London Writers' Salon

In this captivating discussion, Anne-Laure Le Cunff, a former Google digital health lead turned neuroscientist and founder of Ness Labs, shares her journey in creativity and writing. She discusses using tiny experiments to break free from traditional career paths, shifting her focus to writing in public, and growing her newsletter to over 100K subscribers. Anne-Laure delves into the psychology of procrastination as a tool for self-discovery and emphasizes flexible ambition over rigid goals, inviting listeners to embrace curiosity in their creative journeys.

Jody Eddy, a celebrated food writer and cookbook author known for her exploration of food, culture, and storytelling, shares intriguing insights from her experiences in Michelin-star kitchens and monastic culinary traditions. She discusses the importance of rituals in both cooking and writing, unveiling their emotional significance. Jody reflects on her transition from chef to writer, the challenges of crafting cookbook proposals, and highlights the evolving landscape of food writing and publishing, providing valuable advice for aspiring food writers.

Michael Dean, an essayist and editor, discusses the hidden frameworks of essay writing. He shares insights from his journey as a former architect, revealing how structural patterns can elevate writing. The conversation touches on the balance between discipline and creative freedom, and how AI can revolutionize the composition process. Dean emphasizes the importance of intuitive reading, editing, and the transformative effects of a writing practice, as well as personal growth through the craft of essay writing.

Dava Sobel, a best-selling science writer celebrated for her works like Longitude, shares her journey of intertwining science and storytelling. She discusses transforming historical narratives into bestsellers and emphasizes women’s contributions to science, particularly focusing on Marie Curie. Sobel reflects on her transition from journalism to book writing, the complexities of simplifying scientific concepts, and effective self-editing techniques. Her insights on resilience in both writing and science offer inspiration for aspiring authors.

Bestselling thriller author Sophie Flynn, also the Managing Director of Jericho Writers, shares her journey from police press officer to successful novelist. She candidly discusses the pros and cons of traditional versus indie publishing. Flynn delves into key strategies for building a long-term writing career and the mindset needed to overcome rejection. Expect insights on crafting suspenseful narratives and the importance of community support for writers. Her experiences highlight the resilience required to navigate the emotional landscape of being a writer.

Oliver Burkeman, bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, shares insights on the importance of embracing imperfection in life and creativity. He discusses how accepting limitations can enhance creativity and fulfillment. Burkeman explores the art of staying present, inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Ichigo Ichi-e. He offers strategies to navigate distractions through mindfulness and emphasizes the significance of reflecting on past experiences to foster personal growth. His experiences in writing underscore authentic expression and the flexibility in creative processes.

Anita Bhagwandas is an award-winning journalist and beauty culture expert, recognized for her impactful writing in The Guardian and Vogue. She discusses her career journey, from passionate intern to celebrated writer, while sharing valuable pitching advice. Anita opens up about managing ADHD in her writing process and coping with rejection. The conversation dives into her book, "Ugly," unveiling the history of beauty standards and urging listeners to challenge societal ideals. Her insights blend personal narrative with cultural analysis, making a compelling case for redefining beauty.

Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, has transformed the Jaipur Literature Festival from 230 attendees to over 400,000. He discusses how art and storytelling shape culture and foster community engagement. Sanjoy shares inspiring stories of individuals like a former rickshaw driver who became a published author, and highlights the role of festivals in promoting inclusivity and social change. With a focus on collaboration and accessibility, he emphasizes how creativity can uplift marginalized voices and revitalize cities.

Holly Black, the #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her enchanting fantasy novels, opens up about her creative process. She shares how childhood experiences in a Victorian house filled with ghost stories inspired her magical worlds. Black discusses overcoming rejection in her writing journey and offers insights into character development and world-building. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in writing for different audiences, illustrating the balance between creative integrity and the unpredictable nature of publishing.

Join naturalist and educator John Muir Laws as he unveils the wonders of nature journaling. He discusses how tapping into curiosity can transform your creativity and observation skills. Muir Laws shares personal stories that highlight nature's impact on self-identity and the joy of immersive observations. He encourages embracing imperfection, especially for those with dyslexia, and introduces an exciting new platform for nature journalers to connect and collaborate. Dive into this enlightening conversation and unlock your inner creativity!