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Recently, I’ve added a few writing-related podcast episodes to my perpetual playlist. I’ve been enjoying podcasts for many years, and like my bookshelves, they reflect shifting areas of interest in my life.

Podcasts are a great way to be entertained, informed and inspired. They continue to proliferate and there is probably a podcast for most interests, hobbies, and obsessions out there. And this includes podcasts aimed at writers at all stages of the writing journey.

Sometimes, after finding a new author that I enjoy reading, I will search podcasts for interviews. This can be a great way to get a more in-depth understanding of the source of inspiration for the novel and the creation of characters. It can also provide some circumstances around the development of the ideas and plot lines, which can shine a light on the creative process followed by the author.

There is an ongoing fascination with the origin of writing ideas and characters in particular. Podcasts that focus on interviews with authors often include questions along these lines, and often provide space for authors to share tips on the writing process.

If you are looking for ways to develop your craft, connect with favourite writers, and find inspiration, a writing podcast can give a nudge in the right (no pun intended) direction.

A writing podcast that I’ve started to listen to again recently is by Valerie Khoo at the Australian Writers’ Centre called So You Want to be a Writer. There are nearly 700 episodes with a considerable archive of author interviews, writing tips and word of the week.

Another favourite is Talking Aussie Books by Claudine Tinellis. This podcast series features author interviews with Australian fiction writers. The interviews with well-established and emerging writers are insightful with thoughtful questions and responses, and great writing advice. As a writer and supporter of Australian literature, Claudine is a fantastic interviewer.

For a more international writing perspective, I’ve also dipped into some podcast episodes of Write Now with Scrivener. I use Scrivener for longer form writing, and there are some great author interviews as well as tips on how to use this writing software.

Writing podcasts, whether about the craft of writing or interviews with published authors, are a way for me to feel connected and engaged when I’m not actually writing. They can be inspiring, interesting, and informative, and I’ll often jot down ideas, or take away a technique that could help with current or future writing project.

Do you listen to podcasts on writing? Are there any you would recommend to other writers?

Photo: writing book and headphones

Writing resources:

There is a great list of writing podcasts, both Australian and international, available on the Writing NSW website here. They include podcasts featuring fiction and non-fiction author interviews, as well as podcasts with a publishing focus. There’s a few here that I’ll be checking out.

Sheryl Garratt has created a list of Ten of the best podcasts for writers, with some fascinating podcasts in the list. They include a range of genres, and feature short and longer form episodes. More to explore and add to the playlist!

Finally, another list with a mix of Australian and international writing podcast suggestions as complied by author Anna Featherstone as Useful Podcasts for Australian Writers. Anna also has a great range of resources and helpful writing advice available on her website.