The Audiobook Podcast

SquareSound

The Audiobook Podcast is a program for the makers and listeners of audiobooks. What goes on behind the making of a professional audiobook? We will break all that down for you. Each episode Justine Sloane-Lees and Abbe Holmes (leading professionals in voice acting and audiobooks) talk on a different topic. So whether you are a novelist, or have a professional studio or publishing house, if you are an author, director, engineer, narrator or audiobook lover, this program is for you. The Audiobook Podcast is recorded in the booth at SquareSound Studios, one of Australia's leading audiobook production houses. SquareSound was founded in 2015 and is lead by some of the best in the Industry.

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20 episodes
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English

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S1 · E38
July 2 · 51 min
Beyond the Page
After a little hiatus, we're back! In this episode, Justine catches up with Kelly Irving to talk about one of the biggest topics shaping the writing world right now: AI. Together they explore how artificial intelligence is changing the way writers create, why human expertise still matters, and what makes writing for audio different from writing for the page. Kelly Irving is a bestselling book coach, editor, and founder of the Expert Author Community. Through her Write Book Method, she helps authors turn big ideas into trusted, impactful books, guiding them through positioning, publishing, and launching with confidence. Episode Links kellyirving.com Validate your book idea with the Book Canvas https://hub.expertauthor.community/book-canvas Learn more about the Expert Author Community https://www.expertauthor.community/ Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-irving/
#37
Sep 1, 2025 · 35 min
Digital Book Culture
In this episode we are opening a conversation with Dr Millicent Weber about her research into how people engage with books and literary culture: everything from prizes and book reviews, to audience experience at literary festivals, to social media trolling of authors, to amateur production of audiobooks, podcasts, and fan-fiction. This ongoing project is one of the first large-scale academic studies of audiobook publishing and reading. Dr Millicent Weber is an Australian Research Council DECRA Fellow for early career researchers. It’s providing focused support for her investigation of Audiobooks and Digital Book Culture. She is also a Senior Lecturer in English in the School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics at the ANU.
#36
Aug 4, 2025 · 24 min
Authors Republic
Welcome back to another episode of The Audiobook Podcast. In this episode we are speaking with Lindsay Senior who is the Head of Marketing at Author’s Republic. She is a seasoned audiobook marketing and distribution expert with a passion for helping authors bring their stories to life in audio and getting their content out into the world of consumers. As a production house SquareSound keep our focus where our speciality lies (in creating audiobooks) and align with businesses that also specialise so we can offer our clients the best services. We’ve always been impressed with the level of professionalism received from Authors Republic especially when keeping things personal with customer service. Forget AI, you get real people helping you which is a standout to the competition. This interview covers everything you need to know on audiobook online distribution with Authors Republic. Enjoy!
#35
Jul 1, 2025 · 53 min
Diction Friction
Welcome back to another episode of The Audiobook Podcast. We’ve touched loosely on the subject of diction in earlier conversations, but we realise that what we said was fairly general. We’d mentioned casting people to work within the normal range of their voice, and that forced diction can sound forced! In this episode, Justine is in conversation with Geraldine Cook-Dafner, who holds a Licentiate in Voice and Speech from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, and additional training at the Royal Shakespeare Company and we think there’s nobody better to have this conversation with about diction.
#34
Sep 4, 2024 · 24 min
Grammar Factory
In this episode, Justine is in conversation with Scott MacMillan, Chief Strategist and Executive Publisher of Grammar Factory Publishing Company. Scott is a Toronto-based best selling author, publisher, entrepreneur, and strategy advisor to start-ups with a passion for helping entrepreneurs grow their business by extracting, productizing, and publishing their knowledge and expertise. For more information on Scott MacMillan and Grammar Factory you can find them at: grammarfactory.com facebook.com/GrammarFactory instagram.com/grammarfactory entrepreneurtoauthor.com/podcast
#33
Jun 11, 2024 · 38 min
Artist Management
In this episode we are joined by Tania Patti, Agent and Publicity manager of CP Artist Management. Tania currently manages publicity commitments and opportunities for CP clients. She has experience in film, music, comedy festivals and produced live theatre with First Nations and LGBTQIA+ communities, touring shows around the world. CP Artist Management has artists working in Australia and internationally in feature film, TV, voiceover, digital content, and onstage. The Agency is boutique in it’s approach and understands the unique strengths, talents, and aspirations of each client, ensuring they are represented most effectively to achieve their long-term goals. For more information on Tania Patti and CP Artist Management you can find here: https://cpmgt.com.au/ https://www.facebook.com/cpartistmgt/ https://www.instagram.com/cp_artist_mgt/
#32
Apr 22, 2024 · 31 min
A.Nonymous
In this episode, Justine is joined by Australian actor Grant Cartwright all the way from New York City. Together they will be diving into the use of pseudonyms in the audiobook industry. That is, a fictitious name, or alias, used by narrators in the industry. They offer some privacy and protection for a narrator’s real name and allows them to venture into “off-portfolio” or “off-brand” genres, such as erotica and political titles, content that could be perceived as “controversial”. This is more common than listeners might know - and there are a fair few ways narrators might go about this. For more information on Grant Cartwright you can find him at: https://www.grantcartwright.com/
#31
Apr 2, 2024 · 38 min
Andrew Griffiths
In our latest episode, Justine speaks with bestselling author, entrepreneur and global presenter Andrew Griffiths. Square Sound produced Andrew’s latest audio release ‘Someone Has To Be The Most Expensive, Why Not Make it You’. (Released in 2023 and written specifically for business owners) and since then SquareSound have been working alongside many of Andrews business clients & authors to guide them through their audiobook creation and release. Andrew is described by most as a street-smart entrepreneur. His business building book series, “101 Ways” offers small business owners practical, smart and realistic advice. Griffiths is Australia’s #1 small business author with 14 books now sold in over 65 countries. To learn more about Andrew check out: https://www.andrewgriffiths.com.au/
#30
Mar 4, 2024 · 37 min
Kate Hood
“Help is not access, help is help. And access is something that equals independence.” Kate Hood. In our latest episode, Justine delves into a poignant discussion surrounding the experiences of artists with disabilities, speaking with Kate Hood, a remarkable talent whose journey embodies resilience and creativity amidst adversity. Originally from Sydney, Kate's career spans over two decades, encompassing roles as an actor, voice artist, writer, and director. However, in 2003, her life took a profound turn with a diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), propelling her into a new chapter as a disabled actor, writer, theatre maker and of course earning accolades for her captivating narrations in audiobooks. Kate took on the mantle of Artistic Director at Raspberry Ripple Productions, a pioneering theatre company in Melbourne championing disability-led performances. Through her advocacy work as a speaker and panelist, Kate tirelessly endeavours to bridge the gap between artists with disabilities and their non-disabled counterparts. To learn more about Kate and Raspberry Ripple productions check out the links below: https://www.katehood.net/ http://raspberryripple.co/ https://www.sydneytheatre.com.au/whats-on/productions/2024/cost-of-living https://auslanstageleft.com.au/events/risky-business-malthouse-melbourne/
#29
Feb 5, 2024 · 26 min
Tamala Shelton
Welcome back to the Audiobook Podcast! . Tamala Shelton, proud Bundjalung and Lamalama actor, joins Justine in studio for this month’s episode. . Tamala shares her journey to audiobooks; her experience and insight as a First Nations actor, and of mixed heritage, in navigating the industry; the process of working with a language consultant on the audiobook ‘Pemulwuy, The Rainbow Warrior’ written by Eric Willmot; and ultimately, how the work she has done in the audiobook space has helped her connect with her language and culture. . We hope you enjoy this latest episode! . @tamalalalala @squaresoundstudio #audiobookpodcast #theaudiobookpodcast #firstnations #firstnationsvoices #languageconsultation #firstnationsactors #firstnationsnarrators#podcast #audiobooks #studio #audiostudio #industryadvice #audiobookindustry #voiceover #audiobooknarration @squaresoundstudio
#28
Oct 31, 2023 · 30 min
Pozotron
Welcome back to The Audiobook Podcast! This month’s episode delves into an online audio proofing software that has been innovating the audiobook industry - Pozotron. Adam Fritz, CEO of Pozotron, joins Justine to break down how it all works, how narrators can make the most of this tool, the role of AI in the audiobook industry, and what exciting future developments the company has in store for us. Square Sound have integrated Pozotron into our workflow and it has made a huge difference to the efficiency of our workflow and improved the stability and consistency in the way we proof check content for publishers and authors. As Adam has coined, Pozotron aids to “stop pickups before they happen”. We hope you enjoy this month’s episode! You can reach out to Adam and the team at hello@pozotron.com
#27
Oct 1, 2023 · 22 min
Booth Fright
The latest episode of the Audiobook Podcast, Justine and Abbe discuss a slightly more serious topic on performance anxiety. In the audiobook industry, “Booth Fright” (as opposed to Stage Fright) is experienced by many actors despite the lack of admission around it. Abbe and Justine also discuss how pervasive a phenomenon this is and some ways narrators can counteract those feelings of doubt, and the negative voice that chats in your head. As a voice over coach, Abbe speaks on how she guides students through this, Justine gives the director’s perspective on how you can direct someone when they’re experiencing “Booth Fright”. If you want to dive deeper, there’s a lot of great literature speaking on this topic. Check out the following articles and resources: https://www.schoolofvoiceover.com/talent-resources/reducing-performance-anxiety-how-to-de-stress/ https://www.centerforvocalhealth.com/blog/stage-fright-vocal-muscles https://edgestudio.com/taming-stage-fright/ https://www.nethervoice.com/overcoming-performance-anxiety/ https://www.sarasecora.com/resources/2021/7/15/pzi8ngb0v8ipg3txs8a3ss3mioci7e https://voiceovercoach.com.au/7-things-voice-actors-should-never-worry-about/ https://www.voiceoverxtra.com/article.htm?id=RA2RTA4F https://www.voiceactorwebsites.com/i-am-anxiety/
#26
Sep 4, 2023 · 34 min
Les Horovitz
Welcome back to another episode of the Audiobook Podcast! Today, Justine and Abbe are joined in conversation with Les Horovitz, voice actor and audiobook narrator. It’s never too late to follow your passions. Les Horovitz worked in accounting and finance for almost 30 years, when he made the switch to becoming a professional voice over artist and audiobook narrator, with now 30 over titles to his name! We chat to him about his unique journey, insights on the industry and tips he has for aspiring narrators. The conversation opens up into the benefits of getting professional training and the craft of voice acting and audiobook narration, as well as a deep dive into pivotal steps that projected Les’s career, and more voice over advise with Abbe Holmes! Find out more about Les at leshorovitz.com Voice Over Coaching inquiries, you can reach Abbe at abbe@voiceovercoach.com.au
#25
Aug 1, 2023 · 30 min
Proof Editing
Episode 25 explores the vital role of audiobook’s unsung heroes - the Proof Editors, also known as Quality Control (QC). After the audiobook recording phase is complete, and before it reaches your ears, the proof editors step in to begin the process of listening through the entire book. Joining us from her home in LA, Anthea Greco, Australian Voice Actor, audiobook narrator and proof editor, chats to Justine and Abbe about her journey to audiobooks and the QC process. We cover how this role operates, common errors proofers are listening out for, and as always, some fun tidbits along the way! Casting a light on a lesser known (but extremely vital) role in the audiobook industry. We hope you enjoy our latest episode!
#24
Jul 3, 2023 · 38 min
Vision Australia
“Talking books”, since their inception, have always had accessibility in mind. But just how much of this carries on in today’s world of audiobook production? Andrew Furlong and Robert De Graauw from Vision Australia sit down with Justine Sloane-Lees to discuss accessibility in the audiobook industry, and give us an insight into Vision Australia’s Talking Books production process - from a breakdown of the innovative DAISY system, to editing, casting and narration. Highlighting the crucial work of organisations such as Vision Australia in this space, this month’s episode 24 is a must-listen!
#23
Jun 9, 2023 · 24 min
Non-Fiction
In this episode, join Justine Sloane-Lees and Abbe Holmes, as they deep dive into the genre of non-fiction and discuss the boost in production of non-fiction titles in audio, examples of the different types of non-fiction and the unique circumstances and elements that can accompany this sort of genre. We also touch on the importance of directing and casting, specifically, what makes for a good narration of a non-fiction audiobook? How does one’s performance differ when working with non-fiction as opposed to fiction? (Hint: never underestimate the power of the PAUSE) Sharing fun anecdotes along the way, highlighting some of the memorable non-fiction titles they’ve had the pleasure working on. We hope you enjoy our latest episode! Please like, comment and share!
#22
Jan 31, 2023 · 42 min
A Career In Audiobooks
In Episode 22 Justine Sloane-Lees has a good yarn with Australian-born Audiobook Director and Narrator, Olivia McKenzie-Smith. Starting with her early career as an actor in Australia and America and how she found her neiche in the audiobook industry in America. Olivia shares her process, Australian Vs American English, how her dual roles compliment one another, what is the go to authoritative pronunciation guide, and what lengths a director will go to, to get a word pronunciation correct! They also touch on what goes into preparation of series books and how essential having a broader general knowledge is key in this work. We hope you enjoy our latest episode and please like, comment and share with someone who cares!
#21
Dec 15, 2022 · 32 min
Bab Sharkey
In conversation with Andrew Hansen And Jessica Roberts, creators of Bab Sharkey and Director, Yen Nguyen. This husband and wife duo have penned the hilarious middle-grade series for readers aged 8+ who love humorous texts with songs and heaps of jokes. SquareSound directed and produced 4 audio stories and layered with SFX and music to create an experience into the world of Bab Sharkey. In the discussion we touch on studio and author process, and have a few laughs and share some snippets along the way. The Audiobook Series can be found via WaveSound Audio or at any good online audiobook store.
#20
Nov 29, 2021 · 30 min
Who's Who?
Who’s Who in the Studio? We'd like to clear some things up around the job roles that go into making a successful audiobook. Job titles can be tossed around often without a clear sense of what exactly each person does. Until just a few years ago there were just a handful of studios that specialised in recording audiobooks in Australia but now many home and professional studio have stepped into the industry most without a clear sense of what actually goes into the preparation and production nor who's who in the studio. This episode Justine Sloane-Lees is in discussion with Ryan D'Sylva and Yen Nguyen who are part of the team here at SquareSound.
#19
Jul 26, 2020 · 37 min
David Tredinnick
In Episode 19 , Justine Sloane-Lees has an open conversation with David Tredinnick, an awarded narrator of audiobooks, having narrated more than 150 titles. David is a pro when it comes to undersatnding period voices, so we touch on this, as well as the journey of his audiobook career and what hacks his picked up along the way. Then David turns the questions back onto Justine about her perspective on a few things. Enjoy! Noted in the podcast, audiobooks with a difference. Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy is a great example of a full cast dramatization with narration by the author. 2017 Man Booker Prize winner Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders, which used a cast of twenty high-profile performers to realize some of the 166 characters in the book. And from a more journalistic bent, the audiobook of Malcolm Gladwell's Talking to Strangers, narrated by him, contains extracts from interviews he's recorded, which has seen the audiobook outstrip the print edition in sales.

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