Ep 47: Healing Through Words: Rachael Coopes on 'The Art of Forgiveness
Between The Lines
Guest: Rachael Coopes *Interviewed by Chelle Griffin* Episode Highlights: Introduction to Rachael Coopes: Award-winning actress, writer, and presenter known for her work on Australian television and theater Career Journey: Rachael discusses her path from early acting roles to becoming a multifaceted creative professional Writing Process: Insights into how Rachael approaches scriptwriting and storytelling across different mediums Industry Challenges: Honest conversation about navigating the entertainment industry and overcoming obstacles Current Projects: Discussion of Rachael's...
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Ep 46: Five Seasons in Seoul: A Journey Through Culture and Connection with Christine Newell
Between The Lines
In this inspiring episode, we chat with author Christine Newell about her beautiful memoir, Five Seasons in Seoul, which chronicles her transformative year living and teaching in South Korea. Christine opens up about the personal challenges that led her to seek a fresh start, her deep cultural immersion, and the powerful impact of Korean traditions—especially the symbolic “five seasons” shaped by Yin and Yang philosophy. She shares how community, kindness, and resilience helped her find healing, purpose, and creative spark. We also explore the emotional journey of writing a memoir, the...
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Ep 45: Bridesmaids, Boundaries, and Being Yourself with Rachael Johns
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Episode Title: Rachael Johns: The Bad Bridesmaid and the Love of Books Guest: Rachael Johns, Australian Romance Author Key Highlights: Discussion of Rachael's latest book "The Bad Bridesmaid" Insights into her writing process and inspiration Exploration of her love for books and libraries Episode Breakdown: Book Overview Main character: Winnefren (Fred) Darling Setting: Norfolk Island Plot: Fred tries to stop her mother's sixth wedding Inspired by "The Parent Trap" movie concept Writing Journey Started writing at 17 Former English teacher Known as the...
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Ep 44: Letting Go: A Deep Dive into Living Untethered by Michael A Singer
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Podcast Show Notes: Living Untethered with Michael A. Singer Episode Highlights: Book: Living Untethered: Beyond the Human Predicament Author: Michael A. Singer (New York Times bestselling author) Key Themes: Inner peace, self-realization, mindfulness, and personal growth Episode Overview: Hosts Leanne and Shel dive deep into Michael Singer's latest book, exploring profound insights about: Understanding the universe's complexity Separating oneself from thoughts Practicing meditation and awareness Accepting life's inherent suffering Techniques for personal transformation ...
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Ep 43: Rebels with Reading Glasses: Clare Pooley on Aging Disgracefully
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Podcast Episode: How to Age Disgracefully with Claire Pooley Guest: Claire Pooley, author of "How to Age Disgracefully", "The Authenticity Project", and "People on Platform Five" Episode Highlights: Discussion of Claire's latest novel "How to Age Disgracefully" Exploration of multi-generational connections and community Insights into writing, aging, and finding purpose Key Themes: Breaking stereotypes about aging The importance of community and human connection Humor as a tool for addressing challenging life experiences Book Recommendations: "Margot" by Ruthie Thorpe "The...
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Ep 42: Work, Travel, Thrive: Designing a Bleisure Life with Emma Lovell
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In this episode, Emma Lovell discusses her book "The Art of Pleasure" and shares insights on combining work, leisure, and self-care to create a fulfilling lifestyle. Key Highlights: Emma's philosophy of "pleasure life" - traveling the world, making money, and living life on your own terms Strategies for blending business and leisure Importance of work-life harmony over work-life balance Travel experiences and goals (76 countries visited) Practical tips for incorporating more pleasure into daily life Notable Quotes: "It's not about waiting until everything is perfect to live your...
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Ep 41: Sisters in Grief: Navigating Loss and Love in Blue Sisters
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In this episode, Leanne Tran and Chelle Griffin dive into Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors - a raw, layered novel about estranged siblings reunited by grief. Following the death of their sister Nikki, Avery, Bonnie, and Lucky return to their childhood home and are forced to confront the complicated ties that bind them. Told from alternating perspectives, Blue Sisters explores themes of identity, sisterhood, and the legacy of family. Leanne and Chelle unpack the emotional weight of the book, share their thoughts on the characters’ extreme lives and inner worlds, and reflect on how relatable the...
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BONUS Episode: Autumn Reading Pile
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Ep 40: Get Rich Lucky B****!
Between The Lines
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Ep 39: Sandwich, the meal and the generation.
Between The Lines
info_outlineEpisode Title: A Romantic Journey with "Mary Christmas"
Hosts: Leanne and Chelle
Guest: Mary Anne O'Connor
Episode Overview: In this episode, Leanne and Chelle welcome Mary Anne O'Connor, author of "Mary Christmas," a romance novel set in 1909 in the picturesque Cotswolds. The story follows Mary Richards, a teacher torn between societal expectations and her career aspirations. Through the lens of love and family dynamics, the book explores themes of independence, the suffragette movement, and the courage to defy traditional gender roles.
Key Discussion Points:
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Introduction and Book Overview:
- Introduction of Mary Anne O'Connor and her book "Mary Christmas."
- Summary of the plot, highlighting Mary Richards' struggle between career and love as her sister Emily's wedding approaches.
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Mary Anne O'Connor's Background:
- Mary Anne's career in copywriting and marketing before transitioning to writing fiction and non-fiction.
- Her personal life in Northern Sydney and how her family influences her writing.
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Character Development and Historical Context:
- Discussion on the societal pressures faced by women in 1909 and the inspiration from Mary Anne's previous novel, "Sisters of Freedom."
- Emphasis on strong, independent female characters and the importance of career and independence.
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Transition to Writing Romance:
- Mary Anne's shift from historical fiction to romance, inspired by Christmas movies.
- The book's focus on a strong female lead and a kind, intellectual male character.
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Themes and Character Dynamics:
- Exploration of love and career choice themes, and the dynamics between Mary and Jonathan.
- Insights into Mary Anne's personal influences, including her family.
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Family and Romantic Elements:
- The emotional journey of Mary and her sister Emily, and the significance of family bonds.
- Personal anecdotes about Mary Anne's family and the influence of her mother.
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Historical and Modern Relevance:
- Discussion on the suffragette movement and ongoing gender equality challenges.
- Mary Anne's emphasis on supporting each other and challenging outdated gender roles.
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Romance and Real-Life Influences:
- The portrayal of genuine, thoughtful relationships in the book.
- The importance of mutual respect and support in romantic narratives.
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Emotional Impact and Reader Engagement:
- The book's aim to create an immersive experience through vivid descriptions of Christmas markets and bookshops.
- Strong, relatable characters that resonate with readers.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations:
- The book is available for purchase on Amazon and other platforms, making it a perfect Christmas gift.
- Mary Anne shares her pride in the book and hopes readers will connect with the characters.
- The episode concludes with gratitude for the discussion and a wish for a Merry Christmas to listeners.
Resources Mentioned:
- Book: "Mary Christmas" by Mary Anne O'Connor
- Previous Work: "Sisters of Freedom" by Mary Anne O'Connor