Morpheus Publishing Author's Spotlight

Justine Martin

Welcome to the Morpheus Publishing Author's Spotlight, the podcast where stories come to life! Join your host, Justine Martin, as she sits down with Morpheus Publishing authors to delve into the journeys behind their new book launches. Each episode offers an intimate look at the creative process, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated by our talented writers. Whether you're a budding author, an avid reader, or someone who loves a good story, you'll find inspiration and insight in every conversation. Tune in and discover the magic that goes into crafting compelling narratives and bringing dreams to the page.

  1. 2 days ago

    From Australian Rules to the Wallabies: Russ Tulloch’s Remarkable Life Story | Author's Spotlight Podcast

    From being one of the last kids picked on the football field to representing Australia as a Wallaby, this is Russ Tulloch’s extraordinary story. Welcome to Morpheus Publishing’s Authors Spotlight, hosted by Justine Martin. In this episode, Justine sits down with Russ Tulloch, author of the memoir The Adventures of a Dirt Tracker, to uncover the remarkable journey behind his life, sporting career and new book. Russ’s story begins in Melbourne, where he remembers being one of the last children chosen when the neighbourhood kids picked their football teams. Rather than letting that experience define him, Russ worked harder, trained harder and gradually built his confidence and ability. His determination eventually took him from Australian Rules football and South Melbourne to an unexpected new chapter in rugby union. After an injury threatened his football career at just 21, Russ travelled overseas, where an unexpected invitation to play rugby changed the direction of his life. Despite having very little experience with the game, he eventually went on to be selected for the Wallabies’ 1966–67 tour. 🏉 In this episode, Russ shares: • What it felt like being chosen last as a young boy • How hard work and determination helped him improve in sport • His journey through Australian Rules football and the VFL • The injury that changed the course of his career • How he discovered rugby almost by accident • The incredible moment he found out he had been selected for the Wallabies • His memories of touring internationally in 1966 and 1967 • The unforgettable Wallabies victory against Wales in Cardiff • The meaning behind the title The Adventures of a Dirt Tracker • Why mateship became such an important part of his life • Why he believes setting goals and working hard can change your future • Why he wrote his memoir for his daughters, grandchildren and future generations But this conversation is about much more than rugby. It is about resilience, determination, friendship, family, hope and having another go when life doesn't go according to plan. Russ's message is one that applies far beyond sport: Set yourself a goal. Work towards it. Keep improving. And don't give up when you don't get picked. As Russ says, you don't necessarily need extraordinary talent, you need determination, hard work and the willingness to keep going. Most importantly, he hopes his story gives people hope that there is a chance for everyone. Get your copy of The Adventures of a Dirt Tracker  Book here: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/product-page/the-adventures-of-a-dirt-tracker Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    From Australian Rules to the Wallabies: Russ Tulloch’s Remarkable Life Story | Author's Spotlight Podcast
  2. 2 days ago

    From Grandmother’s Stories to a Children’s Book: The Story Behind Stella Glitterwind | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    What if the magic you’re looking for has been inside you all along? Welcome to Morpheus Publishing’s Authors Spotlight, hosted by Justine Martin, where we go behind the pages to discover the stories, inspiration and people behind the books. In this episode, Justine sits down with Renee O’Brien, author of the enchanting children’s book Stella Glitterwind and Miguel the Flea. Renee shares the heartwarming story behind her first published children’s book and reveals how memories of her grandmother helped inspire some of its most unusual and memorable characters. From a magical little witch to a flea who loses his magical rainbow hat, the story is filled with humour, adventure, friendship and heart. But there is more to this magical adventure than meets the eye. 💫 What inspired Stella Glitterwind? 🪄 Why does Miguel the Flea believe his magic is in his rainbow hat? 🐾 Which character was inspired by Renee’s beloved dog? ❤️ How did friendship and kindness become central themes of the story? 📖 What was it like seeing Renee’s words transformed into beautiful illustrations? 🌟 And what does Renee hope children take away from the story? Renee also talks about her love of writing, her 30+ years of poetry and the surreal experience of finally holding her own published children's book in her hands. One of the most beautiful messages from the conversation is simple: The magic is you. ✨ And this may not be the last adventure for Stella Glitterwind. Renee reveals that another Stella story has already been written, hinting that there could be more magical adventures to come. 👀🧙‍♀️ Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, children's book lover or aspiring author, this episode is a reminder that sometimes a simple idea, a childhood memory or a few words on a page can grow into something magical. Get your copy of Stella Glitterwind and Miguel the Flea Book here: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/product-page/pre-order-stella-glitterwind-and-miguel-the-flea Connect with Renee Palmer O'Brien on the following channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneepalmerobrien_author/ Website: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/authors/renee-o'brien Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    From Grandmother’s Stories to a Children’s Book: The Story Behind Stella Glitterwind  | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  3. 2 Sept

    1,000km in a Wheelchair: Clare Reilly’s Incredible MS Adventure | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    What happens when a wheelchair meets the wilderness? In this powerful episode of Authors Spotlight Podcast by Morpheus Publishing, host Justine Martin sits down with Australian author Clare Reilly, author of Wheelchair Meets Wilderness: A Thousand Kilometres Off-Road for Multiple Sclerosis Research. Clare lives with multiple sclerosis (MS), but she refused to let disability stop her from pursuing adventure. After seeing the Munda Biddi Trail on her vision board, Clare decided to take on an extraordinary challenge: completing the more than 1,000-kilometre off-road cycling trail in Western Australia in an off-road wheelchair. She became the first wheelchair user to complete the full trail. But this isn't simply a story about a long-distance adventure. It's a story about resilience, disability, determination, family, friendship, accessibility and refusing to give up on adventure. In this episode, Clare and Justine talk about: 🎙️ Clare's journey with multiple sclerosis ♿ Completing the Munda Biddi Trail in a wheelchair 🚴 The reality of undertaking a 1,000+ kilometre off-road adventure 💪 The physical and mental challenges Clare faced along the way 🌿 What the wilderness gave her that everyday life couldn't ❤️ The importance of family, friends and having a support team 💭 Why resilience isn't about being strong all the time 📖 The story behind Wheelchair Meets Wilderness 🎬 The upcoming documentary about the adventure 💰 Clare's goal to raise $100,000 for MS research 📚 Her goal to sell 1,000 copies of her book by the end of 2026 Clare also opens up about the reality of disability and why her story isn't about portraying someone as "strong" simply because they live with a disability. It's about acknowledging that things can be incredibly hard, and that's okay, while continuing to move forward and adapt. Her message is simple but powerful: You don't have to give up adventure because your circumstances have changed. You may simply need to adapt the adventure. Get your copy of Wheelchair Meets Wilderness Book here: https://www.wheelchairmeetswilderness.org/ Connect with Clare Reilly on the following channels: Website: https://www.wheelchairmeetswilderness.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clare.reilly/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareReillyadvocate Email Address: reilly.clare.e@gmail.com Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    1,000km in a Wheelchair: Clare Reilly’s Incredible MS Adventure | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  4. 2 Sept

    Kerry Castree: The Story Behind Will and the Secret Strawberry | Children’s Books & Gardening | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    What if a children's book could inspire kids to put down the screen, get outside and grow something of their own? Welcome to Morpheus Publishing's Inner Author Spotlight, hosted by Justine Martin, where we go behind the book to discover the stories, inspiration and people behind the pages. In this episode, Justine sits down with Australian children's author Kerry Castree to talk about her newest book, Will and the Secret Strawberry, the second book in her much-loved Will children's book series. Following the success of Will and the Magical Sunflower, which became a #1 Amazon bestseller, Kerry returns with another heartwarming story featuring six-year-old Will and his love of gardening. This time, a secret strawberry becomes the perfect way to explore an important lesson: patience. But there's much more growing beneath the surface of these children's stories. In this episode, Kerry and Justine explore: 🍓 The story behind Will and the Secret Strawberry 🌻 How Will and the Magical Sunflower became a #1 Amazon bestseller 📚 Why Kerry created the Will children's book series 👦 How her grandson inspired the character of Will 🌱 Why gardening can help children reconnect with nature 📱 Kerry's philosophy of “less screen time, more green time” 🧠 Teaching children patience, emotional awareness and creativity through storytelling 👵 The importance of grandparents, family memories and reading together 🌿 How children's books can encourage kids to get outside and explore 🎨 Turning a children's book into an interactive experience with seeds and gardening 🏫 Kerry's school workshops and programs for children 📖 What's coming next for Will and the series Kerry explains how the books aren't simply stories to read, they're designed to become experiences. Children who purchase the books through her website can receive seeds to plant, allowing them to take the story beyond the pages and into their own gardens. And Kerry's message is beautifully simple: “Less screen time, more green time.” The conversation also explores why Kerry wants families to create memories together, something inspired by her own childhood memories of cooking with her grandmother and spending time in the garden. Order Kerry’s book: https://power2choose.com.au/wellness-shop/ols/products/will-and-the-secret-strawberry Paperback: https://amzn.asia/d/04GT0qnH Kindle: https://amzn.asia/d/0ftxp618 Connect with Kerry Castree on the following channels: Website: https://power2choose.com.au/ or https://linktr.ee/power2choose Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.castree Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrycastreewellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrycastreepower2choose/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCrghBRdxd-2ETCK_aFC3ZYg  Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    Kerry Castree: The Story Behind Will and the Secret Strawberry | Children’s Books & Gardening | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  5. 1 Sept

    Are You Actually Helping… Or Just Donating? | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    Most people think they’re making a difference. But are they really? In this powerful episode of Morpheus Publishing’s Author Spotlight, Paul Bird, author of Be The Change, reveals what most people misunderstand about charities, donations, and real impact. After 30 years in the sector, Paul shares uncomfortable truths: • Why giving money isn’t always the answer • What charities don’t tell you about impact • The hidden reason social issues aren’t improving • And how YOU can actually create real, lasting change This isn’t just a conversation… it’s a wake-up call. If you’ve ever wondered: “Am I actually helping… or just adding to the noise?” — you need to watch this. Watch or listen now and discover how to turn intention into real impact. And don’t miss the opportunity to connect in person. 📚 Book Launch Event – Be the Change 🗓 Date: Wednesday, 3 June 2026 🕒 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 Our Community House, 552 Victoria St, North Melbourne Reserve your seat and be part of an unforgettable evening: https://www.trybooking.com/DLRKC Connect with Paul Bird on the following channels: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmbird/ Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    Are You Actually Helping… Or Just Donating? | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  6. 1 Sept

    Why Kids Ask “Am I Not Enough?” (And How Parents Miss the Signs) | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    What if the biggest question a child has… is one they don’t know how to ask? In this heartfelt episode of Morpheus Publishing’s Author Spotlight, Justine Martin sits down with mother-daughter duo Patricia Lyons and Mackellar Lyons to explore the deeply emotional story behind “Am I Not Enough?” 🐰 What started as a simple art assignment turned into a powerful children’s book tackling a quiet but universal fear, the feeling of not being enough, especially when a new sibling arrives. Inside this episode: • The real-life moment that inspired Billy Bunny’s story • Why children struggle to express emotions (and how storytelling helps) • The surprising psychology behind sibling jealousy • What parents often miss… and how to respond differently • The incredible journey of becoming a published illustrator at just 17 This isn’t just a children’s book. It’s a conversation starter. A parenting tool. And a reminder every child needs: You are enough. Always. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who wants to better understand children’s emotions, this episode will stay with you long after it ends. Watch or listen now and discover the story that’s helping families connect in a whole new way. Get your copy of Am I Not Enough 📖 Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.asia/d/06f5EFpR 📖 Amazon Kindle: https://amzn.asia/d/0eakKKPW Connect with Patricia and Mackellar on the following channels: Website: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/authors/patricia-lyons Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/plyonsauthor/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plyons_author/ and https://www.instagram.com/autumnloops/ Email address: patricialyons.author@gmail.com Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    Why Kids Ask “Am I Not Enough?” (And How Parents Miss the Signs) | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  7. 13 May

    The Truth About Aging NO ONE Talks About (Until Now) | Authors Spotlight Podcast

    What if aging well had nothing to do with age… and everything to do with connection? In this episode of the Author Spotlight Podcast by Morpheus Publishing, host Justine Martin sits down with Van Marinos, just ONE week before his book launch, and the conversation goes far deeper than fitness. This isn’t just about exercise. It’s about life, loss, purpose… and the promise that sparked a powerful book. Van shares: 💔 The promise he made to his father, and how it shaped this book 🧠 Why most people get aging completely wrong 💪 The truth about exercise (and why so many people avoid it) 🤝 The surprising power of social connection, and why it might matter more than fitness 🔥 How small, consistent habits can completely change your life You’ll also hear raw, real moments, including nerves before a book launch, personal reflections, and the kind of honest insights you don’t usually hear. This episode will challenge how you think about: 👉 Aging 👉 Health 👉 Community 👉 And what it really means to live well Because here’s the truth… You’re never too old to get fit. And you’re never too old to find your people. Watch and listen now, this might change how you see your future. Get your copy of Strong & Social: A Guide To Ageing Well Through Movement and Social Connection 📖 Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.asia/d/0c5655B3 📖 Amazon Kindle: https://amzn.asia/d/0iAvusJv Connect with Van Marinos on the following channels: Website: https://communitymoves.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/communitymoves/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/community_moves_fit_over_50/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCam6ytsmQT7TOJimbv4-Mlg Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    The Truth About Aging NO ONE Talks About (Until Now) | Authors Spotlight Podcast
  8. 1 May

    From Workplace Tragedy to Unbreakable Strength — A Mother’s Story Will Leave You Speechless - Author's Spotlight Podcast

    What happens when life changes in a single moment… and nothing is ever the same again? In this powerful and deeply emotional episode of the Author Spotlight Podcast by Morpheus Publishing, host Justine Martin sits down with Jacqueline, author of Endurance: A Mother’s Insight into Workplace Tragedy, a story born from love, loss, and unimaginable strength. Jackie shares: 💔 The day her life changed forever after losing her husband in a workplace tragedy 👩‍👧‍👦 What it really means to navigate grief while raising young children 🧠 The raw reality of shock, trauma, and rebuilding from nothing 📖 How writing her book became both confronting… and unexpectedly healing ⚠️ The powerful message about safety, awareness, and speaking up before it’s too late This isn’t just a conversation about writing a book. It’s a story about survival, courage, and turning pain into purpose. Some stories are hard to hear… But this is one that needs to be told. If you’ve ever experienced loss, faced adversity, or wondered if your story matters, this episode will stay with you long after it ends. Watch or listen now and discover the story behind Endurance. Get your copy of Endurance: A Widow’s Insight into Workplace Tragedy: 📖 Paperback: https://amzn.asia/d/06zgVplS 📖 Kindle: https://amzn.asia/d/0ehL1YA9 Connect with Jacqueline Quinlivan on the following channels: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacci.quinlivan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-jacci-quinlivan-97484a267/ Website: https://jacquelinequinlivan.com.au/ Connect with Justine Martin and Justine Martin Corporation: JUSTINE MARTIN Award winning Speaker, Author, Artist, Coach, Publisher Website: https://linktr.ee/justinemartincorporation Email: hello@justinemartin.com.au Phone: +61403564942 Ready to start your writing journey? Then Morpheus Publishing might be for you! Learn more here on how we can help you: https://www.morpheuspublishing.com.au/

    From Workplace Tragedy to Unbreakable Strength — A Mother’s Story Will Leave You Speechless - Author's Spotlight Podcast

About

Welcome to the Morpheus Publishing Author's Spotlight, the podcast where stories come to life! Join your host, Justine Martin, as she sits down with Morpheus Publishing authors to delve into the journeys behind their new book launches. Each episode offers an intimate look at the creative process, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated by our talented writers. Whether you're a budding author, an avid reader, or someone who loves a good story, you'll find inspiration and insight in every conversation. Tune in and discover the magic that goes into crafting compelling narratives and bringing dreams to the page.