In this episode, Michaela speaks to Bridget Shine –– Chief Executive of the Independent Publishers Guild –– about the independent publishing industry. Bridget talks about the differences between working at an independent vs a corporate publisher, how the independent publishing landscape has changed over the years, and how IPG supports independent publishers and early to mid-career professionals operating within them.Independent Publishers GuildWebsite: https://www.independentpublishersgu...

In this episode, Tamara speaks to Robert Kingett- disability activist, published author and romance aficionado- about his tumultuous but ultimately inspiring career in publishing. Robert speaks passionately about what activism can look like in publishing, highlighting the need to decentralise traditional heteronormative and ableist voices and recenter marginalised LGBTQ+ and disabled voices trapped in the periphery. Beyond this, Robert talks about his love for romance, both fictional and othe...

This week's host, Ireland's Rachel Cahill, sits down with Róisin Cremin to discuss the science of bookstagramming and her work in highlighting authors with disabilities. Having been an online book reviewer for a number of years, Róisin gives the listeners tips and tricks of what she has learned - including how she got an advanced copy of one of Sally Rooney's newest book (!). Róisin has also just established her own press called 'Hear My Voice Press' with the aim of showcasing the overl...

In this episode, Sarah speaks to Flo Lacey – scout at London Literary Scouting – about the role of scouting in the publishing industry. Flo explains what a literary scout does, delving into the highs and lows of her role, along with providing advice to those wishing to break into this less-well-known area of publishing. We also cover interesting details about what may make a book a good candidate for translation or adaptation to the screen.Hosted and edited by Sarah Allen-Sutter (SYP London P...

In this episode, Sarah speaks to Emma Kiesling – audio assistant for Bonnier Books UK and fellow publishing podcaster – about working in audio publishing. Emma explains how she found her way into audiobooks, what a day on the job looks like, and how her role as audio assistant interacts with other departments. We also discuss what makes a good audiobook and answer the highly debated question: Does listening to an audiobook count as reading?Mentioned in this episodeUncovering Publishing podcas...

This week Ireland's own Rachel Cahill will be speaking with Tara O'Malley and Cormac Culkeen - two thirds of the creative minds behind the brand new literary magazine 'Ragaire.' In this episode our host will pick their brain on the essential steps behind commissioning and editing, the future of the Irish language at home and abroad, the supportive publishing community despite the lack of jobs, and the psychological trauma of the dreaded 'sraith pictiúr.' You won't want to miss this episode!

In this episode, Eleanor speaks to Jake Hope – Chair of the Carnegie and Kate Greenway medals, board trustee for Lancaster LitFest and freelance children's book consultant – about the role of a Sensitivity Reader. Jake speaks candidly about the importance of sensitivity reading in the publishing industry, identifying outdated stereotypes and biases, and working with authors in a solution-focused manner. We also cover the potential challenges and risks associated with sensitivity reading (or l...

In this episode, Evie talks to the managing director and founder of Curtis Brown Creative, Anna Davis, about the CBC's incredible opportunities. CBC run their annual Discoveries competition, in which their shortlist of winners has just been announced. Anna is also responsible for the Breakthrough Writers’ Programme for under-represented writers, which offers tailored scholarships and 9 months of mentoring to under-represented writers https://www.curtisbrowncreative.co.uk/breakthrough-writers-...

Continuing our segment on international publishing perspectives, host Rachel Cahill speaks with Valeria Barbon who is interning as an Editorial Assistant at Guido Tommasi Editore, an award-winning publisher in Milan. They talk about the logistics of preparing cookbook manuscripts, the benefits of having InDesign experience, and the importance of just putting yourself out there.Valeria Barbon@valeriabarbonMentioned in this episode:Guido Tommasi Editore: https://www.guidotommasi.it/ Everyone in...

Have you ever wondered about the inner workings of publishing companies in different parts of the world? This week's host Rachel sits down with Alessia Fiorello, who until recently worked as a Junior Marketing Manager for an educational digital textbook company called Deutschfuchs in Bonn. In this episode, they discuss the differences between Germany and the rest of the world, the essential tools needed to market books online, and the unexpected perils of book fairs. Alessia...

In this episode, Eleanor speaks about eBook piracy and intellectual property to Dr Wayne Noble – Digital Director at UCLan Publishing, Lecturer in Digital Publishing at UCLan, and published criminologist. Wayne expertly discusses the various routes publishers might take to discourage illegal downloads, including using digital formats as a marketing tool. We also discuss the benefits of learning hard skills like Photoshop and InDesign, especially when looking for a career in production or...

In this episode, Eleanor and Laura - SYP North Digital Content Officers for 2023 - talk about their 2024 Publishing Ins and Outs. They cover things they'd love to see more of like hybrid working and more open discussions with professionals in the industry. However, they also cover outs such as unpaid internships and the 'comparison-itis' that comes with competitive job hunting. SYP North X: @SYPNorth Instagram: @SYP.North Discord: https://discord.com/invite/KFEE7MYVCh

In this special conference episode, Kate speaks to Rachel Martin, the Global Director of Sustainability at Elsevier. They discuss how to create a sustainable future in publishing, from collecting important data and introducing green goals to publishing materials that educate individuals on the importance of sustainability. Listen now. Learn more about the upcoming 2023 SYP conference: Sustainable Futures and bag your ticket here: https://www.sypconference.co.uk  The conference will take...

In this episode, Averie speaks to Bob Orr and Sigrid Nielson, founders of Lavender Menace. Bob and Sigrid discuss the origins of Lavender Menace, the books they keep in the archive and the challenges of maintaining older books. We also cover the importance of quiet, alcohol-free queer safe spaces and the rise of online book events. Hosted by Averie Watson (SYP Scotland Co-chair) Edited by Nicole Fan (SYP UK Digital Content Lead) Twitter: @SYPScotland Website:...

In this episode, Eleanor speaks to Megan Whitlock - Marketing Executive at BookMachine and UCLan alumni - about marketing roles within both trade and academic publishing. Megan talks candidly about the difficulties of finding the right publishing job outside of London, the promising yet hesitant move to hybrid working, as well as how book marketing has changed since the peak of BookTok. We also cover some of Megan's favourite marketing campaigns to work on so far. Megan Whitlock Twitter/X:...

In this episode, Kim speaks to Meghan Capper –– literary assistant at Madeleine Milburn Literary Agency –– about her experiences of the agenting world from an entry-level perspective. We discuss the differences between the agency and publishing house side of things, burn out and managing a healthy work-life reading balance, and how to start climbing the career ladder once you've finally landed that entry-level job.  Meghan Capper Twitter/X: @meghan_capper Madeleine Milburn (literary...

In this episode, Josephine speaks to Jessie Beswick all about her role as a Marketing Manager at Penguin Random House. Jessie talks candidly about her career journey; from initially training as a makeup artist, her time working in celebrity liaison to her current position as a Marketing Manager. We discuss how she broke into the industry and she also shared helpful tips on how best to forge your own career in marketing within publishing.  For more information please check out Jessie's TikTok:...

In this episode, Nicole speaks to Reyhana Ismail — an experienced illustrator, book designer, and aspiring author, whose clients include Hachette Children’s (UK) and the award-winning Storymix, a children's fiction development company with a focus on inclusive representation. Listen in to hear all about Reyhana’s unconventional path into the field, her creative process of designing and illustrating childrens’ books, as well as the importance of book design (and why it’s okay to judge a book...

In this episode, Emily speaks to Sophie Dickinson –– Communications Officer for SYP South West –– about gaining publishing experience whilst at university. Sophie discusses her top tips for students looking to break into the industry, delving into setting up and running her own Bookstagram, working for her university careers service, and getting involved with student societies. We also discuss how experiences seemingly unrelated to publishing can help you to develop essential skills for a...

In this episode, Laura speaks to Becca Parkinson –– Marketing Coordinator at Manchester University Press –– about the world of academic publishing. Becca shares insight into what you might expect when working within academic publishing, her career journey, and the exciting things on the horizon for Manchester University Press. Rebecca Parkinson Twitter: @beccap1502 Manchester University Press: https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/ Hosted and edited by Laura Lewis (SYP North Digital...

In this episode, Kim speaks to Sue Buswell, Editorial Director for Picture Books at Andersen Press, an independent children's publisher most known for publishing the beloved Elmer the Patchwork Elephant. Sue talks about her career, how children's publishing has changed over the years and what she sees and hopes for the future. She offers some helpful advice for anyone looking to get into children's publishing or anyone who might not have considered it, with some tips on crafting a stand-out...

In this episode, Millie speaks to Alexia Lear, a Marketing Assistant Apprentice in Bloomsbury's Children/YA department. Alexia shares her experience as a publishing apprentice, talking us through the stages from application and interview to the role itself. We also discuss the many campaigns Alexia has worked on and how she recently won Apprentice of the Month! This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a publishing apprenticeship. Alexia Lear Instagram: @alexialear...

In this episode, Emilie speaks to Becca Barnard ––Founder of Barnard publishing and publishing master’s graduate –– about Welsh publishing and getting into the industry. Becca shares her experience of undertaking a publishing masters and the highs and lows of setting up her own independent publishing house. We also cover the challenges of pursuing a career in publishing whilst living in Wales and why Welsh publishing is so important.   Becca Barnard Twitter: @Barnard_pub Website:...

In this episode, Shiv speaks to Charles Catton - Editorial Director of Amber Books, an independent publisher of illustrated non-fiction books, and previous SYP mentor. Charles has mentored across different programmes during his career and speaks openly on how to make the most of the mentoring. He talks of his own journey into publishing, highlights the importance of taking initiative, asking questions, tracking trends and seeking opportunities in the industry. Mentioned in this...