Amra 's Armchair Anecdotes

The conversation delves into the multifaceted artistic journey of Jelena Curic, exploring her experiences as a writer, comedian, singer, and cultural representative. From the creation of the character Teta Yela to the challenges of cultural representation in writing, the discussion highlights the complexities of artistic identity and the pursuit of creative freedom. Jelena's journey reflects the t...

Warren Rankine, author of Fifteen Feet Tall, shares his journey from business to authorship, the emotional process of writing, the decision to publish, and the challenges of vulnerability and cultural representation in memoir writing. He discusses the role of editors and the response to his memoir from men and women, highlighting the growth and evolution experienced through the writing process. Th...

The conversation delves into the role of IngramSpark in indie publishing, the responsibilities of author publishers, bookstore access and discoverability, the significance of metadata, the importance of proofreading and quality control, and innovations in print on demand. Key takeaways include the need for indie authors to take an active role in marketing and promoting their books, as well as the...

The conversation delves into the challenges of sustaining a long-term writing career, the transition to indie writing, the financial realities of publishing, the persistence and joy of writing, balancing writing with work, and the allure of historical fiction and costumes. The conversation delves into the challenges of writing historical fiction, the impact of historical accuracy, and readers' pre...

Violeta Matijevic-Bagia, author and writing coach, discusses her journey in traditional and independent publishing, the impact of personal trauma on her writing, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry. She also shares insights on the importance of authenticity in storytelling and the role of therapy in her creative process. The conversation covers topics related to parenting, set...

The conversation with Les Zig covers the journey of a writer, editor, and publisher, highlighting the misconceptions about publishing readiness, the realities of the publishing world, and the habits that help writers finish books. It also delves into the importance of characterization in storytelling and the ethical approach to publishing. The conversation covers the challenges and pitfalls of the...

The conversation covers the transition from teaching to running a small creative business, the challenges of marketing and pricing as a small business owner, and the experience of starting a small business full-time. It also delves into the background of the guest and her journey to becoming an author coach. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by indie authors, the comparison between...

The conversation with Tor Roxburgh covers her journey as a writer, the transition from traditional publishing to independent publishing, and the use of AI in writing. It delves into ethical considerations, productivity, and the future vision for writing. Additionally, it explores the marketing and business side of independent publishing, as well as the tech side of podcasting. The conversation del...

The conversation delves into the practical aspects of living sustainably, transitioning to an all-electric home, the challenges of electric vehicle ownership, cost and efficiency of electric vehicles, government policies and environmental impact, solar energy and grid feeding tariffs, solar batteries and community initiatives, electric car prices and environmental responsibility, and the environme...

In this conversation, Paola discusses her journey as an indie author, focusing on her urban fantasy mysteries, multicultural representation in fiction, writing and publishing tips, research and learning, character representation and themes, transition to full-time author, and the process of translation and audiobooks. The conversation delves into the world of indie publishing, highlighting the cha...

The conversation with Vicki explores the themes of unexpected life changes, the dance with the universe, the intersection of art therapy and social events, the therapeutic value of mandalas, the role of teaching in fostering creativity, and the journey of writing a children's book. Vicky's experiences highlight the importance of embracing creativity, passion, and courage in pursuing one's artistic...

Ruth Clare's conversation with Amra Pajalic delves into the impact of trauma on the nervous system, the intersection of lived experience and research, and the advocacy for families affected by war and domestic violence. Ruth shares her creative journey, career path, and the inspiration behind her book 'Enemy,' shedding light on the impact of war on families and the advocacy for defense forces. The...

Amra's Armchair Anecdotes Episodes 11–20 were where the conversations deepened—and got a lot more honest. This run of Amra’s Armchair Anecdotes moves through early menopause and POI, refugee identity, neurodiversity, resilience, creative risk, and what it really takes to build a sustainable literary life. These aren’t polished origin stories or neat success arcs. They’re conversations about bodies...

Send us a text We share Antoinette’s story of premature ovarian insufficiency at 41, the harm of being dismissed, and the relief and clarity that came with HRT. We open up about rage, insomnia, brain fog, grief over lost choice, and how to advocate for better care at home, work, and in the clinic. • early signs ignored and misattributed to stress • navigating GP knowledge gaps and delayed referral...

Send us a text Today I talk to my best friend, Veronica Ho and as two longtime friends we trace a candid path from quiet teen years to midlife strength, exploring how weightlifting became therapy, why boundaries matter, and how perimenopause reshapes health goals. We share the unglamorous prep, the cost, the mindset shifts, and the power of saying no. • early body image and being a confidant • why...

Send us a text Amra sits down with Dr Katherine Firth to unpack how the Three Minute Thesis turns complex research into a clear, human story and why that skill changes academic careers. Amra shares the path from department heat to university win to Asia–Pacific submission, including the full 3MT performance. • what 3MT is and why it matters • how to build a strong opening, middle and closing • cut...

Send us a text We sit with poet and filmmaker Koraly Dimitriades to unpack gatekeeping, creative autonomy, and how to build a writing life that answers to the work, not the establishment. From founding a press to touring internationally, we share tactics, hard truths, and why protecting your voice matters. • founding an indie press to keep creative control • questioning “literary merit” through a...

Send us a text I sit down with actor and narrator Nina Nikolic to unpack the craft and business of voice work, from emotional performance and character choices to contracts, rates, and protecting your voice in an AI world. Along the way we swap practical systems for finding clients, tracking jobs, and turning creative energy into a sustainable career. • balancing creative craft with small business...

Send us a text Two award-winning authors discuss the transformative journey from rejection to publication and how fantasy fiction creates space to process real-world challenges. • Demet shares her decade-long journey to publication through "process, perspective, perseverance, and practice" • Co-editing "Growing Up Muslim in Australia" helped transform Demet's writing style • "Blood Moon Bride" exp...

Send us a text Melbourne-based artist Lukas Kasper shares his journey from skateboarding graffiti artist to internationally recognized muralist working across Australia, North America and Southeast Asia. His evolution from painting monsters to creating works exploring mental health, environmental awareness and our relationship with animals reveals how creative practices change and grow over time....

Send us a text Lee Agius shares her journey from sculptor to art therapist, revealing how chance encounters and supportive mentors helped her discover her creative path despite early educational challenges as a neurodivergent learner. • Becoming a sculptor after a chance comment about her expressive hands during her travels in her early 20s • Art school experience highlighting the difference betwe...

Send us a text Tania shares her journey from mother of three to co-founder of Melbourne's vibrant Cuban dance crew Rakata, exploring how a single dance class at age 30 completely transformed her life path. • Beginning dance at 30 and discovering that Cuban salsa allowed her to flourish without classical training • Transferring teaching skills from classroom to dance floor by breaking complex movem...

Send us a text Writer Fikret Pajalic shares his journey from Bosnian refugee to published author, exploring how personal trauma became award-winning fiction through determination and craft. His short story collection "Complication" draws on refugee experiences, cross-cultural challenges, and unexpected connections. • Began writing as therapy for PTSD after arriving in Australia as a refugee in 199...

Send us a text We explore how to market your book effectively without compromising your values or feeling overwhelmed. This episode offers practical strategies from metadata optimisation to social media marketing that work for both indie and traditionally published authors. • Marketing is about connecting your story with readers who need it most • Prepare comprehensive metadata including keywords,...

Send us a text Being a successful author requires more than just writing skills – it means embracing entrepreneurship and developing a sustainable business model that supports your creative practice. • Understanding taxes is essential – track income and expenses to claim writing-related deductions • Invest in your business through editing, cover design, marketing, and professional development  • U...