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:

1. 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

1. Writing Journey

• Started writing at 17

• Former English teacher

• Known as the "Undisputed Queen of Australian Women's Fiction"

1. Book Series Connection

• Linked to previous book "The Other Bridget"

• Features characters from the library where Fred works

1. Rachael's Book Club

• 6,500 members on Facebook

• Monthly book discussions

• Annual in-person retreats

• Focuses on supporting Australian and women writers

1. Personal Insights

• Loves audiobooks

• Passionate about libraries and librarian representation

• Enjoys traveling to research book settings

Recommended For: Romance readers, book lovers, fans of Australian fiction Contact/Follow:

• Website: RachaelJohns.com

• Facebook: Rachael Johns Book Club

• Book Club Retreat: rachaeljohnsbookclubretreat.com

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

Notable Quotes:

• "Resistance creates tension and anxiety, and makes life a burden."

• "The Spirit can end up hiding in the head if living in the heart is too confronting."

• "All of life is suffering" - Buddha

Practical Takeaways:

• Start with "low hanging fruit" when practicing letting go

• Use meditation to create distance from your thoughts

• Practice being present in the moment

• Recognize that external things don't define your happiness

Recommended Companion Resource:

• The Untethered Soul Guided Journal: Practices to Journey Beyond Yourself

Upcoming Book Club Selections:

• Current: The Bee Sting (Join by end of May)

• Next: Dear Digital, We Need to Talk

Connect: www.betweenthelinesaustralia.com

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 Wedding People"

• "What Does It Feel Like?" by Sophie Kinsella

Claire's Writing Insights:

• Writes most creatively in early morning

• Believes in the power of a "triumphant second act"

• Passionate about challenging ageism and celebrating wisdom

Memorable Quote: "Every woman should have a triumphant second act." About the Author: Claire Pooley is a former advertising professional who published her first novel at 50, celebrating diverse characters and unlikely communities in her writing.

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 dream life"

• "Pleasure is a mindset and a lifestyle, not just a destination"

Guest Bio: Emma Lovell is an author, speaker, and coach specializing in helping people design lives that combine work, travel, and personal fulfillment. She has visited 76 countries and continues to explore the world while running her business. Upcoming Travel Plans:

• Central America trip

• European tour including Finland, Portugal, and potentially Bulgaria

• Panama Canal cruise

Recommended for listeners interested in:

• Travel hacking

• Lifestyle design

• Work-life integration

• Personal development