Best Tina Strachan & Madeleine Cleary Podcasts (2025)

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Middle Grade Debut Special with Shara Curlett, Sandy Bigna and Lucie Stevens 1:04:05

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28m ago1:04:05

1:04:05

Getting That Elusive Book Deal: Insights from Debut Authors In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews three debut middle grade authors: Lucie Stevens, Shara Curlett, and Sandy Bigna. The authors discuss their unique publication journeys, the importance of community and continuous learning, and share valuable tips for a…

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Natasha, Tina and Madeleine on strategies to identify and manage author burnout, anchoring your writing in time and intention setting 37:40

7d ago37:40

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Natasha, Tina and Madeleine on strategies to identify and manage author burnout and intention setting In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai discuss various aspects of the writing life, including burnout, the importance of nature, the benefits of cold showers, and practical tips for managing…

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Jessica Box on portfolio careers for creatives, coaching, growing your author business, content creation and social media 55:22

14d ago55:22

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Jessica Box (co-founder of Matched) on portfolio careers for creatives, growing your author business, content creation and social media. In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, Madeleine delves into the intersection of writing and business with Jessica Box, an accomplished growth executive and founder of Matched: a knowledge-sharing marketplace w…

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Paramedic and writer Sally Gould shares her experiences of writing and editing memoir; how to use feedback and giving yourself time to make your work the best version of itself 53:08

21d ago53:08

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In this episode, host Natasha Rai sits down with paramedic and debut author Sally Gould to discuss her memoir, "Frog." Sally shares her journey from keeping clinical journals as a student to transforming her experiences into a compelling narrative. The conversation explores the challenges of writing memoir, the process of seeking feedback, navigati…

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Graphic novel publisher and debut author, Bethany Loveridge, shares tips for navigating kidlit publishing 50:52

28d ago50:52

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In episode 48 of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews Bethany Loveridge, a champion of children's literature. The episode explores Bethany's journey from writing her first story as a child to becoming a debut author with her middle grade novel, Harper Wells Renegade Timeline Officer. Bethany shares insights into her experiences, inc…

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The importance of writing residencies, enjoying uninterrupted time to think and write, and eating ALL the cheese 32:47

1M ago32:47

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In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Natasha Rai share their experiences from their writing residency at Magnetic Island, Northern Queensland. Joined by other writers as part of the Roderick Centre's Writers on the Reef Residency, Tina and Natasha discuss the inspirational impact of the island on their work, the product…

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The Takeover: Michelle See-Tho on winning a major literary prize, what happens behind the scenes after the win, and invaluable editing tips 42:59

1M ago42:59

42:59

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Michelle See-Tho, the 2023 Penguin Literary Prize winner. Michelle discusses her debut novel, 'Jade and Emerald,' the thematic elements of class, race, loneliness, and family in her story, and her journey from ideation to publication. She reflects on her experience in the Kill Yo…

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Bookselling behind the scenes: author tips and advice with bookseller and writer Charlotte Guest 1:01:07

2M ago1:01:07

1:01:07

Hosts Tina Strachan and Madeliene Cleary interview Charlotte Guest, a writer and bookseller based in Geelong, Victoria. The conversation covers Charlotte's journey from an outdoor-loving child to managing an indie bookstore and obtaining a PhD in Creative Writing. Charlotte offers an inside look into the world of book selling, including the process…

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Debut author Carla Salmon on writing fiery stories for the young adult market 51:02

2M ago51:02

51:02

Host Tina Strachan chats to debut author Carla Salmon about the journey of her young adult mystery thriller, 'We Saw What You Started'. Carla discusses her path from the initial idea to signing with publisher Pan MacMillan. She highlights crucial aspects like the structural evolution of her manuscript, the importance of fleshing out characters, and…

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Natasha, Tina and Madeleine are titillated by their ONE YEAR of The Book Deal 49:27

2M ago49:27

49:27

Celebrating One Year of The Book Deal Podcast: Memorable Moments and Insights In this special one-year anniversary episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai reflect on their favorite moments and insightful interviews from the past year. They share their most memorable quotes from guest authors, delve i…

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The Takeover: Holly Brunnbauer on securing a book deal, and savvy tips on how to befriend social media while connecting with people 1:02:59

2M ago1:02:59

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In this episode of the Book Deal podcast hosted by Natasha Rai, emerging fiction author Holly Brunnbauer discusses her path to publication, detailing her journey from blogging and copywriting to becoming a published author. Holly provides insights into her debut rom-com 'What Did I Miss?', her character development process, and the challenges she f…

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Writerly breakthroughs and author disappointment 46:15

3M ago46:15

46:15

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary share a candid and engaging discussion about their current writing projects and experiences. Tina talks about her recent book release, 'Neeka and the Storm,' and the whirlwind of emotions she felt around its launch. Meanwhile, Madeleine opens up about her progress on…

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Supercharged brains and publishing advice with author and Publisher Dani Vee 35:59

3M ago35:59

35:59

Tina Strachan welcomes multi-published author, podcast host, and publisher Dani Vee to discuss her journey and the release of her two new books, 'My Pet Croc' and 'My Supercharged ADHD Brain.' Dani dives into the inspiration behind her books, her personal ADHD experience, and the dynamics of writing humorous kids' books. The episode also highlights…

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Literary festivals, pitching yourself for events (and podcasts!), new books and the special art of a timeline 34:03

3M ago34:03

34:03

Literary festivals, pitching yourself for events (and podcasts!), new books and the special art of a timeline In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary dive into lively discussions about their writing processes and experiences. They reveal insights on writing timelines, the importance of mapping them out car…

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Manifest your writing success with Jane Tara 1:08:31

3M ago1:08:31

1:08:31

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews author Jane Tara about her book 'Tilda Is Visible' and how she uses manifesting and visualization to achieve her writing dreams. Jane discusses her journey, the power of understanding what you want, and taking steps to get there. They explore the impact of meditation, the creat…

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Cross stitch, wine and other tips and tangents with Madeleine and Tina 45:38

3M ago45:38

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In this episode of The Book Deal, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary pull back the curtain on their lives as writers, blending personal stories with creative insights. From kombucha-fueled weekends and quirky hobbies like cross stitching and paint-by-numbers to unexpected adventures and laugh-out-loud moments, they share the real-life rhythms…

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The Takeover: Shankari Chandran on writing for pleasure, giving up on the dream of getting published, and how to create longevity in the publishing industry 48:18

4M ago48:18

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In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Australian Tamil lawyer and author Shankari Chandran. They discuss Chandran's journey in writing and publishing, focusing on her novels 'Unfinished Business,' 'Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens,' and others. Chandran shares her experiences about navigating the literary world, dealing…

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Goodreads reviews, social media and day jobs: the reality of being a (newly) published author 52:32

4M ago52:32

52:32

Behind the scenes and the reality of being a (newly) published author - with Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai. Tina and Madeleine alongside our Takeover star, Natasha Rai, chat about their experiences as (newly) published authors. They each have prepared three surprise questions to ask each other, and of course Tina has prepared a s…

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Debut Panel: Carly-Jay Metcalfe and Christine Newell on memoir writing and sharing personal stories 54:32

4M ago54:32

54:32

WARNING: This episode contains explicit language. Debut Panel: Carly-Jay Metcalfe and Christine Newell on writing memoir, book deals and more In this episode of The Book Deal podcast, Madeleine interviews debut authors Carly-Jay Metcalfe and Christine Newell. Carly-Jay discusses her critically acclaimed (and darkly funny) memoir about living and dy…

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The Takeover: Zahid Gamieldien on story structure, flawed characters, and planning a novel 46:17

4M ago46:17

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In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews debut author and screenwriter Zahid Gamieldien. Known for his novel 'All The Missing Children', published by Ultimo Press in 2024, Zahid discusses his path to publication, story structure intricacies, and the emotional and psychological effects of his novel's plot on various char…

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Gareth and Louise Ward on the business of bookselling and writing bestselling cosy crime 54:19

5M ago54:19

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Gareth and Louise Ward on the business of bookselling and writing bestselling cosy crime. In this episode of The Book Deal podcast, Madeleine Cleary chats with writing duo Gareth and Louise Ward, authors and owners of two Wardini Bookshops in Havelock North and Napier in New Zealand. The episode delves into the couple’s background as former police …

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Madeleine Cleary and The Butterfly Women: ancestry, inspiration and her publication journey 1:11:02

5M ago1:11:02

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Tina Strachan interviews Madeleine Cleary about her debut novel, 'The Butterfly Women'. They explore Madeleine's ancestral inspiration, her meticulous research process, and the trials and triumphs of getting a book published. Madeleine shares insights on her writing journey, including the importance of finding joy in writing, the role of her suppor…

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Irma Gold on managing constant crises of confidence, finding the spark in your writing and how to trick yourself into writing a novel. 54:19

5M ago54:19

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In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, Madeleine chats with award-winning writer, editor, and podcaster Irma Gold. Recently launching to great acclaim her second novel, Shift, out now with MidnightSun. Irma delves into her inspirations, including her deep connection to Soweto, South Africa, and her journey from writing short fiction to publishin…

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Sophie Beer on the importance of writing inclusively and her new middle grade novel, Thunderhead 46:41

5M ago46:41

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Tina Strachan chats with Sophie Beer, a prolific children's literature author and illustrator. The discussion delves into Sophie's journey in publishing, her passion for inclusivity in writing, and the inspiration behind her middle-grade book, 'Thunderhead,' which features a music-obsessed tween facing the challenges of hearing loss. Sophie also sh…

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The Takeover: Zaheda Ghani on writing goals, how to keep momentum and setting intentions for writing practice 41:40

6M ago41:40

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In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Zaheda Ghani, an Afghan refugee and author of 'Pomegranate and Fig'. Zaheda shares her path to publication, starting from her early handwritten novels to her debut book being shortlisted for the Richell Prize and published by Hachette. They discuss the authenticity of her story s…

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Natasha Lester on setting goals, the business behind a bestseller and her latest novel inspired by Marie-Madeleine Fourcade 48:00

6M ago48:00

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Natasha Lester on setting goals, the business behind a bestseller and her latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, Madeleine Cleary chats with international bestselling author Natasha Lester. They discuss Natasha's latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance (26 March 2025, Hachette Australia), inspired by Marie…

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Advances, royalties, pirated books and other ways authors may (or may not) earn money 46:16

6M ago46:16

46:16

If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. You'll be in the draw for a giveaway of their new books! Madeleine: Subscribe here Tina: Subscribe here In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary explore the multifaceted landscape of author earn…

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20 book deals! Rory H Mather tells us how it's done 55:38

6M ago55:38

55:38

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Tina Strachan chats with picture book author Rory H. Mather. Known for his works such as 'Vlad's Bad Breath' and 'Laugh in the Bath,' Rory shares his journey of publishing 14 picture books with a recently signed deal for his 20th book. He provides practical tips for aspiring authors on getting published, cr…

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The Takeover: writing fiction after memoir with Kaya Wilson 38:12

7M ago38:12

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In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosted by Natasha Rai, multi-talented writer and tsunami scientist Kaya Wilson discusses their unique publishing journey. Their debut memoir, 'As Beautiful As Any Other,' was widely acclaimed, and Kaya offers insightful advice on developing a writing practice, the importance of setting boundaries, and the c…

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Natasha Rai on persevering through setbacks, rewriting drafts, and securing her debut book deal 41:54

7M ago41:54

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Natasha Rai on persevering through setbacks, rewriting drafts, and securing her debut book deal. In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary dive into the story behind the story of debut author, Natasha Rai, and her book 'An Onslaught of Light,' published on 4 March 2025 by Pantera Press. The conversation reve…

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Book launches, author events and pre-release pressures 39:41

7M ago39:41

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In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary delve into the highs and lows of their busy lives as debut authors. They catch up on their recent book launches, including Tina's 'Neeka and the Missing Key' and Madeleine's upcoming 'The Butterfly Women,' discussing their experiences, challenges, and the emotional r…

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Debut Panel: Emma Pignatiello, Kate Horan and Marion Taffe on book deals, writing tips and launch feelings 1:00:52

7M ago1:00:52

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2025 Debut Authors on book deals, how to debut, writing tips and launch feelings In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Madeleine Cleary delve into the journeys of three 2025 debut authors, Kate Horan, Emma Pignatiello, and Marion Taffe. 'Last Shot' by Emma Pignatiello (Penguin Random House, 28 January 2025 in Australia). 'The Inheritance' by Ka…

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The Takeover: from poetry to prose with Christine Shamista 43:30

7M ago43:30

43:30

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Natasha Rai hosts Christine Shamista, a poet of Sri Lankan Tamil ancestry living in Sydney. Christine shares her journey to publishing her debut poetry collection, 'Soft Side of Red,' released in November 2023 by Gazebo Books. She discusses the unexpected path her collection took, the importance of feedback…

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Author/Illustrator Dean Rankine on what it takes to make a career out of your craft 1:15:09

8M ago1:15:09

1:15:09

In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan interviews Dean Rankine, a renowned author-illustrator best known for his work on iconic franchises such as The Simpsons, Futurama, and Rick and Morty. Dean shares his journey from a shy, anxious child passionate about drawing to becoming a prolific illustrator and author, discussing his…

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Tina Strachan on how to win a competition, secure a three-book-deal and release a debut novel 1:04:28

8M ago1:04:28

1:04:28

Welcome to Season 2!! In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary return for the second season with a bang. They discuss the exciting launch of their debut novels, starting with Tina's 'Neeka and the Missing Key,' Book One of the Wilder Zoo Series, illustrated by Max Hamilton and released on January 29 2025. T…

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The Debut Year in Review with picture book author Kirsten Ealand 37:00

8M ago37:00

37:00

In this episode of 'The Book Deal Podcast,' host Tina Strachan interviews picture book author Kirsten Ealand, discussing her debut book 'Like a Gannet,' her writing journey, and the challenges and surprises of her debut year. Kirsten shares invaluable advice for aspiring authors, emphasizing patience, perseverance, and the strategic benefit of 'qui…

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The Debut Year in review with YA crime author Troy Hunter 35:18

8M ago35:18

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In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, YA author Troy Hunter discusses the creation and publication journey of his novel 'Gus and the Missing Boy', which was released in February 2024. Troy shares insights into the idea that sparked his book, the lengthy process it took to write and transform it from an adult crime novel to a young adult thrille…

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The Debut Year in review with Mark Mupotsa-Russell and Kyra Geddes 1:03:28

9M ago1:03:28

1:03:28

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Madeliene Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Australian debut authors Kyra Geddes and Mark Mupotsa-Russell about their experiences writing, publishing, and promoting their first novels. Kyra discusses her historical fiction, 'The Story Thief,' and the long journey of research and rewriting, while Mark…

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The Publishing Deal: Publisher Ruby Ashby-Orr 54:49

9M ago54:49

54:49

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Ruby Ashby-Orr, publisher at Affirm Press. The discussion covers topics such as Tina's upcoming book release, the importance of pre-orders, strategies for making a compelling book pitch, and insights into the acquisitions process within publishing houses. R…

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How to win (or nearly win) a writing competition 38:11

10M ago38:11

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In this episode, Madeleine and Tina discuss Madeleine's recent experience with the Australian Fiction Prize, including the excitement of being shortlisted and the process involved. They delve into the importance of writing competitions for emerging writers, Madeleine's unexpected phone call from Caroline Overington, the significance of mastering sy…

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Katherine Collette on the highs and lows of publishing and how to build resilience 52:46

10M ago52:46

52:46

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, the hosts welcome author and book coach Katherine Collette. Known for her books 'The Helpline,' 'The Competition,' and 'The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Best,' Katherine shares her insights on writing, pitching, publishing, and marketing. She delves into her own writing journey, discusses the role of persevera…

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When is your manuscript ready to submit? 39:13

10M ago39:13

39:13

Madeleine and Tina delve into the challenges of knowing when a manuscript is ready to submit, sharing personal anecdotes about their own journeys to becoming published authors. Key topics include the importance of thorough editing, the patience required in the publishing industry, and the benefits of pre-ordering books to support authors. The conve…

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The Publishing Deal: Publicist Caitlin Lawless 46:13

10M ago46:13

46:13

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeline Cleary and Tina Strachan interview Caitlin Lawless, the publicity manager at New South. Caitlin shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. Topics include the difference between marketing and publicity, building a relationship wi…

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Tina and Madeleine chat digital detox, WIPs, new words and 'the muse' 32:18

11M ago32:18

32:18

In this episode, Tina and Madeline discuss a range of topics from managing time on a busy Sunday to attending the HarperCollins Author Day. They delve into the latest trends in the book market, particularly the resurgence of YA fiction. Madeline shares her recent experience of imposing a self-ban from Instagram to improve focus and creativity, and …

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The Publishing Deal: Literary Agent Samuel Bernard (Part 2) 30:14

11M ago30:14

30:14

In part two of the interview with Samuel Bernard, a literary agent from Zeitgeist Literary Agency, he shares insights on landing an agent, the importance of polished manuscripts, and the role of timing in the publishing process. Samuel discusses his preferences and current interests in genres, accessibility for aspiring writers, and how timing and …

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The Publishing Deal: Literary agent Samuel Bernard (Part 1) 44:52

11M ago44:52

44:52

In this first episode of the Publishing Deal series, where Madeleine and Tina chat to publishing insiders, they begin by sharing their latest updates, including Madeleine's proofreading process for her manuscript and Tina's experiences at a writing conference. They also dive into a discussion about receiving feedback, particularly on spicy scenes, …

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Alli Parker on how to be come a debut bestseller 1:19:44

11M ago1:19:44

1:19:44

Tina and Madeleine discuss the rigorous editing processes, the joy of completing manuscripts, the importance of celebratory naps, preparing for book releases and the importance of record-keeping and strategic planning. Then guest Alli Paker, best-selling author of The Foot of the Cherry Tree, shares personal anecdotes and professional journeys, det…

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Lisa Kenway on slush pile success, crafting and editing thrillers, and the writing community 1:06:52

12M ago1:06:52

1:06:52

In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan discuss the challenges and triumphs of writing and editing with their guest, Lisa Kenway, an Australian writer and anesthetist whose debut psychological thriller 'All You Took From Me' was published by Transit Lounge Publishing. The conversation covers topics like th…

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Michelle Upton on persistence through rejections, setting writing goals and the value of the author community 1:26:59

1y ago1:26:59

1:26:59

Hosts Madeleine and Tina are podcasting from a Gold Coast café! Join them as they provide updates on their writing projects and experiences. Madeleine shares her positive feedback from her publisher and her excitement and anxiety about a renowned historian reading her novel. Tina discusses the complexities of editing her third series book and the i…

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Kylie Orr on competitions, writing craft, social media and letting go 1:14:03

1y ago1:14:03

1:14:03

Join Tina and Madeleine as they candidly discuss their paths in the writing world, from shooting author videos and exploring middle grade fiction to announcing upcoming book deals and generating new ideas. They reveal their personal writing practices, including plotting versus pantsing. Madeleine interviews Kylie Orr and they discuss the influence …