The Writing Life
National Centre for WritingWe’re a podcast for anyone who writes. Every week we talk to writers about their writing journeys and techniques, from early career debuts to self-publishers and narrative designers. We’ve featured Margaret Atwood, Jackie Kay, Sara Collins, Antti Tuomainen, Val McDermid, Sarah Perry, Elif Shafak and many more! The Writing Life is produced by the National Centre for Writing at Dragon Hall in Norwic... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 200 | Founded | 15 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArtsEducationHow To | |||
Listen to this Podcast
Latest Episodes
On this episode of The Writing Life Podcast, Hannah Murray shares the experience of writing her debut book, a memoir called The Make Believe: A memoir of magic and madness.
Hannah worked as an actor for over a decade, starring in E4’s Skins and HBO’... more
In this episode of The Writing Life Podcast, Norwich-based writer Ashley Hickson-Lovence discusses experimenting with narrative, form, and structure in his latest novel, About to Fall Apart – a thrilling kaleidoscope of thoughts, failures, disappoint... more
In this episode of The Writing Life Podcast, Norfolk-based writer Camilla Balshaw shares insights into exploring themes of identity and belonging in her memoir, Named – an engaging and intimate investigation of what makes us who we are.
Camilla Bals... more
In this episode of The Writing Life Podcast, illustrator and writer Anna Trench shares the process of writing and illustrating her debut graphic novel, Florrie – a warm-hearted story about football, friendship and falling in love.
Anna Trench is an ... more
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Reviews
- Nope
I’ve tried this podcast twice now. Don’t know why—think I was tricked by the change of thumbnail/image. The conversations are terribly boring, waffly. Couldn’t find anything helpful or insightful.
Apple Podcasts1broadcastappeal
Australia2 years ago - Nourishing a writing community
As a writer based in Edinburgh, this podcast makes me feel like part of a wider writing community. The conversations between writers on this podcast - particularly the episode feat. Joelle Taylor, Jay Bernard, Anthony Capildeo & Gail McConnell - are so enriching and motivating, they’ve become part of my writing practice. Thank you for all you do!
Apple Podcasts5EDubhglas
United Kingdom2 years ago - What a find.
There are so many podcasts about books and writing, offering advice on different aspects of the trade. The Writing Life tackles the practicalities of getting those words down and in order and flowing and interesting and gripping ….. I could go on.
There are so many really good discussions with people (authors) who are actually doing it and sometimes making the mistakes that we do and explaining the pitfalls.
Well worth a listen to if you are a writer or want to be.
Apple Podcasts4Wee-Stan
Spain3 years ago - Great podcast!
It is the perfect companion for everyone interested in all aspects of the book industry. Packed with insightful tips and great guests.
Apple Podcasts5Novel readerUnited Kingdom4 years ago - Wonderful podcast
I only discovered this podcast two weeks ago & am really blown away by it. Every episode is a gem. The hosts are thoughtful, questions penetrating & what an incredible array of guests! From those starting out to those well-established. This is a great resource for writers (and readers!) at any stage of their journey. I’m a writer recently moved to Norfolk so am extra grateful as it’s bringing more intellectual sparkle to the place.
Apple Podcasts5clemochkaUnited Kingdom4 years ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #88 | United Kingdom/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #232 | United Kingdom/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #30 |  New Zealand/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #71 |  Denmark/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #84 | New Zealand/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #221 |  Brazil/Arts/Books |
Talking Points
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Audience Metrics
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Writing Life
What is The Writing Life about and what kind of topics does it cover?
This show centers on writers at all stages of their journeys, with conversations that span craft, form, publishing realities, and the daily life of creating books. Episodes often weigh how structure, voice, and research shape a project, while also unpacking practical steps—from mentorship and editing to navigating publication and festival ecosystems. Guests range from debut novelists to experienced writers across genres, with a strong emphasis on memoir, contemporary fiction, and literary risk-taking, plus frequent attention to regional writing scenes and how place informs work. A notable strength is the capacity to mix detailed craft discussions with intimate, human context—often linking creative choices to personal history, culture, and b... more
Where can I find podcast stats for The Writing Life?
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How many listeners does The Writing Life get?
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What are the audience demographics for The Writing Life?
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How many subscribers and views does The Writing Life have?
To see how many followers or subscribers The Writing Life has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.
Which podcasts are similar to The Writing Life?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The Writing Life:
1. Writer's Routine
2. Writers on Writing
3. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
4. Ask Penguin
5. The Waterstones Podcast
How many episodes of The Writing Life are there?
The Writing Life launched 15 years ago and published 200 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact The Writing Life?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for The Writing Life?
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What guests have appeared on The Writing Life?
Recent guests on The Writing Life include:
1. Camilla Balshaw
2. Anna Trench
3. Jenni Fagan
4. Grace Murray
5. Sam Meekings
6. Celeste Mohammed
7. Ayanna Lloyd Banwo
8. Matt Greene
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.