Podcast listening

As well as all the words I’m writing and reading, I’m also enjoying listening to words as well. I don’t think I could possibly iron a school shirt without listening to something! Sometimes ironing can feel like a guilty pleasure because I close the door in my tiny laundry and listen to a podcast. I am inevitably interrupted by someone wanting to know what we’re having for dinner and someone wanting to know where their gel pens are and someone wanting to know if they can have a friend over to play. But usually I can listen to something creative and inspiring while the shirts are moved from the to-be-ironed hook behind the laundry door to the have-been-ironed door knobs on the laundry cupboards. It’s all about the process!

This is what I’ve been listening to:

• The Australian Writer’s Centre podcast So you want to be a writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait – all the latest in blogs and writing tips and writing books, for writers and readers of fiction and non-fiction. It’s a great balance for freelance writers and fiction writers, and I always come away with something useful. The author interviews are wonderful – if you’re a reader, you’ll be introduced to some great books and if you’re a writer, you’ll learn a few things about the writing habits and tips from various writers. Valerie and Allison are old friends and I almost feel as if I am eavesdropping on their conversation.
• Your creative life with Vanessa Carnevale – this is a new podcast, and one that I am relishing. Vanessa has an amazing array of writers, agents and editors to interview and the subject matter is meaty and deep. Sometimes I want to put my hand up in the air and say, ‘Me, too, that’s how I feel!’
• The beautiful writers podcast with Danielle Laporte and Linda Siversten – Danielle and Linda are American writers, who are passionate about the publishing industry and creativity. They start each podcast with a blessing, and interrupt the more serious questions with a rapid-fire volley of multiple choice questions. Beautiful, in-depth conversations.
• Magic lessons with Elizabeth Gilbert – if you are a Liz fan, these podcasts are a must-listen. She chats to a creative person who is ‘stuck’ in some way and offers her suggestions. Then in the next podcast, she calls on one of her friends – we’re talking Cheryl Strayed or Brene Brown here – and discusses the creative person’s dilemma with them. The creative types range from writers, photographers, artists and so on.
• Become a problogger with Darren Rowse – Darren has a lovely, melodious voice that is so easy to listen to, and makes his wise words seem even wiser. He has such great advice which comes from years of blogging. I intend to go back through his podcasts and take notes, rather than simply listening in the car – there is a wealth of information there for bloggers.
• TED talks – TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. There is a huge array of topics, and the speakers are entertaining and perceptive. Whether you want to learn about vulnerability from Brene Brown, writing from Elizabeth Gilbert or happiness from Shawn Achor, you will find something to move, entertain or educate you.

I’m interested to know if you listen to podcasts, and which ones are your favourites. And whether you’re ironing or driving while you’re listening. Let me know in the comments!