Paperback Perfumes

“Heaven did not seem to be my home; and I broke my heart with weeping to come back to earth; and the angels were so angry that they flung me out into the middle of the heath on the top of Wuthering Heights; where I woke sobbing for joy.”― Emily Brontë, Wuthering HeightsIt feels like Wuthering Heights has swept back into the cultural conversation—whether it’s through rereads of the novel, rewatches of film adaptations, or simply the collective fascination with its gothic storms and tangled emotions. And honestly… how could a librarian not wade into that literary storm?In this episode, I’m joined by Suzy from Scent n’ Sensibility for a spirited exploration of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel. We try to touch on as many aspects as possible: its wild emotional extremes, its bleak and beautiful setting, the messy humanity of its characters, and the way this story somehow manages to linger darkly in the corner.We also take a closer look at Emerald Fennell’s recent reimagining of the Wuthering Heights universe. How does it reshape Brontë’s themes? And where does it veer into territory that feels… let’s say, ambitiously debatable?If you’re a gothic fiction fan, a fragrance nerd, or just someone who enjoys a bit of delicious literary chaos—this one’s for you.Fragrances mentioned:L'orpheline - Serge Lutens Velvet Moss - Scent Trunk Oud Infini - DusitaRelique d’Amour - Oriza L. LegrandGorseland - Jorum Studios Cabochard - Gres Caleche - Hermes Anglomania - Vivienne Westwood Ectoplasm - Fantôme Book discussed:Wuthering Heights - Emily BrontëFilm discussed: ”Wuthering Heights” - Director Emerald Fennell Find Suzy onInstagram: @scen.tnsensibilityTikTok: @scentnsensibilityTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“All in the golden afternoonFull leisurely we glide;For both our oars, with little skill,By little arms are plied,While little hands make vain pretenceOur wanderings to guide.”― Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in WonderlandIn this episode, I’m joined (once again) by Fliss Walton, who helps me dive deep into my lifelong love for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Together, we explore Lewis Carroll’s iconic story—its rich cultural history, its playful yet profound wordplay, and the many interpretations and adaptations that have kept Alice alive in our collective imagination. Fliss and I muse over how Alice has transcended literature to become a universal symbol of curiosity, identity, and childhood’s delightful absurdity.As our conversation unfolds, we connect the sensory magic of Wonderland to the world of fragrance, exploring scents that capture the whimsy, oddity, and darker undertones woven through Carroll’s narrative. We reflect on how certain perfumes can evoke the surreal charm of the story, creating a multi‑sensory experience that brings Alice’s journey to life in an entirely new way. This episode blends literary exploration with olfactory adventure — a perfect listen for anyone who loves books, scent, or falling down rabbit holes.Fragrances mentioned:Undergrowth - Rook Perfumes Wander Through the Park - Miller Harris Queen - Eau de BoujeeBelle De Jour - ERIS ParfumsComète - Chanel Exclusif Annabel's Birthday Cake - Marissa Zappas Tea for Two - L'Artisan ParfumeurMilky Dragon - Isabelle LarignonDelulu - .Oddity Dodo- ZoologistRabbit - Zoologist Dentelle au Coer- Henri JacquesHaute Horopito - One Way BridgeCepes and Tuberose - AftelierAnonymity - Filigree & ShadowGreen Vetiver - Archer FarrarBelle Âme - Les AbstraitsBook discussed:The Annotated Alice - Lewis Carroll, edited by Martin Gardner Find Fliss onInstagram: @fliss_sniffs_stuffAnd Les OderantsInstagram: @lesoderantsYoutube: Les Oderants PodcastTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Because the middle classes and the nouveaux riches welcomed gas, water closets and piped-in water, the upper classes drew back. Many a denizen of a sprawling, stony-cold country estate looked on “mod cons” as slightly uncouth, over-eager and—worst of all—middle-class.”- Katherine Ashenburg, The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized HistoryIn this episode, I’m joined by Clayton Ilolahia, an Evaluation and Communication specialist at Fragrances of the World, to explore the rich intersection of art, commerce, and fragrance. Together, we discuss into how changes in the media landscape has transformed the perfume industry, reshaping not just marketing but the creative process itself. We also explore the evolving role of fragrance evaluators, the deeply subjective nature of smell, and the cultural ideas—past and present—that shape our sense of cleanliness, identity, and performance.Clayton brings a wealth of knowledge from his global fragrance writing, formal training at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery, and more than a decade of self-guided learning. His background in learning and development, working with brands like Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton (to name a few), adds an insightful dimension to our conversation. His passion for education and olfactory storytelling makes this a thoughtful exploration of the changing landscape of modern perfumery and how we socialise through our scent.Fragrances mentioned:L’eau d’Issey - Issey Miyake Black Oregano - Atelier MateriBlanche Bête - Liquides ImaginairesShalimar - GuerlainChypre (Le Chypre) - Coty Fracas - Robert PiguetBook discussed:The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History - Katherine AshenburgFind Clayton and Fragrances of the World online hereInstagram:@clayton_ilolahia@fragrancesoftheworldWebsite:fragrancesoftheworld.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Now, I see that every relic, however battered, every scratch on every knick-knack, is engraved with a timeless story of someone's life.” - Eve Makis, The Spice Box Letters Hosting this conversation with Alina Tadevosyan gave me the chance to learn about the powerful themes of Armenian cultural: resilience, identity and heritage preservation. Alina shared how everyday acts of cultural expression — from cooking traditional Armenian dishes to celebrating family milestones — function as meaningful forms of resistance and survival. We explored the role of storytelling in keeping collective memory alive and why these traditions remain essential to the Armenian community today.Alina also spoke about founding ARAKYÁL, the luxury fragrance house she launched in 2025, inspired by her Armenian roots and the ancient spirit of her homeland. A lifelong creative, she has worked across classical singing, fashion design, graphic design and art direction, with scent becoming her newest medium of self‑expression. ARAKYÁL, meaning “apostle” in Armenian, reflects her belief that fragrance is a messenger — carrying memory, identity and quiet power. At its core, ARAKYÁL is about helping people wear their story.Fragrances mentioned:Elixir Colour of Nur Meron Book discussed:The Spice Box Letters - Eve Makis Find Arakyal online hereInstagram: @arakyal.officialWebsite: www.arakyal.coTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Like a long lost cousin to the tarot, these rich images and symbolic stories could become a source for guidance, comfort, wisdom and beauty in your life. Just open the book to any picture and fall into it. Read the motto and story, use your imagination, and let the emblem work its magic” - Mandy Aftel , Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of the Emblems It feels surreal to start Season 3 of the podcast talking to Mandy Aftel—an extraordinary natural perfumer and author whose influence on the world of scent and creativity runs deep. As the founder of Aftelier Perfumes, Mandy hand‑crafts her perfumes in small batches in her Berkeley studio, bringing a sense of beauty and artistry to everyone who encounters her work.Her contributions have earned wide recognition: Vogue has called her one of the industry’s “most prolific talents,” Vanity Fair has described her as an “angel of alchemy,” and Forbes has named her among the top bespoke perfumers in the world. She also serves as an advisor at The Institute for Art and Olfaction, which created the annual Aftel Award for Handmade Perfume in her honor, and she is the recipient of the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award for lifetime achievement. And then, of course, there is her micro museum, where you can see, touch and smell the history of perfumery. In our conversation, Mandy dives into the creative journey behind her newest book, Symbolorium: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems. We explore the fascinating world of 1600s emblem books, the historical texts that inspire her, and the deep connections she sees between nature, art, and the craft of perfume. It’s a rich, inspiring discussion to kick off the season. Fragrances mentioned:Patchouli Noir - Mandy AftelPatchouli essential oil Patchouli absolute Oakmoss absolute Book discussed:Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems - Mandy AftelFind Mandy Aftel online hereInstagram: @aftelierperfumeWebsite: aftelier.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Bless the Maker and His water.Bless the coming and going of Him.May His passage cleanse the world.May He keep the world for His people. ” - Frank Herbert, Dune In the final episode of Season Two, I’m joined once again by Michael Nordstrand to explore the rich and layered world of Frank Herbert’s Dune.You might remember our first conversation in Episode 51, where we wandered through fairytales and fragrance. This time, we dive into Dune’s politics, ecology, and the power of scent — from the symbolism of spice to the relationships that define key characters in the text.We talk about how Dune continues to shape literature, culture, and even perfume, and reflect on what its themes of power, technology, and environment still teach us today.A reflective close to Season Two — connecting story, scent, and the desert worlds that stay with us long after reading.Fragrances mentioned:Mxxx. - Eris ParfumsPassage d'Enfer - L'Artisan ParfumeurAjedrez - FrassaiInfusion d'Iris - PradaFate Woman - Amouage Figment - Amouage1885 Bains Sulfureux - Les Bains Guerbois Bois Datchaï - Maison CrivelliCabochard Cherie - GresCabochard - GresShalimar - Guerlain Tilda Swinton Like This - Etat Libre d'OrangeBook discussed:Dune - Frank HerbertFind Mythologist Studios (and Michael) online hereInstagram: @michaelnordstrandperfumer@mythologiststudio Website: mythologiststudio.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Not here for likes, not here for followsChasing the sun, not shadows to followBuilt for love, she can’t help herselfNot trying to be anyone—just herself… " -The Raconteur, Ms Macadamia Craig Andrade, founder and perfumer of The Raconteur, has built an Australian fragrance house celebrated for its refined, story-driven scents. In our conversation, Craig reflects on his transition from a career in law to the creative world of perfumery — a move that opened space for freedom, curiosity, and authentic self-expression.We explore the storytelling behind his Gourmand Collection, his use of natural ingredients, and the lasting influence of perfumer Mandy Aftel. Craig also shares thoughtful insights on creativity, courage, and the process of finding one’s own artistic voice — reminding us that fragrance, much like storytelling, connects us through memory, emotion, and imagination.Fragrances mentioned:Namedrops Killr VanillaNo-Tell MotelPavlova KasavoaMs. Macadamia Lord LamingtonDaintree Raintree Religious Guilt SpritzBook discussed:Essence & Alchemy - Mandy Aftel Find The Raconteur online here Instagram: @the_rac_on_teurWebsite: theraconteur.coTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Without a city there is a houseThat's made entirely of wood,Where live ten thousand daughtersThat work for a common good." - Kit williams, Untitled (Bee on the Comb)I had the pleasure of speaking with Saskia Wilson-Brown, founder of the Institute for Art and Olfaction, to discuss the evolution of her ground breaking organization and the role storytelling plays in the world of scent.We dive into the impact of awards in the perfume industry, explore cultural perspectives on fragrance, and reflect on the creative power of rejection. Saskia shares insights into the shifting landscape of fragrance artistry, the importance of offering alternatives in the market, and the unique contributions of niche perfumers. We also talk a lot about Bees.Fragrances mentioned:Fundamental - RubiniBee - ZoologistBooks discussed:Untitled (Bee on the Comb) - Kit Williams Masquerade - Kit Williams Find Saskia Wilson-Brown and the Institute of Art and Olfaction online hereInstagram:@artandolfaction@saskiacwbWebsite:artandolfaction.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“And I will remember your small roomthe feel of youthe light in the windowyour recordsyour booksour morning coffee…”- Charles Bukowski, Raw with Love This week, I sit down with self-taught perfumer Marie-Pierre Blanchette, whose creations blend art, emotion, and storytelling through scent. We explore her Rococo collection—a celebration of joy, pleasure, and the subtle politics of beauty. Marie-Pierre shares the personal memories and poetic influences behind her work, revealing how nostalgia and creativity shape her approach to perfumery. Our conversation is a reflection on how scent connects us—to our past, to one another, and to the simple pleasures that make life feel beautifully alive.Fragrances mentioned:Allégorie de l'étéNature morte avec pommesPortrait de Madame et son chatPoems discussed:Raw With Love - Charles Bukowski Evening La Monte, Pisa - Percy ShelleyA Birthday - Christina RossettiInstead of Depression - Andrea Gibson Wild Geese - Mary Oliver Find Miskeo Parfums online here Instagram: @miskeoparfumsWebsite: miskeoparfums.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“My purpose is to echo the ancient truth of culture in an expression deeply rooted in Aboriginal songlines and memory codes.” - Lee CouchIn this episode, I’m joined by Gamilaroi woman and founder of LA COUCH, Lee Couch. Lee shares her journey of cultural understanding and the powerful role scent plays in healing, memory, and connection to Country. We talk about sacred scents, traditional bush medicines, and how Aboriginal ways of knowing and being guide her work in creating fragrances with cultural integrity. Through her story, Lee reminds us that scent is not only an experience of the senses, but a bridge between culture, spirituality, and collective healing.Fragrances mentioned:WadhiMaarumaliDhawiGilaySorry BusinessBook discussed: None this week - but spend a little time listening to the land instead. Find Lee Couch online here: Instagram: @leecouch_Website: leecouch.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Sniff, Sniff, Sniff! Haddock and hay,Pizza and penguins, and farther awayThe smell of the thief, and - how very exciting -Thousands of pages all covered in writing!”- Julia Donaldson & Sara Ogilvie, The Detective DogIn this episode, I’m joined by Tammy Burnstock, whose work explores the rich intersections between scent, cinema, and storytelling. Tammy describes her practice as scent archaeology—unearthing and reviving perfumes that carry cultural memory and creative possibility. Most recently, she co-curated Her Scent of Mystery at Olfactory Art Keller in New York City, alongside Jas Brooks and perfumer Marissa Zappas. The exhibition, which runs until 20 September, brings back to life the lost perfume from the 1960 Smell-O-Vision film Scent of Mystery, pairing the revived fragrance with rare archival materials to tell the story of scent as both cinematic plot device and unrealised product.Our conversation traces Tammy’s journey into the world of fragrance, particularly its links to film and children’s literature. We talk about the process of scenting films, the importance of audience interaction, and the role scent can play in children’s literacy and imagination. Tammy also shares her thoughts on play, collaboration, and the future projects that continue to shape her creative practice.Fragrances mentioned:PizzaHayPenguinsRotten EggsBarfBook discussed: The Detective Dog - Julia DonaldsonThe Museum of Very Bad Smells - Monica ArnaldoFind Tammy online here:Instagram:@inglorious_smellovisionWebsite:scentedstorytelling.cominglorioussmellovision.comHer Scent of Mystery ProjectPerfumers mentioned/worked with:Jocelyn Fullerton Marissa ZappasSaskia Wilson-Brown Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Perfume is substance and spirit. It must be a story, a myth, long before people wear it. ” - Michael Edwards, Perfume Legends In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Edwards, one of the most influential voices in the fragrance world. Known as the creator of Fragrances of the World and the fragrance wheel, Michael has transformed the way we talk about, understand, and choose perfumes.Our conversation traces his journey from marketing into the world of perfumery, and how his groundbreaking work has made fragrance more accessible to consumers and professionals alike. We discuss the evolution of fragrance marketing over the decades, the impact of the internet on how we discover scent, and the importance of language in capturing the emotions and experiences that perfume evokes.Michael also shares his insights on the growth of niche perfumery, the emotional connections people form with scent, and what the future might hold for the industry.It was a true privilege to hear Michael’s reflections and wisdom—this episode is a celebration of fragrance as both art and storytelling, shaped by someone who has dedicated his life to illuminating its world.Fragrances mentioned:Halston - HalstonNorell - Norell No. 5 - Chanel Charlie - RevlonOpium - Yves Saint Laurent Eau Sauvage - Christian DiorBlue Grass - Elizabeth Arden Obsession - Calvin KleinSamsara - GuerlainGreen Irish Tweed - Creed Book discussed: Fragrances of The World Perfume Legends IIAmerican LegendsFind Fragrances of the World here: Instagram: @fragrancesoftheworldWebsite: fragrancesoftheworld.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Once Upon a Time, at the beginning of Everything, there were two spirits with no names and no desires other than to observe. ” - Pia Long, Demo Accords In this episode, I’m joined by Finnish-born, UK-based perfumer and author Pia Long, co-founder of Olfiction and Eau de Boujee. With a career spanning four decades, Pia sees scent as a form of communication and perfume as bottled stories, shaped by her background in languages, writing, and translation. Her imaginative approach to perfumery has earned her international recognition, including the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award from the Institute of Art and Olfaction.Pia’s new book, Demo Accords, is a semi-autobiographical collection of nine essays and one short story, each paired with a perfume formula published in full. She describes the work as a kind of orchestration: the writing is the script, the formulas are the sheet music, and the perfumes themselves are the orchestra playing.Together, we talk about the art and science of perfumery, the themes behind Demo Accords, and how fragrance can act as both personal storytelling and a shared language of connection.Fragrances mentioned:Queen, Verdant, Quir and Guilded by Eau de BoujeeBook discussed: Demo Accords - Pia Long Find Pia’s work here: Instagram: @perfumer.pia@eau_de_boujee@olfictionlimitedWebsite: Pre-oder @ demoaccords.comeaudeboujee.comolfiction.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Seek awe and nature daily... show kindness; practise grace; eschew vanity; be bold; embrace friends, family, faith and doubt, imperfection and mess; and live deliberately.”― Julia Baird, Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes DarkIn this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Carr, founder of Barnes Fragrance Fair and co-founder of We Wear Perfume. Amanda has been instrumental in creating spaces where fragrance lovers can come together to celebrate independent perfumers, discover new scents, and share in the stories behind them. Through her work, she highlights the personal connections we all have with fragrance and the unique way scent weaves meaning into our lives.Our conversation explores the vibrant sense of community and collaboration at the heart of the fragrance world—how creators, curators, and enthusiasts support and inspire one another. We also discuss Phosphorescence by Julia Baird, a book about finding light and meaning in everyday moments, and how these themes beautifully echo the way fragrance illuminates our experiences.Fragrances mentioned:Vermeil - BienaimeL'Amandiere - HeeleyTilia - Marc-Antoine BarroisEmpress- SokiYuzu Noir - NyitaLupin Meadow - Nancy MeilandBistro Boy - FicifoliaFloral Smoke - Olfactive OSparkles - 4160 TuesdayBook discussed: Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark - Julia BairdFind Amanda’s work here: Instagram: @barnesfragrancefair@wewearperfumeWebsite: barnesfragrancefair.comwewearperfume.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Virtue is like precious odours, most fragrant when it is crushed.”― Baroness Emmuska Orczy, The Scarlet Pimpernel In this episode I’m joined by Katrina Cochrane, founder of Archer Farrar Perfume Atelier. Katrina’s journey into natural perfumery began with her love for plants and aromatherapy, and today, she creates stunning perfumes using only the finest sustainably sourced botanicals. We discuss her personal journey from aromatherapy to the wine industry, and how she built Archer Farrar. We dive into the craft of natural perfumery, exploring the differences between natural and synthetic ingredients, and how fragrance evokes deep emotional connections. Katrina shares the challenges she faces as a natural perfumer—especially when it comes to sourcing quality ingredients— and how she stays true to her vision of creating perfumes that honour nature.Fragrances mentioned:Peony Cologne - Archer FarrarDark Cedar - Archer FarrarEmbrace - Archer FarrarGreen Vetiver - Archer FarrarForest Balsam - Archer FarrarSandara - Archer FarrarCologne Royale - DiorPeony & Blush Suede - Jo MaloneAnais Anais - Cacharel Taylor - Taylor SwiftGardenia - Archer FarrarBook discussed: The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baroness Emmuska OrczyFind Archer Farrar here: Instagram: @archerfarrarperfumeWebsite: archerfarrar.com.auTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“What you’re trying to say is that it’s easier for you to hide in your own darkness, than emerge cloaked in your own vulnerability. No better, but easier. However, the longer you hold it in, the more likely you are to suffocate.At some point, you must breathe.”― Caleb Azumah Nelson, Open WaterIn this episode of Paperback Perfumes, I’m joined by UK-based writer and podcaster Haydn, whose work explores fragrance, male grooming, and gifting. He writes for publications like Grazia, Rakes Sense, and The Perfume Society.Haydn shares his journey from a long career in music to discovering fragrance as a new form of self-expression. We talk about the connections between scent and storytelling, and how both can be powerful tools for exploring identity, memory, masculinity, and vulnerability.We also dive into the inspirations behind his podcast Man in the Mirror, and the unique conversations happening in place place like barbershops and what mean see when they pause and reflect about themselves with each other. Fragrances mentioned:Sisters B4 Misters - Jusbox Versace Man Eau Fraîche - VersaceVoyeur Verde - Maya NjieTeddy the Perfumer Nordic Cedar - Maya NjieFrench Waltz - Golf Le FleurMelody - Miller Harris Book discussed:Open Water - Caleb Azumah Nelson Find Haydn here: Instagram: @yousmellgreatwhatisit@maninthemirrorpodTikTok: @yousmellgreatwhatisitYouTube from Barnes Fragrance Fair ’Men Smell’ panel discussion Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“And in their corner all they had was Murderbot, who just wanted everyone to shut up and leave it alone so it could watch the entertainment feed all day.”― Martha Wells, All Systems RedThis episode’s guest is Anjali Vandemark, an artisanal perfumer and writer based on Bainbridge Island, WA. Born and raised in India, Anjali’s early life was steeped in the rich aromas of tropical flowers, attars, incense, and spices—experiences that now shape her handcrafted, small-batch perfumes.Anjali shares her unique journey from India to the United States, exploring how her deep connection to scent evolved into a creative practice that blends cultural heritage with the art of perfumery. We talk about the significance of fragrance in Indian society, the challenges of translating scent across cultures, and the surprising role of olfaction in science fiction storytelling.Our conversation also touches on gender and identity in fragrance, including Anjali’s reflections on the character Murderbot. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of scent to evoke memory, emotion, and a deeper understanding of self and culture.Fragrances mentioned:Shalimar - Guerlain Delina - Parfums de MarlyMonsoon Madness - AnjaliTiger Bright - AnjaliSea Glass - AnjaliLunar Dust - Mabelle O’ramaSynthetic Jungle (Nature) - Frederic Malle Books discussed:Sandalwood and Carrion: Smell in Indian Religion and Culture - James M. McHughThe Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins All Systems Red - Martha Wells Find Anjali here: Instagram: @anjali_perfumesTikTok: @Anjali_PerfumesWebsite:anjaliperfumes.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"We don't just travel on roads and seas. We travel in stories and in dreams."― Joanne Harris, VianneThis episode’s guest is Sarah McCartney, owner and perfumer of the artisan fragrance house, 4160 Tuesdays.Sarah is a self-taught perfumer with a background in writing, and her work is known for blending playfulness with complexity—often drawing on personal memories, cultural touchstones, and storytelling. She’s passionate about sharing knowledge, teaching fragrance workshops, and helping others connect to scent in meaningful, personal ways.We talk about the process of creating Vianne’s Confession, a perfume inspired by the character Vianne Rocher from Chocolat and, more recently, Vianne by Joanne Harris, and . We explore how how literature can spark the imagination in scent-making, as well as evoke powerful nostalgia, the role of human chemistry in how we experience perfume, and how scent weaves into the rituals and rhythms of everyday life. Fragrance mentioned:Rhubarb & Custard - 4160 Tuesdays Hammersmith Tea & Biscuits - 4160 Tuesdays Vianne’s Confession - 4160 Tuesdays Aromatics Elixir - Clinque Verdant - Eau de BoujeeComplicated Shadows - 4160 Tuesdays Book discussed:Vianne - Joanne HarrisChocolat - Joanne Harris Rivers of London (Series) - Ben Aaronovitch Find 4160 Tuesdays (and Sarah) here: Instagram: @4160tuesdays@sarahmccartneythinksWebsite:4160tuesdays.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“There was no stopping us now. We had running water, a heater, a cooker and a road. We were fast becoming slaves again to all the things we had come to this benighted spot to flee.”― Chris Stewart, Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in AndalucíaIn this episode I talk with Helida Dodd, founder of Marabella Perfumes. Helida shares her unexpected journey from a career in industrial engineering and supply chain management to becoming a perfumer dedicated to crafting sustainable, high-quality scents.We explore Helida’s unique understanding of team dynamics and how that flows perfumery, the role of collaboration in her work, and the inspiration behind her some of her scents. Helida also reflects on the importance of optimism — in creativity, in life, and in the connections we make through scent. And of course, we end with a book pairing that captures the spirit of joy and resilience.Fragrance mentioned:Ever Present - Marbella Perfumes Book discussed:Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucía - Chris StewartFind Marbella Perfumes here: Instagram: @marbellaperfumesWebsite:marbellaperfumes.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/helidadodd/Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Absence is the figure of privation; simultaneously, I desire and I need. Desire is squashed against need: that is the obsessive phenomenon of all amorous sentiment.”― Roland Barthes, A Lover's Discourse: FragmentsIn this episode, Liam Sardea, philosopher of aesthetics and Brand Experience Manager at NOAH, discusses the transformative power of creativity and imagination in everyday life. Drawing on his PhD research and Roland Barthes' ideas, he explores how meaning, emotion, and narrative arise through sensory encounters, especially scent. Liam shares his personal fragrance journey, the evolution of perfume blogging, and the intersection of philosophy, aesthetics, and olfaction. The conversation also covers the cultural and historical roles of perfume and its connection to literature. Advocating for “olfactory culture,” Liam emphasises sensory literacy and meaningful dialogue about smell, reflecting on how scent, memory, and imagination shape our understanding of ourselves and the world.Fragrances mentioned:Obsession Man - Calvin KleinBang - Marc JacobsPoivre Samarcande - HermesBrin de Reglisse - HermesTobacco Vanille - Tom Ford Jicky - GuerlainFutur - Robert PiguetFeminite du Bois - Serge LutensUne Amourette Roland Mouret - Etat Libre d'OrangeFille en Aiguilles - Serge Luten Nuit de Noel - CaronCuir d'Ange - HermesCuir Ottoman - Parfum d'EmpireBook discussed:A Lover’s Discourse: Fragments - Roland BarthesFind Liam here: Instagram: @liamsardeaWebsite:liamsardea.comTheme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.