Writes4Women

Embracing Creativity and Nervous System Health with Jane Pike. In this episode of Writes for Women, host Pamela Cook sits down with Jane Pike, founder of the 'Confident Rider' membership program and the 'Creating Wild' community on Substack. Jane shares her journey from being a nervous horse rider to discovering the importance of managing the nervous system for emotional and mental wellbeing. They delve into the interconnectedness of creativity and nervous system regulation and discuss Jane’s transition into the world of creative arts, particularly drawing. Jane provides practical insights on how to use sensory system practices to overcome anxiety and perfectionism in creative tasks. The episode also touches upon the ethos behind Jane's creative journey and the supportive communities she has built. 00:45 Introducing Today's Guest: Jane Pike 05:06 Jane Pike's Journey and Philosophy 07:39 The Intersection of Horse Riding and Mental Wellbeing 21:59 Nervous System Regulation and Creativity 30:49 Practical Tips for Writers 33:19 Jane Pike's Artistic Path 33:58 Rediscovering the Joy of Writing 35:08 From Survival to Vitality 36:00 The Creative Journey and Conservation 37:34 Embracing Art and Overcoming Self-Doubt 40:47 Drawing as a Therapeutic Practice 42:21 Writing the First Book 44:18 Balancing Creativity and Business 47:07 The Importance of Ancestry and Responsibility 50:46 Exploring Substack and Creating Wild 56:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Substack https://writes4women.substack.com/   Jane Pike Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @amelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writes4Women host Pamela Cook speaks with author Jodi Gibson about her multi-faceted and genre-crossing writing career. They explore Jodi's journey from traditional to indie publishing, the challenges and joys of being a 'multi-passionate' creative, and how she uses Substack to connect with her audience and build community. Jody shares her experiences with social media, the importance of finding authenticity in one's creative work, and the evolving nature of her personal and professional life. 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 1:20 Pamela's Courses and Book Giveaway 04:29 Jody Gibson's Writing Journey 11:18 Indie vs. Traditional Publishing 17:45 Branding and Social Media 26:33 Discovering Multi-Passionate Creativity 29:14 Embracing Creative Freedom 30:23 Navigating Guilt and Permission 32:05 Life Transitions and Self-Discovery 36:14 Defining Job, Career, Hobby, and Vocation 39:14 Exploring Substack 46:01 Building Community and Connection 52:59 Podcast and Writing Community Updates 56:11 The Heart of Writing and CreativitySupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrating Women's Voices: A Chat with Author Uma on 'Etched in Gold' In this episode of 'Writes4Women,' guest host Laura Boon chats to Uma Srinivasan, author of the historical fiction novel 'Etched in Gold.'  Uma shares insights on her novel, which intertwines the stories of Umba, a 1630s female composer, and Maya, a contemporary musician. The conversation delves into the rigorous research behind the book, exploring themes of women's voices, cultural memory, and historical context, including the unique presence of the Danish in 17th-century India. Uma also discusses the challenges of navigating women's roles in history and the enduring pertinence of their struggles. A fascinating insight into the process of writign historical fiction as a debut author   00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 01:37 Podcasting Highlights and Upcoming Episodes 04:05 Short Courses and Writing Retreats 07:24 Special Guests and Book Discussion 29:14 Amber's Struggles and Triumphs 30:24 Women in History: Unveiling the Truth 34:53 European Influence in India 37:38 The Danish Connection 42:14 Crafting a Historical Novel 44:48 The Power of Multilingualism 48:06 Immersive Writing Techniques 54:52 The Journey of Writing 'Etched in Gold'   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Substack https://writes4women.substack.com   Uma Srinivasan Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Laura Boon Website: click here Instagram: click here  Facebook: click here Buy Tips From an Insider Insider here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.          Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Insights from the Romance Writers of Australia Conference In this special bonus episode of 'Writes for Women,' host Pamela Cook shares her key takeaways from the Romance Writers of Australia conference held in Hobart. Pamela provides summaries of workshops and sessions from renowned authors like Sarah McClean, Sarra Cannon, Stacey McEwen, Brenda Novak, and many more. Topics include writing conflict in romance, writing through fear, different paths to publication, effective marketing tools, and tips for indie authors. Additionally, she offers insights from panels featuring publishers on what they look for in submissions and advice for avoiding common pitfalls. Grab a cuppa, a pen and notepaper and get ready for some fabulous writing tips! 1:04 Key Takeaways from RWA Conference 03:55 Insights from Indie Hybrid, and Traditional Authors 10:54 Publisher and Agent Panel Highlights 19:08 Tips for Tackling the Saggy Middle 25:39 How to Write a Romcom 28:13 Conclusion and Upcoming Events   SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Substack https://writes4women.substack.com   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @amelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   Sarra Cannon on Youtube here Sarah Maclean on Fated mates here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for this week's episode as  host Pamela Cook gives us a post Romance Writers of Australia wrap-up chat and the talented Camille Booker returns to the convo couch. Camille's latest novel, The Woman in the Waves, is a haunting historical mash-up that is getting a lot of buzz. In this episode she chats historical research, genre-bending and life with a small press. There's something in there for everyone! And in the bonus ep for paid Substack subscribers Camille talks about the pros and cons of being with a small press AND what she looks for when she judges the Hawkeye Publishing Prize. SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Substack https://writes4women.substack.com/   Camille Booker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @amelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two sisters, two completely different genres, one fascinating conversation. In this week’s Writes4Women, Ali Lowe and Joanna Miller talk sibling dynamics, the winding road to publication, and the writing tips they wish they’d known sooner. From Hollywood interest to years of research, it’s a candid look at the highs, lows, and luck that shape an author’s career. Listen now—and for paid Substack subscribers, there’s a bonus segment packed with influences, career highlights, and unfiltered writing wisdom.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Instagram @w4wpodcast W4W Substack   Ali Lowe Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Johanna Miller Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here Writes4Women on Substack: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pam chats to bestselling author Kelly Rimmer, about her new release, 'The Midnight Estate.' The episode dives into Kelly's storytelling process, including her habit of daydreaming to develop her narratives. They discuss the novel's intriguing mix of historical and contemporary elements, its strong female protagonist, and themes like domestic violence and community. Kelly also shares insights into writing her characters, the role of the setting and her commitment to addressing real social issues through her writing. The episode includes a special bonus on Kelly's daydreaming process, exclusive to Substack subscribers. To find out more about Kelly's writing process check out her previous chats with Pam on Writes4Women.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Instagram @w4wpodcast W4W Substack   Kelly Rimmer Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Check out Carrawobitty here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all have financial responsibilities…but what do you do for your heart? This week’s episode is a meeting of the mentors with Valerie Khoo, CEO of the Australian Writers’ Centre, sitting down to unpack creativity with our very own Pamela Cook. Through her work at the AWC, Val has had a hand in shaping the careers of some of Australia’s bestselling authors and writers—showing people you can make a living with your words and how to get started doing it. In recent years, Val’s own creativity has bloomed (pardon the pun ) when she began exploring painting during COVID. She now has a thriving artistic practise, allowing her to create joyful, beautiful pieces. Believing it’s okay to be multi-passionate, Val’s chat with Pam will be inspiring to those of us who have trouble ‘staying in their lane’.   SHOW NOTES:   Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Valerie Khoo Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Val's Creative Re-Boot: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Guest host Michelle Barraclough chats to best-selling author Jessica Dettman about her latest book, 'Your Friend and Mine'. Jess's fourth novel, it's a warm, witty and wise novel about second chances, friendship and romance for readers of Marian Keyes and Liane Moriarty. Michelle and Jess discuss Jessica's inspirations, her writing process, and the intriguing narrative which involves a 43-year-old woman, Margot, fulfilling posthumous tasks assigned by her deceased best friend, Tess. They also cover the role of research, the challenges of crafting a compelling ending, and the influence of editors in refining the manuscript  SHOW NOTES:   Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Jessica Dettman Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Michelle Barraclough Website: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here       This episode produced by Michelle Barraclough and Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.        Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bold debut, a full-circle moment, and the craft of writing funny with heart This week on Writes4Women, Pam is joined by debut author and former student, Holly Brunnbauer, for a warm, laugh-filled, and insightful conversation about writing her first rom-com What Did I Miss. From school staff rooms and awkward first drafts to awards, agents, and publishing deals, Holly’s journey is one of grit, grace, and great humour. Pam and Holly delve into: The path from blogger to published author Navigating character arc, emotional depth, and laugh-out-loud moments Writing strong female leads (and sizzly sex scenes ) How a high school sweetheart breakup sparked a brilliant story idea The ups and downs of pitching, publishing, and finding the right agent This ep is not just for rom-com lovers—it’s for any writer wondering whether their words are “good enough” and what can happen when you follow the joy. SHOW NOTES:   Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Holly Brunnbauer https://www.hollybrunnbauer.com.au/ Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   Buy We Need Your Art by Amie McNee here Listen to Amie on Dear Rach and Soph here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imposter Syndrome. Comparisonitis. Self Doubt. Whatever we call it the fact is all writers and creatives suffer from it. In this episode host Pamela Cook delves into her personal struggles with imposter syndrome and discusses insights from previous podcast guests, including Eliza Henry Jones, Nikki Gammel, Sophie Green, Cassie Hamer, Natasha Lester, Holly Ringland, and Megan Della Camina, on managing self-doubt and fostering creativity. Join Pam as she digs deep into her own battle with imposter syndrome and finds answers in the wisdom of her fellow writers.   00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 00:44 Technical Difficulties and Personal Updates 03:43 Substack Updates and New Initiatives 07:10 Exploring Imposter Syndrome 11:13 Insights from Eliza Henry Jones 13:42 Nikki Gammel on Male Confidence 17:16 Sophie Green's Perspective 21:08 Cassie Hamer's Inner Critic 24:28 Natasha Lester on Editorial Feedback 28:04 Holly Ringland on the Blank Page 34:35 Megan Della Camina's Inner Critic Work 37:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   Buy We Need Your Art by Amie McNee here Listen to Amie on Dear Rach and Soph here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a best selling Fantasy author does a sneaky genre swap? Guest host Jo Riccioni welcomes bestselling author Lynette Noni to discuss her genre shift and new book, 'Wandering Wild.' They explore the departure from Noni's typical fantasy genre to YA contemporary, featuring a Hollywood actor and an Australian teen navigating a survival adventure. Lynnette reveals her inspirations, creative process, the challenges of addressing serious themes, and the joys of crafting new tropes.  To hear the bonus chat on Lynnette's writing process sign up at Writes4Women on Substack at Writes4Women.substack.com   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Tracey Spicer Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Sandie Docker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Buy The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you only listen to one episode of W4W this year, THIS is the one you need to make time for. Pam talks AI, its implications and the future of writing with two women on the frontlines of championing artistic rights, journalist @traceyspicer and writer @sandiedocker. We promise, you’ll leave this episode informed, aware, determined and hopeful about the future of your work. These are scary times, but this community is full of courageous women.    SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Substack https://writes4women.substack.com/   Tracey Spicer Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Sandie Docker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Check our Sandie's info on AI here: https://www.sandiedocker.com/ai-action   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.        Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Writes for Women, guest host Mary-Lou Stephens sits down with historical fiction author Emily Maguire to discuss her latest novel, 'Rapture', set in the ninth century. They delve into Maguire's transition from contemporary fiction, the extensive research involved, and the challenges of writing historical content while maintaining authenticity. Maguire also shares insights about her personal connection with faith and nature, the writing process, and the collaborative role of her editors. For paid Substack subscribers, additional content includes Maguire's experiences with literary awards and mentoring emerging writers.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Emily Maguire Website: click here  Instagram: click here   Mary Lou Stephens Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here Twitter:  click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Join Pamela Cook on Writes for Women as she chats with Lauren Keegan about her debut novel 'All the Bees in the Hollow.'  Learn how Lauren's background in perinatal psychology shapes her storytelling and character development. Discover the intriguing folklore of Lithuanian beekeeping and the challenges of writing historical fiction. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating the Journey of Indie Publishing with Sal Gallagher and Kirsten Nixon. In this episode of Rights for Women, host Pamela Cook delves into the world of indie publishing with guests Sal Gallaher and Kirsten Nixon. Sal discusses her novel 'Secrets in the Lakes', her journey through editing, and the challenges of self-publishing. Kirsten shares her experience writing 'Voices of Entrepreneurial Women', detailing her approach to interviews and the decision to go the self-publishing route.  If you've ever thought about self publishing your book, or wondered what the process is like you'll love this chat with these two amazing women.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 WRITING LOVE, LOSS & VENICE  What happens when a bestselling author walks away from publishing—only to return with her biggest book yet? This week on Writes4Women, Pamela chats with Tess Woods about her five-year break from writing, rediscovering her passion, and the inspiration behind The Venice Hotel. Tess shares the highs and lows of her journey, the real-life Venice stories woven into her novel, and—yes—how George Clooney and a “hot priest” made their way into the book! For our Substack subscribers, there’s an exclusive bonus chat on writing multiple POVs, navigating tough editorial feedback, and balancing a writing career with real life.  New episode out now—link in bio!   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Tess Woods Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here Lightbulb Moments with Tess Woods: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 STITCHING STORIES TOGETHER  How do you turn fragments of family history into a novel that spans generations? This week on Writes4Women, Pamela sits down with Chrissie Bellbrae to talk about the magic of uncovering forgotten stories, the inspiration behind The Florentine Quilt, and what happens when real-life twists shape our creative journeys. Chrissie opens up about the thrill of researching family secrets, why she took the leap into self-publishing, and how surviving breast cancer gave her a new perspective on writing. Plus—how do you balance three timelines, three protagonists, and one legendary quilt without losing the thread? (Spoiler: It’s all about trusting the process.) For our Substack subscribers, there’s an exclusive bonus chat where Chrissie takes us deeper into the research, travel, and history behind The Florentine Quilt. Don’t miss it! Plug in. Get inspired. Let’s talk about storytelling, resilience, and the art of bringing the past to life.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Chrissie Ballbrae Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WRITING FAIRYTALES FOR GROWN-UPS  What does it take to turn folklore into a rich, immersive novel? This week on Writes4Women, guest host Jo Riccioni chats with the brilliant Kel Woods about crafting historical fantasy, blending research with imagination, and the writing process behind her stunning books After the Forest and Upon a Starlet Tide. Kel shares how she found her unique voice, why mentorships transformed her writing, and the delicate balance between historical accuracy and storytelling magic. Plus—how do you create a male lead readers swoon over without falling into clichés? (Spoiler: Samuel might just be your new book boyfriend.) For our Substack subscribers, there’s an exclusive bonus chat where Kel and Jo go deeper into the craft and business of publishing—don’t miss it! Plug in. Get inspired. Let’s talk about writing stories that last.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Kell Woods Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Jo Riccioni Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Season 6 of Writes4Women! Join host Pamela Cook and Megan Dalla-Camina, a leader in women's empowerment and leadership and author of 'Women Rising', as they delve deep into the psychological aspects of writing, discussing inner critics, procrastination, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. Both authors share personal anecdotes on how they manage their time, nurture their creativity, and handle feedback and criticism. Megan also speaks about the evolution of her writing process and balancing her many professional commitments, offering insights into maintaining resilience and cultivating a growth mindset. The episode emphasises the importance of honouring individual writing processes and staying true to one's creative journey.    SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Megan Dalla-Camina Website: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.