So You Want to be a Writer

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Everything you’ve always wanted to know about succeeding in the world of writing and publishing. Learn practical writing techniques, go behind-the-scenes and discover how real-life authors got their big break. Uncover the creative processes of writers who have made it. Your host is Valerie Khoo – author, journalist, creative and CEO of the Australian Writers’ Centre. 

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Recent Reviews
  • Alexstrath1
    A dynamic duo here to help you through the writing journey
    Valerie and Allison bring you great authors to learn more about the writing journey
  • Petteri.Harlove.♥
    Loving These Podcasts!
    I just started listening to this when I saw that you guys interviewed my favorite author! I got sucked in and I am loving all of these podcasts!
  • Colleen in the Car (USA)
    Yes, I want to be a writer.
    I first tuned into "So You Want To Be A Writer" podcast when my kids were all in high school, and I was spending a lot of time driving them here and there. I listened to Val and Al chit chat about all things writing while I was trying to figure out what I would do when I was no longer driving to this or that. Through their conversations and author interviews, I began to believe that maybe, I too could be a writer. I tuned in every week, sometimes every day trying to catch up on the back catalog, and learned something, sometimes many things, from each episode. A couple of months ago, I launched my youngest chick out of the nest, and last week, I finished my first manuscript. I'm so grateful to Val and Al for all that they do every week to encourage new writers like me. Their honesty about their experiences and generosity with their knowledge is what helped me get the pages written. No matter where you are in your writing journey, this podcast will enhance the ride.
  • Arnold Howard
    From a fan in Texas
    Al and Val bring writing inspiration and knowledge from the other side of the planet. I have been listening to them while doing carpentry in the hot Texas sun. They have great “radio” personalities and voices. And their accents make them feel like characters in “A Place You Can Call Home.” As I listen, I imagine I’m in the outback of Australia. Thank you for the interviews and laughs. Keep up the good work. You have changed my life as a writer.
  • A.J. Avid Listener
    Hello from Colorado
    I am a Finnish writer residing in the US and I’m so happy that I found Val & Al! As I tend to write my historical fiction in Finnish, joining a local writers group is really not an option, as no one would be able to read my writing, let alone give me feedback. But each week I get tips from Val & Al and the authors they have on the show to make my writing better! I love the wide variety of authors that you interview, it has really opened my eyes to the fact that each of us has a different process, background and time line to publication, and that’s OK! You make me learn and laugh out loud at the same time. Thank you for all you do, it is so much appreciated! Anni
  • MyMomCallsMePhat
    It's only the best there is.
    I was refered to this podcast by an Australian peer I met via online through NaNoWriMo and was instantly hooked. These ladies literally get me through my day. I MUST listen to them on my drive to the office day job to keep me positive and excited about writing, with the mindset that perhaps I will not be stuck in my inane day job forever. I NEED these lady's humor, wit, encouragement, support, advice, and excellent author interviews to get me there. The best things in life are free!
  • tabarnes
    USA listener Love these gals
    As an aspiring writer, I have sought out resources to help lift my craft to the next level. I came across Valerie and Al and was hooked instantly. I have since backlogged and started listening from episode 1. They do not disappoint. They are insightful, witty and informative without being condescending to new artists. They are an inspiration to other women by being kind and supportive to each other in a society that is lacking in such support all too often. I love this show and will continue to listen as long as they care to broadcast.
  • Chelsey Engel
    Great advice, great hosts, great interviews
    I never log onto iTunes but I knew I had to so I could leave a review! I’ve been listening to this podcast since I finally started working on my first novel this past December (thanks to Val and Al, I finished the dreaded first draft already). I love podcasts, and anything really, with women voices, which is another reason I’m so happy I found SYWTBAW. I love their vibes together (they always have me laughing out loud on my way to work), Val’s Word of the Week (Al, you ready?!), and their writer in residence interviews. I learn such a variety of things in each episode, and I love starting my mornings off with “How are ya, Al?” I feel like I know these two amazing people because I’ve listened to every episode already. And I can’t wait for more.
  • Lollipop12345678900987654321
    Motivation even as a teen!!!
    This is such a great podcast! I have been coming up with stories since I was in 2nd grade and knew that I wanted to write someday. This podcast has introduced me to so many different types of writing. It motivates and inspires. It is so interesting and Val and Al are hilarious. AND the word of the week has expanded my vocabulary as a high schooler. It is great! Thank you so much ladies.❤️ Keep up the great work.
  • thebusinessdude
    Amazing writing advice and thoughtful support!
    Allison and Valerie are a staple for your writing resources. Their witty and insightful humor adds to the already helpful education of writing. They provide practical advice as well as explain a variety of resources available to you. If you are a writer, want to be a writer, or enjoy the subject, this is a must have! Thank you Valerie and Allison!
  • CK8538
    Pod 127 so you want to be a writer
    This was my first time listening to Valerie & Allison. I am an aspiring author. I enjoyed the episode. I found the content helpful and informative. I especially enjoyed the interview with Jay Kristoff. I will be listening to more. Love their accents since I am a midwestern gal in America.
  • RickM62
    I have arrived!-Rick in Boone, NC
    Yesterday, I was followed by Allison Tait on Instagram. It was awesome! Valerie and Allison have the best podcast in the world. I love listening to them and have started listening from the beginning again. I wish they did a podcast every day. Banoffee pie and procrastipup are my two new favorite words. I started listening because I want to write a book and decided research would be the way to start. I am so glad I found these two. What a wealth of information on all aspects of writing and publishing. Keep up the fantastic work! Hugs from Boone, North Carolina! Rick
  • eritz1
    Good but iffy audio quality
    Great podcast but the poor audio quality can be a bit distracting. Otherwise, love the content!
  • Writer46
    Very Enjoyable and Informative!
    I thoroughly enjoy this podcast. Not only do I enjoy listening to their cool Australian accents (I'm from the United States), I always learn something new. They have an easy rapport with each other and they cover interesting points. I highly recommend this podcast. And, in answer to the title of the podcast, "Yes, I want to be a writer!"
  • JHFloyd27
    GREAT resource!
    I have been listening to these two lovely ladies since their first podcast when I decided I wanted to change my career. Each hour long show covers many different areas for writers today from writing in the news, productivity tips, to helpful apps, and interviews with working and successful writers. They are wonderful hosts and this is a great place to get started.
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