Recorded live at Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival 2024. Elly Griffiths is one of the foremost voices in contemporary crime writing and the creator of the much-loved Norfolk-set series featuring forensic psychologist Ruth Galloway as well as the Brighton Mysteries. Her newest novel, The Last Word, is set in rural Sussex against the backdrop of the mysterious death, and possible murder, of a local writer. 

Elly discusses her latest bestseller with broadcaster and author Stig Abell.

Podcast music by Joseph McDade

Tune into this exclusive interview with multi-talented writer, comedian, and former doctor Adam Kay. Best known for his bestselling memoir This Is Going to Hurt, which chronicles his years working as a junior doctor in the NHS, Kay has become a prominent voice in healthcare commentary, blending humor with poignant insights.

In his latest book, Undoctored, Kay offers a fresh perspective on life after leaving medicine. With his signature blend of humor, honesty, and heart, he delves into the challenges of moving on from a career that defined him, while also exploring broader themes of identity, purpose, and the impact of the medical profession on those who choose it.

Interviewed live by Matt Stadlen as part of Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade

This week on HIF player we discover how to get around to the things that count with Oliver Burkeman, recorded live at Berwins Salon North. 

In this uplifting and liberating talk, Oliver Burkeman guides us towards building a more meaningful life in a bewildering era– how to get around to what counts in a world of anxieties and distractions. Addressing the fundamental questions about how to live, Oliver offers a powerful new way to take action: a guiding philosophy of life that he calls ‘imperfectionism’. Oliver’s insight will be a source of solace and inspiration, and an aid to a saner, freer, and more enchantment-filled life.

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade.

Dorothy Koomson’s gift for unravelling the intricacies of human nature leaves readers utterly spellbound. Amongst her diverse output are a number of expertly crafted crime novels which have enriched the genre. From her bestselling debut The Cupid Effect, through the haunting hit The Ice Cream Girls, to her latest twisty thriller, Every Smile You Fake, her books are always both moving and gripping.

A former journalist, Dorothy is the author of 16 novels that have been translated into over 30 languages. The Ice Cream Girls was adapted into an ITV mini-series. Born in London, she lived in Australia for a time before returning to England and settling in Brighton where many of her books are now set.

Dorothy discusses her innumerable thrilling novels with Magic FM’s head book worm Natasha Knight

Podcast music by Joseph McDade

No one makes such a fuss about good manners like the British, yet in a fast-changing world, few can seem to agree on precisely what the ‘done thing’ is, either. Sunday Times bestselling author and world-leading etiquette expert William Hanson shares his definitive guidance on how to charm in every situation, avoid social faux pas and celebrate our country’s distinctive way of doing things. With the perfect dose of inimitable dry humour, William shares witty and wry observations that bring modern manners bang up to date, from advice on the correct way to queue at the bar to when it is acceptable to wear a top hat.

The UK’s leading etiquette expert and Sunday Times bestselling author brings a joyful, witty and comprehensive commentary on modern manners, charm and all things ‘good and proper’

Interviewed live by Anna Lawlor as part of Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade

This week on HIF player we learn all about connections with Nick Couldry, recorded live at Berwins Salon North. 

In this compelling and urgent podcast, Nick Couldry argues that Big Tech is quietly seizing control over our most valuable resource – our personal data. This isn’t just about privacy; it’s about how your data is being used to shape your behaviour, your choices, and even your future. Nick explains how we ended up here and, more importantly, what we can do about it.

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade.

Richard discusses books old, new and future in this interview with 2024 Programming Chair Ruth Ware. Richard has gone from national institution and much loved TV personality to publishing phenomenon. His wonderful Thursday Murder Club series has sold more than 10 million copies worldwide and made him the biggest new fiction author of the decade. In a time of celebrity novelists, Richard is the real deal – crafting smart, thrilling, laugh-out-loud books that readers rightly love.

Wine is one of the most popular drinks across the globe, it brings people together and has a rich social and cultural history, it's also astoundingly delicious. But it can also be intimidating, confusing and unnecessarily complicated. It can be hard to know where to start: how is wine made? What's the difference between red and white? How do I know what to buy in a shop? Am I holding my glass correctly?

In this modern, accessible, warm and funny introduction to wine, Tom Surgey answers all these questions and more; doing away with old-school snobbery and teaching you how to get the most out of your favourite drink.

Interviewed live by Matt Stadlen as part of Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade

This week on HIF player we explore the most surprising events in recent years with journalist, writer and broadcaster Phoenix Andrews, recorded live at Berwins Salon North. 

He sheds light on the fascinating world of fandoms and reveals how a passion wave of people power has become the hidden force behind the most surprising events in recent history – from the mass movements resulting in Brexit and Trump, culture wars and conspiracy theories, to online engagement that enriches lives and inspires positive social and political change.

Podcast Music by Joseph McDade.

Tune into Erin Kelly and Jane Casey recorded live at Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival 2024.

Erin Kelly and Jane Casey have both produced a string of hugely impressive novels, creating books and characters that speak to a generation. As well as possessing brilliantly twisted minds, they are fabulously entertaining speakers and this conversation between two smart, insightful crime writers is not to be missed.

A natural storyteller, Erin is the author of such outstanding novels as He Said, She Said and The Skeleton Key. Exploring the dark consequences of obsession and guilt with consummate skill, she has readers clamouring for more.

Dublin-born Jane Casey is the creator of the standard-setting Maeve Kerrigan series as well as several acclaimed standalones. Her rare gift for sharp dialogue, complex characterisation and meticulous plots have made the Kerrigan novels an unmissable treat.

Podcast music by Joseph McDade.