Episodes

  • Australian Short Story Festival - Exploring the Fascinating World of Short Stories with Catherine McNamara
    Nov 22 2024

    Welcome to this exciting episode of Totally Lit, where we delve into the captivating world of short stories. Host Ky Garvey chats with Catherine McNamara, an acclaimed author with four award-winning short story collections under her belt, including "The Cartography of Others," "Love Stories for Hectic People," and "The Carnal Fugues."

    Discover Catherine's intriguing journey from a bar owner to an acclaimed writer living between Venice and the Veneto countryside, where she runs writing retreats. Get insights into her experience at the Australian Short Story Festival and the panels she's a part of, exploring themes like passion, violence, and crafting intimate scenes in writing.

    Join us as we discuss the challenges and joys of writing, the importance of storytelling, and Catherine's upcoming projects, including a new short story collection and a novel. Whether you're a writer, a reader, or simply a lover of literature, this episode offers a unique perspective on the art of storytelling and the dynamic community of short story writers.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    22 mins
  • Empowering Young Readers: A Conversation with Karen Tyrrell
    Nov 17 2024

    Welcome to another enlightening episode of Totally Lit, the podcast dedicated to celebrating the world of reading, writing, and literature. In this episode, host Ky Garvey sits down with the inspiring Karen Tyrrell, an award-winning child empowerment author, children's rights ambassador, and teacher.

    Karen shares exciting news about her latest book, "Logan, Then and Now," which is part of a literacy project aimed at empowering Year 2 students in the Logan area. Discover the journey behind this book, from extensive research to collaboration with local organizations, and how it aligns with the Australian curriculum.

    Join us as Karen reveals her experiences writing commissioned books and the impact they have on young readers. Learn about her award-winning book "Let's Play," and the exciting sequel launching on United Nations Children's Day.

    Whether you're an aspiring author or simply passionate about children's literature, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn more about the creative process, community involvement, and how you too can make a difference through writing.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    25 mins
  • Hope Flies: Isobelle Carmody's Inspiring Journey and Literary Insights
    Nov 8 2024

    Join us for a captivating episode as we revisit an inspiring interview with acclaimed author Isobelle Carmody. Recently attending the launch of Isabel's latest book, "Comes the Night," we delve into her incredible project, the Hope Flies Project. This month-long online auction features 30 stunning kites decorated by award-winning Australian artists, raising funds for the Red Kite charity.

    Isobelle shares a touching story from her past, reading to a brave young girl battling cancer, revealing the deep connections and courage that fuel her literary journey. From her humble beginnings as a young writer to her insights on creativity and the complexities of the publishing world, Isobelle's wisdom and passion shine through.

    Discover the importance of staying true to your story, the challenges and rewards of a writing career, and Isobelle's thoughts on human nature, creativity, and the evolving world. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a devoted fan, this episode offers valuable lessons and heartfelt stories that resonate deeply.

    Tune in to explore the power of storytelling, the resilience of the human spirit, and the beauty of artistic collaboration with the Hope Flies Project. Don't miss this chance to be inspired by Isobelle Carmody's remarkable journey and contributions to literature and charity.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Australian Short Story Festival - Laura Jean McKay
    Nov 7 2024

    Welcome to Totally Lit, the podcast that celebrates the vibrant world of literature. In this episode, host Ky Garvey invites you to explore the upcoming Australian Short Story Festival, set to take place from November 22nd to 24th in Fremantle, Western Australia. This exciting event promises a wealth of activities, including writing workshops, panel discussions, interviews, and a literary mock debate, featuring some of the finest short story writers from Australia and beyond.

    Ky sits down with acclaimed author Laura Jean McKay, who will be presenting at the festival. Laura, known for her award-winning novel "The Animals in That Country," shares insights into her upcoming sessions at the festival, where she will delve into themes of the weird and wonderful, and the dynamics of family in fiction. She also highlights her excitement for workshops led by literary figures like Rashida Murphy and Kate Kennedy.

    This episode offers a glimpse into the enriching experience of the Australian Short Story Festival, where authors and enthusiasts gather to celebrate and explore the craft of storytelling. Tune in to learn more about the festival's offerings and discover why it's a must-attend event for writers and readers alike.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    14 mins
  • Dani Vee -Totally Lit Turns Five: Celebrating Creativity and Connection
    Oct 31 2024

    Welcome to the milestone episode of Totally Lit, where we celebrate the podcast's fifth birthday with host Ky Garvey. Five years ago, Ky embarked on the journey of creating a platform dedicated to the world of reading, writing, and literature, and today, we mark this special occasion by reflecting on the incredible journey and achievements along the way.

    In this episode, we are joined by Dani Vee, host of the popular Words and Nerds podcast, as we delve into her creative process and discuss her first junior fiction, "Riley's Fail-Proof Guide to Breaking a School Record." Dani shares her experiences transitioning from picture books to junior fiction, the challenges she faced, and the joy of seeing young readers connect with her stories.

    We also explore the personal side of creativity, touching on topics like managing anxiety, embracing change, and the importance of resilience. Ky and Dani engage in a heartfelt conversation about the balance of creativity and personal well-being, offering insights into how they navigate their busy lives while pursuing their passion for writing.

    Join us in celebrating Totally Lit's fifth anniversary with special shoutouts from friends and supporters of the podcast. This episode is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the love for literature that continues to inspire and connect us all.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    54 mins
  • Meet the Judges
    Oct 31 2024

    Welcome to a special episode of Totally Lit, hosted by Ky Garvey. In this exciting installment, we unveil the launch of the Totally Lit Microfiction Prize, opening up opportunities for emerging and established authors to showcase their storytelling prowess. With esteemed judges Cheryl Gwither, Lauren Elise Daniels, Geneve Flynn, and Pamela Jeffs sharing invaluable tips on crafting prize-winning short stories, this episode is a must-listen for writers aiming for excellence.

    Join us as we delve into the heart of storytelling, emphasizing the importance of resonant endings, narrative arcs, and the poetic rhythm that captivates readers. Listen closely for the secret code word needed for your entry. Additionally, learn about the competition’s charitable aspect, supporting the Carers Foundation, as $5 from each entry will contribute to this noble cause during National Carers Week.

    Discover how the Totally Lit Microfiction Prize creates pathways into the publishing industry, fostering community and connection among writers. We extend gratitude to our sponsors and supporters who make this initiative possible. Tune in and be inspired to read, write, create, and explore the world of microfiction.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    18 mins
  • Unveiling the Artistry: A Conversation with Illustrator Ross Morgan
    Oct 24 2024

    Welcome to this episode of Totally Lit, the podcast that celebrates reading, writing, and the creation of literature. Join host Ky Garvey as she sits down with acclaimed illustrator Ross Morgan, a fine artist from Adelaide, South Australia, to delve into the world of children's book illustration.

    In this engaging conversation, Ross shares his artistic journey from a young boy inspired by the rural landscapes of his upbringing to becoming an award-winning illustrator. Learn about his creative process, the challenges he faces, and the inspirations behind his work, including his latest book "The Gargoyle," which recently won the ForeverAbility Award.

    Discover how Ross balances the delicate art of illustrating a story that resonates with children while maintaining a sense of empathy and relatability. He also offers insights into his experiences as a fine artist and the transition into the world of picture books.

    Whether you're an aspiring illustrator, a lover of children's literature, or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an artist dedicated to bringing stories to life through his illustrations.

    Join us as we explore the magic of storytelling through pictures and celebrate the unique collaboration between authors and illustrators.

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    50 mins
  • Australian Short Story Festival - Susan Madalia
    Oct 13 2024

    Join host Ky Garvey as she chats to Festival Chair - Susan Madalia about the upcoming Australian Short Story Festival in Fremantle 22nd-24th November.

    The Australian Short Story Festival is an annual festival celebrating short stories in written and spoken forms.

    Founded by Anna Solding of MidnightSun Publishing and Caroline Wood of Margaret River Press, the Festival connects audiences with short story writers, storytellers, publishers, and editors of literary magazines. It brings together readers and local, Australian and international short story writers.

    As the first national event to focus exclusively on the short story form, the Australian Short Story Festival offers a unique contribution to the nation’s literary culture, as well as a timely response to the current resurgence of this aesthetically exacting narrative form.

    The Festival is a non-profit organisation set up to bring writers, oral storytellers, and audiences together in a different Australian city each year.

    Australian Short Story Festival Inc – Celebrating short stories • Fremantle, 22nd – 24th November 2024

    Host: Ky Garvey

    Theme Song: Claire Houghton

    Logo: Emages Design

    Production: Mike Garvey

    Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends. You can also make a contribution at:

    www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

    For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc.

    I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

    Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com

    https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

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    21 mins