In this captivating episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle welcome the extraordinary Heather Morris, the author behind bestsellers like "The Tattooist of Auschwitz" and her latest, "The Wish." Heather opens up about her unexpected journey from a career in social work to becoming a celebrated storyteller, sharing how her encounters with remarkable individuals have shaped her writing. The conversation delves into the art of listening, a skill Heather honed through her career.

Listeners will gain insight into Heather's creative process, including the challenges and rewards of writing stories that transcend her own experiences. The episode also explores the themes of love, resilience, and hope that permeate Heather's work, as well as the emotional weight of carrying others' stories. Heather discusses the importance of capturing the voices of those who cannot tell their own tales and the delicate balance of honoring their truths while crafting the stories.

Join us for an inspiring dialogue that touches on the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides, the role of fiction in educating and enlightening, and the enduring impact of stories on our understanding of history and humanity. Whether you're a fan of Heather's work or new to her stories, this episode offers a profound exploration of the connections that bind us all. Tune in and keep turning the pages with Natter!

Natter is proudly brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland & IrishCentral.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply moving episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with academic and author Mary Ann Kenny to explore her remarkable journey through grief, psychosis, and recovery following the sudden death of her husband, John.

Mary Ann opens up about the raw and personal story behind her book The Episode, detailing her descent into psychosis, the complexities of psychiatric treatment, and her path to healing. Together, they delve into the power of storytelling, the urgent need for advocacy within mental health care, and the persistent stigma that surrounds mental illness.

Key Points:

• Mary Ann shares the story behind her book The Episode
• The realities of psychosis and navigating psychiatric care
• How grief and trauma shaped her mental health journey
• The role of storytelling in breaking stigma and fostering understanding
• Why compassion and advocacy are crucial to improving mental health support

With honesty and grace, Mary Ann reflects on trauma, resilience, and the ongoing journey of self-belief. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and recognising that mental health exists on a continuum that affects us all.

The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Natter, hosts Kate and Michelle are joined by bestselling crime writer Jane Casey for an honest and captivating chat about the craft behind her gripping novels.

Jane opens up about her writing journey, from the spark that started it all to the pressure of keeping readers hooked across a long-running series. She shares how she crafts clever stories, develops memorable characters, and balances the demands of writing with everyday life.

The trio also explore the distinctive voice of Irish crime fiction, the role of music and setting in creating atmosphere, and how writers can embrace their individuality while staying authentic to their readers and themselves.

Key Points:

• Jane Casey’s journey from aspiring writer to bestselling author
• The challenges of sustaining reader interest across a book series
• The influence of music and setting in creating a productive atmosphere
• The power of authenticity and writing for both readers and loved ones

Whether you’re a fan of crime writing or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the genre’s most respected voices.

The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.