
How and why writers write. Fiona Snyckers and Gail Schimmel are working writers - and their favourite people are writers. Join them as they dive deep into HOW and WHY successful writers write. Mail us at hiddenlivesofwriters@gmail.com
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 73 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Category | Arts | |||

Zakes Mda is one of South Africa's best known and most awarded writers. He is a novelist, playwright, short story writer, and painter. A Professor Emeritus of English at Ohio University, Zakes now lives and works in Johannesburg.
He joins Fiona Sny... more
Nadia Davids is an award-winning playwright, novelist, and short story writer. She won the Caine Prize in 2024 for her short story 'Bridling'. Her latest novel CAPE FEVER has been released to great acclaim, published by Simon & Schuster.
Nadia joi... more
Damon Galgut is one of South Africa's most distinguished writers. He won the Booker Prize in 2021 for The Promise, which was his third novel to be shortlisted for the award.
Damon joins Fiona Snyckers and Gail Schimmel to talk about how writing se... more
Marguerite Poland is one of South Africa's most decorated authors, having won the Percy Fitzpatrick Award numerous times, as well as the Order of Ikamang for lifetime achievement. Her career spans many decades and includes books for children, works o... more
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It inspired me to read the book which I devoured over the weekend. So resonant of the story of my, and so many of my friends’ lives.
And the creative tips - the dedicated space and the story board - are most helpful.
I’ve just stumbled across this podcast and so glad I did!
I listen to a lot of book-related podcasts but it’ such a nice change to have one featuring local writers. We don’t get to learn enough about our local authors and this really fits the bill!
And my TBR pile is groaning under the weight of every episode!
Thank you Fiona and Gail!
I am enjoying Fiona and Gail discussing life as writers, interviewing writers and sharing writers tips. I’m excited for season 3
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
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Apple Podcasts | #143 |
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Listeners tend to be writers, aspiring authors, and readers with a strong interest in craft, publishing, and storytelling. The show centers on the practical and emotional aspects of writing, with guests ranging from memoirists to novelists and editors. It often covers the writing process, editing, promotion, and the personal journeys behind successful books, highlighting authentic storytelling, creativity, and resilience. A standout trait is the hosts' focus on local and contemporary writers, plus practical tips like journaling, storytelling room setups, and marketing strategies that feel actionable for aspiring guests and sponsors alike.
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The Hidden Lives of Writers launched 3 years ago and published 73 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 The Hidden Lives of Writers include:
1. Khaya Dlanga
2. Joanne Fedler
3. Morabo Morojele
4. Cliffordene Norton
5. Terry-Ann Adams
6. Penny Haw
7. Shameez Patel Papathanasiou
8. John van der Ruit
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