With romcom author Chrissie Manby

Comedian Helen Lederer and author Chrissie Manby are launching a podcast about how writers really work.

Over seven episodes of Writing Funny, the pair discuss how to write, where to write, when to write, and how to get an agent and get published.

 The series also features contributions from authors shortlisted for the Comedy Women in Print (CWIP) Prize, founded by Lederer in 2018

She said: said: ‘I had no idea Chris Manby knew so much about the nuts and bolts of writing and publishing - which is lucky because that's what people want to know about. I just make a few smirks and grunts to keep it flowing.

‘What is clear is how united writers become when they really share. Especially funny ones. I am so proud of these CWIP authors and what CWIP is doing…we had to have a podcast.

‘Both established and new - their journeys are fascinating. At last - here is a podcast that offers a Madame Tussaud’s of witty women writers who are not dead. Yet.’

Manby, a bestselling romcom novelist, said: ‘Helen and I have been friends for years, but we've never really had the chance to sit down and properly talk shop, which turns out to have been a terrible waste.

‘Helen is one of the funniest and most astute writers I know, and getting to chat comic fiction with her in a studio strewn with mini-Mars Bars felt like an absolute luxury.

‘Add to that hearing the wonderful contributions of the CWIP shortlisted authors. I came away feeling thoroughly inspired. I hope listeners feel the same.’

The show is being produced by Ancika Mester at WPP Production – pictured above between the two hosts.

She said: ‘We have loved bringing the Writing Funny podcast to life. Helen and Chris have a natural chemistry that makes every conversation feel both illuminating and genuinely funny.

‘We hope listeners come away feeling inspired, connected, and perhaps a little closer to writing that book.’

Writing Funny launches on Wednesday August 12

Published: 29 Jul 2026