
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 | 723 | Founded | 12 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ArtsHow ToEducationBooks | |||

After a first-hand experience with a witch, author and AWC graduate Inessa Jackson started researching the real world Wiccan community, and the result was her debut crime/thriller novel, Devil Mountain. In this episode, Inessa generously shares her q... more
Is food your love language? It certainly is for bestselling author and AWC graduate Anna Johnston – brought to life through her new novel, When Lemons Give You Life. In this episode, Anna dishes up the inspiration and character creation for this late... more
Australia is experiencing a golden age of crime and thriller writing right now and Christine Gregory is a part of that. Her latest novel, The Informant, explores the world of bikie gangs, and in this episode, Christine discusses how she went about re... more
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
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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 | #237 | |
Apple Podcasts | #240 |
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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 723 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. Fiona Hardy
2. Allison Tait
3. Mary-Lou Stephens
4. Katie Hoskins
5. Sarah Barrie
6. India-Rose Bower
7. Tina Strong
8. George Kemp
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