PODCAST SHOW NOTES
Episode 52
Episode 52 is here and it's supersized! Join hosts Veronica and Darren as they chat about magical discoveries to be found in your first job, the (rough) directions to Woop Woop, the effect people we meet can have on character building, and why mistakes are so vital when it comes to reaching the top of the mountain. And we have an awesomely electric and fascinating interview with author Michele Layet who welcomes our listeners to peek behind the curtains of the corporate giant that is McDonalds...
AUTHOR Q&A
What was your favourite book as a child?
Five Go To Adventure Island. Anything written by Enid Blyton. Fantasy, adventure and Timmy the dog. Enid Blyton books were banned from libraries so my parents would buy the books for me.
Why do you think listeners should read your book/s?
It gives readers an insight into McDonald’s and dispels the myth of being an American company in Australia. The stores are run by Aussies and the staff per store can be well over 100 employees. The training is still the best and the long term friendships are also special. Girls can be assured they can run their own business very successfully and independently.
The book is funny in parts not all about business. Everyone needs to read a chapter about Ronald McDonald and Hamburglar. Especially interesting to those who have worked at a Maccas.
Who is your most or least favourite character to write?
Least .Me actually. Looking forward to getting back to my fiction characters.
What genre/s do you mostly read?
Crime . I was encouraged a couple of years ago to let go of Michael Connelly and Jo Nesbo and read Aussie Crime writers and I have not looked back. I survived to enjoy Jane Harper, Chris Hammer and Mark Brandi. Brilliant writers and the list goes on and on.
What’s the most useful writing advice you’ve been given?
The best advice came from Ray Mooney a teacher of mine:
No one will knock on your door and ask for your manuscript. There is no point keeping it in the bottom drawer. Finish it!
What’s your writing goal for the next twelve months?
To complete my work of fiction. I need to nail the ending.
The working title is “Sold for 50 Camels” and my preferred title for publication is “The Valley of Saharan Tears.” Advice please?
What inspired your book cover/s?
I was aware that I had to send all my work to McDonald’s legal in Australia and the US for approval (they normally do not support publication but supported me) which included choice of front cover. The work of art is an original work (of a box of fries) by a past Franchisee who is an Australian artist, Hugh Evans. This way I could get my Red Box of chips on the cover legally!
