
Everything you’ve always wanted to know about succeeding in the world of writing and publishing. Learn practical writing techniques, go behind-the-scenes and discover how real-life authors got their big break. Uncover the creative processes of writers who have made it. Your host is Valerie Khoo – author, journalist, creative and CEO of the Australian Writers’ Centre.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 720 | Founded | 12 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EducationArtsHow ToBooks | |||

Do you spend your weekends visiting cliffs with your child to find out which ones would be deadliest? Well, that’s something Fiona Hardy did in researching her new ‘cosy crime’ novel, Old Games! In this episode, Fiona joins us to discuss the inspirat... more
She’s baaaaack! Any chance to chat with my former podcast co-host Allison Tait (who writes as A.L Tait) is a good day, and she’s back with yet another book hitting shelves – tween romance, The Last Word. Allison also discusses some of the other excit... more
Do you love historical fiction? I have to admit to being a sucker for a different time and place – and both are on offer in Mary-Lou Stephens’ latest novel, The Hobart Hotel. In this episode, Mary-Lou discusses her unique approach to research and the... more
OMG, I adored Katie Hoskins’ debut novel, When the Party’s Over! In so many ways, it’s the PERFECT book – nailing structure and narrative to tell a nuanced and contemporary story. In this episode, Katie talks about the path that took her from beginne... more
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I am not a huge podcast listener but have been converted listening to both the new and previous episodes. Thank you for such a content rich, interesting series - I love listening and what I am learning is helping me on my writer’s journey.
OMG, Val and Al, I’ve only just found your wonderful podcast now, through my second AWC course I’m currently doing. The courses are fabulous, and your podcast is NEXT LEVEL! The generosity of your guests! I started with Wendy Orr, then skipped to Petronella McGovern, who gave us a masterclass in Page-Turning-writing! Thank you all so much for feeding my writing-soul. Well, must dash, there’s a LIFETIME of interviews to binge on!
I absolutely love the authenticity from which Valerie leads her episodes and guides guests through relatable exchanges. New topics (like romance fraud) and interesting conversations helps light the spark that anything is possible. Thank you!
You ask the real questions that make this podcast always surprising and informative as a writer, there’s always a little nugget of insight, thanks Val
I’ve been listening to this amazing podcast for almost 2 years. Listening to other writers makes me feel like I’m part of the club: the invisible “writer’s club”.
Somehow, I’m allowed to vicariously live through the experiences of other writers. I share in their struggle and successes. And most importantly, I get to learn from their mistakes, which helps me to make less of my own.
Thank you “So You Want to be a Writer” podcast!
Sylvia Dziuba
Australian Author
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
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Apple Podcasts | #151 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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This show targets aspiring writers and readers interested in the craft and business of writing, with a steady stream of author interviews and practical tips. Episodes center on writing technique, publishing journeys, research methods, and the realities of bringing a book to market, often interspersed with Word of the Week segments and course promotions. Notable strengths include a warm, conversational interviewing style, a diverse range of guest authors—from crime fiction to historical fiction and middle-grade—plus actionable advice that listeners can apply to their own writing practice. A recurring emphasis on craft, mentorship, and community makes it feel like a practical, encouraging resource for writers at various stages of their journe... more
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So You Want to be a Writer launched 12 years ago and published 720 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on So You Want to be a Writer include:
1. Mary-Lou Stephens
2. Katie Hoskins
3. Sarah Barrie
4. India-Rose Bower
5. Tina Strong
6. George Kemp
7. Penny Tangey
8. Nat Newman
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