life's small but powerful moments, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation!
Natter is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this heartwarming episode of The Natter Podcast, bestselling author Carmel Harrington takes us on a journey through her life, her writing, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From the adventures that have shaped her worldview to the unconditional love of her dog, George Bailey, Carmel shares her philosophy on happiness—an active pursuit rather than just a feeling.
She also delves into the emotional depth of her characters, the hidden layers of human nature, and the inspiration behind her book, The Stolen Child. Through family history, travel, and the power of storytelling, Carmel weaves tales that connect past and present, creating meaningful and satisfying experiences for her readers.
Key Takeaways:
Happiness is a choice – It’s an active pursuit, not just a state of being.Travel shapes perspective – Carmel’s adventures have deeply influenced her writing and life.Character depth matters – She believes in creating layered, authentic characters.We all wear masks – Stories help reveal the hidden truths behind people’s masks.Storytelling bridges past and present A satisfying ending is key – Carmel aims to leave readers with an emotionally fulfilling experience.Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, and a celebration of the stories that shape us!
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 thought-provoking episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with acclaimed writer Amy Jordan to discuss her latest novel, The Dark Hours.
The conversation dives deep into the themes of aging, trauma, and the evolving representation of older women in literature. Amy introduces us to Julia Harte—a retired detective wrestling with her past—and explores how violence leaves a lasting imprint on both individuals and society.
Beyond the book, Amy offers an intimate look into her creative process, sharing the emotional journey of writing, the therapeutic nature of storytelling, and the challenges of structural editing. Whether you're an aspiring author or a devoted reader, this episode is packed with insights on character development, writing routines, and the art of crafting compelling narratives.
Key Takeaways:
Age is a number, not a limitation—especially in storytelling. Writing can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. Structural editing is a necessary challenge in the writing process. Strong character development keeps readers invested. Every genre comes with expectations writers must navigate. Not everyone will love your work, and that’s okay.Join us for an inspiring conversation about storytelling, resilience, and the power of the written word. Tune in now!
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 the Season 3 premiere of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with award-winning author Mary Watson to discuss her latest book, The Cleaner. This insightful conversation delves into themes of home, belonging, revenge, and identity. Mary also reflects on her experiences navigating life between South Africa and Ireland.
They explore the impact of technology and social media on childhood, the dynamics of power and inequality, and the emotional journey of writing and publishing a book. Mary also shares a personal story behind The Cleaner, inspired by her experience of cleaning one night at a show and the feeling of invisibility that came with it.
This episode is a must-listen for book lovers, writers, and anyone interested in great stories!
Key topics include:
The inspiration behind The Cleaner and its themes of revenge and identityHow the concept of home shifts across different cultural contextsThe challenges of raising children in a digital worldThe role of power and inequality in storytellingWriting with purpose and using fiction to engage with societal issuesThe emotional process of publishing and letting go of a bookTune in to Natter on your favorite podcast platform.
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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Season 2 Finale Alert!
In the thrilling conclusion to Natter Season 2, Kate and Michelle sit down with the incredible Liz Nugent, a multi-award-winning author celebrated for her gripping novels and unforgettable characters.
Liz pulls back the curtain on her creative process, sharing how she crafts those jaw-dropping first lines and complex, layered characters. She opens up about balancing the fear of failure with the pressure of success and reveals how her stories have deeply resonated with readers around the globe.
Whether you’re a writer, a book lover, or someone chasing their creative dreams, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of the literary world’s brightest stars!
Tune in now and join us as we wrap up another amazing season!
Natter is brought to you in association with Bookstation!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join Kate and Michelle as they sit down with bestselling author Sinead Moriarty to discuss her latest books and her journey as a writer. Sinead shares her unique ability to switch seamlessly between genres and offers insightful reading recommendations. They explore her dedication to writing for children and tackling important topics like the refugee crisis, climate change, and divorce.
Sinead opens up about living with arthritis, navigating chronic pain, and how creativity has been a lifeline in her career. She reflects on the invaluable support from fellow authors, the importance of paying it forward, and offers great advice for aspiring writers.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with resilience, storytelling, and practical tips for writers at any stage of their journey!
Natter is brought to you in association with Bookstation!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this thought-provoking episode, psychologist and author Allison Keating explores the concept of "psychological disruption" and the urgent need for a "soft revolution" in how we approach mental health and self-care. Keating sheds light on the overwhelming impact of chronic anxiety and constant information overload, which affect our mental health and overall well-being. She challenges societal pressures that prize productivity over rest, urging listeners to prioritise self-care, acknowledge their limits, and embrace small moments of joy—or "glimmers"—to counteract anxiety.
Throughout the conversation, Keating dives into the unique impact of anxiety on women, who often carry a disproportionate mental and emotional load. She discusses practical strategies for moving from survival mode to a sense of safety, such as practicing somatic exercises, nurturing self-compassion, and letting go of perfectionism and people-pleasing habits. Keating also touches on the importance of integrating mental and physical health and the value of curiosity in managing anxiety. Listeners will gain insight into the systemic factors contributing to stress and the importance of recognising and regulating emotions. With practical tips and relatable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from survival mode and foster a healthier, more balanced life.
Tune in to learn more about managing anxiety, embracing self-care, and finding joy amidst life’s challenges.
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, we sit down with Irish funeral director and author, David McGowan, as he sheds light on the often-taboo subject of death and the profound role funeral directors play in supporting those who grieve. David shares heartfelt stories from his career, from unexplained events hinting at a spiritual presence to heartwarming moments of animals sensing loss, such as a dog’s farewell to its owner.
He emphasizes how pets can provide unmatched solace to those experiencing grief and the importance of including all family members in funeral arrangements to honor the deceased fully.
David discusses the qualities essential to being a compassionate funeral director, including empathy, common sense, honesty, and confidentiality. Reflecting on his own mortality, he finds comfort in his belief in the afterlife, inspiring listeners to embrace gratitude and peace in life.
Tune in for a powerful discussion on breaking the silence around death, the significance of animals in the grieving process, and a look into David’s book, *A Life Among the Dead*, where he offers deeper insights into his journey in the funeral industry and his mission to bring dignity to those who have passed.
The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this heartwarming episode, Natter hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with the beloved author Roisin Meaney, who has written over 20 novels and is known for her captivating storytelling. Roisin shares her deep love for both reading and writing, offering a glimpse into her current reading list and exciting plans for future books.
Listeners will be inspired by her journey from teaching in Dublin to becoming an internationally published author.
Roisin reflects on her time as a teacher and how it has shaped her storytelling. She highlights the power of kindness and the joy that can be found in life’s simple pleasures—recurring themes in her novels.
Aspiring writers will especially appreciate her thoughtful advice and the two opening sentences from novels she admires.
Tune in to hear Roisin’s inspiring story, her passion for writing, and her reflections on a career that has spanned continents, languages, and audiences around the world.
This 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 engaging episode, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with bestselling writer Sam Blake to dive deep into her world of storytelling, mentorship, and literary success.
They kick things off by swapping book recommendations and discussing what’s currently on their reading lists.
Sam opens up about her role as a mentor to aspiring authors, her involvement in the popular writing resource Writing.ie, and how she balances writing, mentoring, and her duties as the chair of the Society of Authors—advocating for fair pay and support for writers everywhere.
The conversation takes a thrilling turn as Sam shares eerie experiences from staying in a haunted hotel and the exciting details of her young adult novels. Fans of crime fiction won’t want to miss Sam’s sneak peek into her upcoming adult novel.
Finally, they discuss the highly anticipated Murder One Crime Writing Festival and the path to achieving success in the literary world, where Sam emphasises the importance of seizing opportunities and creating them when necessary.
Tune in for a fascinating episode packed with bookish insights, practical writing tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at the world of crime writing!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this insightful podcast, acclaimed Irish author Christine Dwyer Hickey, winner of multiple literary awards, delves into her latest novel, Our London Lives, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound connection between her life experiences and her literary work. Christine shares her deep affection for the city of London, where she spent formative years as a young woman, and discusses how living and working there influenced her narrative style and creative process. She reflects on her journey as a writer, starting from her childhood, and how growing up in a literary household shaped her craft. Her father’s close friendships with renowned writers, combined with the atmosphere of her upbringing, fostered her passion for literature and storytelling.
Christine emphasises the critical role that reading has played in her evolution as a writer, discussing the immense influence of classic authors such as James Joyce on her work. She elaborates on how Joyce’s exploration of the human condition and his stylistic innovations inspired her to weave themes of memory, identity, and the complexity of human nature into her own novels and short stories. Christine also touches upon the importance of chance encounters and serendipity in shaping the lives of her characters, as well as in real life.
In the latter part of the conversation, she provides an update on her current projects, including a new play and poetry, revealing her versatility across different forms of writing. To conclude, she talks about the simple yet profound joy of losing oneself in a great book, underscoring the transformative power of literature in understanding the world and ourselves.
This episode is a must-listen for literary enthusiasts, aspiring writers, and fans of Christine Dwyer Hickey, offering valuable insights into the mind of one of Ireland’s most respected contemporary authors.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join Kate and Michelle as they dive into a captivating conversation with Lynda La Plante CBE, the legendary crime writer behind the acclaimed 'Prime Suspect' series. In this episode, Lynda opens up about her memoir 'Getting Away with Murder', her dual career as both an actress and a writer, and the meticulous research that fuels her gripping stories.
Lynda shares fascinating anecdotes from her life, revealing the inspirations behind her bestselling books. The discussion also highlights the power of women supporting women, the significance of love and kindness, and Lynda’s deep passion for animals. Additionally, she offers valuable insights into the importance of protecting writers' rights and the creative freedom she cherishes in her novel-writing.
Tune in for an engaging and lively discussion with one of crime writing's most influential voices.
The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle interview Kitty Murphy, author of the Dublin Drag Mystery series. Kitty shares her love for crime and Agatha Christie novels, as well as her introduction to the world of drag.
She discusses the impact of drag on her life and how it inspired her writing. The conversation also touches on homosexuality in Ireland.
Throughout the episode, the importance of celebrating and accepting people for who they are is emphasized. In this conversation, we discuss various topics related to life, love, and writing. They appreciate the blessings in life and the importance of gratitude.
They also discuss the joy of connecting with readers and the impact of closing a story. The conversation concludes with a celebration of dogs and a reminder to cherish life's moments.
All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
Books, Irish Author, Literature
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week, Kate and Michelle are joined by author Siobhan MacGowan where we discuss:
Siobhan's upbringing & childhoodSiobhan's Novels "The Trial of Lotta Rae" and "The Graces"Her career in copywriting, journalism & musicThe PoguesHer late brother & music Legend, Shane MacGowanAll natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
Books, Irish Author, Literature
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Anne Tiernan!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Journalist & Broadcaster Edel Coffey!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Andrea Mara.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.
This week they are joined by Best Selling Author, Jeanine Cummins.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
