FAQ
Is Key Whiskey your real name?
No. Key Whiskey is a play on my real name and a nod to the tradition of the Nom de Plume.
Why did you start the podcast?
Despite Roland Barthes's advice, I can’t separate an author from their work. I’m drawn to the backstory of the books I read, usually because I want to feel a sense of communion with the people behind them. I find myself asking: who created this? Why did they write this? How did this come about? What was happening in the author’s life and the world around them while they were writing this?
I’ve been a longtime fan of Karina Longworth who hosts You Must Remember This, a podcast that explores figures and stories from Twentieth-Century Hollywood. I was listening to the back catalogue one day in 2018 when I began to wonder whether a similar show existed for authors’ lives and careers. When I couldn't find one, I decided I had to make it myself. And so Hollyword was born. I briefly considered making a blog to avoid recording and hearing myself speak but it seems blogs have largely been replaced by podcasts. And as an avid podcast-consumer myself, I feel there can never be enough content in this space.
Why don’t you have more episodes or release more frequently?
The podcast is heavily produced and therefore a lot of work—far more than I estimated going in. I juggle a full-time job and postgraduate study. The precious little leftover time (usually late at night) is dedicated lovingly and almost entirely to the podcast.
What is your process?
1. I map out the season—choose a theme and narrow down the authors to feature.
2. Research, research, research.
3. Read, read, read—not only my sources but also the work of the authors I’m featuring.
4. My favourite part. I write and edit the script. Each episode is usually around 8000-10,000 words.
5. My least favourite part. I record myself reading the script, usually over multiple sessions because I tend to lose my voice.
6. I edit the audio (all the while trying not to recoil at the sound of my own voice), source suitable music tracks to add in, then upload a final edit to the podcast host.
7. Last, I create a post on my website with show notes, references, links and extras.
I wish the process was as simple as it sounds here…
How long does each episode take to make?
At the moment, due to time limitations, the production cycle of a single episode probably takes 3 months. This is from the moment I start writing the script to the moment the episode is ready to air. If podcasting were my full-time job, I could get an episode done fortnightly.
You only have one season so far. Are there plans for more seasons?
Absolutely! I’m currently working on Season 2. While I prefer to keep my plans a surprise, below are some of the ideas I have for future seasons. It’s not a comprehensive list and there’s no telling which order I will follow. It all depends how I feel at the time, who or what piques my interest.
Authors at War
Authors in Hollywood
Home-grown: Aussie Authors
Mad Men & Women: Mid-Century Authors
Lit Prodigies
Late Bloomers
One-Hit Wonders
Moonlight Authors
And many more...
Why the season themes?
A theme helps reign in my interests and narrow down whom to focus on. It also prevents me from playing favourites (picking authors who interest me the most) and pushes me in the direction of authors I wouldn’t usually consider or, in some cases, hadn’t even heard of.
I have an idea for a season. How can I submit it?
I welcome ideas! Email hollywordpodcast@gmail.com or DM me @hollywordpodcast.You’ll be credited unless you’d prefer to remain anonymous.