That’s my mum!

Show Notes

Episode 18: Dear Nan – Episode 18 | Parenting in The 50s and 60s

Growing a tribe of five

In this episode of Tell Me Over Tea, I’m sharing a letter to my Nan — written as I reflect on her years as a young mother, raising five children in the 1950s and 60s.

This episode is also held within a tender moment of goodbye. My grandpa recently passed away at 95, just days before the anniversary of my Nan’s death. With his passing, it feels like the closing of a chapter — the end of an era that shaped so much of our family story.

Through this letter, I return to the house on the hill in North Narrabeen… a place filled with baking days, childhood mischief, community, and the kind of everyday moments that became the legacy of my grandparents.

It’s a story of parenting five children in the 1950s and 60s in Sydney, Australia, of changing times, of laughter and chaos, and of the love that holds it all together.

Pop the kettle on and join me for this gentle remembering.

In this episode, I share:

* A personal reflection on loss and the end of an era

* Memories of my grandparents’ and earlier years in North Narrabeen

* A heartfelt letter exploring motherhood in the 50s and 60s

* Family stories filled with humour, mischief, and affection

* The contrast between past and present parenting styles

* The power of ordinary moments to become lasting memories

A gentle invitation:As you listen, notice the memories that surface for you — the small, seemingly ordinary ones. They’re often the doorway into the stories that matter most.

Free Resource:I’ve created a simple and beautiful starting point for your own storytelling: The Five Minute Memory List.A short, exercise (a cuppa’s worth), to help you gather memories and begin. It’s fun and easy peasey and it’s something you can use in your letter writing, journaling and personal life writing.

You’ll find it linked below.

If this conversation stirred something in you—perhaps a memory, a story, or a little nudge to begin writing—you’re warmly invited to join me inside Little Life Stories, my membership for women who want to capture their stories in a supportive, heart-led way. The doors will be opening again next week, so please be sure to subscribe to this newsletter, so you don’t miss a trick when dates are released.

And if you know someone who might need this kind of conversation right now, feel free to pass it along.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Tell Me Over Tea wherever you listen, and if you feel inclined, leave a little review — it helps more story-lovers find their way here;)

Kim x

Where to find me:

✨I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories, Lovely Letters and the podcast.

✨To find out more about my writing membership, Little Life Stories you can do that here: Little Life Stories

✨I’ve created a simple and beautiful starting point for your own storytelling: The Five Minute Memory List.It’s a short, exercise (a cuppa’s worth), to help you gather memories and begin. It’s fun and easy peasey and it’s something you can use in your letter writing, journaling and personal life writing. You can grab that by subscribing to my newsletter (you’ll find it in the welcome letter one you’ve signed up): here

✨The Tea + Toast Letter Club! A little moment to pour yourself a cuppa, find a comfy spot, and enjoy a letter (and some other goodies) in the mail every month. You can read more about it here.

✨If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join: The Lovely Letters Project (it’s free!)

✨Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

✨Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon (thanks, Lew!)

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

photo credit: Ilona

Show Notes

Episode 17: Ilona’s Story

Creativity, Change, Health & Finding a New Way Forward

In this episode of Tell Me Over Tea, I sit down with the wonderful and ever so creative, Ilona to explore a life shaped by creativity, unexpected change, and resilience.

Ilona shares her journey from an unlikely beginning in pottery—despite once having no interest in clay—to building a deeply intentional creative business grounded in ethics, sustainability, and community.

But her story doesn’t follow a straight line.

When chronic illness entered her life, everything shifted. What followed was a period of uncertainty, adaptation, and ultimately, a reimagining of what a creative life could look like.

Now, from her home, Ilona supports other quiet creatives in showing up online in a way that feels true to who they are—without the noise, pressure, or performance.

This is a conversation about listening to your body, honouring your seasons, and finding new ways to create when life asks you to begin again.

So pour yourself a cuppa, settle in, and step into Ilona’s story. Oooh, and for you gardening fanatics, there’s some lovely flower chat too:)

photo credit: Ilona

In This Episode, We Talk About

* Growing up surrounded by creativity and finding her own artistic path

* How discovering locally sourced clay led Ilona into pottery

* Building a slow, ethical creative business in the Barossa

* The physical realities of working as a potter

* Navigating chronic illness, including POTS and long-term fatigue

* Letting go of a creative identity and finding a new one

* The evolution of Instagram and what it means for quiet creatives

* Creating and launching a course entirely from bed

* Life on a multigenerational property and finding creativity in the garden

* The small, everyday ways creativity can still exist in difficult seasons

*

If this conversation stirred something in you—perhaps a memory, a story, or a little nudge to begin writing—you’re warmly invited to join me inside Little Life Stories, my membership for women who want to capture their stories in a supportive, heart-led way. The doors will be opening again in April, so please be sure to subscribe to this newsletter, so you don’t miss a trick when dates are released.

And if you know someone who might need this kind of conversation right now, feel free to pass it along.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Tell Me Over Tea wherever you listen, and if you feel inclined, leave a little review — it helps more story-lovers find their way to the kettle;)

Kim x

—

Where to find Ilona -

Instagram: @quietcreativesacademy

Website: The Quiet Creatives Academy

Ilona’s course: The Poppy (I’ve done it and it’s awesome!)

Where to find me:

✨I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories, Lovely Letters and the podcast.

✨To find out more about my writing membership, Little Life Stories you can do that here: Little Life Stories

✨If you’d like to make a start on writing your life stories, but you don’t feel ready to commit to Little Life Stories just yet, I’ve made a 39 page free guide to help you on your way. It’s called The Memory Cupboard and it’s jam packed with ideas to help you collect those memories and start writing. You can grab that here.

✨The Tea + Toast Letter Club! A little moment to pour yourself a cuppa, find a comfy spot, and enjoy a letter (and some other goodies) in the mail every month. You can read more about it here

✨If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join: The Lovely Letters Project (it’[s free!)

✨Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

✨Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon (thanks, Lew!)

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 16: Katie Masters

Wild Waters, Ocean Swimming & Finding Home in the Sea

In this episode of Tell Me Over Tea, I am joined by Katie Masters for a heartfelt conversation about ocean swimming, friendship, courage, and the deep pull of the sea.

After responding to my Substack piece about a place that has your heart, Katie shared her own story — one rooted not in a house or a valley, but in the ocean.

Pop the kettle on. This one is fresh and salt-kissed and oh, so inspiring.

In this episode, Katie shares her story, and chats about:

✨ Growing up in the Perth Hills and a childhood shaped by swimming pools, dams, and weekend race meets.✨ Walking away from competitive swimming as a teenager when pressure and body image overshadowed the joy.✨ Moving from Pemberton to the coast and finding community through a women’s ocean swimming group.✨ How ocean swimming transformed her relationship with her body, fear, friendship, and belonging.✨ Taking on epic open water swims — including the Port to Pub Swim and the Busselton Jetty Swim — not for podiums, but for connection and courage.✨ Why the sea feels like home, and how immersion in wild water brings calm, clarity, and strength.

And, as always, we share a cuppa over our conversation.

This is an episode about returning to what you love, finding your people as an adult, and discovering that sometimes home isn’t a house — it’s a horizon.

So put the kettle on and join us for this fresh, salt-kissed conversation with the gorgeous Katie Masters.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Tell Me Over Tea wherever you listen, and if you feel inclined, leave a little review — it helps more story-lovers find their way to the kettle;)

Kim x

—

I also have to mention the beautiful tea Katie and I were sipping during our chat. It was kindly gifted to us by the lovely Tanya from Inspirational Tea Co.

If you’d like something delicious to brew while you listen (and truly, why wouldn’t you?), Tanya has created a special discount for listeners.

Use the code STORIES to receive 15% off your order.

A warm mug in your hands, a good story in your ears — that sounds just about perfect to me.

Where to find Katie and have a sticky beak at her writing:

Instagram: @wildwatersjournal

Substack: Wild Waters Journal

Where to find me:

✨I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories, Lovely Letters and the podcast.

✨To find out more about my writing membership, Little Life Stories you can do that here: Little Life Stories

✨If you’d like to make a start on writing your life stories, but you don’t feel ready to commit to Little Life Stories just yet, I’ve made a 39 page free guide to help you on your way. It’s called The Memory Cupboard and it’s jam packed with ideas to help you collect those memories and start writing. You can grab that here.

✨If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join: The Lovely Letters Project

✨Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

✨Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon (thanks, Lew!)

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

All writing occasions must include tea and cake;)

Show Notes

Episode 15: I Don’t Know Where to Start Writing — and Why That’s Enough

Do you ever want to write your life stories, but find yourself thinking: “I don’t know where to start”? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m exploring why that feeling is perfectly normal — and why starting, even in a messy, imperfect way, is enough.

I share personal reflections on my own writing practice, the moments of staring at a blank page, and the tiny steps that lead to a story beginning. We talk about:

* Why the “perfect starting point” doesn’t exist

* How meaningful writing begins in uncertainty

* What starting really looks like — one memory, one image, one moment at a time

* Why facilitation and support can make the first steps feel lighter

* The power of writing alongside a community of like-minded women

I also share how Little Life Stories is designed to hold that space for you: a safe, supportive way to start your story with prompts, guidance, and a community that keeps you gently moving forward.

Inside Little Life Stories

This is the last time Little Life Stories is offered as it currently exists, as a founding member experience. After this week, it will become a separate program and membership.

For $385, founding members receive:

* A 1:1 Zoom chat with me (up to 1 hour) to help kickstart your story

* Six weeks of weekly email content with guided prompts, writing invitations, tips, and encouragement

* Short, manageable writing sessions you can do at your own pace

* Ongoing email support from me throughout your time in the program

* Access to a warm, monthly writing community where women share, encourage, and grow together

* A compilation of your gorgeous stories to share with loved ones!

You don’t need the whole story. You just need one place to begin. And sometimes, beginning together makes all the difference.

📅 Last chance to join as a founding member: Monday, 2nd February (AEST)🔗 Join here: Little Life Stories

Takeaway

Starting your story isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about taking the first step, giving yourself permission, and finding the right support to make that step feel lighter. In this episode, I hope you leave feeling encouraged, inspired, and ready to begin — one memory at a time.

Kim x

Join Little Life Stories TODAY!

✨Connect with me:

Instagram: @bettymaewrote (I love a good old DM!)Email: [email protected]

✨ Resources & Links:

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 14: Letters from Nan – The Early Years of Married Life and the Creation of Home

In this episode of Tell Me Over Tea, I share another heartfelt letter from my Dear Nan series, reflecting on the early years of her marriage and the home she and Grandpa raised their family in. From the joys of newlywed life, to the challenges of family dynamics and work, this episode is a journey through love, resilience, and creating a home.

You’ll hear stories about:

* Their wedding day on 4th August 1951 at Saint Matthew’s Church, Manly

* Their honeymoon in Yowie Bay (and how Felix came along for the ride!)

* The Narrabeen House where they raised five children

* Grandpa’s early work experiences, from “dunny man” to butcher

* How they managed independence, first mortgages, and family challenges

* The lessons, love, and legacy woven through everyday life

I also share my reflections on listening to my Nan’s stories, discovering new details from Grandpa, and how the memories of home and family have shaped my own life and love of storytelling.

Pour yourself a cup of tea, settle in, and join me in gently gathering the stories that matter—one memory at a time.

Kim x

Resources & Links:

* Grab my free guide The Memory Cupboard: a 39-page companion to help you start writing your life stories, organised into four themed shelves to get you unstuck and inspired.

Connect with me:

Instagram DMs: @bettymaewroteEmail: [email protected]

✨ Extras

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 13 - An Artist’s Story: Curbing Perfectionism and Embracing Creativity

In this first episode for the brand new year, I sit down with Canberra artist Julia from French Rose Studios for a lovely conversation about creativity, comfort, and becoming a ‘recovering perfectionist.’

Julia shares how her love of art began early, nurtured by a wonderful high school teacher who taught her far more than technique. Through postcards, holiday paintings, and many encouraging nudges, she slowly discovered that art could be a safe place to land – somewhere free from competition, comparison, and the pressure to get everything perfect.

You’ll hear Julia talk about finding flow state in her cosy home studio, why watercolour is the perfect medium for learning to let go, and how creativity can calm our busy minds and lower our stress levels. Her story is a gentle reminder that imperfection is not only normal, it’s often where the magic lives.

Of course, as with all good chats, there is tea in hand. Julia reminisces about the delightful tea cafés of Lyon, France, where choosing a blend came with timers, patisserie treats, and shelves of loose-leaf possibilities. It’s enough to make any listener want to book a plane ticket and pack a sketchbook. I’m off!

This episode also ties beautifully into a fresh start for 2026, with a reminder for listeners to grab my free guide, The Memory Cupboard – a bite-sized workbook designed to help you write those personal life stories in a simple, un-overwhelming way.

And in perfect timing, Julia is launching her own beginner’s watercolour course, Nature’s Palette, offering podcast listeners a special discount during launch week.

Here are the details for you who would love to learn how to watercolour:

Nature’s Palette: Beginner’s WatercolourA self-paced course with lifetime accessUsual price: $168Launch week discount: 15% offUse code: LAUNCH (all capitals)Discounted price: $142.80Available: Jan 6 – Jan 13

Pull up a chair, wrap your hands around a mug, and enjoy a heartfelt story about how creativity helps us feel a little safer in the world.

If today’s episode sparked something in you – perhaps a memory, a creative itch, or the desire to try something new – let me know. I’d love to keep the conversation going.

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people discover the joy of storytelling and connection over a cuppa.

Thanks for listening, and here’s to more sharing and connecting over stories.

Kim x

PS I also wanted to mention, again, the delicious tea that Julia and I were sipping during our chat. It was kindly gifted to us by the lovely Tanya from Inspirational Tea Co So, so yummy!

If you too would like to enjoy a yummy tea to sip whilst you listen to these podcast episodes, Tanya has created a discount code for my listeners. It will give you 15% off the regular price. How wonderful is that?Please be sure to use the discount code: STORIES to get 15% off. (thanks so much, Tanya!).

* You can find Julia online at these places:Instagram & Facebook: @FrenchRoseStudiosWebsite: www.frenchrosestudios.com

Connect with me

Instagram DMs: @bettymaewroteEmail: [email protected]

✨ Extras

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

*

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 12: Dear Nan — A Christmas Carol of Sorts

In this Christmas-time episode of Tell Me Over Tea, I share a Dear Nan letter I wrote last December — one filled with memory, mess, food, family and love.

This letter drifts back into Nan’s kitchen at Christmas: the peeling and chopping, the bossy instructions, the bone-handled butter knives, endless washing up, and the comforting chaos that came with feeding a house full of people. It’s a reflection on how food is so vivid in my memories, and how much connection happened inside that humble little kitchen with the bright yellow bench tops and the constantly filled-with-hot-sudsy water sink.

This episode is my invitation to you, to slow down and take a moment for yourself during this Christmas season, to notice what you remember, feel the joy that memories can bring, and hopefully begin writing those memories down before they slip away.

In this episode, we explore:

* Christmas memories anchored in kitchens, food and family

* The chaos and comfort of shared preparation

* How traditions are passed down through generations

* Why ordinary moments often become the most precious memories

* The importance of writing your stories while you still can

Mentioned in this episode:My free guide, The Memory Cupboard — a cosy, practical guide to help you gently uncover memories and begin writing them down, one small moment at a time.You’ll find the link in the show notes to download your copy.

A little reminder:You don’t need hours, confidence, or a plan to start writing your life stories. Five quiet minutes is enough. One memory is enough. The rest follows.

Pop the kettle on, find a comfy spot, and let this Christmas letter carry you somewhere familiar.

✨ Links and Extras

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a brand-new free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people discover the joy of storytelling and connection over a cuppa.

Thanks for listening, and here’s to more sharing and connecting over stories.

A very Merry Christmas to you!

Kim x

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 11: The Joy of Connection – Cooking, Conversation, and Community with Mary from Happy Places and Co

In this episode, we sit down with Mary, the heart behind Happy Places and Co and a cherished member of Little Life Stories, to explore how food, friendship, and meaningful conversation can bring people together. From her earliest memories in her grandmother’s kitchen to creating vibrant events that nurture connection, Mary shares her story of how a love of cooking and authentic relationships has shaped her life and work.

We journey through:

* Family foundations of cooking and creativity: Mary recalls her grandmother’s warm, joyful kitchen and her mother’s thrifty, inventive approach to meals. From decorating wedding cakes to stewed apples and toasted jam-and-apple sandwiches, Mary’s childhood was filled with hands-on learning, laughter, and the joy of sharing food. These early experiences shaped not only her love of cooking but also her appreciation for the simple happiness that comes from being around loved ones.

* Life lessons from the table: Mary shares how learning to cook while navigating challenges like her mother’s MS diagnosis taught her resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of routine, care, and shared moments at the table. Cooking became a way to connect with her family and honor her roots, and it continues to be a way for her to carry forward the legacy of love and creativity she inherited.

* Happy Places and Co: Inspired by a lifetime of positive food experiences and her work connecting people in community, Mary created Happy Places and Co. Her events bring people together over good food, engaging conversation, and shared experiences, emphasising the importance of social wellness, presence, and belonging.

* Curating experiences that matter: From the Millionaires Walk in Sorrento to International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day celebrations, Mary carefully plans events that blend activity, conversation, and delicious food. Each gathering is designed to be inclusive, thoughtful, and supportive, helping people form authentic connections that extend beyond the event itself.

* Friendship and listening: Mary reflects on the profound impact of her friendship with Cheryl, who taught her the art of genuine listening and the value of deep, meaningful relationships. Cheryl’s influence threads through Mary’s approach to community-building and connection.

* The power of community: Mary shares stories from her events and supper clubs, highlighting how simple moments—walking together, sharing a meal, and engaging in guided conversations—can create bonds, spark laughter, and foster lifelong friendships. She emphasises that authentic connections are built through presence, shared stories, and the simple joy of being together.

* Practical tips and inspiration: Mary offers insights on hosting, creating beautiful food experiences, and cultivating meaningful connections in your own life, reminding us that the simple act of sharing a meal can nurture the soul.

Connect with Mary:

* Website: Happy Places and Co

* Instagram: @happyplacesandco

✨ Links and Extras

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a brand-new free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people discover the joy of storytelling and connection over a cuppa.

Thanks for listening, and here’s to more sharing and connecting over stories.

Kim x

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 10 – Dear Nan: When Betty Met Charlie

Welcome to episode 10 of Tell Me Over Tea! Can you believe it? Ten episodes of gentle stories, reflections, and a little rambling from me. I’m so grateful that you take a moment from your day to pour a cuppa and join me—it really means the world.

In this episode, I share another Dear Nan letter: ‘When Betty Met Charlie.’ It’s the story of how my Nan and Grandpa first met—a tale that’s not flashy or overly romantic, but one that perfectly captures the steady, uncomplicated love that carried them through seventy years together.

From a shy hello over a painted fence in country Camden, to first dates arranged via Nan’s mum, to bicycle rides across paddocks and ferreting adventures—it’s a story of quiet courage, shared work, and simple joys. And as I write to Nan, I can’t help but smile at their early romance, imagining the smells of the dairy farm, the squeak of Grandpa’s rusty bike, and the laughter (and tears) over lost ferrets.

This episode is an invitation to think about your own memories of love, family, and the nostalgia of a bygone era.

✨ Links and Extras

* If you’d like to start writing your own stories but feel a little overwhelmed, I’ve created a brand-new free guide to help you begin: Grab The Memory Cupboard guide here.

* Join our Little Life Stories community newsletter for weekly prompts, gentle encouragement, and a space to start gathering your stories. You’ll also keep up to date with when the doors will open again to my Little Life Stories membership: Subscribe here.

* I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast. Oh, and of course, the Wild Wood folk too;)

* If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join my snail mail exchange for women all over the world: The Lovely Letters Project

* Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

* Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your reviews help more people discover the joy of storytelling and connection over a cuppa.

Thanks for listening, and here’s to cherishing the small, beautiful beginnings in our own lives.

Kim x

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com

Show Notes

Episode 9 — Doing Life Differently with Mel Pike

In this episode, I sit down with Mel Pike, a warm and adventurous storyteller who has learned first-hand how travel can awaken the senses and nourish the soul.

After two decades in Hobart, Mel and her husband Joe — along with their much-loved Labradors, Jasmine and Rosie — now call the Sunshine Coast home. In her fabulous fifties, Mel has spent years working in the public service, but it was a five-month solo stay in Thailand that truly changed how she sees and lives her life.

In our chat, Mel shares:☕ the story behind her decision to live in Thailand on her own☕ what daily life looked like there — from learning the language to doing “nothing” (and loving it)☕ how she found connection and community, including her moving friendship with Pui, her Thai “sister”☕ what it felt like to come home — and how her time away continues to shape the way she lives today

We also talk about Mel’s beautiful book, Doing Life Differently, which captures her reflections, lessons and experiences from Thailand. She opens up about the process of writing her story, the courage it takes to share your voice, and why she believes women’s stories matter so deeply.

You can connect with Mel and find her book here:🌿 www.doinglifedifferently.com.au🌿 Instagram: @doinglifedifferentlyinthailand🌿 Facebook: Mel Pike

Listen to more episodes of Tell Me Over TeaYou can find all of my episodes here or wherever you listen to podcasts.

You can also find me on Instagram @bettymaewrote or send me a note at [email protected] — I’d love to hear what memories this episode stirs for you.If you would like to enter our giveaway, for a chance to be gifted one of Mel’s lovely books, please pop on over to Instagram: @bettymaewrote , find the post introducing episode 9, and leave your answer to the question I ask:

Where is you happy place? And why does it make you feel happy.

Pop your answer to that in the comments, over on Instagram, and Mel and I will choose two lucky ducks to win a copy of her book! Exciting! Winners will be announced on Saturday the 22nd of November, over on Instagram.

i also wanted to mention, again, the delicious tea that Mel and I were sipping during our chat. It was kindly gifted to us by the lovely Tanya from Inspirational Tea Co …. and guess what? Mel and I sipped Lemongrass and Ginger and it was oh so yummy! Such a soothing, grounding, calming, refreshing tea.

If you too would like to enjoy a yummy tea to sip whilst you listen to these podcast episodes, Tanya has created a discount code for my listeners. It will give you 15% off the regular price. How wonderful is that?Please be sure to use the discount code: STORIES to get 15% off.

Okey doke, well I hope you enjoy episode 9:)

Until next time,

Kim x

If you enjoyed this episode I would absolutely love it, if you would leave a review wherever you enjoy listening to these episodes. It’s the bestest way for us to get these precious stories into the homes of fellow story lovers and memory keepers.

Links & Resources

✨ Grab my free guide to starting your personal life story. It just starts with one memory and before you know it, you will have a beautiful compilation of stories to hold, share and treasure. It will take you 5 - 10 minutes a day and you will feel so good once you get started. I promise!

Grab the guide here: Free Guide to Turning One Memory into a Written Treasure

✨I write, on Substack, a weekly newsletter, you can subscribe to that here: Betty Mae Wrote newsletter. It’s the space where I share stories (both mine and other people’s) and it’s also a way of keeping up to date with all things Betty Mae Wrote, Little Life Stories and the podcast.

✨To find out more about my writing membership, Little Life Stories, you can do that here: Little Life Stories

✨If you’d like to make a start with writing your own life story, you are very welcome to grab my free guide which helps you take one memory and turn it into a precious written story. You can grab that here: Free Guide

✨If you’d like to get back into the gorgeous slow soothe of letter writing, please know you are always welcome to join: The Lovely Letters Project

✨Or if you simply need a good old sticky beak around the place, please head on over here to the website: www.bettymaewrote.com

✨Oh and if you’re an Instagram type, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @bettymaewrote

Music: Kim on the uke;) Rattling teacups – also KimProduction and Editing: Surprise, surprise, guess who? Yep! Kim again!

Art by Lewis Dillon

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bettymaewrote.substack.com