Writes4Women

Writes4Women
  • 4.9 (90)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED BI-MONTHLY

Writes4Women is all about celebrating women's voices and supporting women writers. It's about writing the voice, reading the voice and being the voice. Every week host Pamela Cook, or a special guest host, interviews an outstanding female, trans or non-binary author about their books, writing process and life. Transcript available via the Writes4Women website. Video of most episodes available on the Writes4Women youtube channel. You can find out more about Writes4Women at www.writes4women.com

  1. 19 HRS AGO

    Rewind Episode with Sarah Winman

    Pamela Cook shares a Rewind episode of Writes4Women featuring novelist Sarah Winman discussing her 2021 novel Still Life, alongside Winman’s background from acting to writing and her earlier books When God Was a Rabbit, A Year of Marvelous Ways, and Tin Man.  Winman describes how she began writing through adult education classes, found an agent, and learned to trust creative instinct. She outlines Still Life as a four-decade story beginning with a 1944 meeting in Tuscany between art historian Evelyn Skinner and soldier/globe maker Ulysses Temper, later exploring postwar London, Florence, found family, art, beauty, class, love, and unity. Inspiration came from learning about Florence’s 1966 flood and the “mud angels,” with Brexit influencing her “joy as resistance” tone. She details researching as needed, writing nonlinearly through many drafts, using ensemble viewpoints, and receiving crucial art guidance from Florentine art historian Stella Rudolph, and offers writing advice on finishing drafts, careful feedback, rereading great writers, and accepting doubt.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Sarah Winman Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.       Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    59 min

  2. 18 MAR

    Small Moments, Big Emotions with Favel Parrett

    Pamela Cook introduces a Writes for Women Rewind episode featuring award-winning Victorian author Favel Parrett discussing her novel There Was Still Love, inspired by family memories and set across Czechoslovakia and Australia from 1938–1981. Parrett explains her “simple on the page, layered underneath” style built through extensive drafting (often 15 drafts per scene), using memory as non-linear snapshots, and writing in a child’s voice to preserve gaps and subtext.  The conversation covers dialogue that relies on silence and mood, weaving motifs like suitcases and food, creating embodied emotion, the intensity of a reclusive routine while writing, and Parrett’s four writing tips: focus on the work first, believe it’s possible, seek feedback at the right time, and read.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Instagram @w4wpodcast    Favel Parrett  https://www.favelparrett.com.au   Hachette Publishing "There Was Still Love"  https://www.hachette.com.au/favel-parrett/there-was-still-love   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Instagram @pamelacookwrites         Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1hr 3min

  3. 19 FEB

    Crafting Stories with Kim Kelly: A Rewind Edition

    Writes4Women host Pamela Cook introduces a special “Rewind” edition of the Writes for Women podcast, featuring an interview with author and editor Kim Kelly.  Kim discusses realizing she was a writer as a child, her path into publishing, and how working in the industry helped her confidence and writing. She explains her approach to historical fiction—drawing inspiration from family stories and research—often beginning with character voice, then deepening research during drafting and revision. Kim talks about all aspects of writing, from inspiration to imposter syndrome, to creating, drafting and revising a story, making this the perfect episode to kick off the Rewind series.    SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Kim Kelly  https://kimkellyauthor.com Facebook @KimKellyAuthor Instagram @KimKellyAuthor Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU Instagram @pamelacookwrites   Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1hr 15min

  4. 18/12/2025

    Kate Horan: From Classroom to Crime Thrillers

    Host Pamela Cook interviews crime writer Kate Horan, to chat about  Kate's latest release, 'On the Edge,' a compelling thriller. On the agenda is Kate's journey to becoming a writer, her experience with the Faber Academy course, and the mentorship she received from Katherine Heyman. Kate shares the inspiration behind 'The Inheritance,' her debut novel, and the complexities of returning to an earlier manuscript for 'On the Edge.' The episode also touches on the structural and character development processes, the challenges of writing, and the significance of small-town settings. Pam also important news regarding the podcast in 2026. 1:27 Pamela's Writing and Podcast News 05:59 Substack Community and Subscriber Benefits 13:30 Kate Horan's Writing Journey 23:58 The Inheritance: Inspiration and Success 27:22 On the Edge: Themes and Storyline 29:43 Elevator Pitch for the Mystery Novel 31:12 Inspiration Behind the Story 33:09 Writing Process and Character Development 34:52 Challenges and Revisions 40:56 Small Town Setting and Its Importance 44:32 Character Development Techniques 48:00 Balancing Writing with Life 48:52 Promotion and Marketing Strategies 51:52 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Substack: https://writes4women.substack.com/   Kate Horan Website: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal Country.           Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    56 min

  5. 04/12/2025

    Starry-Eyed and Beyond: A Conversation with Katherine Pollock

    OUT NOW — New Episode! Host PMELA COOK sits down with author KATHARINE POLLOCK for a smart, candid and joyfully nerdy conversation about creativity, fandom, rejection, resilience and the winding road to publication — from PhD manuscript to debut, and now her latest novel Starry-Eyed. They dive into writing craft, comedy, character development, confidence, comparison, and surviving the emotional rollercoaster of the publishing world, with warmth, wit and honesty for writers at any stage of the journey. #writes4women #writingpodcast #australianauthors #femalewriters #booklaunch #authorslife #amwriting #writingcommunity #fictionwriters #booksbooksbooks Timestamps:  [00:00] Finding creative community & weathering rejection[01:59] Early writing memories & first sparks[04:52] Studying writing — Honours to PhD[07:02] Turning academic work into a debut novel[16:00] From manuscript to Penguin Random House[21:36] Writing Starry-Eyed: fandom, obsession & humour[30:11] Craft, character growth & mother-daughter complexity[40:14] Publication, promotion & lessons learned[41:45] A new book in the works — nearly 60K words in SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Substack: https://writes4women.substack.com/   Katherine Pollock Website: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal Country.           Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1 hr

  6. 20/11/2025

    Better Than the Real Thing: Brooke Crawford's Publishing Debut

    In this episode of Writes for Women, host Pamela Cook interviews Melbourne-based author Brooke Crawford about her debut novel, 'Better Than The Real Thing.' Brooke shares her journey to becoming a published author, which began after her 40th birthday and was accelerated during the COVID-19 lockdown. They discuss her writing process, the development of her relatable characters, and the support cast that enriches her romcom storyline. Brooke also talks about the significance of the settings in St. Kilda and London, and how these locations are integral to the story. Additionally, she provides insights into her research process and the challenges of balancing serious themes with a romantic-comedy tone. As Brooke prepares for the book's release, she reflects on the editing process and her experience working with HQ Harper Collins. Looking ahead, she offers a glimpse into her next writing project, set in England's Lake District. This episode provides valuable advice for aspiring authors and celebrates the release of a heartfelt and humorous novel. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 00:45 Meet Brooke Crawford 01:36 Brooke's Writing Journey 04:59 The Impact of COVID and Turning 40 06:49 Writing Process and Challenges 14:41 Character Development 21:29 Setting the Scene: St. Kilda and London 23:13 Exploring the Book's Settings 24:21 Weaving Backstories and Balancing Tones 27:10 Research and Expert Consultation 30:04 The Journey to Publication 34:06 Editing and Feedback Process 35:46 Cover Design and Title Change 38:14 Preparing for the Book Launch 41:11 Sneak Peek into the Second Book 42:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Substack: https://writes4women.substack.com/   Brooke Crawford Website: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal Country.         Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min

  7. 06/11/2025

    The Art of Storytelling: Creative Lessons from Taylor Swift with Alli Sinclair and Michelle Barraclough

    OUT NOW - A very special episode!! Host Pamela Cook sits down with authors Alli Sinclair and Michelle Barraclough for a lively chat about what writers can learn from Taylor Swift — from the art of emotional honesty and lyrical precision to the genius of bridges, Easter eggs, and reinvention. They dive into Taylor’s storytelling craft, her bold business choices, and how her evolution as an artist mirrors the creative journey of writers everywhere. Expect fangirling, craft talk, and plenty of inspiration for finding your own rhythm in writing and life.   Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction & Acknowledgement of Country[03:00] Podcast updates, Substack perks, and upcoming guests[07:00] Meet the guests: Alli Sinclair & Michelle Barraclough[09:00] Taylor Swift’s storytelling genius[14:00] What makes us Swifties — music, emotion & connection[18:00] Emotional honesty in writing[22:00] Conciseness and the art of lyricism[26:00] Storytelling lessons from Folklore and Evermore[31:00] The bridge as a turning point — parallels in fiction[38:00] Literary and pop-culture references in songwriting[43:00] The art of light and shade in storytelling[46:00] Easter eggs, foreshadowing, and narrative payoff[54:00] Owning your creative rights — lessons from “Taylor’s Version”[59:00] Branding, authenticity, and community-building[1:04:00] Evolution, work ethic, and writing inspiration[1:07:00] Wrap-up and bonus chat preview   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Substack: https://writes4women.substack.com/   Alli Sinclair Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Michelle Barraclough Fresh Web Design: click here Michelle Barraclough: Click here Writers' Book Club Podcast: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal Country.         Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1hr 8min

  8. 23/10/2025

    More Than Luck: Rachael Johns on Writing Her Latest Novel

    Celebrating the Release of 'The Lucky Sisters' with Rachael Johns. Host Pamela Cook, chats to best-selling author Rachael Johns about her new book 'The Lucky Sisters'. They cover a range of topics from her writing process, twin dynamics, adoption, and life and death themes explored in the book. Highlights include discussions on the symbolism of butterflies, influences of personal experiences in her writing, and Rachael's upcoming book tour. Pamela also updates listeners on upcoming Writes for Women events and offerings, including Substack write-ins and courses available on her website. 01:11 Podcast Updates and Substack Benefits 03:08 Writing Courses and Novella Release 04:56 Exciting News: Upcoming Book Release 05:56 Meet This Week's Guest: Rachel Johns 07:28 Rachel Johns on Her New Book 'The Lucky Sisters' 09:21 Writing Process and Inspirations 18:02 Character Development and Themes 26:46 Exploring Twin Intuition 28:53 Adoption and Personal Stories 32:51 Mother-Daughter Dynamics 34:24 Romantic Relationships and Character Development 36:32 Life, Death, and Writing a Happy Book About Death 42:58 Butterfly Symbolism and Book Cover Design 47:46 Book Tour and Final Thoughts SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Rachael Johns Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=true See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    49 min
See All (100)

4.9
out of 5
90 Ratings

About

Writes4Women is all about celebrating women's voices and supporting women writers. It's about writing the voice, reading the voice and being the voice. Every week host Pamela Cook, or a special guest host, interviews an outstanding female, trans or non-binary author about their books, writing process and life. Transcript available via the Writes4Women website. Video of most episodes available on the Writes4Women youtube channel. You can find out more about Writes4Women at www.writes4women.com

Information

  • Creator
    Writes4Women
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Writes4Women
  • Show Website
    Writes4Women

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