60 acast.com Paperback Perfumes https://shows.acast.com/paperbackperfumes en Clare Presser fragrance,scent,books,perfume,reading,novels,recommendations,stories,pairing Clare Presser

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]]>

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false Clare Presser paperbackperfumes@gmail.com 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 paperbackperfumes episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7/1710308909514-7e239d0f89385a0139a85364a2a26125.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/paperbackperfumes Paperback Perfumes A Beautiful Grimoire A Beautiful Grimoire Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:08:00 GMT 1:01:17 69d380d2f44b357ce9e935e1 false https://paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/a-beautiful-grimoire 69d380d2f44b357ce9e935e1 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 a-beautiful-grimoire with Troy Vu full 3 78 “You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you never had the courage to commit.”


― Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray


Grimoire Perfumes founder Troy (Trung) Vu joins us to explore the rich intersection of fragrance, aesthetics, mythology, and artistic expression. A self‑taught perfumer, Troy’s creative path winds through years as a classically trained dancer, a makeup artist, and a decade spent in luxury retail and cosmetics. These experiences shape his approach to scent as an invisible art form built on instinct, memory, structure, and imagination.

Troy shares how the golden era of perfumery—from the 1920s to the late ’90s—continues to influence his work, inspiring fragrances that are bold, character‑driven, and unburdened by trend. His world is steeped in folklore, ritual, the macabre, and global mythologies, all of which inform the tone and storytelling behind each Grimoire creation.

We also dive into the role of aesthetics through exploring classic literature the The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.


Fragrances mentioned:

Caleche - Hermes 

Gold Woman - Amouage

Ambre Eccentrico - Armani Prive

Florabotanica - Balenciaga

Garden Roses - Burberry 


Book discussed:

The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde 


Find Troy and Grimoire Parfums on

Instagram:

@troyperfumes

@grimoireparfums


Website:

grimoireparfums.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you never had the courage to commit.”


― Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray


Grimoire Perfumes founder Troy (Trung) Vu joins us to explore the rich intersection of fragrance, aesthetics, mythology, and artistic expression. A self‑taught perfumer, Troy’s creative path winds through years as a classically trained dancer, a makeup artist, and a decade spent in luxury retail and cosmetics. These experiences shape his approach to scent as an invisible art form built on instinct, memory, structure, and imagination.

Troy shares how the golden era of perfumery—from the 1920s to the late ’90s—continues to influence his work, inspiring fragrances that are bold, character‑driven, and unburdened by trend. His world is steeped in folklore, ritual, the macabre, and global mythologies, all of which inform the tone and storytelling behind each Grimoire creation.

We also dive into the role of aesthetics through exploring classic literature the The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.


Fragrances mentioned:

Caleche - Hermes 

Gold Woman - Amouage

Ambre Eccentrico - Armani Prive

Florabotanica - Balenciaga

Garden Roses - Burberry 


Book discussed:

The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde 


Find Troy and Grimoire Parfums on

Instagram:

@troyperfumes

@grimoireparfums


Website:

grimoireparfums.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Gourmet Gourmet Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:08:00 GMT 58:32 69c90b3cf4bf09c599716876 false https://shows.acast.com/paperbackperfumes/episodes/gourmet 69c90b3cf4bf09c599716876 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 gourmet with Jeffery Paul Ames full 3 77 “Just like becoming an expert in wine–you learn by drinking it, the best you can afford–you learn about great food by finding the best there is, whether simply or luxurious. Then you savour it, analyse it, and discuss it with your companions, and you compare it with other experiences.”


― Julia Child, Mastering the Art of French Cooking


Flowers, food, and fragrance have long been powerful forms of expression—anchoring memory, shaping culture, and awakening creativity through the senses. In this episode, we explore Mastering the Art of French Cooking through a multisensory lens, where aroma is just as essential as technique. This conversation invites us to consider cooking not only as craft, but as a richly layered sensory experience—one that engages smell, taste, touch, and imagination.

Our guest is Jeffrey Paul Ames, also known as The Aromatic Gourmet—a chef and botanical perfumer whose work sits at the intersection of gastronomy and fragrance. Drawing inspiration from his Italian family’s aromatic kitchen, as well as his teaching at the Institute for Art and Olfaction, Jeffrey has developed The Aromatic Gourmet, a thoughtful class series that explores cross‑modal sensorial practices through hands‑on, in‑person sessions. Each class guides participants through an olfacto‑gustatory journey using aromatic flowers, edible flowers, hydrosols, botanical extracts, and traditional techniques such as maceration, all grounded in cultural and historical context.

In this episode, Jeffrey shares how he creates what he calls “edible perfumes” through salts, syrups, spices, and thoughtful food preparation—revealing how fragrance can transform flavor and deepen our connection to what we eat. He offers creative insights into aroma, craft, and sensory awareness, along with simple, accessible ways to bring more intention, color, and joy into everyday meals. If you’ve ever wanted to cook like a perfumer, use scent to anchor memory, or rediscover mindfulness through food, this episode is truly a feast for the senses.


Fragrances mentioned:

Bois des Îles (Excluif) - Chanel

L’Heure Bleu - Guerlain

Mitsouko - Guerlain


Book discussed:

Mastering the Art of French Cooking - Julia Child

France is a Feast: The Photographic Journey of Paul and Julia Child - Alex Prud’Homme & Katie Pratt


Extra research:

The History Chicks podcast on Julia Child



Find the Aromatic Gourmet on

@thearomaticgourmet



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Just like becoming an expert in wine–you learn by drinking it, the best you can afford–you learn about great food by finding the best there is, whether simply or luxurious. Then you savour it, analyse it, and discuss it with your companions, and you compare it with other experiences.”


― Julia Child, Mastering the Art of French Cooking


Flowers, food, and fragrance have long been powerful forms of expression—anchoring memory, shaping culture, and awakening creativity through the senses. In this episode, we explore Mastering the Art of French Cooking through a multisensory lens, where aroma is just as essential as technique. This conversation invites us to consider cooking not only as craft, but as a richly layered sensory experience—one that engages smell, taste, touch, and imagination.

Our guest is Jeffrey Paul Ames, also known as The Aromatic Gourmet—a chef and botanical perfumer whose work sits at the intersection of gastronomy and fragrance. Drawing inspiration from his Italian family’s aromatic kitchen, as well as his teaching at the Institute for Art and Olfaction, Jeffrey has developed The Aromatic Gourmet, a thoughtful class series that explores cross‑modal sensorial practices through hands‑on, in‑person sessions. Each class guides participants through an olfacto‑gustatory journey using aromatic flowers, edible flowers, hydrosols, botanical extracts, and traditional techniques such as maceration, all grounded in cultural and historical context.

In this episode, Jeffrey shares how he creates what he calls “edible perfumes” through salts, syrups, spices, and thoughtful food preparation—revealing how fragrance can transform flavor and deepen our connection to what we eat. He offers creative insights into aroma, craft, and sensory awareness, along with simple, accessible ways to bring more intention, color, and joy into everyday meals. If you’ve ever wanted to cook like a perfumer, use scent to anchor memory, or rediscover mindfulness through food, this episode is truly a feast for the senses.


Fragrances mentioned:

Bois des Îles (Excluif) - Chanel

L’Heure Bleu - Guerlain

Mitsouko - Guerlain


Book discussed:

Mastering the Art of French Cooking - Julia Child

France is a Feast: The Photographic Journey of Paul and Julia Child - Alex Prud’Homme & Katie Pratt


Extra research:

The History Chicks podcast on Julia Child



Find the Aromatic Gourmet on

@thearomaticgourmet



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Enfleurage Enfleurage Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:08:00 GMT 1:09:45 69b67b8963444515f95c1720 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/enfleurage 69b67b8963444515f95c1720 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 enfleurage with George Chlouk full 3 76 “For Man is held by everything he holds. Release your grip on things if you would not be in their grip.”


― Mikhail Naimy, The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery which was Once Called The Ark


This conversation with George Chlouk moves through fragrance, philosophy, and the emotional terrain of being human in challenging times. We begin with the cultural depth of Lebanese perfumery—its reliance on local flora, the influences of tourism and tradition, and ancient techniques like enfleurage that still echo through contemporary scent‑making.

From there, the discussion expands into the transformational ideas found in The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark. Its reflections on letting go, navigating change, and embracing uncertainty become touchpoints as George and our host consider how individuals evolve—much like raw materials becoming something entirely new through alchemy.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the world around us and the dissonance of trying to maintain “normalcy” in the presence of violence. Literature, spirituality, and fragrance all emerge as grounding forces—ways of processing reality and making meaning when the world feels unstable.

Through it all, scent remains a vital thread. George offers insight into how fragrance interacts with identity and place: how comfort, memory, culture, and aspiration shape what we wear and how we move through the world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Eau de Campagne - Sisley

Édition Imperiale - Courvoisier

Bois d’Encens - Armani Prive


Book discussed:

The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark - Mikhail Naimy


Find George on

Instagram: @intuitive_alchemy_



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “For Man is held by everything he holds. Release your grip on things if you would not be in their grip.”


― Mikhail Naimy, The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery which was Once Called The Ark


This conversation with George Chlouk moves through fragrance, philosophy, and the emotional terrain of being human in challenging times. We begin with the cultural depth of Lebanese perfumery—its reliance on local flora, the influences of tourism and tradition, and ancient techniques like enfleurage that still echo through contemporary scent‑making.

From there, the discussion expands into the transformational ideas found in The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark. Its reflections on letting go, navigating change, and embracing uncertainty become touchpoints as George and our host consider how individuals evolve—much like raw materials becoming something entirely new through alchemy.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the world around us and the dissonance of trying to maintain “normalcy” in the presence of violence. Literature, spirituality, and fragrance all emerge as grounding forces—ways of processing reality and making meaning when the world feels unstable.

Through it all, scent remains a vital thread. George offers insight into how fragrance interacts with identity and place: how comfort, memory, culture, and aspiration shape what we wear and how we move through the world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Eau de Campagne - Sisley

Édition Imperiale - Courvoisier

Bois d’Encens - Armani Prive


Book discussed:

The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark - Mikhail Naimy


Find George on

Instagram: @intuitive_alchemy_



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Linked to the Land Linked to the Land Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:08:00 GMT 1:16:50 69b678774266c9b1c713ed44 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/linked-to-the-land 69b678774266c9b1c713ed44 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 linked-to-the-land with Rowan Ambrose full 3 75 “Remember. This is your story, no matter what history will claim or what songs people sing. And it’s no one’s place to stop you from telling it.”


― Lucy Holland, Sistersong


In this episode we explore the space where books and fragrance meet, guided by writer and sensory storyteller Rowan Ambrose. Rowan’s life is shaped by vivid experiences—sailing tall ships, gardening, travelling widely, and savouring the simple pleasures of perfume, fine tea, chocolate, and good coffee. These influences infuse her writing with texture and atmosphere.

Rowan now helps businesses find their voice through clear, evocative copy—whether it’s web pages, newsletters, product descriptions, or her speciality: sensory and perfume writing. She brings brands to life with words so her clients don’t have to wrestle with them. She also helps people to find their way to their perfect garden, no matter the size, skill or time availble to tend to it.

In our conversation, we discuss low‑maintenance gardening, seasonal connection, and the themes of land and identity in Lucy Holland’s Sister Song. And of course, we pair the novel with a fragrance that captures its earthy, mythic spirit.


Fragrances mentioned:

Firewater - Jorum Studio

Cuir Pampas - Frassai

Fille en Anguille ("Girl in (Pine) Needles" - I got that wrong) - Serge Lutens

Silphium - Stora Skuggan

Feuille - Miskeo

Been Trying to Meet You - Nosu

Forbidden Bloom - Mabelle O’Rama

Phoenix Flame - Mabelle O’Rama

Undergrowth - Rook

Sain No More - Nosu

Personne - Iconofly

Eucris - Geo. F Trumper


Book discussed:

Sistersong - Lucy Holland


Find Rowan on

Instagram: @rowan_ambrose

Website: rowan-ambrose.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Remember. This is your story, no matter what history will claim or what songs people sing. And it’s no one’s place to stop you from telling it.”


― Lucy Holland, Sistersong


In this episode we explore the space where books and fragrance meet, guided by writer and sensory storyteller Rowan Ambrose. Rowan’s life is shaped by vivid experiences—sailing tall ships, gardening, travelling widely, and savouring the simple pleasures of perfume, fine tea, chocolate, and good coffee. These influences infuse her writing with texture and atmosphere.

Rowan now helps businesses find their voice through clear, evocative copy—whether it’s web pages, newsletters, product descriptions, or her speciality: sensory and perfume writing. She brings brands to life with words so her clients don’t have to wrestle with them. She also helps people to find their way to their perfect garden, no matter the size, skill or time availble to tend to it.

In our conversation, we discuss low‑maintenance gardening, seasonal connection, and the themes of land and identity in Lucy Holland’s Sister Song. And of course, we pair the novel with a fragrance that captures its earthy, mythic spirit.


Fragrances mentioned:

Firewater - Jorum Studio

Cuir Pampas - Frassai

Fille en Anguille ("Girl in (Pine) Needles" - I got that wrong) - Serge Lutens

Silphium - Stora Skuggan

Feuille - Miskeo

Been Trying to Meet You - Nosu

Forbidden Bloom - Mabelle O’Rama

Phoenix Flame - Mabelle O’Rama

Undergrowth - Rook

Sain No More - Nosu

Personne - Iconofly

Eucris - Geo. F Trumper


Book discussed:

Sistersong - Lucy Holland


Find Rowan on

Instagram: @rowan_ambrose

Website: rowan-ambrose.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Wuthering Fights Wuthering Fights Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:08:00 GMT 1:14:52 69ae4c7fc2eb2fc3abd59991 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/wuthering-fights 69ae4c7fc2eb2fc3abd59991 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 wuthering-fights with Suzy from ScentnSensibility full 3 74 “Heaven did not seem to be my home; and I broke my heart with weeping to come back to earth; and the angels were so angry that they flung me out into the middle of the heath on the top of Wuthering Heights; where I woke sobbing for joy.”

― Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights


It feels like Wuthering Heights has swept back into the cultural conversation—whether it’s through rereads of the novel, rewatches of film adaptations, or simply the collective fascination with its gothic storms and tangled emotions. And honestly… how could a librarian not wade into that literary storm?

In this episode, I’m joined by Suzy from Scent n’ Sensibility for a spirited exploration of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel. We try to touch on as many aspects as possible: its wild emotional extremes, its bleak and beautiful setting, the messy humanity of its characters, and the way this story somehow manages to linger darkly in the corner.

We also take a closer look at Emerald Fennell’s recent reimagining of the Wuthering Heights universe. How does it reshape Brontë’s themes? And where does it veer into territory that feels… let’s say, ambitiously debatable?

If you’re a gothic fiction fan, a fragrance nerd, or just someone who enjoys a bit of delicious literary chaos—this one’s for you.


Fragrances mentioned:

L'orpheline - Serge Lutens

Velvet Moss - Scent Trunk

Oud Infini - Dusita

Relique d’Amour - Oriza L. Legrand

Gorseland - Jorum Studios

Cabochard - Gres

Caleche - Hermes

Anglomania - Vivienne Westwood

Ectoplasm - Fantôme

Book discussed:

Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë


Film discussed:

”Wuthering Heights” - Director Emerald Fennell 


Find Suzy on

Instagram: @scen.tnsensibility

TikTok: @scentnsensibility



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Heaven did not seem to be my home; and I broke my heart with weeping to come back to earth; and the angels were so angry that they flung me out into the middle of the heath on the top of Wuthering Heights; where I woke sobbing for joy.”

― Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights


It feels like Wuthering Heights has swept back into the cultural conversation—whether it’s through rereads of the novel, rewatches of film adaptations, or simply the collective fascination with its gothic storms and tangled emotions. And honestly… how could a librarian not wade into that literary storm?

In this episode, I’m joined by Suzy from Scent n’ Sensibility for a spirited exploration of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel. We try to touch on as many aspects as possible: its wild emotional extremes, its bleak and beautiful setting, the messy humanity of its characters, and the way this story somehow manages to linger darkly in the corner.

We also take a closer look at Emerald Fennell’s recent reimagining of the Wuthering Heights universe. How does it reshape Brontë’s themes? And where does it veer into territory that feels… let’s say, ambitiously debatable?

If you’re a gothic fiction fan, a fragrance nerd, or just someone who enjoys a bit of delicious literary chaos—this one’s for you.


Fragrances mentioned:

L'orpheline - Serge Lutens

Velvet Moss - Scent Trunk

Oud Infini - Dusita

Relique d’Amour - Oriza L. Legrand

Gorseland - Jorum Studios

Cabochard - Gres

Caleche - Hermes

Anglomania - Vivienne Westwood

Ectoplasm - Fantôme

Book discussed:

Wuthering Heights - Emily Brontë


Film discussed:

”Wuthering Heights” - Director Emerald Fennell 


Find Suzy on

Instagram: @scen.tnsensibility

TikTok: @scentnsensibility



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> About Alice About Alice Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:08:00 GMT 1:04:25 6988409845f62cfe947a99a5 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/about-alice 6988409845f62cfe947a99a5 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 about-alice with Fliss Walton full 3 73 “All in the golden afternoon

Full leisurely we glide;

For both our oars, with little skill,

By little arms are plied,

While little hands make vain pretence

Our wanderings to guide.”


― Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland


In this episode, I’m joined (once again) by Fliss Walton, who helps me dive deep into my lifelong love for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Together, we explore Lewis Carroll’s iconic story—its rich cultural history, its playful yet profound wordplay, and the many interpretations and adaptations that have kept Alice alive in our collective imagination. Fliss and I muse over how Alice has transcended literature to become a universal symbol of curiosity, identity, and childhood’s delightful absurdity.

As our conversation unfolds, we connect the sensory magic of Wonderland to the world of fragrance, exploring scents that capture the whimsy, oddity, and darker undertones woven through Carroll’s narrative. We reflect on how certain perfumes can evoke the surreal charm of the story, creating a multi‑sensory experience that brings Alice’s journey to life in an entirely new way. This episode blends literary exploration with olfactory adventure — a perfect listen for anyone who loves books, scent, or falling down rabbit holes.


Fragrances mentioned:

Undergrowth - Rook Perfumes 

Wander Through the Park - Miller Harris 

Queen - Eau de Boujee

Belle De Jour - ERIS Parfums

Comète - Chanel Exclusif 

Annabel's Birthday Cake - Marissa Zappas 

Tea for Two - L'Artisan Parfumeur

Milky Dragon - Isabelle Larignon

Delulu - .Oddity 

Dodo- Zoologist

Rabbit - Zoologist 

Dentelle au Coer- Henri Jacques

Haute Horopito - One Way Bridge

Cepes and Tuberose - Aftelier

Anonymity - Filigree & Shadow

Green Vetiver - Archer Farrar

Belle Âme - Les Abstraits


Book discussed:

The Annotated Alice - Lewis Carroll, edited by Martin Gardner 


Find Fliss on

Instagram: @fliss_sniffs_stuff


And Les Oderants

Instagram: @lesoderants

Youtube: Les Oderants Podcast



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “All in the golden afternoon

Full leisurely we glide;

For both our oars, with little skill,

By little arms are plied,

While little hands make vain pretence

Our wanderings to guide.”


― Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland


In this episode, I’m joined (once again) by Fliss Walton, who helps me dive deep into my lifelong love for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Together, we explore Lewis Carroll’s iconic story—its rich cultural history, its playful yet profound wordplay, and the many interpretations and adaptations that have kept Alice alive in our collective imagination. Fliss and I muse over how Alice has transcended literature to become a universal symbol of curiosity, identity, and childhood’s delightful absurdity.

As our conversation unfolds, we connect the sensory magic of Wonderland to the world of fragrance, exploring scents that capture the whimsy, oddity, and darker undertones woven through Carroll’s narrative. We reflect on how certain perfumes can evoke the surreal charm of the story, creating a multi‑sensory experience that brings Alice’s journey to life in an entirely new way. This episode blends literary exploration with olfactory adventure — a perfect listen for anyone who loves books, scent, or falling down rabbit holes.


Fragrances mentioned:

Undergrowth - Rook Perfumes 

Wander Through the Park - Miller Harris 

Queen - Eau de Boujee

Belle De Jour - ERIS Parfums

Comète - Chanel Exclusif 

Annabel's Birthday Cake - Marissa Zappas 

Tea for Two - L'Artisan Parfumeur

Milky Dragon - Isabelle Larignon

Delulu - .Oddity 

Dodo- Zoologist

Rabbit - Zoologist 

Dentelle au Coer- Henri Jacques

Haute Horopito - One Way Bridge

Cepes and Tuberose - Aftelier

Anonymity - Filigree & Shadow

Green Vetiver - Archer Farrar

Belle Âme - Les Abstraits


Book discussed:

The Annotated Alice - Lewis Carroll, edited by Martin Gardner 


Find Fliss on

Instagram: @fliss_sniffs_stuff


And Les Oderants

Instagram: @lesoderants

Youtube: Les Oderants Podcast



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Importance of Hygiene The Importance of Hygiene Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:08:00 GMT 59:03 69884041d4e01f106950ff24 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-importance-of-hygiene 69884041d4e01f106950ff24 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-importance-of-hygiene with Clayton Ilolahia full 3 72 “Because the middle classes and the nouveaux riches welcomed gas, water closets and piped-in water, the upper classes drew back. Many a denizen of a sprawling, stony-cold country estate looked on “mod cons” as slightly uncouth, over-eager and—worst of all—middle-class.”


- Katherine Ashenburg, The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History


In this episode, I’m joined by Clayton Ilolahia, an Evaluation and Communication specialist at Fragrances of the World, to explore the rich intersection of art, commerce, and fragrance. Together, we discuss into how changes in the media landscape has transformed the perfume industry, reshaping not just marketing but the creative process itself. We also explore the evolving role of fragrance evaluators, the deeply subjective nature of smell, and the cultural ideas—past and present—that shape our sense of cleanliness, identity, and performance.


Clayton brings a wealth of knowledge from his global fragrance writing, formal training at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery, and more than a decade of self-guided learning. His background in learning and development, working with brands like Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton (to name a few), adds an insightful dimension to our conversation. His passion for education and olfactory storytelling makes this a thoughtful exploration of the changing landscape of modern perfumery and how we socialise through our scent.


Fragrances mentioned:

L’eau d’Issey - Issey Miyake

Black Oregano - Atelier Materi

Blanche Bête - Liquides Imaginaires

Shalimar - Guerlain

Chypre (Le Chypre) - Coty

Fracas - Robert Piguet


Book discussed:

The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History - Katherine Ashenburg


Find Clayton and Fragrances of the World online here


Instagram:

@clayton_ilolahia

@fragrancesoftheworld


Website:

fragrancesoftheworld.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Because the middle classes and the nouveaux riches welcomed gas, water closets and piped-in water, the upper classes drew back. Many a denizen of a sprawling, stony-cold country estate looked on “mod cons” as slightly uncouth, over-eager and—worst of all—middle-class.”


- Katherine Ashenburg, The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History


In this episode, I’m joined by Clayton Ilolahia, an Evaluation and Communication specialist at Fragrances of the World, to explore the rich intersection of art, commerce, and fragrance. Together, we discuss into how changes in the media landscape has transformed the perfume industry, reshaping not just marketing but the creative process itself. We also explore the evolving role of fragrance evaluators, the deeply subjective nature of smell, and the cultural ideas—past and present—that shape our sense of cleanliness, identity, and performance.


Clayton brings a wealth of knowledge from his global fragrance writing, formal training at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery, and more than a decade of self-guided learning. His background in learning and development, working with brands like Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton (to name a few), adds an insightful dimension to our conversation. His passion for education and olfactory storytelling makes this a thoughtful exploration of the changing landscape of modern perfumery and how we socialise through our scent.


Fragrances mentioned:

L’eau d’Issey - Issey Miyake

Black Oregano - Atelier Materi

Blanche Bête - Liquides Imaginaires

Shalimar - Guerlain

Chypre (Le Chypre) - Coty

Fracas - Robert Piguet


Book discussed:

The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History - Katherine Ashenburg


Find Clayton and Fragrances of the World online here


Instagram:

@clayton_ilolahia

@fragrancesoftheworld


Website:

fragrancesoftheworld.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A Box of Spices A Box of Spices Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:08:00 GMT 47:29 69883b96ba7d04f1d49d18e3 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/a-box-of-spices 69883b96ba7d04f1d49d18e3 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 a-box-of-spices with Alina Tadevosyan full 3 71 “Now, I see that every relic, however battered, every scratch on every knick-knack, is engraved with a timeless story of someone's life.”

- Eve Makis, The Spice Box Letters


Hosting this conversation with Alina Tadevosyan gave me the chance to learn about the powerful themes of Armenian cultural: resilience, identity and heritage preservation. Alina shared how everyday acts of cultural expression — from cooking traditional Armenian dishes to celebrating family milestones — function as meaningful forms of resistance and survival. We explored the role of storytelling in keeping collective memory alive and why these traditions remain essential to the Armenian community today.


Alina also spoke about founding ARAKYÁL, the luxury fragrance house she launched in 2025, inspired by her Armenian roots and the ancient spirit of her homeland. A lifelong creative, she has worked across classical singing, fashion design, graphic design and art direction, with scent becoming her newest medium of self‑expression. ARAKYÁL, meaning “apostle” in Armenian, reflects her belief that fragrance is a messenger — carrying memory, identity and quiet power. At its core, ARAKYÁL is about helping people wear their story.


Fragrances mentioned:

Elixir

Colour of Nur

Meron


Book discussed:

The Spice Box Letters - Eve Makis


Find Arakyal online here

Instagram:

@arakyal.official


Website:

www.arakyal.co


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Now, I see that every relic, however battered, every scratch on every knick-knack, is engraved with a timeless story of someone's life.”

- Eve Makis, The Spice Box Letters


Hosting this conversation with Alina Tadevosyan gave me the chance to learn about the powerful themes of Armenian cultural: resilience, identity and heritage preservation. Alina shared how everyday acts of cultural expression — from cooking traditional Armenian dishes to celebrating family milestones — function as meaningful forms of resistance and survival. We explored the role of storytelling in keeping collective memory alive and why these traditions remain essential to the Armenian community today.


Alina also spoke about founding ARAKYÁL, the luxury fragrance house she launched in 2025, inspired by her Armenian roots and the ancient spirit of her homeland. A lifelong creative, she has worked across classical singing, fashion design, graphic design and art direction, with scent becoming her newest medium of self‑expression. ARAKYÁL, meaning “apostle” in Armenian, reflects her belief that fragrance is a messenger — carrying memory, identity and quiet power. At its core, ARAKYÁL is about helping people wear their story.


Fragrances mentioned:

Elixir

Colour of Nur

Meron


Book discussed:

The Spice Box Letters - Eve Makis


Find Arakyal online here

Instagram:

@arakyal.official


Website:

www.arakyal.co


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Emblems Emblems Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:08:00 GMT 1:06:57 69883b28ba7d04f1d49d07bc false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/emblems 69883b28ba7d04f1d49d07bc 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 emblems with Mandy Aftel full 3 70 “Like a long lost cousin to the tarot, these rich images and symbolic stories could become a source for guidance, comfort, wisdom and beauty in your life. Just open the book to any picture and fall into it. Read the motto and story, use your imagination, and let the emblem work its magic”


- Mandy Aftel , Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of the Emblems


It feels surreal to start Season 3 of the podcast talking to Mandy Aftel—an extraordinary natural perfumer and author whose influence on the world of scent and creativity runs deep. As the founder of Aftelier Perfumes, Mandy hand‑crafts her perfumes in small batches in her Berkeley studio, bringing a sense of beauty and artistry to everyone who encounters her work.

Her contributions have earned wide recognition: Vogue has called her one of the industry’s “most prolific talents,” Vanity Fair has described her as an “angel of alchemy,” and Forbes has named her among the top bespoke perfumers in the world. She also serves as an advisor at The Institute for Art and Olfaction, which created the annual Aftel Award for Handmade Perfume in her honor, and she is the recipient of the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award for lifetime achievement. And then, of course, there is her micro museum, where you can see, touch and smell the history of perfumery.

In our conversation, Mandy dives into the creative journey behind her newest book, Symbolorium: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems. We explore the fascinating world of 1600s emblem books, the historical texts that inspire her, and the deep connections she sees between nature, art, and the craft of perfume. It’s a rich, inspiring discussion to kick off the season.


Fragrances mentioned:

Patchouli Noir - Mandy Aftel

Patchouli essential oil

Patchouli absolute

Oakmoss absolute


Book discussed:

Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems - Mandy Aftel


Find Mandy Aftel online here

Instagram:

@aftelierperfume


Website:

aftelier.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Like a long lost cousin to the tarot, these rich images and symbolic stories could become a source for guidance, comfort, wisdom and beauty in your life. Just open the book to any picture and fall into it. Read the motto and story, use your imagination, and let the emblem work its magic”


- Mandy Aftel , Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of the Emblems


It feels surreal to start Season 3 of the podcast talking to Mandy Aftel—an extraordinary natural perfumer and author whose influence on the world of scent and creativity runs deep. As the founder of Aftelier Perfumes, Mandy hand‑crafts her perfumes in small batches in her Berkeley studio, bringing a sense of beauty and artistry to everyone who encounters her work.

Her contributions have earned wide recognition: Vogue has called her one of the industry’s “most prolific talents,” Vanity Fair has described her as an “angel of alchemy,” and Forbes has named her among the top bespoke perfumers in the world. She also serves as an advisor at The Institute for Art and Olfaction, which created the annual Aftel Award for Handmade Perfume in her honor, and she is the recipient of the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award for lifetime achievement. And then, of course, there is her micro museum, where you can see, touch and smell the history of perfumery.

In our conversation, Mandy dives into the creative journey behind her newest book, Symbolorium: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems. We explore the fascinating world of 1600s emblem books, the historical texts that inspire her, and the deep connections she sees between nature, art, and the craft of perfume. It’s a rich, inspiring discussion to kick off the season.


Fragrances mentioned:

Patchouli Noir - Mandy Aftel

Patchouli essential oil

Patchouli absolute

Oakmoss absolute


Book discussed:

Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems - Mandy Aftel


Find Mandy Aftel online here

Instagram:

@aftelierperfume


Website:

aftelier.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Maker The Maker Tue, 04 Nov 2025 19:08:00 GMT 1:13:39 69087d9ea4118b197cf14bf2 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-maker 69087d9ea4118b197cf14bf2 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-maker with Michael Nordstrand full 2 69 “Bless the Maker and His water.

Bless the coming and going of Him.

May His passage cleanse the world.

May He keep the world for His people. ”


- Frank Herbert, Dune


In the final episode of Season Two, I’m joined once again by Michael Nordstrand to explore the rich and layered world of Frank Herbert’s Dune.

You might remember our first conversation in Episode 51, where we wandered through fairytales and fragrance. This time, we dive into Dune’s politics, ecology, and the power of scent — from the symbolism of spice to the relationships that define key characters in the text.

We talk about how Dune continues to shape literature, culture, and even perfume, and reflect on what its themes of power, technology, and environment still teach us today.

A reflective close to Season Two — connecting story, scent, and the desert worlds that stay with us long after reading.


Fragrances mentioned:

Mxxx. - Eris Parfums

Passage d'Enfer - L'Artisan Parfumeur

Ajedrez - Frassai

Infusion d'Iris - Prada

Fate Woman - Amouage

Figment - Amouage

1885 Bains Sulfureux - Les Bains Guerbois

Bois Datchaï - Maison Crivelli

Cabochard Cherie - Gres

Cabochard - Gres

Shalimar - Guerlain

Tilda Swinton Like This - Etat Libre d'Orange


Book discussed:

Dune - Frank Herbert


Find Mythologist Studios (and Michael) online here

Instagram:

@michaelnordstrandperfumer

@mythologiststudio

Website:

mythologiststudio.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Bless the Maker and His water.

Bless the coming and going of Him.

May His passage cleanse the world.

May He keep the world for His people. ”


- Frank Herbert, Dune


In the final episode of Season Two, I’m joined once again by Michael Nordstrand to explore the rich and layered world of Frank Herbert’s Dune.

You might remember our first conversation in Episode 51, where we wandered through fairytales and fragrance. This time, we dive into Dune’s politics, ecology, and the power of scent — from the symbolism of spice to the relationships that define key characters in the text.

We talk about how Dune continues to shape literature, culture, and even perfume, and reflect on what its themes of power, technology, and environment still teach us today.

A reflective close to Season Two — connecting story, scent, and the desert worlds that stay with us long after reading.


Fragrances mentioned:

Mxxx. - Eris Parfums

Passage d'Enfer - L'Artisan Parfumeur

Ajedrez - Frassai

Infusion d'Iris - Prada

Fate Woman - Amouage

Figment - Amouage

1885 Bains Sulfureux - Les Bains Guerbois

Bois Datchaï - Maison Crivelli

Cabochard Cherie - Gres

Cabochard - Gres

Shalimar - Guerlain

Tilda Swinton Like This - Etat Libre d'Orange


Book discussed:

Dune - Frank Herbert


Find Mythologist Studios (and Michael) online here

Instagram:

@michaelnordstrandperfumer

@mythologiststudio

Website:

mythologiststudio.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Characterisation Characterisation Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:08:00 GMT 1:00:55 68ff4e01594b65911138f812 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/characterisation 68ff4e01594b65911138f812 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 characterisation with Craig Andrade full 2 68 "Not here for likes, not here for follows

Chasing the sun, not shadows to follow

Built for love, she can’t help herself

Not trying to be anyone—just herself… " 

-The Raconteur, Ms Macadamia


Craig Andrade, founder and perfumer of The Raconteur, has built an Australian fragrance house celebrated for its refined, story-driven scents. In our conversation, Craig reflects on his transition from a career in law to the creative world of perfumery — a move that opened space for freedom, curiosity, and authentic self-expression.

We explore the storytelling behind his Gourmand Collection, his use of natural ingredients, and the lasting influence of perfumer Mandy Aftel. Craig also shares thoughtful insights on creativity, courage, and the process of finding one’s own artistic voice — reminding us that fragrance, much like storytelling, connects us through memory, emotion, and imagination.


Fragrances mentioned:

Namedrops 

Killr Vanilla

No-Tell Motel

Pavlova Kasavoa

Ms. Macadamia 

Lord Lamington

Daintree Raintree

Religious Guilt Spritz


Book discussed:

Essence & Alchemy - Mandy Aftel


Find The Raconteur online here

Instagram:

@the_rac_on_teur


Website:

theraconteur.co


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> "Not here for likes, not here for follows

Chasing the sun, not shadows to follow

Built for love, she can’t help herself

Not trying to be anyone—just herself… " 

-The Raconteur, Ms Macadamia


Craig Andrade, founder and perfumer of The Raconteur, has built an Australian fragrance house celebrated for its refined, story-driven scents. In our conversation, Craig reflects on his transition from a career in law to the creative world of perfumery — a move that opened space for freedom, curiosity, and authentic self-expression.

We explore the storytelling behind his Gourmand Collection, his use of natural ingredients, and the lasting influence of perfumer Mandy Aftel. Craig also shares thoughtful insights on creativity, courage, and the process of finding one’s own artistic voice — reminding us that fragrance, much like storytelling, connects us through memory, emotion, and imagination.


Fragrances mentioned:

Namedrops 

Killr Vanilla

No-Tell Motel

Pavlova Kasavoa

Ms. Macadamia 

Lord Lamington

Daintree Raintree

Religious Guilt Spritz


Book discussed:

Essence & Alchemy - Mandy Aftel


Find The Raconteur online here

Instagram:

@the_rac_on_teur


Website:

theraconteur.co


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Hive The Hive Tue, 21 Oct 2025 19:08:00 GMT 46:40 68f5f7af59323046ca4cd7e3 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-hive 68f5f7af59323046ca4cd7e3 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-hive with Saskia Wilson-Brown full 2 67 "Without a city there is a house

That's made entirely of wood,

Where live ten thousand daughters

That work for a common good." 

- Kit williams, Untitled (Bee on the Comb)



I had the pleasure of speaking with Saskia Wilson-Brown, founder of the Institute for Art and Olfaction, to discuss the evolution of her ground breaking organization and the role storytelling plays in the world of scent.

We dive into the impact of awards in the perfume industry, explore cultural perspectives on fragrance, and reflect on the creative power of rejection. Saskia shares insights into the shifting landscape of fragrance artistry, the importance of offering alternatives in the market, and the unique contributions of niche perfumers. 

We also talk a lot about Bees.


Fragrances mentioned:

Fundamental - Rubini

Bee - Zoologist


Books discussed:

Untitled (Bee on the Comb) - Kit Williams

Masquerade - Kit Williams


Find Saskia Wilson-Brown and the Institute of Art and Olfaction online here


Instagram:

@artandolfaction

@saskiacwb


Website:

artandolfaction.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> "Without a city there is a house

That's made entirely of wood,

Where live ten thousand daughters

That work for a common good." 

- Kit williams, Untitled (Bee on the Comb)



I had the pleasure of speaking with Saskia Wilson-Brown, founder of the Institute for Art and Olfaction, to discuss the evolution of her ground breaking organization and the role storytelling plays in the world of scent.

We dive into the impact of awards in the perfume industry, explore cultural perspectives on fragrance, and reflect on the creative power of rejection. Saskia shares insights into the shifting landscape of fragrance artistry, the importance of offering alternatives in the market, and the unique contributions of niche perfumers. 

We also talk a lot about Bees.


Fragrances mentioned:

Fundamental - Rubini

Bee - Zoologist


Books discussed:

Untitled (Bee on the Comb) - Kit Williams

Masquerade - Kit Williams


Find Saskia Wilson-Brown and the Institute of Art and Olfaction online here


Instagram:

@artandolfaction

@saskiacwb


Website:

artandolfaction.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Politics of Pleasure Politics of Pleasure Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:08:00 GMT 59:38 68eb7560f513ad2b81c8b869 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/politics-of-pleasure 68eb7560f513ad2b81c8b869 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 politics-of-pleasure with Marie- Pierre Blanchett full 2 66 “And I will remember your small room

the feel of you

the light in the window

your records

your books

our morning coffee…”

- Charles Bukowski, Raw with Love


This week, I sit down with self-taught perfumer Marie-Pierre Blanchette, whose creations blend art, emotion, and storytelling through scent. We explore her Rococo collection—a celebration of joy, pleasure, and the subtle politics of beauty. Marie-Pierre shares the personal memories and poetic influences behind her work, revealing how nostalgia and creativity shape her approach to perfumery. Our conversation is a reflection on how scent connects us—to our past, to one another, and to the simple pleasures that make life feel beautifully alive.


Fragrances mentioned:

Allégorie de l'été

Nature morte avec pommes

Portrait de Madame et son chat


Poems discussed:

Raw With Love - Charles Bukowski 

Evening La Monte, Pisa - Percy Shelley

A Birthday - Christina Rossetti

Instead of Depression - Andrea Gibson

Wild Geese - Mary Oliver


Find Miskeo Parfums online here

Instagram:

@miskeoparfums


Website:

miskeoparfums.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “And I will remember your small room

the feel of you

the light in the window

your records

your books

our morning coffee…”

- Charles Bukowski, Raw with Love


This week, I sit down with self-taught perfumer Marie-Pierre Blanchette, whose creations blend art, emotion, and storytelling through scent. We explore her Rococo collection—a celebration of joy, pleasure, and the subtle politics of beauty. Marie-Pierre shares the personal memories and poetic influences behind her work, revealing how nostalgia and creativity shape her approach to perfumery. Our conversation is a reflection on how scent connects us—to our past, to one another, and to the simple pleasures that make life feel beautifully alive.


Fragrances mentioned:

Allégorie de l'été

Nature morte avec pommes

Portrait de Madame et son chat


Poems discussed:

Raw With Love - Charles Bukowski 

Evening La Monte, Pisa - Percy Shelley

A Birthday - Christina Rossetti

Instead of Depression - Andrea Gibson

Wild Geese - Mary Oliver


Find Miskeo Parfums online here

Instagram:

@miskeoparfums


Website:

miskeoparfums.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sacred Scent Sacred Scent Tue, 07 Oct 2025 19:08:00 GMT 59:42 68e244b95f95c3d419180be2 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/sacred-scent 68e244b95f95c3d419180be2 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 sared-scent with Lee Couch full 2 65 “My purpose is to echo the ancient truth of culture in an expression deeply rooted in Aboriginal songlines and memory codes.” - Lee Couch


In this episode, I’m joined by Gamilaroi woman and founder of LA COUCH, Lee Couch. Lee shares her journey of cultural understanding and the powerful role scent plays in healing, memory, and connection to Country. We talk about sacred scents, traditional bush medicines, and how Aboriginal ways of knowing and being guide her work in creating fragrances with cultural integrity. Through her story, Lee reminds us that scent is not only an experience of the senses, but a bridge between culture, spirituality, and collective healing.


Fragrances mentioned:

Wadhi

Maarumali

Dhawi

Gilay

Sorry Business


Book discussed: 

None this week - but spend a little time listening to the land instead.


Find Lee Couch online here:

Instagram:

@leecouch_


Website:

leecouch.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “My purpose is to echo the ancient truth of culture in an expression deeply rooted in Aboriginal songlines and memory codes.” - Lee Couch


In this episode, I’m joined by Gamilaroi woman and founder of LA COUCH, Lee Couch. Lee shares her journey of cultural understanding and the powerful role scent plays in healing, memory, and connection to Country. We talk about sacred scents, traditional bush medicines, and how Aboriginal ways of knowing and being guide her work in creating fragrances with cultural integrity. Through her story, Lee reminds us that scent is not only an experience of the senses, but a bridge between culture, spirituality, and collective healing.


Fragrances mentioned:

Wadhi

Maarumali

Dhawi

Gilay

Sorry Business


Book discussed: 

None this week - but spend a little time listening to the land instead.


Find Lee Couch online here:

Instagram:

@leecouch_


Website:

leecouch.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Smell-O-Vision Smell-O-Vision Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:08:00 GMT 53:02 68d241e36f2bb8719f026b3f false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/smell-o-vision 68d241e36f2bb8719f026b3f 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 smell-o-vision with Tammy Burnstock full 2 64 “Sniff, Sniff, Sniff! Haddock and hay,

Pizza and penguins, and farther away

The smell of the thief, and - how very exciting -

Thousands of pages all covered in writing!”

- Julia Donaldson & Sara Ogilvie, The Detective Dog


In this episode, I’m joined by Tammy Burnstock, whose work explores the rich intersections between scent, cinema, and storytelling. Tammy describes her practice as scent archaeology—unearthing and reviving perfumes that carry cultural memory and creative possibility. Most recently, she co-curated Her Scent of Mystery at Olfactory Art Keller in New York City, alongside Jas Brooks and perfumer Marissa Zappas. The exhibition, which runs until 20 September, brings back to life the lost perfume from the 1960 Smell-O-Vision film Scent of Mystery, pairing the revived fragrance with rare archival materials to tell the story of scent as both cinematic plot device and unrealised product.


Our conversation traces Tammy’s journey into the world of fragrance, particularly its links to film and children’s literature. We talk about the process of scenting films, the importance of audience interaction, and the role scent can play in children’s literacy and imagination. Tammy also shares her thoughts on play, collaboration, and the future projects that continue to shape her creative practice.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pizza

Hay

Penguins

Rotten Eggs

Barf


Book discussed:

The Detective Dog - Julia Donaldson

The Museum of Very Bad Smells - Monica Arnaldo


Find Tammy online here:

Instagram:

@inglorious_smellovision


Website:

scentedstorytelling.com

inglorioussmellovision.com

Her Scent of Mystery Project


Perfumers mentioned/worked with:

Jocelyn Fullerton

Marissa Zappas

Saskia Wilson-Brown


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Sniff, Sniff, Sniff! Haddock and hay,

Pizza and penguins, and farther away

The smell of the thief, and - how very exciting -

Thousands of pages all covered in writing!”

- Julia Donaldson & Sara Ogilvie, The Detective Dog


In this episode, I’m joined by Tammy Burnstock, whose work explores the rich intersections between scent, cinema, and storytelling. Tammy describes her practice as scent archaeology—unearthing and reviving perfumes that carry cultural memory and creative possibility. Most recently, she co-curated Her Scent of Mystery at Olfactory Art Keller in New York City, alongside Jas Brooks and perfumer Marissa Zappas. The exhibition, which runs until 20 September, brings back to life the lost perfume from the 1960 Smell-O-Vision film Scent of Mystery, pairing the revived fragrance with rare archival materials to tell the story of scent as both cinematic plot device and unrealised product.


Our conversation traces Tammy’s journey into the world of fragrance, particularly its links to film and children’s literature. We talk about the process of scenting films, the importance of audience interaction, and the role scent can play in children’s literacy and imagination. Tammy also shares her thoughts on play, collaboration, and the future projects that continue to shape her creative practice.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pizza

Hay

Penguins

Rotten Eggs

Barf


Book discussed:

The Detective Dog - Julia Donaldson

The Museum of Very Bad Smells - Monica Arnaldo


Find Tammy online here:

Instagram:

@inglorious_smellovision


Website:

scentedstorytelling.com

inglorioussmellovision.com

Her Scent of Mystery Project


Perfumers mentioned/worked with:

Jocelyn Fullerton

Marissa Zappas

Saskia Wilson-Brown


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Legends Legends Tue, 16 Sep 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:02:22 68c7e6811f3cc96453585526 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/legends 68c7e6811f3cc96453585526 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 legends with Michael Edwards full 2 63 “Perfume is substance and spirit. It must be a story, a myth, long before people wear it. ”

- Michael Edwards, Perfume Legends


In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Edwards, one of the most influential voices in the fragrance world. Known as the creator of Fragrances of the World and the fragrance wheel, Michael has transformed the way we talk about, understand, and choose perfumes.


Our conversation traces his journey from marketing into the world of perfumery, and how his groundbreaking work has made fragrance more accessible to consumers and professionals alike. We discuss the evolution of fragrance marketing over the decades, the impact of the internet on how we discover scent, and the importance of language in capturing the emotions and experiences that perfume evokes.


Michael also shares his insights on the growth of niche perfumery, the emotional connections people form with scent, and what the future might hold for the industry.


It was a true privilege to hear Michael’s reflections and wisdom—this episode is a celebration of fragrance as both art and storytelling, shaped by someone who has dedicated his life to illuminating its world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Halston - Halston

Norell - Norell

No. 5 - Chanel

Charlie - Revlon

Opium - Yves Saint Laurent

Eau Sauvage - Christian Dior

Blue Grass - Elizabeth Arden

Obsession - Calvin Klein

Samsara - Guerlain

Green Irish Tweed - Creed


Book discussed:

Fragrances of The World

Perfume Legends II

American Legends


Find Fragrances of the World here:

Instagram:

@fragrancesoftheworld


Website:

fragrancesoftheworld.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Perfume is substance and spirit. It must be a story, a myth, long before people wear it. ”

- Michael Edwards, Perfume Legends


In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Edwards, one of the most influential voices in the fragrance world. Known as the creator of Fragrances of the World and the fragrance wheel, Michael has transformed the way we talk about, understand, and choose perfumes.


Our conversation traces his journey from marketing into the world of perfumery, and how his groundbreaking work has made fragrance more accessible to consumers and professionals alike. We discuss the evolution of fragrance marketing over the decades, the impact of the internet on how we discover scent, and the importance of language in capturing the emotions and experiences that perfume evokes.


Michael also shares his insights on the growth of niche perfumery, the emotional connections people form with scent, and what the future might hold for the industry.


It was a true privilege to hear Michael’s reflections and wisdom—this episode is a celebration of fragrance as both art and storytelling, shaped by someone who has dedicated his life to illuminating its world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Halston - Halston

Norell - Norell

No. 5 - Chanel

Charlie - Revlon

Opium - Yves Saint Laurent

Eau Sauvage - Christian Dior

Blue Grass - Elizabeth Arden

Obsession - Calvin Klein

Samsara - Guerlain

Green Irish Tweed - Creed


Book discussed:

Fragrances of The World

Perfume Legends II

American Legends


Find Fragrances of the World here:

Instagram:

@fragrancesoftheworld


Website:

fragrancesoftheworld.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Demo Accords Demo Accords Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:15:25 68bd47c7b177a2f48450ed99 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/demo-accords 68bd47c7b177a2f48450ed99 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 demo-accords with Pia Long full 2 62 “Once Upon a Time, at the beginning of Everything, there were two spirits with no names and no desires other than to observe. ”

- Pia Long, Demo Accords


In this episode, I’m joined by Finnish-born, UK-based perfumer and author Pia Long, co-founder of Olfiction and Eau de Boujee. With a career spanning four decades, Pia sees scent as a form of communication and perfume as bottled stories, shaped by her background in languages, writing, and translation. Her imaginative approach to perfumery has earned her international recognition, including the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award from the Institute of Art and Olfaction.


Pia’s new book, Demo Accords, is a semi-autobiographical collection of nine essays and one short story, each paired with a perfume formula published in full. She describes the work as a kind of orchestration: the writing is the script, the formulas are the sheet music, and the perfumes themselves are the orchestra playing.


Together, we talk about the art and science of perfumery, the themes behind Demo Accords, and how fragrance can act as both personal storytelling and a shared language of connection.


Fragrances mentioned:

Queen, Verdant, Quir and Guilded by Eau de Boujee


Book discussed:

Demo Accords - Pia Long


Find Pia’s work here:

Instagram:

@perfumer.pia

@eau_de_boujee

@olfictionlimited


Website:

Pre-oder @ demoaccords.com

eaudeboujee.com

olfiction.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Once Upon a Time, at the beginning of Everything, there were two spirits with no names and no desires other than to observe. ”

- Pia Long, Demo Accords


In this episode, I’m joined by Finnish-born, UK-based perfumer and author Pia Long, co-founder of Olfiction and Eau de Boujee. With a career spanning four decades, Pia sees scent as a form of communication and perfume as bottled stories, shaped by her background in languages, writing, and translation. Her imaginative approach to perfumery has earned her international recognition, including the Septimus Piesse Visionary Award from the Institute of Art and Olfaction.


Pia’s new book, Demo Accords, is a semi-autobiographical collection of nine essays and one short story, each paired with a perfume formula published in full. She describes the work as a kind of orchestration: the writing is the script, the formulas are the sheet music, and the perfumes themselves are the orchestra playing.


Together, we talk about the art and science of perfumery, the themes behind Demo Accords, and how fragrance can act as both personal storytelling and a shared language of connection.


Fragrances mentioned:

Queen, Verdant, Quir and Guilded by Eau de Boujee


Book discussed:

Demo Accords - Pia Long


Find Pia’s work here:

Instagram:

@perfumer.pia

@eau_de_boujee

@olfictionlimited


Website:

Pre-oder @ demoaccords.com

eaudeboujee.com

olfiction.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Community of Sparkles Community of Sparkles Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:07:39 68b3925a35734dc71955b057 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/community-of-sparkles 68b3925a35734dc71955b057 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 community-of-sparkles with Amanda Carr full 2 61 “Seek awe and nature daily... show kindness; practise grace; eschew vanity; be bold; embrace friends, family, faith and doubt, imperfection and mess; and live deliberately.”

― Julia Baird, Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark


In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Carr, founder of Barnes Fragrance Fair and co-founder of We Wear Perfume. Amanda has been instrumental in creating spaces where fragrance lovers can come together to celebrate independent perfumers, discover new scents, and share in the stories behind them. Through her work, she highlights the personal connections we all have with fragrance and the unique way scent weaves meaning into our lives.

Our conversation explores the vibrant sense of community and collaboration at the heart of the fragrance world—how creators, curators, and enthusiasts support and inspire one another. We also discuss Phosphorescence by Julia Baird, a book about finding light and meaning in everyday moments, and how these themes beautifully echo the way fragrance illuminates our experiences.


Fragrances mentioned:

Vermeil - Bienaime

L'Amandiere - Heeley

Tilia - Marc-Antoine Barrois

Empress- Soki

Yuzu Noir - Nyita

Lupin Meadow - Nancy Meiland

Bistro Boy - Ficifolia

Floral Smoke - Olfactive O

Sparkles - 4160 Tuesday


Book discussed: 

Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark - Julia Baird


Find Amanda’s work here:

Instagram:

@barnesfragrancefair

@wewearperfume


Website:

barnesfragrancefair.com

wewearperfume.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Seek awe and nature daily... show kindness; practise grace; eschew vanity; be bold; embrace friends, family, faith and doubt, imperfection and mess; and live deliberately.”

― Julia Baird, Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark


In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Carr, founder of Barnes Fragrance Fair and co-founder of We Wear Perfume. Amanda has been instrumental in creating spaces where fragrance lovers can come together to celebrate independent perfumers, discover new scents, and share in the stories behind them. Through her work, she highlights the personal connections we all have with fragrance and the unique way scent weaves meaning into our lives.

Our conversation explores the vibrant sense of community and collaboration at the heart of the fragrance world—how creators, curators, and enthusiasts support and inspire one another. We also discuss Phosphorescence by Julia Baird, a book about finding light and meaning in everyday moments, and how these themes beautifully echo the way fragrance illuminates our experiences.


Fragrances mentioned:

Vermeil - Bienaime

L'Amandiere - Heeley

Tilia - Marc-Antoine Barrois

Empress- Soki

Yuzu Noir - Nyita

Lupin Meadow - Nancy Meiland

Bistro Boy - Ficifolia

Floral Smoke - Olfactive O

Sparkles - 4160 Tuesday


Book discussed: 

Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark - Julia Baird


Find Amanda’s work here:

Instagram:

@barnesfragrancefair

@wewearperfume


Website:

barnesfragrancefair.com

wewearperfume.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> More Than A Dandy More Than A Dandy Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:08:39 68a2fbcf26699148a74bd5ca false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/more-than-a-dandy 68a2fbcf26699148a74bd5ca 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 more-than-a-dandy with Katrina Cochrane full 2 60 “Virtue is like precious odours, most fragrant when it is crushed.”


― Baroness Emmuska Orczy, The Scarlet Pimpernel


In this episode I’m joined by Katrina Cochrane, founder of Archer Farrar Perfume Atelier. Katrina’s journey into natural perfumery began with her love for plants and aromatherapy, and today, she creates stunning perfumes using only the finest sustainably sourced botanicals. We discuss her personal journey from aromatherapy to the wine industry, and how she built Archer Farrar.


We dive into the craft of natural perfumery, exploring the differences between natural and synthetic ingredients, and how fragrance evokes deep emotional connections. Katrina shares the challenges she faces as a natural perfumer—especially when it comes to sourcing quality ingredients— and how she stays true to her vision of creating perfumes that honour nature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Peony Cologne - Archer Farrar

Dark Cedar - Archer Farrar

Embrace - Archer Farrar

Green Vetiver - Archer Farrar

Forest Balsam - Archer Farrar

Sandara - Archer Farrar

Cologne Royale - Dior

Peony & Blush Suede - Jo Malone

Anais Anais - Cacharel

Taylor - Taylor Swift

Gardenia - Archer Farrar


Book discussed:

The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baroness Emmuska Orczy


Find Archer Farrar here:

Instagram:

@archerfarrarperfume


Website:

archerfarrar.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Virtue is like precious odours, most fragrant when it is crushed.”


― Baroness Emmuska Orczy, The Scarlet Pimpernel


In this episode I’m joined by Katrina Cochrane, founder of Archer Farrar Perfume Atelier. Katrina’s journey into natural perfumery began with her love for plants and aromatherapy, and today, she creates stunning perfumes using only the finest sustainably sourced botanicals. We discuss her personal journey from aromatherapy to the wine industry, and how she built Archer Farrar.


We dive into the craft of natural perfumery, exploring the differences between natural and synthetic ingredients, and how fragrance evokes deep emotional connections. Katrina shares the challenges she faces as a natural perfumer—especially when it comes to sourcing quality ingredients— and how she stays true to her vision of creating perfumes that honour nature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Peony Cologne - Archer Farrar

Dark Cedar - Archer Farrar

Embrace - Archer Farrar

Green Vetiver - Archer Farrar

Forest Balsam - Archer Farrar

Sandara - Archer Farrar

Cologne Royale - Dior

Peony & Blush Suede - Jo Malone

Anais Anais - Cacharel

Taylor - Taylor Swift

Gardenia - Archer Farrar


Book discussed:

The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baroness Emmuska Orczy


Find Archer Farrar here:

Instagram:

@archerfarrarperfume


Website:

archerfarrar.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Barbershop The Barbershop Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:06:44 6899c59fdbbf82a7fe660ce8 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-babershop 6899c59fdbbf82a7fe660ce8 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-barbershop with Haydn Williams full 2 59 “What you’re trying to say is that it’s easier for you to hide in your own darkness, than emerge cloaked in your own vulnerability. No better, but easier. However, the longer you hold it in, the more likely you are to suffocate.

At some point, you must breathe.”

― Caleb Azumah Nelson, Open Water


In this episode of Paperback Perfumes, I’m joined by UK-based writer and podcaster Haydn, whose work explores fragrance, male grooming, and gifting. He writes for publications like Grazia, Rakes Sense, and The Perfume Society.


Haydn shares his journey from a long career in music to discovering fragrance as a new form of self-expression. We talk about the connections between scent and storytelling, and how both can be powerful tools for exploring identity, memory, masculinity, and vulnerability.


We also dive into the inspirations behind his podcast Man in the Mirror, and the unique conversations happening in place place like barbershops and what mean see when they pause and reflect about themselves with each other.


Fragrances mentioned:

Sisters B4 Misters - Jusbox

Versace Man Eau Fraîche - Versace

Voyeur Verde - Maya Njie

Teddy the Perfumer

Nordic Cedar - Maya Njie

French Waltz - Golf Le Fleur

Melody - Miller Harris


Book discussed:

Open Water - Caleb Azumah Nelson


Find Haydn here:

Instagram:

@yousmellgreatwhatisit

@maninthemirrorpod


TikTok:

@yousmellgreatwhatisit

YouTube from Barnes Fragrance Fair

’Men Smell’ panel discussion



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “What you’re trying to say is that it’s easier for you to hide in your own darkness, than emerge cloaked in your own vulnerability. No better, but easier. However, the longer you hold it in, the more likely you are to suffocate.

At some point, you must breathe.”

― Caleb Azumah Nelson, Open Water


In this episode of Paperback Perfumes, I’m joined by UK-based writer and podcaster Haydn, whose work explores fragrance, male grooming, and gifting. He writes for publications like Grazia, Rakes Sense, and The Perfume Society.


Haydn shares his journey from a long career in music to discovering fragrance as a new form of self-expression. We talk about the connections between scent and storytelling, and how both can be powerful tools for exploring identity, memory, masculinity, and vulnerability.


We also dive into the inspirations behind his podcast Man in the Mirror, and the unique conversations happening in place place like barbershops and what mean see when they pause and reflect about themselves with each other.


Fragrances mentioned:

Sisters B4 Misters - Jusbox

Versace Man Eau Fraîche - Versace

Voyeur Verde - Maya Njie

Teddy the Perfumer

Nordic Cedar - Maya Njie

French Waltz - Golf Le Fleur

Melody - Miller Harris


Book discussed:

Open Water - Caleb Azumah Nelson


Find Haydn here:

Instagram:

@yousmellgreatwhatisit

@maninthemirrorpod


TikTok:

@yousmellgreatwhatisit

YouTube from Barnes Fragrance Fair

’Men Smell’ panel discussion



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> All Systems All Systems Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:08:00 GMT 58:43 6890a409eb4229c9193765fd false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/all-systems 6890a409eb4229c9193765fd 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 all-systems with Anjali Vandemark full 2 58 “And in their corner all they had was Murderbot, who just wanted everyone to shut up and leave it alone so it could watch the entertainment feed all day.”

― Martha Wells, All Systems Red


This episode’s guest is Anjali Vandemark, an artisanal perfumer and writer based on Bainbridge Island, WA. Born and raised in India, Anjali’s early life was steeped in the rich aromas of tropical flowers, attars, incense, and spices—experiences that now shape her handcrafted, small-batch perfumes.


Anjali shares her unique journey from India to the United States, exploring how her deep connection to scent evolved into a creative practice that blends cultural heritage with the art of perfumery. We talk about the significance of fragrance in Indian society, the challenges of translating scent across cultures, and the surprising role of olfaction in science fiction storytelling.


Our conversation also touches on gender and identity in fragrance, including Anjali’s reflections on the character Murderbot. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of scent to evoke memory, emotion, and a deeper understanding of self and culture.


Fragrances mentioned:

Shalimar - Guerlain

Delina - Parfums de Marly

Monsoon Madness - Anjali

Tiger Bright - Anjali

Sea Glass - Anjali

Lunar Dust - Mabelle O’rama

Synthetic Jungle (Nature) - Frederic Malle


Books discussed:

Sandalwood and Carrion: Smell in Indian Religion and Culture - James M. McHugh

The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins

All Systems Red - Martha Wells


Find Anjali here:

Instagram:

@anjali_perfumes


TikTok:

@Anjali_Perfumes

Website:

anjaliperfumes.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “And in their corner all they had was Murderbot, who just wanted everyone to shut up and leave it alone so it could watch the entertainment feed all day.”

― Martha Wells, All Systems Red


This episode’s guest is Anjali Vandemark, an artisanal perfumer and writer based on Bainbridge Island, WA. Born and raised in India, Anjali’s early life was steeped in the rich aromas of tropical flowers, attars, incense, and spices—experiences that now shape her handcrafted, small-batch perfumes.


Anjali shares her unique journey from India to the United States, exploring how her deep connection to scent evolved into a creative practice that blends cultural heritage with the art of perfumery. We talk about the significance of fragrance in Indian society, the challenges of translating scent across cultures, and the surprising role of olfaction in science fiction storytelling.


Our conversation also touches on gender and identity in fragrance, including Anjali’s reflections on the character Murderbot. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of scent to evoke memory, emotion, and a deeper understanding of self and culture.


Fragrances mentioned:

Shalimar - Guerlain

Delina - Parfums de Marly

Monsoon Madness - Anjali

Tiger Bright - Anjali

Sea Glass - Anjali

Lunar Dust - Mabelle O’rama

Synthetic Jungle (Nature) - Frederic Malle


Books discussed:

Sandalwood and Carrion: Smell in Indian Religion and Culture - James M. McHugh

The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins

All Systems Red - Martha Wells


Find Anjali here:

Instagram:

@anjali_perfumes


TikTok:

@Anjali_Perfumes

Website:

anjaliperfumes.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Confessions Confessions Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:20:06 6888713b2a38d6f5cbbbbc74 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/confessions 6888713b2a38d6f5cbbbbc74 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 confessions with Sarah McCartney full 2 57 "We don't just travel on roads and seas. We travel in stories and in dreams."

― Joanne Harris, Vianne


This episode’s guest is Sarah McCartney, owner and perfumer of the artisan fragrance house, 4160 Tuesdays.


Sarah is a self-taught perfumer with a background in writing, and her work is known for blending playfulness with complexity—often drawing on personal memories, cultural touchstones, and storytelling. She’s passionate about sharing knowledge, teaching fragrance workshops, and helping others connect to scent in meaningful, personal ways.


We talk about the process of creating Vianne’s Confession, a perfume inspired by the character Vianne Rocher from Chocolat and, more recently, Vianne by Joanne Harris, and . We explore how how literature can spark the imagination in scent-making, as well as evoke powerful nostalgia, the role of human chemistry in how we experience perfume, and how scent weaves into the rituals and rhythms of everyday life.


Fragrance mentioned:

Rhubarb & Custard - 4160 Tuesdays

Hammersmith Tea & Biscuits - 4160 Tuesdays

Vianne’s Confession - 4160 Tuesdays

Aromatics Elixir - Clinque

Verdant - Eau de Boujee

Complicated Shadows - 4160 Tuesdays


Book discussed:

Vianne - Joanne Harris

Chocolat - Joanne Harris

Rivers of London (Series) - Ben Aaronovitch


Find 4160 Tuesdays (and Sarah) here:

Instagram:

@4160tuesdays

@sarahmccartneythinks

Website:

4160tuesdays.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> "We don't just travel on roads and seas. We travel in stories and in dreams."

― Joanne Harris, Vianne


This episode’s guest is Sarah McCartney, owner and perfumer of the artisan fragrance house, 4160 Tuesdays.


Sarah is a self-taught perfumer with a background in writing, and her work is known for blending playfulness with complexity—often drawing on personal memories, cultural touchstones, and storytelling. She’s passionate about sharing knowledge, teaching fragrance workshops, and helping others connect to scent in meaningful, personal ways.


We talk about the process of creating Vianne’s Confession, a perfume inspired by the character Vianne Rocher from Chocolat and, more recently, Vianne by Joanne Harris, and . We explore how how literature can spark the imagination in scent-making, as well as evoke powerful nostalgia, the role of human chemistry in how we experience perfume, and how scent weaves into the rituals and rhythms of everyday life.


Fragrance mentioned:

Rhubarb & Custard - 4160 Tuesdays

Hammersmith Tea & Biscuits - 4160 Tuesdays

Vianne’s Confession - 4160 Tuesdays

Aromatics Elixir - Clinque

Verdant - Eau de Boujee

Complicated Shadows - 4160 Tuesdays


Book discussed:

Vianne - Joanne Harris

Chocolat - Joanne Harris

Rivers of London (Series) - Ben Aaronovitch


Find 4160 Tuesdays (and Sarah) here:

Instagram:

@4160tuesdays

@sarahmccartneythinks

Website:

4160tuesdays.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Optimism Optimism Tue, 22 Jul 2025 20:08:00 GMT 53:20 687e0726ffe3b22d13caec9a false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/optimism 687e0726ffe3b22d13caec9a 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 optimism with Helida Dodd full 2 56 “There was no stopping us now. We had running water, a heater, a cooker and a road. We were fast becoming slaves again to all the things we had come to this benighted spot to flee.”

― Chris Stewart, Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucía


In this episode I talk with Helida Dodd, founder of Marabella Perfumes. Helida shares her unexpected journey from a career in industrial engineering and supply chain management to becoming a perfumer dedicated to crafting sustainable, high-quality scents.


We explore Helida’s unique understanding of team dynamics and how that flows perfumery, the role of collaboration in her work, and the inspiration behind her some of her scents. Helida also reflects on the importance of optimism — in creativity, in life, and in the connections we make through scent. And of course, we end with a book pairing that captures the spirit of joy and resilience.


Fragrance mentioned:

Ever Present - Marbella Perfumes


Book discussed:

Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucía - Chris Stewart


Find Marbella Perfumes here:

Instagram:

@marbellaperfumes

Website:

marbellaperfumes.com


LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/in/helidadodd/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “There was no stopping us now. We had running water, a heater, a cooker and a road. We were fast becoming slaves again to all the things we had come to this benighted spot to flee.”

― Chris Stewart, Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucía


In this episode I talk with Helida Dodd, founder of Marabella Perfumes. Helida shares her unexpected journey from a career in industrial engineering and supply chain management to becoming a perfumer dedicated to crafting sustainable, high-quality scents.


We explore Helida’s unique understanding of team dynamics and how that flows perfumery, the role of collaboration in her work, and the inspiration behind her some of her scents. Helida also reflects on the importance of optimism — in creativity, in life, and in the connections we make through scent. And of course, we end with a book pairing that captures the spirit of joy and resilience.


Fragrance mentioned:

Ever Present - Marbella Perfumes


Book discussed:

Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucía - Chris Stewart


Find Marbella Perfumes here:

Instagram:

@marbellaperfumes

Website:

marbellaperfumes.com


LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/in/helidadodd/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Aesthetics Aesthetics Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:21:29 6874e1bb610560d3ef1998c7 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/aesthetics 6874e1bb610560d3ef1998c7 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 aesthetics with Liam Sardea full 2 55 “Absence is the figure of privation; simultaneously, I desire and I need. Desire is squashed against need: that is the obsessive phenomenon of all amorous sentiment.”

― Roland Barthes, A Lover's Discourse: Fragments


In this episode, Liam Sardea, philosopher of aesthetics and Brand Experience Manager at NOAH, discusses the transformative power of creativity and imagination in everyday life. Drawing on his PhD research and Roland Barthes' ideas, he explores how meaning, emotion, and narrative arise through sensory encounters, especially scent.


Liam shares his personal fragrance journey, the evolution of perfume blogging, and the intersection of philosophy, aesthetics, and olfaction. The conversation also covers the cultural and historical roles of perfume and its connection to literature.


Advocating for “olfactory culture,” Liam emphasises sensory literacy and meaningful dialogue about smell, reflecting on how scent, memory, and imagination shape our understanding of ourselves and the world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Obsession Man - Calvin Klein

Bang - Marc Jacobs

Poivre Samarcande - Hermes

Brin de Reglisse - Hermes

Tobacco Vanille - Tom Ford 

Jicky - Guerlain

Futur - Robert Piguet

Feminite du Bois - Serge Lutens

Une Amourette Roland Mouret - Etat Libre d'Orange

Fille en Aiguilles - Serge Luten 

Nuit de Noel - Caron

Cuir d'Ange - Hermes

Cuir Ottoman - Parfum d'Empire


Book discussed:

A Lover’s Discourse: Fragments - Roland Barthes


Find Liam here:

Instagram:

@liamsardea


Website:

liamsardea.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Absence is the figure of privation; simultaneously, I desire and I need. Desire is squashed against need: that is the obsessive phenomenon of all amorous sentiment.”

― Roland Barthes, A Lover's Discourse: Fragments


In this episode, Liam Sardea, philosopher of aesthetics and Brand Experience Manager at NOAH, discusses the transformative power of creativity and imagination in everyday life. Drawing on his PhD research and Roland Barthes' ideas, he explores how meaning, emotion, and narrative arise through sensory encounters, especially scent.


Liam shares his personal fragrance journey, the evolution of perfume blogging, and the intersection of philosophy, aesthetics, and olfaction. The conversation also covers the cultural and historical roles of perfume and its connection to literature.


Advocating for “olfactory culture,” Liam emphasises sensory literacy and meaningful dialogue about smell, reflecting on how scent, memory, and imagination shape our understanding of ourselves and the world.


Fragrances mentioned:

Obsession Man - Calvin Klein

Bang - Marc Jacobs

Poivre Samarcande - Hermes

Brin de Reglisse - Hermes

Tobacco Vanille - Tom Ford 

Jicky - Guerlain

Futur - Robert Piguet

Feminite du Bois - Serge Lutens

Une Amourette Roland Mouret - Etat Libre d'Orange

Fille en Aiguilles - Serge Luten 

Nuit de Noel - Caron

Cuir d'Ange - Hermes

Cuir Ottoman - Parfum d'Empire


Book discussed:

A Lover’s Discourse: Fragments - Roland Barthes


Find Liam here:

Instagram:

@liamsardea


Website:

liamsardea.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Kings and Heroes Kings and Heroes Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:08:00 GMT 58:05 686ba54f8d2a216e12feeea6 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/kings-and-heroes 686ba54f8d2a216e12feeea6 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 kings-and-heroes with Ashek Zubayer full 2 54 “He looked at the walls, awed at the heights his people had achieved and for a moment -- just a moment -- all that lay behind him passed from view.”

― Herbert Mason Translation, The Epic of Gilgamesh


Ashek Zubayer, the talented perfumer behind the innovative Byermia fragrances, shares his fascinating and unique journey into the captivating world of perfumery in this episode. Throughout our conversation, Ashek details how his deep passion for scents gradually evolved and blossomed into the creation of his artisanal brand.


We discusses the rich cultural inspirations behind his first carefully curated line of fragrances, with each scent symbolizing different important life stages. There is also an in-depth look into the complexities of his second fragrance line, where Ashek highlights the storytelling elements and the mythological influences that shape his fragrance creation process.


Additionally, Ashek thoughtfully connects his artistic work to the ancient epic poem Gilgamesh, drawing meaningful parallels between the profound themes of triumph and loss found both in his fragrances and within the timeless narrative of the poem.


Fragrances mentioned (all Byermia):

Epoch Series -

Akura

Pushpak

Udbaha

Agrani


Tabac Sura


Folklore Series -

Tiger Rouge

Ambrosia

Ember Shaan


More about Gilgamesh:

Wikipedia article

The king who refused to die: the Anunnaki and the search for immortality - Zecharia Sitchin

Epic of Gilgamesh - In Our Time podcast episode


Find Byermia here:

Instagram:

@byermia_fragrance

Website:

byermiafragrance.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “He looked at the walls, awed at the heights his people had achieved and for a moment -- just a moment -- all that lay behind him passed from view.”

― Herbert Mason Translation, The Epic of Gilgamesh


Ashek Zubayer, the talented perfumer behind the innovative Byermia fragrances, shares his fascinating and unique journey into the captivating world of perfumery in this episode. Throughout our conversation, Ashek details how his deep passion for scents gradually evolved and blossomed into the creation of his artisanal brand.


We discusses the rich cultural inspirations behind his first carefully curated line of fragrances, with each scent symbolizing different important life stages. There is also an in-depth look into the complexities of his second fragrance line, where Ashek highlights the storytelling elements and the mythological influences that shape his fragrance creation process.


Additionally, Ashek thoughtfully connects his artistic work to the ancient epic poem Gilgamesh, drawing meaningful parallels between the profound themes of triumph and loss found both in his fragrances and within the timeless narrative of the poem.


Fragrances mentioned (all Byermia):

Epoch Series -

Akura

Pushpak

Udbaha

Agrani


Tabac Sura


Folklore Series -

Tiger Rouge

Ambrosia

Ember Shaan


More about Gilgamesh:

Wikipedia article

The king who refused to die: the Anunnaki and the search for immortality - Zecharia Sitchin

Epic of Gilgamesh - In Our Time podcast episode


Find Byermia here:

Instagram:

@byermia_fragrance

Website:

byermiafragrance.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Smelling Trees Smelling Trees Tue, 01 Jul 2025 20:08:00 GMT 54:24 68626baf9951fac41be49cd3 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/smelling-trees 68626baf9951fac41be49cd3 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 smelling-trees with Frauke Galia full 2 53 Be it Pine, Juniper or Bay - Tanin, Resin, Leaf Litter, Wood Smoke or Quinine…


This episode explores the rich, invisible world of smell — and I use that word very deliberately — with my guest Frauke Galia, host of An Aromatic Life, a podcast that elevates the sense of smell in a world dominated by sight and sound.

Together, we dive into how fragrance can shape identity, stir memory, and deepen emotional connection. We also talk a lot about trees — including 13 ways to smell them — and how reconnecting with the natural world through scent can be both grounding and transformative.

Smell is such an evocative sense, and in this conversation, we explore how it can be a powerful form of self-expression and a bridge to the world around us.


Fragrances mentioned:

Go and smell your favourite tree: those mentioned are the Apple Tree and the Strawberry Gum


Books mentioned:

Thirteen Ways to Smell a Tree - David George Haskell


Find An Aromatic Life here:

Instagram:

@an_aromatic_life

Website/Substack:

anaromaticlife.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Be it Pine, Juniper or Bay - Tanin, Resin, Leaf Litter, Wood Smoke or Quinine…


This episode explores the rich, invisible world of smell — and I use that word very deliberately — with my guest Frauke Galia, host of An Aromatic Life, a podcast that elevates the sense of smell in a world dominated by sight and sound.

Together, we dive into how fragrance can shape identity, stir memory, and deepen emotional connection. We also talk a lot about trees — including 13 ways to smell them — and how reconnecting with the natural world through scent can be both grounding and transformative.

Smell is such an evocative sense, and in this conversation, we explore how it can be a powerful form of self-expression and a bridge to the world around us.


Fragrances mentioned:

Go and smell your favourite tree: those mentioned are the Apple Tree and the Strawberry Gum


Books mentioned:

Thirteen Ways to Smell a Tree - David George Haskell


Find An Aromatic Life here:

Instagram:

@an_aromatic_life

Website/Substack:

anaromaticlife.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Electric Sheep Electric Sheep Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:04:01 6858f21273d44a0f7e70b506 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/electric-sheep 6858f21273d44a0f7e70b506 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 electric-sheep with LC James full 2 52 “An android,” he said, “doesn’t care what happens to another android. That’s one of the indications we look for."

“Then,” Miss Luft said, “you must be an android.”


― Philip K. Dick


In this episode I’m joined by content creator, photographer, and fellow sci-fi geek LC James to explore the fragrant and philosophical depths of Philip K. Dick’s literary work

Together, we dive into the ethical implications of empathy in distinguishing humans from androids, and how scent plays a subtle but powerful role in the narrative.

We talk about the concept of waste ( as well as kipple), and how speculative fiction can inspire new ways of thinking about fragrance.

Through our conversation, we reflect on the personal connections we form with scent — and how those connections shape our identities, memories, and even our humanity.


Fragrances mentioned:

Nasomatto - Blamage

L’Eau Maliz - Bursting Life

Eau de Bougie - Verdant

Sarah Baker - Peach’s Revenge

Liis Floating

Books mentioned:

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? - Philip K.Dick


Find LC James here:

Instagram:

@nearlynoseblind


TikTok:

@nearlynoseblind




Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “An android,” he said, “doesn’t care what happens to another android. That’s one of the indications we look for."

“Then,” Miss Luft said, “you must be an android.”


― Philip K. Dick


In this episode I’m joined by content creator, photographer, and fellow sci-fi geek LC James to explore the fragrant and philosophical depths of Philip K. Dick’s literary work

Together, we dive into the ethical implications of empathy in distinguishing humans from androids, and how scent plays a subtle but powerful role in the narrative.

We talk about the concept of waste ( as well as kipple), and how speculative fiction can inspire new ways of thinking about fragrance.

Through our conversation, we reflect on the personal connections we form with scent — and how those connections shape our identities, memories, and even our humanity.


Fragrances mentioned:

Nasomatto - Blamage

L’Eau Maliz - Bursting Life

Eau de Bougie - Verdant

Sarah Baker - Peach’s Revenge

Liis Floating

Books mentioned:

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? - Philip K.Dick


Find LC James here:

Instagram:

@nearlynoseblind


TikTok:

@nearlynoseblind




Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Fairy Tales Fairy Tales Tue, 17 Jun 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:29:00 6850ca34643970a422cfb228 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/fairy-tales 6850ca34643970a422cfb228 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 fairy-tales with Michael Nordstrand full 2 51 “The first function of mythology is showing everything as a metaphor to transcendence”. 

- Joseph Campbell


In this episode, I sit down with Michael Nordstrand, a renowned perfumer and the visionary founder of Mythologist Studio. Michael takes us on an aromatic journey into the world of perfumery, where he reveals the profound importance of mythology and storytelling in the creation of fragrances.

Throughout our conversation, Michael shares his creative process, emphasizing the significance of raw materials and the delicate art of dilution. I was captivated by Michael's exploration of the connections between fairy tales, the hero's journey, and the emotional responses evoked by scent. We discuss the rich tapestry and themes of Scandinavian fairy tales, discussing how these timeless stories and the enchanting illustrations by Kay Nielsen inspire and influence a creative mind. Nielsen's intricate and magical illustrations bring to life the mythical elements that resonate deeply within any artist.


Fragrances mentioned:

Bad Lily - Tale Parfum

Mousse de Saxe - Fabriques de Laire

Galop - d'Hermès

The Moon and I - Floraïku


Books mentioned:

Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien

In Powder and Crinoline: Old Fairy Tales - Anne Carter

East of the Sun and West of the Moon: Old Tales from the North - Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

Twelve Dancing Princesses (Fairy Tale)

The Three Princesses of Whiteland (Fairy Tale)

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi - Rudyard Kipling


Find Michael and Mythologist Studio here:

Instagram:

@michaelnordstrandperfume

@mythologiststudio

Website:

mythologiststudio.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “The first function of mythology is showing everything as a metaphor to transcendence”. 

- Joseph Campbell


In this episode, I sit down with Michael Nordstrand, a renowned perfumer and the visionary founder of Mythologist Studio. Michael takes us on an aromatic journey into the world of perfumery, where he reveals the profound importance of mythology and storytelling in the creation of fragrances.

Throughout our conversation, Michael shares his creative process, emphasizing the significance of raw materials and the delicate art of dilution. I was captivated by Michael's exploration of the connections between fairy tales, the hero's journey, and the emotional responses evoked by scent. We discuss the rich tapestry and themes of Scandinavian fairy tales, discussing how these timeless stories and the enchanting illustrations by Kay Nielsen inspire and influence a creative mind. Nielsen's intricate and magical illustrations bring to life the mythical elements that resonate deeply within any artist.


Fragrances mentioned:

Bad Lily - Tale Parfum

Mousse de Saxe - Fabriques de Laire

Galop - d'Hermès

The Moon and I - Floraïku


Books mentioned:

Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien

In Powder and Crinoline: Old Fairy Tales - Anne Carter

East of the Sun and West of the Moon: Old Tales from the North - Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

Twelve Dancing Princesses (Fairy Tale)

The Three Princesses of Whiteland (Fairy Tale)

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi - Rudyard Kipling


Find Michael and Mythologist Studio here:

Instagram:

@michaelnordstrandperfume

@mythologiststudio

Website:

mythologiststudio.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Two Different Types Two Different Types Tue, 10 Jun 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:10:13 6846bf2187509b9b8081ad26 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/two-different-types 6846bf2187509b9b8081ad26 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 two-different-types with Thomas Dunckley full 2 50 “How cyclical and bittersweet for a child to retrace the image of their mother. For a subject to turn back to document their archivist.”


― Michelle Zauner, Crying in H Mart


This episode’s guest is Thomas Dunckley — fragrance expert, six-time Jasmine Award winner, and the voice behind the much-loved blog The Candy Perfume Boy. Thomas has made it his mission to make perfume accessible, joyful, and free from snobbery through his podcast Making Scents Make Sense.


Our conversation explores the deep connections between fragrance, memory, and identity. We talked about how scent can transport us through time, evoke powerful emotions, and reflect who we are — or who we want to be. Thomas shares his thoughts on the importance of inclusivity in the fragrance community and how personal experiences shape the way we interact with fragrance.


We also discussed Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, reflecting on the book’s themes of grief, cultural identity, and the mother-child bond. Thomas paired these themes with fragrance recommendations that speak to comfort, nostalgia, and the emotional resonance of scent.

Whether you're a seasoned perfume lover or just beginning to explore the world of fragrance, this episode is a celebration of scent as story — and the joy it brings to our lives.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pho Breakfast - d’Naam

Concombre d'Inde et Menthe de Syrie - Officine Universelle Buly

Sunday - Arielle Shoshana

Vetiveria -Ormonde Jayne

Eau de Magnolia - Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle

Lupin Meadow - Nancy Meiland

Allure - Chanel

Angel - Mugler

Book mentioned:

Crying in the H Mart - Michelle Zauner


Find Thomas here:

Instagram: @makingscentsmakesense

Website: thomasdunckley.com

Find Japanese Breakfast here:

japanesebreakfast.rocks


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “How cyclical and bittersweet for a child to retrace the image of their mother. For a subject to turn back to document their archivist.”


― Michelle Zauner, Crying in H Mart


This episode’s guest is Thomas Dunckley — fragrance expert, six-time Jasmine Award winner, and the voice behind the much-loved blog The Candy Perfume Boy. Thomas has made it his mission to make perfume accessible, joyful, and free from snobbery through his podcast Making Scents Make Sense.


Our conversation explores the deep connections between fragrance, memory, and identity. We talked about how scent can transport us through time, evoke powerful emotions, and reflect who we are — or who we want to be. Thomas shares his thoughts on the importance of inclusivity in the fragrance community and how personal experiences shape the way we interact with fragrance.


We also discussed Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, reflecting on the book’s themes of grief, cultural identity, and the mother-child bond. Thomas paired these themes with fragrance recommendations that speak to comfort, nostalgia, and the emotional resonance of scent.

Whether you're a seasoned perfume lover or just beginning to explore the world of fragrance, this episode is a celebration of scent as story — and the joy it brings to our lives.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pho Breakfast - d’Naam

Concombre d'Inde et Menthe de Syrie - Officine Universelle Buly

Sunday - Arielle Shoshana

Vetiveria -Ormonde Jayne

Eau de Magnolia - Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle

Lupin Meadow - Nancy Meiland

Allure - Chanel

Angel - Mugler

Book mentioned:

Crying in the H Mart - Michelle Zauner


Find Thomas here:

Instagram: @makingscentsmakesense

Website: thomasdunckley.com

Find Japanese Breakfast here:

japanesebreakfast.rocks


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Land of Flowers The Land of Flowers Tue, 03 Jun 2025 20:08:00 GMT 52:14 683d6b936c26028f69c2f0c4 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-land-of-flowers 683d6b936c26028f69c2f0c4 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-land-of-flowers with Justin James full 2 49 “People need things like perfume and poetry, music and art more than ever during times like this. People need to remember the simple joys in life. If you forget, if life loses its colour then they have won. Those cowardly, heartless bastards have won.”


― Kate Lord Brown, The Perfume Garden


In this episode we explore the House of James, a fragrance house that treats scent as a form of storytelling.


Founded by Justin James, a graphic designer from Somers, Victoria, House of James is all about pushing boundaries. What started as a quiet curiosity in department store fragrance aisles has grown into a bold, creative rebellion against the formulaic trends of mainstream perfumery.


Their first collection, Euroflections, was inspired by a European adventure — with scents like Sun King, Berlin NYE, and Rambla Del Mar capturing moments and memories in olfactory form. Since then, Justin has created deeply personal pieces like Tomorrow and La’Rita, and even a limited edition companion to Sun King called Athénaïs.


In this episode, we explore Justin’s journey from design to scent, and keeping perfumery alive as an art form — original, emotional, and deeply human.


Fragrances mentioned (all House of James):

Retrograde

Santoflor

Tomorrow

Rambla Del Mar

Tantomonta

Book mentioned:

The Perfume Garden - Kate Lord Brown


Find House of James on

Instagram: @houseofjamesau

Website: houseofjames.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “People need things like perfume and poetry, music and art more than ever during times like this. People need to remember the simple joys in life. If you forget, if life loses its colour then they have won. Those cowardly, heartless bastards have won.”


― Kate Lord Brown, The Perfume Garden


In this episode we explore the House of James, a fragrance house that treats scent as a form of storytelling.


Founded by Justin James, a graphic designer from Somers, Victoria, House of James is all about pushing boundaries. What started as a quiet curiosity in department store fragrance aisles has grown into a bold, creative rebellion against the formulaic trends of mainstream perfumery.


Their first collection, Euroflections, was inspired by a European adventure — with scents like Sun King, Berlin NYE, and Rambla Del Mar capturing moments and memories in olfactory form. Since then, Justin has created deeply personal pieces like Tomorrow and La’Rita, and even a limited edition companion to Sun King called Athénaïs.


In this episode, we explore Justin’s journey from design to scent, and keeping perfumery alive as an art form — original, emotional, and deeply human.


Fragrances mentioned (all House of James):

Retrograde

Santoflor

Tomorrow

Rambla Del Mar

Tantomonta

Book mentioned:

The Perfume Garden - Kate Lord Brown


Find House of James on

Instagram: @houseofjamesau

Website: houseofjames.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Memoir Memoir Tue, 27 May 2025 20:08:00 GMT 57:34 68341a510936ee1ce41a0976 true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/memoir 68341a510936ee1ce41a0976 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 memoir with Adelle Stripe full 2 48 “Already your future has been planned out. There is not much choice about what to become in the small town where you live . . .”


― Adelle Stripe, Base Notes: the scents of a life


This episode’s guest is Dr. Adelle Stripe — a Sunday Times best-selling author whose remarkable work dives deep into the rich heart of Northern England’s complex cultural and working-class history. Her impressive body of works includes Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile, a powerful and evocative novel inspired by the renowned playwright Andrea Dunbar; this standout piece was shortlisted for the prestigious Gordon Burn and Portico Prizes. Additionally, she is the co-author of the bestselling Ten Thousand Apologies, which chronicles the wild and unpredictable rise of the music group Fat White Family.


Adelle’s writing seamlessly blends elements of biography, memoir, and social commentary, garnering her features in notable publications such as The Sunday Times, New Statesman, and The Quietus. Her latest work, Base Notes: The Scents of a Life, presents a memoir told through the lens of scent — a truly unique and innovative take on themes of memory and identity, which will be the central focus of this episode


Fragrance mentioned:

River Gauche - YSL

Giorgio - Giorgio Beverly Hills

Cologne - 4711

Red Door - Elizabeth Arden

Dewberry - The Body Shop

L’eau D’Issey - Issey Miyake

CK One - Calvin Klein

Maja - Myrurgia

Another 13 - Le Labo

Thé Matcha 26 - Le Labo

Lune Rose - Self made

Book mentioned:

Base Notes - the Scents of a Life - Adelle Stripe


Find Adelle Stripe on

Instagram: @adellestripe

Website: adellestripe.co.uk


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Already your future has been planned out. There is not much choice about what to become in the small town where you live . . .”


― Adelle Stripe, Base Notes: the scents of a life


This episode’s guest is Dr. Adelle Stripe — a Sunday Times best-selling author whose remarkable work dives deep into the rich heart of Northern England’s complex cultural and working-class history. Her impressive body of works includes Black Teeth and a Brilliant Smile, a powerful and evocative novel inspired by the renowned playwright Andrea Dunbar; this standout piece was shortlisted for the prestigious Gordon Burn and Portico Prizes. Additionally, she is the co-author of the bestselling Ten Thousand Apologies, which chronicles the wild and unpredictable rise of the music group Fat White Family.


Adelle’s writing seamlessly blends elements of biography, memoir, and social commentary, garnering her features in notable publications such as The Sunday Times, New Statesman, and The Quietus. Her latest work, Base Notes: The Scents of a Life, presents a memoir told through the lens of scent — a truly unique and innovative take on themes of memory and identity, which will be the central focus of this episode


Fragrance mentioned:

River Gauche - YSL

Giorgio - Giorgio Beverly Hills

Cologne - 4711

Red Door - Elizabeth Arden

Dewberry - The Body Shop

L’eau D’Issey - Issey Miyake

CK One - Calvin Klein

Maja - Myrurgia

Another 13 - Le Labo

Thé Matcha 26 - Le Labo

Lune Rose - Self made

Book mentioned:

Base Notes - the Scents of a Life - Adelle Stripe


Find Adelle Stripe on

Instagram: @adellestripe

Website: adellestripe.co.uk


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Story Keepers Story Keepers Tue, 13 May 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:09:06 6821879d986466935da1414d false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/story-keepers 6821879d986466935da1414d 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 story-keepers with Juilette and Richard from Hart + Hedi full 2 47 “The time I think of you the most is when the sun comes up. The moment before, the minute or two, when night yawns for morning and the sea starts to separate from the sky.”


― Emma Stonex, The Lamplighters


In this episode’s guests are Juliette Fournier and Richard Adamson from NSW-based Hart + Hedi. Juliette, a former fashion designer, and Richard, a brewer and part owner of Young Henry's, share their journey into the art of scent creation. They discuss how their backgrounds have influenced their approach to making fragrances, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and creativity.


We delve into their personal connections to their fragrances, exploring how their artistic vision and passions shape their work. They reflect on how memories influence perceptions and relationships, making each scent a unique story.


Hart + Hedi, founded by Juliette and Richard, is a modern, independent Australian fragrance house known for producing high-quality, unique scents. Using Australian native flora and carefully selected ingredients from around the world, their signature scents are the result of years of research, dedication, and numerous iterations.


Hart + Hedi is also a purpose-driven project, committed to supporting vulnerable women in Australia by donating a percentage of profits to organizations that provide essential services to this community. Join us for an insightful conversation about the intersection of fragrance, creativity, and social impact.


Fragrance mentioned (all Hart + Hedi):

Cocktail Hour

Some Velvet Morning

House of Heart

Rock’n’Roll Circus

Coastal Fever


Book mentioned:

The Lamplighters - Emma Stonex


Find Hart + Hedi on

Instagram: @hartandhedi

Website: hartandhedi.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “The time I think of you the most is when the sun comes up. The moment before, the minute or two, when night yawns for morning and the sea starts to separate from the sky.”


― Emma Stonex, The Lamplighters


In this episode’s guests are Juliette Fournier and Richard Adamson from NSW-based Hart + Hedi. Juliette, a former fashion designer, and Richard, a brewer and part owner of Young Henry's, share their journey into the art of scent creation. They discuss how their backgrounds have influenced their approach to making fragrances, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and creativity.


We delve into their personal connections to their fragrances, exploring how their artistic vision and passions shape their work. They reflect on how memories influence perceptions and relationships, making each scent a unique story.


Hart + Hedi, founded by Juliette and Richard, is a modern, independent Australian fragrance house known for producing high-quality, unique scents. Using Australian native flora and carefully selected ingredients from around the world, their signature scents are the result of years of research, dedication, and numerous iterations.


Hart + Hedi is also a purpose-driven project, committed to supporting vulnerable women in Australia by donating a percentage of profits to organizations that provide essential services to this community. Join us for an insightful conversation about the intersection of fragrance, creativity, and social impact.


Fragrance mentioned (all Hart + Hedi):

Cocktail Hour

Some Velvet Morning

House of Heart

Rock’n’Roll Circus

Coastal Fever


Book mentioned:

The Lamplighters - Emma Stonex


Find Hart + Hedi on

Instagram: @hartandhedi

Website: hartandhedi.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Resilience Resilience Tue, 06 May 2025 20:08:00 GMT 53:34 68189cb01d28d62313a1c245 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/resilience 68189cb01d28d62313a1c245 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 resilience with Aysha Hansen full 2 46 “Kya knew judgment had no place here. Evil was not in play, just life pulsing on, even at the expense of some of the players. Biology sees right and wrong as the same color in different light.”


- Delia Owens, Where the Crawdads Sing


This episode’s guest is Aysha Hansen, a passionate perfumer with a fascinating story. Aysha shares her unique journey from being a fragrance lover to becoming a professional perfumer. She discusses her early memories of scent, recounting how these experiences shaped her career in the cosmetics industry. A pivotal moment in her life led her to pursue perfumery, a decision that has since defined her professional path.


Aysha also discusses her passion for teaching, which she channels through her popular perfume workshops and the upcoming launch of her own fragrance line, giving listeners a sneak peek into what to expect.


The discussion shifts to resilience and finding beauty in tough times, exploring human behavior and relationships. It emphasizes nature's ecosystem, parallels between human and animal behaviour, and the complex issues of trust and isolation in communities.


Fragrance mentioned:

Golden Thread - Aysha Hansen

Ambrosia - Aysha Hansen

Ghost Lover - Aysha Hansen

Norne - Slumberland

A Girl in Capri - Lanvin

Volutes -Diptyque

Tyrannosaurus Rex - Zoologist


Book mentioned:

Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens


Find Aysha Hansen on

Instagram: @ayshahansenfinefragrance

Website: ayshahansen.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Kya knew judgment had no place here. Evil was not in play, just life pulsing on, even at the expense of some of the players. Biology sees right and wrong as the same color in different light.”


- Delia Owens, Where the Crawdads Sing


This episode’s guest is Aysha Hansen, a passionate perfumer with a fascinating story. Aysha shares her unique journey from being a fragrance lover to becoming a professional perfumer. She discusses her early memories of scent, recounting how these experiences shaped her career in the cosmetics industry. A pivotal moment in her life led her to pursue perfumery, a decision that has since defined her professional path.


Aysha also discusses her passion for teaching, which she channels through her popular perfume workshops and the upcoming launch of her own fragrance line, giving listeners a sneak peek into what to expect.


The discussion shifts to resilience and finding beauty in tough times, exploring human behavior and relationships. It emphasizes nature's ecosystem, parallels between human and animal behaviour, and the complex issues of trust and isolation in communities.


Fragrance mentioned:

Golden Thread - Aysha Hansen

Ambrosia - Aysha Hansen

Ghost Lover - Aysha Hansen

Norne - Slumberland

A Girl in Capri - Lanvin

Volutes -Diptyque

Tyrannosaurus Rex - Zoologist


Book mentioned:

Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens


Find Aysha Hansen on

Instagram: @ayshahansenfinefragrance

Website: ayshahansen.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Science and Play Science and Play Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:08:00 GMT 39:46 680b3816989b552478f64f0a false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/science-and-play 680b3816989b552478f64f0a 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 science-and-play with Erin Adams full 2 45 Smells s enrich our life experiences like colours on a canvas. When asked to reflect on their sense of smell, people often have many a story to tell…


In this episode, we have a slightly different focus, thanks to the fascinating work of our guest, Erin Adams. Erin is behind Smell Art, a unique blend of art and science that explores the power of scent. Her journey into olfactory art began in 2007 at a Secret Chiefs 3 concert in Melbourne, where a captivating scent from the stage sparked her fascination with the sense of smell.


In this episode, we delve into the science behind smell and discuss ways to make exploring this sense playful and fun. We also talk about the book "The Forgotten Sense" by Jonas Olofsson, which provides further insights into the importance and impact of our sense of smell.


Join us as we explore how smells and scents enrich our life experiences and discover the stories and science behind people’s olfactory experience.


Fragrance mentioned:

Go outside and smell consciously. Let us know what you find!


Book mentioned:

The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell—and the Extraordinary Power of the Nose - Jonas Olofsson


Find Smell Art on

Instagram: @_smell_art_

Website: smellart.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Smells s enrich our life experiences like colours on a canvas. When asked to reflect on their sense of smell, people often have many a story to tell…


In this episode, we have a slightly different focus, thanks to the fascinating work of our guest, Erin Adams. Erin is behind Smell Art, a unique blend of art and science that explores the power of scent. Her journey into olfactory art began in 2007 at a Secret Chiefs 3 concert in Melbourne, where a captivating scent from the stage sparked her fascination with the sense of smell.


In this episode, we delve into the science behind smell and discuss ways to make exploring this sense playful and fun. We also talk about the book "The Forgotten Sense" by Jonas Olofsson, which provides further insights into the importance and impact of our sense of smell.


Join us as we explore how smells and scents enrich our life experiences and discover the stories and science behind people’s olfactory experience.


Fragrance mentioned:

Go outside and smell consciously. Let us know what you find!


Book mentioned:

The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell—and the Extraordinary Power of the Nose - Jonas Olofsson


Find Smell Art on

Instagram: @_smell_art_

Website: smellart.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Futurism Futurism Tue, 22 Apr 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:03:48 6806f4fd3808841569493061 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/futurism 6806f4fd3808841569493061 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 futurism with Dr Caroline McMillan full 2 44 “Can you walk the road your dream goes?

Sometimes. Sometimes I am afraid to.

Who is not.”


-Ursula K. Le Guin


Dr Caroline McMillan is a researcher, designer, speaker, olfactory art expert, and smell tech founder and we discuss science fiction and possible futures of olfactive design.

Dr McMillan’s work has been featured at SXSW, Cannes Lions, CTM Festival Berlin, Holitopia Festival, the BR41N.io residency at Ars Electronica, the Digital Olfaction Society and the ACM International Conference on Tangible Embedded & Embodied Interaction (TEI), and for clients Tubi, Amplify, Soho House, Deutsche Telekom, WGSN London, H&M and Zalando. She now helps organisations design and implement scent experiences in a way that enhances connection. She’s studied the art of haute couture techniques in the métiers of Paris and won awards for her technology innovations. Her podcast, Sensuous Peripheries, explores the aesthetics of creativity, culture, and technology, described as an “audio delight” by Yosh Han, the pioneer of decolonising American Perfumery.


Fragrance mentioned:

Honey Blossom - Mandy Aftel

Autumn 25 - Liminus

Aurelius - Siuno


Book mentioned:

The Word for World is Forest - Ursula K. Le Guin


Find Dr Caroline McMillan on

Instagram: @__carolinemcmillian__

Sensuous Periphery Podcast: Spotify, Apple Podcasts


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “Can you walk the road your dream goes?

Sometimes. Sometimes I am afraid to.

Who is not.”


-Ursula K. Le Guin


Dr Caroline McMillan is a researcher, designer, speaker, olfactory art expert, and smell tech founder and we discuss science fiction and possible futures of olfactive design.

Dr McMillan’s work has been featured at SXSW, Cannes Lions, CTM Festival Berlin, Holitopia Festival, the BR41N.io residency at Ars Electronica, the Digital Olfaction Society and the ACM International Conference on Tangible Embedded & Embodied Interaction (TEI), and for clients Tubi, Amplify, Soho House, Deutsche Telekom, WGSN London, H&M and Zalando. She now helps organisations design and implement scent experiences in a way that enhances connection. She’s studied the art of haute couture techniques in the métiers of Paris and won awards for her technology innovations. Her podcast, Sensuous Peripheries, explores the aesthetics of creativity, culture, and technology, described as an “audio delight” by Yosh Han, the pioneer of decolonising American Perfumery.


Fragrance mentioned:

Honey Blossom - Mandy Aftel

Autumn 25 - Liminus

Aurelius - Siuno


Book mentioned:

The Word for World is Forest - Ursula K. Le Guin


Find Dr Caroline McMillan on

Instagram: @__carolinemcmillian__

Sensuous Periphery Podcast: Spotify, Apple Podcasts


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Impermanence Impermanence Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:38:45 67fdd4ab3767754b9977365b false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/impermanence 67fdd4ab3767754b9977365b 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 impermanence with Karen Gilbert full 2 43 “To be fully alive, fully human, and completely awake is to be continually thrown out of the nest. To live fully is to be always in no-man's-land, to experience each moment as completely new and fresh.”


Storytelling is key in creating fragrances and how scents connect to our emotions. Using Pema Chodron’s ideas on change and fear, Karen Gilbert helps examine how these themes relate to personal growth and perfume-making. Karen is a teacher of perfumery, hosting in person and online masterclass and is the host of the Perfume Making podcast. She has also studying meditation and incorporates these learnings into her workshops on brain training and personal rituals.


We highlighted the intricate nature of scent memories—how one smell can trigger strong emotions and take us back in time. Karen shared her path to self-discovery, the difficulties she faced in staying true to herself in business, and the importance of accepting change.

We also discussed how emotions and self-compassion can enrich our experiences with scents, highlighting the value of supporting artisanal fragrance creators and the joy that well-made scents can bring, especially in tough times.


Fragrance mentioned:

Poison - Dior

No. 5 - Chanel

Lipstick Rose - Frederic Malle

Homme - Dior

O’de Lancome - Lancome

Original Cologne - 4711

Gilay - L.A Couch


Book mentioned:

When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times - Pema Chodron


Find Karen Gilbert on

Instagram: @karengilbert

Website: karengilbert.co.uk

If you are interested in the Scent Shift workshops : https://www.karengilbert.co.uk/the-scent-shift


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “To be fully alive, fully human, and completely awake is to be continually thrown out of the nest. To live fully is to be always in no-man's-land, to experience each moment as completely new and fresh.”


Storytelling is key in creating fragrances and how scents connect to our emotions. Using Pema Chodron’s ideas on change and fear, Karen Gilbert helps examine how these themes relate to personal growth and perfume-making. Karen is a teacher of perfumery, hosting in person and online masterclass and is the host of the Perfume Making podcast. She has also studying meditation and incorporates these learnings into her workshops on brain training and personal rituals.


We highlighted the intricate nature of scent memories—how one smell can trigger strong emotions and take us back in time. Karen shared her path to self-discovery, the difficulties she faced in staying true to herself in business, and the importance of accepting change.

We also discussed how emotions and self-compassion can enrich our experiences with scents, highlighting the value of supporting artisanal fragrance creators and the joy that well-made scents can bring, especially in tough times.


Fragrance mentioned:

Poison - Dior

No. 5 - Chanel

Lipstick Rose - Frederic Malle

Homme - Dior

O’de Lancome - Lancome

Original Cologne - 4711

Gilay - L.A Couch


Book mentioned:

When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times - Pema Chodron


Find Karen Gilbert on

Instagram: @karengilbert

Website: karengilbert.co.uk

If you are interested in the Scent Shift workshops : https://www.karengilbert.co.uk/the-scent-shift


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Revisited Revisited Tue, 08 Apr 2025 20:08:00 GMT 1:10:11 67f3473f506c6c628c151d5f true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/revisited 67f3473f506c6c628c151d5f 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 revisited with Fliss Walton full 2 42 “I should like to bury something precious in every place where I've been happy and then, when I'm old and ugly and miserable, I could come back and dig it up and remember.”


Fliss Walton returns to the podcast to engage in a thoughtful discussion about Evelyn Waugh's 'Brideshead Revisited,' a novel that stands out as one of her all-time favourite books. Waugh’s has a beautifully light touch when it comes to the intricate themes of love, profound loss, and the weight of social expectations, examining how these elements intertwine with the experiences of the novel's characters. This enlightening conversation also touches on the bittersweet notion of nostalgia, the complexities of relationships, and the multifaceted nature of love, with a particular focus on the dynamics between Charles, Julia, and Sebastian.


Fragrance mentioned:

Figment - Amouage

Fate Woman - Amouage

Jicky - Guerlain

Shalimar - Guerlain

Habanita - Molinard

Edimbourg - Chanel

Le Pavilion D’or - Dusita

Deux - Trudon

Wander Through the Park - Miller Harris

Once Upon a Garden - La Perla

Invasion Barbare - MDCI Parfums

Original - Eight & Bob

Incense Avignon - Comme de Garcon

Bois d'Encens - Armani Prive


Book mentioned:

Brideshead Revisited: The Sacred & Profane Memories of Captain Charles Ryder - Evelyn Waugh


Find Fliss on

Instagram: @fliss_sniffs_stuff


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> “I should like to bury something precious in every place where I've been happy and then, when I'm old and ugly and miserable, I could come back and dig it up and remember.”


Fliss Walton returns to the podcast to engage in a thoughtful discussion about Evelyn Waugh's 'Brideshead Revisited,' a novel that stands out as one of her all-time favourite books. Waugh’s has a beautifully light touch when it comes to the intricate themes of love, profound loss, and the weight of social expectations, examining how these elements intertwine with the experiences of the novel's characters. This enlightening conversation also touches on the bittersweet notion of nostalgia, the complexities of relationships, and the multifaceted nature of love, with a particular focus on the dynamics between Charles, Julia, and Sebastian.


Fragrance mentioned:

Figment - Amouage

Fate Woman - Amouage

Jicky - Guerlain

Shalimar - Guerlain

Habanita - Molinard

Edimbourg - Chanel

Le Pavilion D’or - Dusita

Deux - Trudon

Wander Through the Park - Miller Harris

Once Upon a Garden - La Perla

Invasion Barbare - MDCI Parfums

Original - Eight & Bob

Incense Avignon - Comme de Garcon

Bois d'Encens - Armani Prive


Book mentioned:

Brideshead Revisited: The Sacred & Profane Memories of Captain Charles Ryder - Evelyn Waugh


Find Fliss on

Instagram: @fliss_sniffs_stuff


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Second Chances Second Chances Tue, 01 Apr 2025 19:08:00 GMT 58:44 67ea7361506c6c628cdbf834 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/second-chances 67ea7361506c6c628cdbf834 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 second-chances With Diance Risopolous full 2 41 Life choices can be reflected in the narratives we create, But we can change the narrative at any time.


This conversation features Diane Risopoulos, a perfumery apprentice in Rome and a graduate of the 5eme Sens school in Grasse. She also is the author of the blog Pixidis Perfumes. We talk about how literature and perfume connect, focusing on how scents trigger memories and emotions. Diane collaborates with the Aromata Prize, a new perfume competition in Rome that celebrates perfume as an art and explores its ties to literature. We also discuss the philosophical ideas of choices and fate in both stories and fragrances. The speakers share personal stories about their perfume journeys, the challenges of training in perfumery during the COVID pandemic, and how scent enriches storytelling.


Fragrance mentioned:

White Whale - Christian Alori for Masque Milano

Comedia Di Mezza Estate - Edoardo Tacconi for Ateneo dell'Olfatto

Jasmin et Cigarette - Etat Libre d’Orange

La Rose Jacqueminot - Coty

Shalimar - Guerlain

No.5 - Chanel 

Apres l'Ondee (After the Rain Shower) - Guerlain

The Nightingale’s Cup - Cult of Scent 

No. 19 - Chanel 

Infusion d'Iris - Prada


Book mentioned:

Life After Life - Kate Atkinson


Poem mentioned:

Demain dès l'aube (Tomorrow At Dawn) - Victor Hugo 


Find Diane on

Instagram: @pixidisperfumes 

Website: www.pixidisperfumes.com


Find Aromata on

Instagram: @aromata2024

Website: liberostile.org/en/aromata/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Life choices can be reflected in the narratives we create, But we can change the narrative at any time.


This conversation features Diane Risopoulos, a perfumery apprentice in Rome and a graduate of the 5eme Sens school in Grasse. She also is the author of the blog Pixidis Perfumes. We talk about how literature and perfume connect, focusing on how scents trigger memories and emotions. Diane collaborates with the Aromata Prize, a new perfume competition in Rome that celebrates perfume as an art and explores its ties to literature. We also discuss the philosophical ideas of choices and fate in both stories and fragrances. The speakers share personal stories about their perfume journeys, the challenges of training in perfumery during the COVID pandemic, and how scent enriches storytelling.


Fragrance mentioned:

White Whale - Christian Alori for Masque Milano

Comedia Di Mezza Estate - Edoardo Tacconi for Ateneo dell'Olfatto

Jasmin et Cigarette - Etat Libre d’Orange

La Rose Jacqueminot - Coty

Shalimar - Guerlain

No.5 - Chanel 

Apres l'Ondee (After the Rain Shower) - Guerlain

The Nightingale’s Cup - Cult of Scent 

No. 19 - Chanel 

Infusion d'Iris - Prada


Book mentioned:

Life After Life - Kate Atkinson


Poem mentioned:

Demain dès l'aube (Tomorrow At Dawn) - Victor Hugo 


Find Diane on

Instagram: @pixidisperfumes 

Website: www.pixidisperfumes.com


Find Aromata on

Instagram: @aromata2024

Website: liberostile.org/en/aromata/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Empathy Empathy Tue, 18 Mar 2025 19:08:00 GMT 49:52 67d8bffd6b89322b9dd4d9e3 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/empathy 67d8bffd6b89322b9dd4d9e3 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 empathy With Yosh Han full 2 40 Stories and fragrance are portals into other worlds. There are opportunities for connection and understanding when we experience both.


In this conversation, I explore with Yosh Han the profound connections between scent, literature, and cultural identity, particularly through the lens of Octavia Butler's 'Kindred'. We discuss the serendipitous journey of discovering the book, the complexities of decolonizing scent, and the spiritual and physical connections that fragrance evokes. The dialogue delves into the impact of colonialism on scent, the role of fragrance in healing, and the power of literature to foster empathy and understanding. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the intricate relationship between personal experiences, cultural contexts, and the sensory world.


Fragrance mentioned:

Le Demimonde - Studio Scent

More on the perfumer Candice Windrow Weekly


Books mentioned:

Kindred - Octavia Butler


Find Yosh Han on

Instagram: @scent_festival , @eaudeyosh , @scenttrunk (creative director)

Website: eaudeyosh.com , scenttruck.com ,

Youtube: Scent Festival

Netflix: Human: the World Within


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Stories and fragrance are portals into other worlds. There are opportunities for connection and understanding when we experience both.


In this conversation, I explore with Yosh Han the profound connections between scent, literature, and cultural identity, particularly through the lens of Octavia Butler's 'Kindred'. We discuss the serendipitous journey of discovering the book, the complexities of decolonizing scent, and the spiritual and physical connections that fragrance evokes. The dialogue delves into the impact of colonialism on scent, the role of fragrance in healing, and the power of literature to foster empathy and understanding. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the intricate relationship between personal experiences, cultural contexts, and the sensory world.


Fragrance mentioned:

Le Demimonde - Studio Scent

More on the perfumer Candice Windrow Weekly


Books mentioned:

Kindred - Octavia Butler


Find Yosh Han on

Instagram: @scent_festival , @eaudeyosh , @scenttrunk (creative director)

Website: eaudeyosh.com , scenttruck.com ,

Youtube: Scent Festival

Netflix: Human: the World Within


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mythology and Artistry Mythology and Artistry Tue, 11 Mar 2025 19:08:00 GMT 47:58 67cec20f57424413a43d0e83 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/mythology-and-artistry 67cec20f57424413a43d0e83 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 mythology-and-artistry with Purvie Joshi full 2 39 "We are nothing but the stories we tell ourselves..."


In this conversation, Purvi Joshi, the creative director of Peosym, shares her journey into the world of niche fragrances, inspired by personal loss and the stories that shape our lives. We discusses the significance of storytelling in fragrance creation, the cultural inspirations behind her scents, and and how we change and grow when we move into new spaces. Our chat explores themes of loss, memory, and the evolving nature of language and identity, culminating in reflections on the narratives found in young adult fiction and their parallels to personal growth and understanding.


Fragrances mentioned:

Nirmohee - Peosym

Horn Ok Please - Peosym

Lost Wonderer - Peosym


Books mentioned:

Aru Shah and the End of Time - Roshani Chokshi

The Henna Artist - Alka Joshi


Find Peosym on

Instagram: @peosym

Website: peosym.com.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> "We are nothing but the stories we tell ourselves..."


In this conversation, Purvi Joshi, the creative director of Peosym, shares her journey into the world of niche fragrances, inspired by personal loss and the stories that shape our lives. We discusses the significance of storytelling in fragrance creation, the cultural inspirations behind her scents, and and how we change and grow when we move into new spaces. Our chat explores themes of loss, memory, and the evolving nature of language and identity, culminating in reflections on the narratives found in young adult fiction and their parallels to personal growth and understanding.


Fragrances mentioned:

Nirmohee - Peosym

Horn Ok Please - Peosym

Lost Wonderer - Peosym


Books mentioned:

Aru Shah and the End of Time - Roshani Chokshi

The Henna Artist - Alka Joshi


Find Peosym on

Instagram: @peosym

Website: peosym.com.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Ornithology Ornithology Tue, 04 Mar 2025 19:07:00 GMT 1:05:53 67c581cdc6cef89b7d643d89 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/ornithology 67c581cdc6cef89b7d643d89 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 ornithology with Kirsty Costa full 2 38 Illustrations of Science, Colonialism, Feminism and the natural beauty of birds.


Experiences, science, observation, and the act of sharing stories are fundamental parts of the vibrant community of readers, fragrance enthusiasts, and birdwatching aficionados. This week’s guest is the remarkable Kirsty Costa, a long-time educator, dedicated lifelong learner, and passionate lover of nature – with a special affinity for birds. Kirsty is the host of the wonderful Australian podcast Weekend Birder, and during our conversation, we delve into the intriguing parallels between experiencing the wonders of nature through all of the senses.


Fragrances mentioned:

Cockatiel - Zoologist

Nightingale - Zoologist

Penguin - Zoologist

Snowy Owl - Zoologist

Liminus

Darwin - Fueguia 1833


Books mentioned:

The Birdman’s Wife - Melissa Ashley


Find Weekend Birder on

Website: weekendbirder.com

Instagram: @weekend.birder



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Illustrations of Science, Colonialism, Feminism and the natural beauty of birds.


Experiences, science, observation, and the act of sharing stories are fundamental parts of the vibrant community of readers, fragrance enthusiasts, and birdwatching aficionados. This week’s guest is the remarkable Kirsty Costa, a long-time educator, dedicated lifelong learner, and passionate lover of nature – with a special affinity for birds. Kirsty is the host of the wonderful Australian podcast Weekend Birder, and during our conversation, we delve into the intriguing parallels between experiencing the wonders of nature through all of the senses.


Fragrances mentioned:

Cockatiel - Zoologist

Nightingale - Zoologist

Penguin - Zoologist

Snowy Owl - Zoologist

Liminus

Darwin - Fueguia 1833


Books mentioned:

The Birdman’s Wife - Melissa Ashley


Find Weekend Birder on

Website: weekendbirder.com

Instagram: @weekend.birder



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Bookish Bookish Tue, 25 Feb 2025 19:08:00 GMT 1:11:17 67bbd6ed19249d0c1a474b08 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/bookish 67bbd6ed19249d0c1a474b08 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 bookish with Jocelyn Fullerton full 2 37 When Humans and Books are so delicately intertwined that you don’t know when one ends and the other begins.


This episode’s guest is the remarkable renaissance woman, independent perfumer, avid reader, and keeper of random bits of fragrant knowledge, Jocelyn Fullerton. Her impressive body of work spans an array of specialties, including fine fragrances, skincare, and homecare, as well as innovative performance art installations, cinema projects, and inspiring exhibitions. In addition to her creative endeavours, she also teaches engaging workshops in perfumery, scent creation, and sensory engagement through olfaction for a diverse range of audiences. With a background in phytomedicine, Jocelyn has also trained at The Grasse Institute of Perfumery and has been an esteemed member of the Societé Française des Parfumeurs since 2010.

This conversation is as fun as it is educational - there are quiet a few chapters that are opened and closed whilst to talk about about the way we relate to each other through narrative and olfactive experiences.


Fragrances mentioned:

Original Eau De Cologne - 4711

Aramis - Aramis

Eau H’adrien - Goutal

Sable - Goutal

Bookish - Cult of Scent


Books mentioned:

The Midnight Library - Matt Haig

The Book of Form and Emptiness - Ruth Ozeki


Find Cult of Scent on

Instagram: @cultofscent.atelier

Website: cultofscent.com.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When Humans and Books are so delicately intertwined that you don’t know when one ends and the other begins.


This episode’s guest is the remarkable renaissance woman, independent perfumer, avid reader, and keeper of random bits of fragrant knowledge, Jocelyn Fullerton. Her impressive body of work spans an array of specialties, including fine fragrances, skincare, and homecare, as well as innovative performance art installations, cinema projects, and inspiring exhibitions. In addition to her creative endeavours, she also teaches engaging workshops in perfumery, scent creation, and sensory engagement through olfaction for a diverse range of audiences. With a background in phytomedicine, Jocelyn has also trained at The Grasse Institute of Perfumery and has been an esteemed member of the Societé Française des Parfumeurs since 2010.

This conversation is as fun as it is educational - there are quiet a few chapters that are opened and closed whilst to talk about about the way we relate to each other through narrative and olfactive experiences.


Fragrances mentioned:

Original Eau De Cologne - 4711

Aramis - Aramis

Eau H’adrien - Goutal

Sable - Goutal

Bookish - Cult of Scent


Books mentioned:

The Midnight Library - Matt Haig

The Book of Form and Emptiness - Ruth Ozeki


Find Cult of Scent on

Instagram: @cultofscent.atelier

Website: cultofscent.com.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Lilac Dragons Lilac Dragons Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:06:00 GMT 1:09:44 67b196a86392e4a39fe9715a false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/lilac-dragons 67b196a86392e4a39fe9715a 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 lilac-dragons with Jinx Strange full 2 36 Chose your own adventure. Take control of the narrative. Make the scent experiences you want to see in the world.


We are playing in a slightly new and intriguing space for this week’s episode. Jinx Strange, the innovative creator behind Strange Fire and Fumery, is here to discuss their latest creative venture, known as Hero Scent. In this unique project, you have the exciting opportunity to purchase distinctive scents while also building your own roleplaying character and developing an ongoing character narrative through the artful layering of fragrances and personal experimentation. We had a wonderful time chatting about the many merits of Dungeons and Dragons, the influence of subculture magazines, the vast world of High Fantasy, and the profound connections we can find with plants and nature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Roll for Seduction - Hero Scent

Lilac & Gooseberries - Hero Scent


Books mentioned:

The Witcher Omnibus - Paul Tobin

The Witcher


Find Strange Fire & Fumery on

Instagram: @strange.fire.and.fumery

Bluesky: @strangefirefumery.bsky.social

Website: strangefirandfumery.com


Find Hero Scent on

Instagram: @hero.scent or on

Blueksy: @heroscent.bsky.social

Website: heroscent.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Chose your own adventure. Take control of the narrative. Make the scent experiences you want to see in the world.


We are playing in a slightly new and intriguing space for this week’s episode. Jinx Strange, the innovative creator behind Strange Fire and Fumery, is here to discuss their latest creative venture, known as Hero Scent. In this unique project, you have the exciting opportunity to purchase distinctive scents while also building your own roleplaying character and developing an ongoing character narrative through the artful layering of fragrances and personal experimentation. We had a wonderful time chatting about the many merits of Dungeons and Dragons, the influence of subculture magazines, the vast world of High Fantasy, and the profound connections we can find with plants and nature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Roll for Seduction - Hero Scent

Lilac & Gooseberries - Hero Scent


Books mentioned:

The Witcher Omnibus - Paul Tobin

The Witcher


Find Strange Fire & Fumery on

Instagram: @strange.fire.and.fumery

Bluesky: @strangefirefumery.bsky.social

Website: strangefirandfumery.com


Find Hero Scent on

Instagram: @hero.scent or on

Blueksy: @heroscent.bsky.social

Website: heroscent.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Poisons and Parties Poisons and Parties Tue, 11 Feb 2025 19:08:00 GMT 53:17 67a88c863eadb4f8080676c7 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/poisons-and-parties 67a88c863eadb4f8080676c7 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 poisons-and-parties with Anh from Connection Parfumerie full 2 35 Nature is not always good for you when power and politics are in play.


This episode features Anh, the Fragrance Curator for Connection Parfumerie, a well-known store that offers a unique selection of luxury perfumes from around the world. Connection Parfumerie is Australia's top choice for special fragrances. Founded in 1954, this family-run business is one of Melbourne's oldest and most reliable retailers. They operate in Prahran and South Melbourne, delivering a great shopping experience for fragrance lovers.


Anh discusses her love of finding the new and unusual, what it was like coming to Australia from Vietnam as a fragrance lover, as well as ways you can find yourself something new.


Fragrances mentioned:

Taipei - One Day

Pho Breakfast - d’Annam

Happy Nuts - Borntostandout

Venetian Belladonna - Parfums Quantana

Lily of the Valley - Parfums Quantana

Wolfsbane - Parfums Quantana

Inexcusable Evil - Toskovat

Guidance - Amouage 

Sea Salt - Monotheme

Full Recharge - Adidas 


Books mentioned:

The Botanist's Guide to Poisons and Parties - Kate Khavari


Find Connection on Instagram @connectionparfumerie or on their website connection.net.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Nature is not always good for you when power and politics are in play.


This episode features Anh, the Fragrance Curator for Connection Parfumerie, a well-known store that offers a unique selection of luxury perfumes from around the world. Connection Parfumerie is Australia's top choice for special fragrances. Founded in 1954, this family-run business is one of Melbourne's oldest and most reliable retailers. They operate in Prahran and South Melbourne, delivering a great shopping experience for fragrance lovers.


Anh discusses her love of finding the new and unusual, what it was like coming to Australia from Vietnam as a fragrance lover, as well as ways you can find yourself something new.


Fragrances mentioned:

Taipei - One Day

Pho Breakfast - d’Annam

Happy Nuts - Borntostandout

Venetian Belladonna - Parfums Quantana

Lily of the Valley - Parfums Quantana

Wolfsbane - Parfums Quantana

Inexcusable Evil - Toskovat

Guidance - Amouage 

Sea Salt - Monotheme

Full Recharge - Adidas 


Books mentioned:

The Botanist's Guide to Poisons and Parties - Kate Khavari


Find Connection on Instagram @connectionparfumerie or on their website connection.net.au



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Less is More Less is More Tue, 04 Feb 2025 19:08:00 GMT 1:18:25 67878874e1f9e31d44e3099a false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/less-is-more 67878874e1f9e31d44e3099a 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 less-is-more with William Borrell full 2 34 The English language has few words to describe scents. Creating fragrances is an art form that tells intricate stories and forms deep and transformative connections


This episode’s featured guest is William Borrell, who is the cofounder of Vallense, an innovative UK fragrance house that emphasizes the transformative and evocative qualities of scent. William brings a rich background, having previously built a successful career in alcohol distilling, which gives him a unique perspective on fragrance creation.

He possesses a growing passion for the art of fragrance and has undertaken some fascinating research into historical formulations and the exploration of unique, rare materials.


Fragrances mentioned:

Mitti Attar

Guilded - Eau De Bougee

Spirit - Vallense

Sun - Vallense

Source - Vallense


Books mentioned:

Braiding Sweetgrass - Robin Wall Kimmerer

The North Wind and The Sun - Aseop’s Fables

The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The English language has few words to describe scents. Creating fragrances is an art form that tells intricate stories and forms deep and transformative connections


This episode’s featured guest is William Borrell, who is the cofounder of Vallense, an innovative UK fragrance house that emphasizes the transformative and evocative qualities of scent. William brings a rich background, having previously built a successful career in alcohol distilling, which gives him a unique perspective on fragrance creation.

He possesses a growing passion for the art of fragrance and has undertaken some fascinating research into historical formulations and the exploration of unique, rare materials.


Fragrances mentioned:

Mitti Attar

Guilded - Eau De Bougee

Spirit - Vallense

Sun - Vallense

Source - Vallense


Books mentioned:

Braiding Sweetgrass - Robin Wall Kimmerer

The North Wind and The Sun - Aseop’s Fables

The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Rage in the Paint Rage in the Paint Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:10:00 GMT 1:32:02 67839d8d5eea4bcf1b3e1f64 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/rage-in-the-paint 67839d8d5eea4bcf1b3e1f64 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 rage-in-the-paint with Jen from Immortal Perfumes full 2 33 Historically, the world has offered easy access to women feeling their power. But, find yourself your own island, depict your stories and make sure your voice is heard.


It’s the first episode of Season 2 and let’s kick down some doors was a pair of scuffed Doc Martins with feminism written on their soles.

Jen from Immortal Perfumes made this topic particularly easy has we weave starting out in perfume as her own ‘girl boss’ and name car’s Medusa, because she turns men into stone. A lover of history, we have 2 historical fiction books to discuss, as well a recreating Marie Antionette’s perfumes and keeping Dead Writer’s in a locket.

The episode is dark, it’s powerful and it’s not for the faint of heart.


Trigger warning: for sexual assault survivors, the books discussed cover some difficult topics.


Fragrances mentioned (full list on website):

Circe by Yosh

Parfums Quartana – Les Potions Fatales

Tea Olive - Hove Parfumeur

Weird Sister & Artemisia - Immortal Perfumes 

Bloody Wood - Liquides Imaginaires

Aqua Della Regina - Santa Maria Novella

Chiara 41 - i Profumi di Firenze

Angelique Noire - Guerlain


Books mentioned:

Circe - Madeline Miller

Blood Water Paint - Joy McCullough


Find Immortal Perfumes on Instagram, Substack, YouTube or on their website immortalperfumes.com

Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Historically, the world has offered easy access to women feeling their power. But, find yourself your own island, depict your stories and make sure your voice is heard.


It’s the first episode of Season 2 and let’s kick down some doors was a pair of scuffed Doc Martins with feminism written on their soles.

Jen from Immortal Perfumes made this topic particularly easy has we weave starting out in perfume as her own ‘girl boss’ and name car’s Medusa, because she turns men into stone. A lover of history, we have 2 historical fiction books to discuss, as well a recreating Marie Antionette’s perfumes and keeping Dead Writer’s in a locket.

The episode is dark, it’s powerful and it’s not for the faint of heart.


Trigger warning: for sexual assault survivors, the books discussed cover some difficult topics.


Fragrances mentioned (full list on website):

Circe by Yosh

Parfums Quartana – Les Potions Fatales

Tea Olive - Hove Parfumeur

Weird Sister & Artemisia - Immortal Perfumes 

Bloody Wood - Liquides Imaginaires

Aqua Della Regina - Santa Maria Novella

Chiara 41 - i Profumi di Firenze

Angelique Noire - Guerlain


Books mentioned:

Circe - Madeline Miller

Blood Water Paint - Joy McCullough


Find Immortal Perfumes on Instagram, Substack, YouTube or on their website immortalperfumes.com

Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Acquisition & Possession ]]> Tue, 29 Oct 2024 19:10:17 GMT 1:12:14 67207ee7fab47fdf26eed08c false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/acquisition-possession 67207ee7fab47fdf26eed08c 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 acquisition-possession with Nadia Vitlin full 1 32 The landscape of fragrance easily can fall into the realm of collection, be it materials or the search for the ultimate scent. But what if this process becomes something a little bit darker…


This is the last of the special spooky season series, as well as the final episode for season 1. It has been a true pleasure to talk to such a wide variety of guests, and this week's guest is no exception.


Nadia Vitlin is a perfumer who specializes in bespoke creations, scent visual art, and offers training for those interested in expanding their own knowledge. Nadia has spent ten years learning and developing her craft, and it was a delight to discuss a book that explores the grotesque aspects of material acquisition and the obsession that can come with possessing a scent.


Taking a concept and extending it beyond the realms of polite or sensible society can truly illustrate the edges of humanity and where the boundaries of good moral judgment lie. Can a scent or an aroma make us cross that boundary into madness? It's something to ponder as we approach Halloween, a time when boundaries notoriously blur.


Fragrances mentioned:

Fougère Royale - Houbigant Parfum

Jicky - Guerlain

Fleurs D'oranger - Serge Lutens

Sécrétions Magnifiques - Etat Libre d'Orange

Jasmin et Cigarette - Etat Libre d'Orange

Eau d'Hadrien - Annick Goutal


Books mentioned:

Perfume: The Story of A Murderer - Patrick Süskind

The Foul and the Fragrant: Odor and the French Social Imagination - Alain Corbin


Find Vistley on Instagram or on their website www.vitsley.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The landscape of fragrance easily can fall into the realm of collection, be it materials or the search for the ultimate scent. But what if this process becomes something a little bit darker…


This is the last of the special spooky season series, as well as the final episode for season 1. It has been a true pleasure to talk to such a wide variety of guests, and this week's guest is no exception.


Nadia Vitlin is a perfumer who specializes in bespoke creations, scent visual art, and offers training for those interested in expanding their own knowledge. Nadia has spent ten years learning and developing her craft, and it was a delight to discuss a book that explores the grotesque aspects of material acquisition and the obsession that can come with possessing a scent.


Taking a concept and extending it beyond the realms of polite or sensible society can truly illustrate the edges of humanity and where the boundaries of good moral judgment lie. Can a scent or an aroma make us cross that boundary into madness? It's something to ponder as we approach Halloween, a time when boundaries notoriously blur.


Fragrances mentioned:

Fougère Royale - Houbigant Parfum

Jicky - Guerlain

Fleurs D'oranger - Serge Lutens

Sécrétions Magnifiques - Etat Libre d'Orange

Jasmin et Cigarette - Etat Libre d'Orange

Eau d'Hadrien - Annick Goutal


Books mentioned:

Perfume: The Story of A Murderer - Patrick Süskind

The Foul and the Fragrant: Odor and the French Social Imagination - Alain Corbin


Find Vistley on Instagram or on their website www.vitsley.com



Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Part 2: Meaning & Mystery ]]> Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:10:15 GMT 50:00 6715ea78bcdb5585a35d59ce false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/part-2-meaning-mystery 6715ea78bcdb5585a35d59ce 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 part-2-meaning-mystery with Nuri McBride full 1 31 If you were to sum up the theme for episode four of the spooky season series, it would be this: Life can get pretty dark if you can’t take a joke…


Let’s catch up with the second part of the red string, photo board and many drawing pins that is pulling together two more text and a few more fragrances with Nuri McBride


Nuri is not just a perfumer; she is also a dedicated community educator and an insightful writer who regularly explores the rich intersection of olfaction and death rituals throughout history. In this episode we get a little medieval and discover the importance of humour, as well as bringing light to dark places and unknowable situations.


In keeping with tradition, our conversation has been so rich and layered that I have had to divide it up over several episodes for your enjoyment. Please do listen to Part 1 first, otherwise this conversation may not make as much sense as you would hope.


Fragrances mentioned:

Acqua Della Regina- Santa Maria Novella 

Dirty Velvet- Vilhelm Parfumerie


Books mentioned:

The Name of the Rose - Umberto Eco

A Natural History of Hell - Jeffery Ford


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.

The Alabastron Journal can be find at alabastronjournal.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> If you were to sum up the theme for episode four of the spooky season series, it would be this: Life can get pretty dark if you can’t take a joke…


Let’s catch up with the second part of the red string, photo board and many drawing pins that is pulling together two more text and a few more fragrances with Nuri McBride


Nuri is not just a perfumer; she is also a dedicated community educator and an insightful writer who regularly explores the rich intersection of olfaction and death rituals throughout history. In this episode we get a little medieval and discover the importance of humour, as well as bringing light to dark places and unknowable situations.


In keeping with tradition, our conversation has been so rich and layered that I have had to divide it up over several episodes for your enjoyment. Please do listen to Part 1 first, otherwise this conversation may not make as much sense as you would hope.


Fragrances mentioned:

Acqua Della Regina- Santa Maria Novella 

Dirty Velvet- Vilhelm Parfumerie


Books mentioned:

The Name of the Rose - Umberto Eco

A Natural History of Hell - Jeffery Ford


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.

The Alabastron Journal can be find at alabastronjournal.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Part 1: Death & Rituals ]]> Tue, 15 Oct 2024 19:10:12 GMT 1:04:32 670ce9624973799246ba9a6f false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/part-1-death-rituals 670ce9624973799246ba9a6f 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 part-1-death-rituals with Nuri McBride full 1 30 Onwards to episode three of the spooky season series where we talk about Death, rituals, the creation of meaning and mystery. Now with a dash of necromancy…


How can one truly discuss the intricate topics of fragrance, death, and rituals without the invaluable insights of Nuri McBride? It seems only fitting that we take this opportunity to ‘resurrect’ a former guest who has made significant contributions to the conversation.


Nuri is not just a perfumer; she is also a dedicated community educator and an insightful writer who regularly explores the rich intersection of olfaction and death rituals throughout history. I am genuinely pleased to welcome her back to the podcast for another of our winding book club and fragrant pairings.


In keeping with tradition, our conversation has been so rich and layered that I have had to divide it up over several episodes for your enjoyment. So, please sit back and immerse yourself in this deep dive into the fascinating realms of necromancy and world building in part one of our series.


Fragrances mentioned:

Lady Vengeance - Juliette Has A Gun

De Profundis - Serge Lutens

After Every Ounce of Joy (Leaves My Body) - Chris Rusak

Macbeth - Shakespeare Perfumes


Books mentioned:

Gideon the Ninth - Tamsyn Muir

Harrow the Ninth - Tamsyn Muir

Heavenly Bodies: Cult Treasures & Spectacular Saints from the Catacombs - Paul Koudounaris

The Foul and the Fragrant - Alain Corbin


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.

The Alabastron Journal can be find at alabastronjournal.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Onwards to episode three of the spooky season series where we talk about Death, rituals, the creation of meaning and mystery. Now with a dash of necromancy…


How can one truly discuss the intricate topics of fragrance, death, and rituals without the invaluable insights of Nuri McBride? It seems only fitting that we take this opportunity to ‘resurrect’ a former guest who has made significant contributions to the conversation.


Nuri is not just a perfumer; she is also a dedicated community educator and an insightful writer who regularly explores the rich intersection of olfaction and death rituals throughout history. I am genuinely pleased to welcome her back to the podcast for another of our winding book club and fragrant pairings.


In keeping with tradition, our conversation has been so rich and layered that I have had to divide it up over several episodes for your enjoyment. So, please sit back and immerse yourself in this deep dive into the fascinating realms of necromancy and world building in part one of our series.


Fragrances mentioned:

Lady Vengeance - Juliette Has A Gun

De Profundis - Serge Lutens

After Every Ounce of Joy (Leaves My Body) - Chris Rusak

Macbeth - Shakespeare Perfumes


Books mentioned:

Gideon the Ninth - Tamsyn Muir

Harrow the Ninth - Tamsyn Muir

Heavenly Bodies: Cult Treasures & Spectacular Saints from the Catacombs - Paul Koudounaris

The Foul and the Fragrant - Alain Corbin


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.

The Alabastron Journal can be find at alabastronjournal.com


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Must Love Cats and Darkness Must Love Cats and Darkness Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:10:05 GMT 1:16:18 6703aadd6f369dd035a58310 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/must-love-cats-and-darkness 6703aadd6f369dd035a58310 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 must-love-cats-and-darkness with S.Elizabeth full 1 29 In this second instalment of our Spooky Season series, we explore the theme of horror through anxiety—the unsettling sensation that something catastrophic lurks just beyond our perception.


Anxiety manifests in many forms, often creeping into our thoughts like a shadow in the dark. It amplifies our worries, transforming mundane situations into catastrophic scenarios. The potential for things to go horribly wrong becomes a breeding ground for horror, as our imagination runs wild with the possibilities: a simple drive turns into a nightmare, a casual conversation spirals into conflict, and unexpected events become the start of a downward spiral.

In this episode, I am speaking with Sarah, who is also known by her pen name S. Elizabeth. She is a talented writer and the author of three wild and wonderfully imaginative art books. In addition to her writing, she maintains a consistent blog and has a passion for savouring fragrances, particularly during the witching hour.


Fragrances mentioned:

Dark Season - Neil Morris

Tea Rose - Perfumers Workshop

Green Spell - Eris Parfum

Coven - Andrea Maack

Coriandre - Jean Couturier

Nuit de Bakerlite - Naomi Goodsir

Series 3: Incense - Kyoto - Comme des Garcons

Verveine d'Été - Le Jardin Retrouve


Books mentioned:

They Call Me Naughty Lola: Personal Ads from the London Review of Books - David Rose

Incidents Around the House - Josh Malerman

Thornhedge - T Kingfisher

Rebecca - Daphne de Maurier


Find S.Elizabeth on Instagram @ghoulnextdoor or follow the wide and varied links of books, blogs and all manner of other fun things on her linktr.ee


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this second instalment of our Spooky Season series, we explore the theme of horror through anxiety—the unsettling sensation that something catastrophic lurks just beyond our perception.


Anxiety manifests in many forms, often creeping into our thoughts like a shadow in the dark. It amplifies our worries, transforming mundane situations into catastrophic scenarios. The potential for things to go horribly wrong becomes a breeding ground for horror, as our imagination runs wild with the possibilities: a simple drive turns into a nightmare, a casual conversation spirals into conflict, and unexpected events become the start of a downward spiral.

In this episode, I am speaking with Sarah, who is also known by her pen name S. Elizabeth. She is a talented writer and the author of three wild and wonderfully imaginative art books. In addition to her writing, she maintains a consistent blog and has a passion for savouring fragrances, particularly during the witching hour.


Fragrances mentioned:

Dark Season - Neil Morris

Tea Rose - Perfumers Workshop

Green Spell - Eris Parfum

Coven - Andrea Maack

Coriandre - Jean Couturier

Nuit de Bakerlite - Naomi Goodsir

Series 3: Incense - Kyoto - Comme des Garcons

Verveine d'Été - Le Jardin Retrouve


Books mentioned:

They Call Me Naughty Lola: Personal Ads from the London Review of Books - David Rose

Incidents Around the House - Josh Malerman

Thornhedge - T Kingfisher

Rebecca - Daphne de Maurier


Find S.Elizabeth on Instagram @ghoulnextdoor or follow the wide and varied links of books, blogs and all manner of other fun things on her linktr.ee


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Haunted Haunted Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:10:40 GMT 1:00:00 66fb4eecfdb2501b6b10c6bb false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/haunted 66fb4eecfdb2501b6b10c6bb 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 haunted with Louise Hung full 1 28 In the first of our Spooky Season series - we talk about how we can ‘defang’ death, the loneliness of grief and different cultural perspectives on ritual those no longer with us.


In this episode, we discuss Louise’s first book, Hungry Bones, which explores profound themes of loneliness and connection. We discuss how cultural perspectives on death shape our understanding and acceptance of it, and how open conversations can demystify and reduce the fear surrounding death.

Louise shares insights on how fragrance can evoke powerful memories and emotions tied to personal experiences, and the significant role scent plays in rituals and cultural practices surrounding death.

We explore how young adult literature, like This Poison Heart, addresses complex themes in accessible ways, with characters that are nuanced and relatable, reflecting real-life struggles - whilst emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, showcasing joy alongside struggle.

Join us as we highlight the interconnectedness of scent, memory, and identity, and the importance of open, honest discussions about death and representation in literature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pikake Essential Oil

White Flower Oil

Aromatics Elixir - Clinique

Vive La Fleur - Flaner Fragrances


Books mentioned:

Hungry Bones - Louise Hung

This Poison Heart - Kalynn Bayron


Find Louise Hung on Instagram @louisehung1 or purchase a copy of ‘Hungry Bones’ from Scholastic (you can find it in larger book providers, but make good choices)


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In the first of our Spooky Season series - we talk about how we can ‘defang’ death, the loneliness of grief and different cultural perspectives on ritual those no longer with us.


In this episode, we discuss Louise’s first book, Hungry Bones, which explores profound themes of loneliness and connection. We discuss how cultural perspectives on death shape our understanding and acceptance of it, and how open conversations can demystify and reduce the fear surrounding death.

Louise shares insights on how fragrance can evoke powerful memories and emotions tied to personal experiences, and the significant role scent plays in rituals and cultural practices surrounding death.

We explore how young adult literature, like This Poison Heart, addresses complex themes in accessible ways, with characters that are nuanced and relatable, reflecting real-life struggles - whilst emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, showcasing joy alongside struggle.

Join us as we highlight the interconnectedness of scent, memory, and identity, and the importance of open, honest discussions about death and representation in literature.


Fragrances mentioned:

Pikake Essential Oil

White Flower Oil

Aromatics Elixir - Clinique

Vive La Fleur - Flaner Fragrances


Books mentioned:

Hungry Bones - Louise Hung

This Poison Heart - Kalynn Bayron


Find Louise Hung on Instagram @louisehung1 or purchase a copy of ‘Hungry Bones’ from Scholastic (you can find it in larger book providers, but make good choices)


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Nature Of Animals The Nature Of Animals Mon, 23 Sep 2024 20:10:46 GMT 47:50 66f10633076ac3de28e1a318 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-nature-of-animals 66f10633076ac3de28e1a318 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-nature-of-animals with Liz Moores full 1 27

Our companions are not always human. The meaningful and grounding connections that we make can easily be with an animal or a tree…


In this episode, we explore the intrinsic bond between humanity and companionship, emphasizing the profound impact that our beloved animal companions on our lives. Liz Moores, a self-taught perfumer and the creative force behind Papillion Perfumery, shares her insights on how these relationships with creatures and nature that inspire her craft. Liz captures the essence of cherished moments in her fragrances, each one a tribute to the memories - the scents serve as olfactory reminders of the joy and warmth that these relationships bring. Also discussed is the importance of connecting with nature and how best to express the change of seasons through scent.


Fragrances mentioned:

Anubis - Papillion

Epona - Papillion

Dryad - Papillion


Books mentioned:

Whispers Under Ground - Ben Aaronovitch

The Belgariad (series) - David Eddings

Orphia and Eurydicius - Elyse John


Find Papillion Perfumery on Instagram @papillonartisanperfumes or on their website papillonperfumery.co.uk


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>

Our companions are not always human. The meaningful and grounding connections that we make can easily be with an animal or a tree…


In this episode, we explore the intrinsic bond between humanity and companionship, emphasizing the profound impact that our beloved animal companions on our lives. Liz Moores, a self-taught perfumer and the creative force behind Papillion Perfumery, shares her insights on how these relationships with creatures and nature that inspire her craft. Liz captures the essence of cherished moments in her fragrances, each one a tribute to the memories - the scents serve as olfactory reminders of the joy and warmth that these relationships bring. Also discussed is the importance of connecting with nature and how best to express the change of seasons through scent.


Fragrances mentioned:

Anubis - Papillion

Epona - Papillion

Dryad - Papillion


Books mentioned:

Whispers Under Ground - Ben Aaronovitch

The Belgariad (series) - David Eddings

Orphia and Eurydicius - Elyse John


Find Papillion Perfumery on Instagram @papillonartisanperfumes or on their website papillonperfumery.co.uk


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Inheritance Inheritance Tue, 17 Sep 2024 20:10:36 GMT 1:06:35 66e6c8f92e655d10442cd133 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/inheritance 66e6c8f92e655d10442cd133 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 inheritance with John from Örök Fragrances full 1 26 Are the stories about our culture and community what we make or what are given to us?


Örök Fragrances is a freshly launched fragrance house that passionately focuses on the rich stories and unique experiences of the queer community, all intricately told through the captivating medium of scent. In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with John, the visionary founder of the new Melbourne-based brand, Örök Fragrances. These thoughtfully crafted fragrances range from the delightfully weird and otherworldly to the cleverly playful and cheeky. Each scent invites wearers to explore their identity and celebrate their individuality.


Fragrances mentioned:

5am - Örök Fragrances

Vapor Bloom -Örök Fragrances

Undergrowth - Örök Fragrances

Shoreline - Örök Fragrances

Rave - Örök Fragrances

Lavs - Filippo Sorcinelli

Yakisugi Wood - Flaner Fragrance


Books mentioned:

The Genesis of Misery - Neon Yang

Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales - Soman Chainani

Out of the Blue - Jason June

Wicked and Divine: Fandemonium - Gillian McKelvie and Wilson Cowles

The Colour Of Magic - Terry Pratchett



Find Örök Fragrances on Instagram @orokfragrances or on their website orokfragrances.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Are the stories about our culture and community what we make or what are given to us?


Örök Fragrances is a freshly launched fragrance house that passionately focuses on the rich stories and unique experiences of the queer community, all intricately told through the captivating medium of scent. In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with John, the visionary founder of the new Melbourne-based brand, Örök Fragrances. These thoughtfully crafted fragrances range from the delightfully weird and otherworldly to the cleverly playful and cheeky. Each scent invites wearers to explore their identity and celebrate their individuality.


Fragrances mentioned:

5am - Örök Fragrances

Vapor Bloom -Örök Fragrances

Undergrowth - Örök Fragrances

Shoreline - Örök Fragrances

Rave - Örök Fragrances

Lavs - Filippo Sorcinelli

Yakisugi Wood - Flaner Fragrance


Books mentioned:

The Genesis of Misery - Neon Yang

Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales - Soman Chainani

Out of the Blue - Jason June

Wicked and Divine: Fandemonium - Gillian McKelvie and Wilson Cowles

The Colour Of Magic - Terry Pratchett



Find Örök Fragrances on Instagram @orokfragrances or on their website orokfragrances.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Joy Joy Tue, 10 Sep 2024 20:10:53 GMT 1:12:36 66dedadaccdd28b9d679e392 true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/joy 66dedadaccdd28b9d679e392 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 joy with Nick Gilbert full 1 25 Joy is both a Noun and a Verb. It is a radical act in the face of shame and derision. You cannot have the light without the dark. Joy ultimately is a doing word.


I had not been exploring the world of fragrance long before I heard about Olfiction and Boujee Bougies (I may or may not have paid closer attention because of the clever play on words). One half of this astounding word-smithery is creative director Nick Gilbert. Nick has done the hard yards behind a perfume counter and has worn many hats from fragrance trainer, evaluator, fragrance writer to marketer and consultant. He is also a real joy to talk to and we cover pride, shame, power dynamics and control, as well as that Cassis can be both wonderful note and smell like cat piss. The world is not so much either/or, but more and/and.


Fragrances mentioned:

Invisible Touch - La Perla

Quir - Boujee Bougies

Guilded - Boujee Bougies

Cardinal - Heeley

Armani Prive Bois d'Encens - Giorgio Armani


Books mentioned:

Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero - F. Valentine Hooven III

A Master of Djinn - P. Djèlí Clark


Find Olfiction on Instagram @olfictionlimited or on their website olfiction.com

Find Boujee Bougies on Instagram @bougieboujees or on their website boujeebougies.com

Find Nick on Instagram @nickrgilbert


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Joy is both a Noun and a Verb. It is a radical act in the face of shame and derision. You cannot have the light without the dark. Joy ultimately is a doing word.


I had not been exploring the world of fragrance long before I heard about Olfiction and Boujee Bougies (I may or may not have paid closer attention because of the clever play on words). One half of this astounding word-smithery is creative director Nick Gilbert. Nick has done the hard yards behind a perfume counter and has worn many hats from fragrance trainer, evaluator, fragrance writer to marketer and consultant. He is also a real joy to talk to and we cover pride, shame, power dynamics and control, as well as that Cassis can be both wonderful note and smell like cat piss. The world is not so much either/or, but more and/and.


Fragrances mentioned:

Invisible Touch - La Perla

Quir - Boujee Bougies

Guilded - Boujee Bougies

Cardinal - Heeley

Armani Prive Bois d'Encens - Giorgio Armani


Books mentioned:

Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero - F. Valentine Hooven III

A Master of Djinn - P. Djèlí Clark


Find Olfiction on Instagram @olfictionlimited or on their website olfiction.com

Find Boujee Bougies on Instagram @bougieboujees or on their website boujeebougies.com

Find Nick on Instagram @nickrgilbert


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Political Intrigue Political Intrigue Tue, 03 Sep 2024 20:10:40 GMT 51:37 66d6b51962cc889574bbd745 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/political-intrigue 66d6b51962cc889574bbd745 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 political-intrigue With Charlotte from Scents of Direction full 1 24 Political machinations are always interesting and show much safer when you are in the cheap seats of being a reader. Keeping your head above water in a historical context may just be about keeping it on your neck


You have to be a little bit brave to start out as a fragrance reviewer in the world of social media these days. Charlotte has recently started reviewing scents and sewing as a side hustle to expand her collection. Charlotte like to deep dive into the history of fragrances as well as offer reviews of scents that she loves. She is a fan of a skin scent, so there are a few fragrances in her collection that are not the usual names that I would reach for. In the episode we discuss her love of the Tudors, big books and how sometimes audiobooks need a really good narrator.


Fragrances mentioned:

Citrus - Olfactive O

Bainin - Cloon Keen

Carnal Flower - Frederic Malle

Interlude Black Iris Man - Amouage

Radical Rose - Matiere Premiere

Hayat - Xerjoff

Scorpio Rising - Eris Parfums

Wonderwood - Comme Des Garcon

Copper - Comme Des Garcon


Books mentioned:

Wolf Hall - Hilary Mantel

City of Brass - S.A. Chakraborty

Find Charlotte on Instagram @scentsofdirection


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Political machinations are always interesting and show much safer when you are in the cheap seats of being a reader. Keeping your head above water in a historical context may just be about keeping it on your neck


You have to be a little bit brave to start out as a fragrance reviewer in the world of social media these days. Charlotte has recently started reviewing scents and sewing as a side hustle to expand her collection. Charlotte like to deep dive into the history of fragrances as well as offer reviews of scents that she loves. She is a fan of a skin scent, so there are a few fragrances in her collection that are not the usual names that I would reach for. In the episode we discuss her love of the Tudors, big books and how sometimes audiobooks need a really good narrator.


Fragrances mentioned:

Citrus - Olfactive O

Bainin - Cloon Keen

Carnal Flower - Frederic Malle

Interlude Black Iris Man - Amouage

Radical Rose - Matiere Premiere

Hayat - Xerjoff

Scorpio Rising - Eris Parfums

Wonderwood - Comme Des Garcon

Copper - Comme Des Garcon


Books mentioned:

Wolf Hall - Hilary Mantel

City of Brass - S.A. Chakraborty

Find Charlotte on Instagram @scentsofdirection


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Nightclubs and Mercenaries Nightclubs and Mercenaries Tue, 27 Aug 2024 20:11:39 GMT 1:33:40 66cd2bd644d99148770435f7 true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/nightclubs-and-mercenaries 66cd2bd644d99148770435f7 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 nightclubs-and-mercenaries with Jayanthan Sriram full 1 23 When was the last time you thought about how public spaces smell? Or what scent palate you are culturally comfortable with? What is the scent of work and of play?


Jayanthan (Jay) Sriram is a PhD student at Concordia University in Montreal and a member of the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. He is in the Interdisciplinary Humanities PhD Program and coordinates the Exploration in Sensory Design research team. His research aims to highlight the importance of smell in aesthetics through functional scenting and perfumery. His PhD project, “The Life of the Ephemeral – Building Olfactory Aesthetics,” critiques the common disregard for physical and olfactory values, focusing on the perspectives of those who create and curate these experiences. Jay also has a music blog and an interest in reading Manga, which is reflected in the book choices for this episode.


Fragrances mentioned:

Dior Homme - Christian Dior

Fourreau Noir - Serge Lutens

Terroni - Orto Parisi

Moth - Zoologist


Books mentioned:

The Haçienda: How Not to Run a Club - Peter Hook

Berserk (Deluxe Volume 1) - Kentaro Miura


Music accompaniment:

Jay has recommended some follow on listening for the books mentioned

For The Hacienda - Querido by DJ Anderson do Paraiso

For Berserk, Umbilical by Thou

The former pretty much as an extension of where club culture can go and where it might have never been reliant on one narrative as this is Bruxia from Brasil and the latter as a great aural experience to complement the heft of Berserk.


Read Jay’s research on Researchgate. You can also Find Jay on Instagram and explore his music blog.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When was the last time you thought about how public spaces smell? Or what scent palate you are culturally comfortable with? What is the scent of work and of play?


Jayanthan (Jay) Sriram is a PhD student at Concordia University in Montreal and a member of the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. He is in the Interdisciplinary Humanities PhD Program and coordinates the Exploration in Sensory Design research team. His research aims to highlight the importance of smell in aesthetics through functional scenting and perfumery. His PhD project, “The Life of the Ephemeral – Building Olfactory Aesthetics,” critiques the common disregard for physical and olfactory values, focusing on the perspectives of those who create and curate these experiences. Jay also has a music blog and an interest in reading Manga, which is reflected in the book choices for this episode.


Fragrances mentioned:

Dior Homme - Christian Dior

Fourreau Noir - Serge Lutens

Terroni - Orto Parisi

Moth - Zoologist


Books mentioned:

The Haçienda: How Not to Run a Club - Peter Hook

Berserk (Deluxe Volume 1) - Kentaro Miura


Music accompaniment:

Jay has recommended some follow on listening for the books mentioned

For The Hacienda - Querido by DJ Anderson do Paraiso

For Berserk, Umbilical by Thou

The former pretty much as an extension of where club culture can go and where it might have never been reliant on one narrative as this is Bruxia from Brasil and the latter as a great aural experience to complement the heft of Berserk.


Read Jay’s research on Researchgate. You can also Find Jay on Instagram and explore his music blog.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Transitions Transitions Tue, 20 Aug 2024 20:10:36 GMT 52:16 66c44c7c4d01ce6daf5ce256 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/transitions 66c44c7c4d01ce6daf5ce256 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 transitions with Hilary from Liminus full 1 22 Sometimes you need to pivot to find your joy. Sometimes you have to lose something important in order to gain so much more. However, change is always a certainty.


Liminus owner and perfumer, Hilary, is creating natural perfumes involves using sustainable practices, sourcing local materials, and capturing the essence of a place. Liminal spaces, both physical and metaphorical, play a significant role in personal growth and transformation. Scent has the power to evoke memories and enhance experiences, making it a valuable in assisting in this process of change.

During my conversation with Hilary, we focus on the benefits of small batch making, exploring botanicals that are yet to ‘make it big’ in the world of perfumery, as well as text that connect us to our our country and landscapes.


Fragrances mentioned:

Alba - Liminus

Thamnic - Liminus

Hwyl - Aseop

Wash Me In the Water - 4160 Tuesdays


Books mentioned:

Selected Poems - Gwen Harwood

The Heartbeat of Trees: Embracing Our Ancient Bond with Forests and Nature - Peter Wohlleben

The Rain Heron - Robbie Arnott



Check out Liminus’ website at www.liminus.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sometimes you need to pivot to find your joy. Sometimes you have to lose something important in order to gain so much more. However, change is always a certainty.


Liminus owner and perfumer, Hilary, is creating natural perfumes involves using sustainable practices, sourcing local materials, and capturing the essence of a place. Liminal spaces, both physical and metaphorical, play a significant role in personal growth and transformation. Scent has the power to evoke memories and enhance experiences, making it a valuable in assisting in this process of change.

During my conversation with Hilary, we focus on the benefits of small batch making, exploring botanicals that are yet to ‘make it big’ in the world of perfumery, as well as text that connect us to our our country and landscapes.


Fragrances mentioned:

Alba - Liminus

Thamnic - Liminus

Hwyl - Aseop

Wash Me In the Water - 4160 Tuesdays


Books mentioned:

Selected Poems - Gwen Harwood

The Heartbeat of Trees: Embracing Our Ancient Bond with Forests and Nature - Peter Wohlleben

The Rain Heron - Robbie Arnott



Check out Liminus’ website at www.liminus.com.au


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Artistic Aliens Artistic Aliens Tue, 13 Aug 2024 20:10:35 GMT 58:03 66b888caeda70b6bfd9667c7 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/artistic-aliens 66b888caeda70b6bfd9667c7 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 artistic-aliens with Corey Newcombe full 1 21 Life is journey - you made find yourself on a bus in the middle of nowhere, or wind up making perfume.


Corey Newcombe is perfumer and owner of Australian artisanal fragrance house, Criminal Elements. The brand has bee making fragrance for around 10 years and we discuss how Criminal Elements came about, the training of your nose, what it takes to run a small business, being in community not competition and what it’s like to make a fragrance from a dream you had that one time…


Fragrances mentioned:

Wicked Mistress - Criminal Elements

Neon - Criminal Elements

Verge - Criminal Elements

Tobacco Jam - Criminal Elements


Books mentioned:

Space Opera - Catherynne M. Valente

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry - Rachel Joyce

The Doll Factory - Elizabeth Macneal


Check Criminal Elements full website at criminalelements.net


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Life is journey - you made find yourself on a bus in the middle of nowhere, or wind up making perfume.


Corey Newcombe is perfumer and owner of Australian artisanal fragrance house, Criminal Elements. The brand has bee making fragrance for around 10 years and we discuss how Criminal Elements came about, the training of your nose, what it takes to run a small business, being in community not competition and what it’s like to make a fragrance from a dream you had that one time…


Fragrances mentioned:

Wicked Mistress - Criminal Elements

Neon - Criminal Elements

Verge - Criminal Elements

Tobacco Jam - Criminal Elements


Books mentioned:

Space Opera - Catherynne M. Valente

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry - Rachel Joyce

The Doll Factory - Elizabeth Macneal


Check Criminal Elements full website at criminalelements.net


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Beetles and Bants Beetles and Bants Tue, 06 Aug 2024 20:10:09 GMT 1:05:59 66af69c83e8ef2a4310d06d2 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/beetles-and-bants 66af69c83e8ef2a4310d06d2 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 beetles-and-bants with Fliss Walton full 1 20 And just because alliteration is a beautiful thing- please also add Broadswords into the mix. Choose your weapon wisely.


Fliss Walton is one quarter of the UK based fragrance podcast ‘Les Oderants’ - emphasis on the work ‘rant’. Fliss has work as a professional actor, as a facilitator and has, by all accounts, an extensive perfume collection. She may also be a self proclaimed lover of a ‘pretty bottle’, but we do our best to remain focussed on the juice. In this conversation we deep dive into the work of a few perfumers, discuss the role of scent as communication, a tool for getting into character and the very different types of death that medieval weaponry can achieve.


Fragrances mentioned:

Baccarat Rouge 540 - Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Andalusian Soul - Merchant of Venice

Tweed - Lentheric

Azuree - Estée Lauder

Diorling - Dior

Aromatics Elixir - Clinique

Andrea Maack - Coven

Maja - Myrurgia

Noir De Noir - Tom Ford

Obsession Night - Calvin Klein

Trésor - Lancôme

Feminite du Bois - Shiseido

Rose - Mercedes Benz

Sara Baker - Jungle Jezebel

Giorgio - Giorgio Beverly Hills

Verdant - Boujee Bougies

Delta of Venus - Eris Parfum

Belle De Jour - Eris Parfum

Mxxx - Eris Parfum


Books mentioned:

Miss Benson’s Beetle - Rachel Joyce

Scent and Subversion: Decoding A Century Of Provocative Perfume - Barbara Herman

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> And just because alliteration is a beautiful thing- please also add Broadswords into the mix. Choose your weapon wisely.


Fliss Walton is one quarter of the UK based fragrance podcast ‘Les Oderants’ - emphasis on the work ‘rant’. Fliss has work as a professional actor, as a facilitator and has, by all accounts, an extensive perfume collection. She may also be a self proclaimed lover of a ‘pretty bottle’, but we do our best to remain focussed on the juice. In this conversation we deep dive into the work of a few perfumers, discuss the role of scent as communication, a tool for getting into character and the very different types of death that medieval weaponry can achieve.


Fragrances mentioned:

Baccarat Rouge 540 - Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Andalusian Soul - Merchant of Venice

Tweed - Lentheric

Azuree - Estée Lauder

Diorling - Dior

Aromatics Elixir - Clinique

Andrea Maack - Coven

Maja - Myrurgia

Noir De Noir - Tom Ford

Obsession Night - Calvin Klein

Trésor - Lancôme

Feminite du Bois - Shiseido

Rose - Mercedes Benz

Sara Baker - Jungle Jezebel

Giorgio - Giorgio Beverly Hills

Verdant - Boujee Bougies

Delta of Venus - Eris Parfum

Belle De Jour - Eris Parfum

Mxxx - Eris Parfum


Books mentioned:

Miss Benson’s Beetle - Rachel Joyce

Scent and Subversion: Decoding A Century Of Provocative Perfume - Barbara Herman

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Pink Pink Tue, 30 Jul 2024 20:10:14 GMT 1:08:09 66a86ebbea44e7b1d32fd330 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/pink 66a86ebbea44e7b1d32fd330 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 pink with Alessandra from Diffractive Studio full 1 19 When the world’s of DIY, identity and fragrance come together in a lovely mixtape of experiences


Diffractive Studio is an independent fragrance house in Newcastle, UK. Owner and perfumer Alessandra started out as an academic, but branched out into the fragrance space creating fragrant art installations, as well as commercial product. Recently Alessandra had an article, “Beyond the Scent of Blood and Gardenias” published in the fragrance journal, Alabastron. This first issue of the journal focussed on the ‘Scent of Identity’ and Alessandra’s piece focused on the queer experience of an olfactory identity (a new term that I will be using at any given moment from now on).

If you love a good love story, if you like powerful women, if you like mixtapes and you are not afraid of pink, then this episode is for you.


Fragrances mentioned:

So Cute - Diffractive Studio 

Coven - Andrea Maack

Musc Ravageur - Editions De Parfums Frederic Malle

Both Sides of Clouds - 4160 Tuesdays

Dolce Treviso - Acca Kappa

Vaniglia Fior di Mandorlo - Acca Kappa

Fracas - Robert Piguet

Yuzu Soda - Strangers Parfumerie

So Fetch - Strangers Parfumerie

QH - Redolescent

Luna Dust - Mabelle O’Rama

Pink Sugar - Auqolina

Zucchero a Velo - Aquolina

Bowmakers - D.S & Durga

Pop Culture - Diffractive Studio


Books mentioned:

The Cyborg Manifesto - Donna Haraway

Soft Science - Franny Choi

Light from Uncommon Stars - Ryka Aoki

One Last Stop - Casey McQuiston

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When the world’s of DIY, identity and fragrance come together in a lovely mixtape of experiences


Diffractive Studio is an independent fragrance house in Newcastle, UK. Owner and perfumer Alessandra started out as an academic, but branched out into the fragrance space creating fragrant art installations, as well as commercial product. Recently Alessandra had an article, “Beyond the Scent of Blood and Gardenias” published in the fragrance journal, Alabastron. This first issue of the journal focussed on the ‘Scent of Identity’ and Alessandra’s piece focused on the queer experience of an olfactory identity (a new term that I will be using at any given moment from now on).

If you love a good love story, if you like powerful women, if you like mixtapes and you are not afraid of pink, then this episode is for you.


Fragrances mentioned:

So Cute - Diffractive Studio 

Coven - Andrea Maack

Musc Ravageur - Editions De Parfums Frederic Malle

Both Sides of Clouds - 4160 Tuesdays

Dolce Treviso - Acca Kappa

Vaniglia Fior di Mandorlo - Acca Kappa

Fracas - Robert Piguet

Yuzu Soda - Strangers Parfumerie

So Fetch - Strangers Parfumerie

QH - Redolescent

Luna Dust - Mabelle O’Rama

Pink Sugar - Auqolina

Zucchero a Velo - Aquolina

Bowmakers - D.S & Durga

Pop Culture - Diffractive Studio


Books mentioned:

The Cyborg Manifesto - Donna Haraway

Soft Science - Franny Choi

Light from Uncommon Stars - Ryka Aoki

One Last Stop - Casey McQuiston

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Hinged Hinged Tue, 23 Jul 2024 20:10:46 GMT 1:12:09 669ddb0dd81afc560af42047 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/hinged 669ddb0dd81afc560af42047 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 hinged with James Elliott full 1 18 How about a take two, where staying on track came a little more easily - and that’s healing.


As we had barely touched on any of the extensive Filigree & Shadow’s range of fragrances, this week is a return conversation with James Elliott from Filigree & Shadow. This time. staying on track came a little more easily and we touch on community, dug a little deeper into the DIY punk ethos and breeze past self diagnosis.


Filigree & Shadow is an artisanal perfume house based in Seattle, Washington State, where each fragrance has a personal story, as well as possible origin based around music. The brand ships internationally and is water based (for all or sensitive skin souls), so if you are able to whittle down you selection to 7 scents, it’s really worthwhile picking up a discovery set.


Fragrances mentioned:

Notget - Filigree & Shadow

Blume - Filigree & Shadow

Rema - Filigree & Shadow

Surfer Rosa - Filigree & Shadow.

Anonymity - Filigree & Shadow  


Books mentioned:

The Tao of Pooh and the Te of Piglet - Benjamin Hoff

On the Road - Jack Kerouac

Adrienne Rich

Olga Broumas

Suheri Hammad

Inga Muscio

Larry Kramer

How to Be Idle - Tom Hodgkinson


You can find out more about Filigree & Shadow via the website - they are also on Instagram and TikTok


The image of James Elliott is AI generated and stunning


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How about a take two, where staying on track came a little more easily - and that’s healing.


As we had barely touched on any of the extensive Filigree & Shadow’s range of fragrances, this week is a return conversation with James Elliott from Filigree & Shadow. This time. staying on track came a little more easily and we touch on community, dug a little deeper into the DIY punk ethos and breeze past self diagnosis.


Filigree & Shadow is an artisanal perfume house based in Seattle, Washington State, where each fragrance has a personal story, as well as possible origin based around music. The brand ships internationally and is water based (for all or sensitive skin souls), so if you are able to whittle down you selection to 7 scents, it’s really worthwhile picking up a discovery set.


Fragrances mentioned:

Notget - Filigree & Shadow

Blume - Filigree & Shadow

Rema - Filigree & Shadow

Surfer Rosa - Filigree & Shadow.

Anonymity - Filigree & Shadow  


Books mentioned:

The Tao of Pooh and the Te of Piglet - Benjamin Hoff

On the Road - Jack Kerouac

Adrienne Rich

Olga Broumas

Suheri Hammad

Inga Muscio

Larry Kramer

How to Be Idle - Tom Hodgkinson


You can find out more about Filigree & Shadow via the website - they are also on Instagram and TikTok


The image of James Elliott is AI generated and stunning


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Unhinged Unhinged Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:09:08 GMT 42:43 6693b1e1ade4ffab3e072ad4 true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/unhinged 6693b1e1ade4ffab3e072ad4 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 unhinged with James Elliott full 1 17 When the guest warns you that they are unlikely to stay on topic, you should probably listen…


Sometimes there are people that you really want to interview just because they seem like the type of person incredibly good conversation would happen with - James Elliott from Filigree & Shadow is absolutely one of these people.


Filigree & Shadow is an artisanal perfume house based in Seattle, Washington State. James has seamlessly blended a DIY political punk ethos into the world in a way that makes you surprised that it is not standard. From fundraisers with fellow perfumers to raising awareness of other small businesses, James seems to take any idea and just runs with it.


This episode is called Unhinged because James warned me about how things were going to go before I hit record, and the conversation really got away from the both of us.


Fragrances mentioned:

My Most Meaningful Relationships - Filigree & Shadow

Eau Savage - Christian Dior

Notget - Filigree & Shadow

Blume - Filigree & Shadow


Books mentioned:

Anne Rice

Poppy Z. Brite

Clive Barker

Carrie - Stephen King

Requiem for a Dream - Hubert Shelby Jr.

The Tao of Pooh and the Te of Piglet - Benjamin Hoff


You can find out more about Filigree & Shadow via the website - they are also on Instagram and TikTok - I thoroughly recommend following (if you are not already).


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When the guest warns you that they are unlikely to stay on topic, you should probably listen…


Sometimes there are people that you really want to interview just because they seem like the type of person incredibly good conversation would happen with - James Elliott from Filigree & Shadow is absolutely one of these people.


Filigree & Shadow is an artisanal perfume house based in Seattle, Washington State. James has seamlessly blended a DIY political punk ethos into the world in a way that makes you surprised that it is not standard. From fundraisers with fellow perfumers to raising awareness of other small businesses, James seems to take any idea and just runs with it.


This episode is called Unhinged because James warned me about how things were going to go before I hit record, and the conversation really got away from the both of us.


Fragrances mentioned:

My Most Meaningful Relationships - Filigree & Shadow

Eau Savage - Christian Dior

Notget - Filigree & Shadow

Blume - Filigree & Shadow


Books mentioned:

Anne Rice

Poppy Z. Brite

Clive Barker

Carrie - Stephen King

Requiem for a Dream - Hubert Shelby Jr.

The Tao of Pooh and the Te of Piglet - Benjamin Hoff


You can find out more about Filigree & Shadow via the website - they are also on Instagram and TikTok - I thoroughly recommend following (if you are not already).


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Actualisation Actualisation Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:10:19 GMT 1:27:25 668cde94d6a41d01e73855c6 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/actualisation 668cde94d6a41d01e73855c6 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 actualisation with Sarah Blair full 1 16 When making your way in life - what does it look like to be brave and go with your heart?


Map of the Heart is an Australian fragrance brand founded by Sarah Blair. The brand was started by Sarah and Jeffrey Darling, who were both working in film and became fascinated with fragrance. The fragrances are known for their unique bottle designs and the scents are crafted with a focus on authenticity and emotion. The conversation also touches on themes of body image, racism, and the power dynamics within relationships. However, because there is light to travel alongside the dark, there is also community, making connections, offering care and living into the people and the places that bring you joy.


Fragrances mentioned:

V.5 Valour

V.6 Ecstasy

V.2 Darkness

V.4 Peace

V.1 Freedom

V.3 Passion

V.8 Abundance

(Map of the Heart)


Books mentioned:

Butter: A Novel of Food and Murder - Asako Yuzuki

Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad

Eclogues- Virgil

We Come With This Place - Debra Danks


You can find out more about Map of the Heart on their website, or on Instagram.

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. If you would like to know more about NAIDOC week, which is is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories you can find out more on the committee’s official website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When making your way in life - what does it look like to be brave and go with your heart?


Map of the Heart is an Australian fragrance brand founded by Sarah Blair. The brand was started by Sarah and Jeffrey Darling, who were both working in film and became fascinated with fragrance. The fragrances are known for their unique bottle designs and the scents are crafted with a focus on authenticity and emotion. The conversation also touches on themes of body image, racism, and the power dynamics within relationships. However, because there is light to travel alongside the dark, there is also community, making connections, offering care and living into the people and the places that bring you joy.


Fragrances mentioned:

V.5 Valour

V.6 Ecstasy

V.2 Darkness

V.4 Peace

V.1 Freedom

V.3 Passion

V.8 Abundance

(Map of the Heart)


Books mentioned:

Butter: A Novel of Food and Murder - Asako Yuzuki

Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad

Eclogues- Virgil

We Come With This Place - Debra Danks


You can find out more about Map of the Heart on their website, or on Instagram.

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. If you would like to know more about NAIDOC week, which is is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories you can find out more on the committee’s official website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Defying Expectations Defying Expectations Tue, 02 Jul 2024 20:06:45 GMT 1:11:32 667926394297480012ffd7c1 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/defying-expectations 667926394297480012ffd7c1 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 defying-expectations with Justine Hanna full 1 15 Marching to the beat of your own drum is so much harder when other have expectations about what you do and how you do it. It’s time to flip everything on it’s head…


In this episode I am talking with Justine Hanna, Operations Manager at the Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation. In multiple episodes I have mentioned that other Librarians maybe stronger in the realms of Reader’s Advisory than myself, so we are putting this theory to the test!

Justine has paired books with all manner of food and beverages, both for in person events and via her own podcast, Literary Elixirs. I was in the unusual position of selecting fragrances and we came up with some something a little unusual, as we discuss how to step outside of people expectations and living more into yourself.


Fragrances mentioned:

Play-Doh - Demeter Fragrance Library

Justine - Louis Feraud

Tezza’s Tea Party - Zimmer

Escentric 04 - Escentric Molecules


Books mentioned:

Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend - Matthew Dicks

Legends and Lattes - Travis Baldree

Notorious Sorcerer - Davinia Evans


If you would like to listen to more pairings by Justine - can check out Literary Elixirs on Spotify


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Marching to the beat of your own drum is so much harder when other have expectations about what you do and how you do it. It’s time to flip everything on it’s head…


In this episode I am talking with Justine Hanna, Operations Manager at the Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation. In multiple episodes I have mentioned that other Librarians maybe stronger in the realms of Reader’s Advisory than myself, so we are putting this theory to the test!

Justine has paired books with all manner of food and beverages, both for in person events and via her own podcast, Literary Elixirs. I was in the unusual position of selecting fragrances and we came up with some something a little unusual, as we discuss how to step outside of people expectations and living more into yourself.


Fragrances mentioned:

Play-Doh - Demeter Fragrance Library

Justine - Louis Feraud

Tezza’s Tea Party - Zimmer

Escentric 04 - Escentric Molecules


Books mentioned:

Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend - Matthew Dicks

Legends and Lattes - Travis Baldree

Notorious Sorcerer - Davinia Evans


If you would like to listen to more pairings by Justine - can check out Literary Elixirs on Spotify


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Emotions and Spaces Emotions and Spaces Tue, 25 Jun 2024 20:16:28 GMT 1:05:47 6678c8fa0d98a900127b46e4 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/emotions-and-spaces 6678c8fa0d98a900127b46e4 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 emotions-and-spaces with Janelle Donnelly full 1 14 When it’s more about how things make you feel than performing a function that meet societal expectations? What is the importance and impact of giving space for a fully realised artistic experience?


Australian perfume brand Metascent is reaching out into the fragrance community in a variety of different ways. From creating their own compounds, allowing people to explore making their own perfume, bring scent into art to create a fully immerse experience and taking the Australian fragrance profile into an international context, it’s hard to think of what else they still have left to explore and achieve. In talking with Janelle Donnelly, CEO of Metascent, seeing the way they are thinking about fragrance beyond something that is purely commercial but is also exploratory, make for some really fun pairings. From Australian Historical Fiction to Non fiction books on the language of Cults - we cover a lot of ground.


Fragrances mentioned:

Origin - Aqualis London

Carmelia - Metascent

Gaslight - Metascent

Adrenaline - Metascent

Love Affair - Metascent


Books mentioned:

The Story Thief - Kyra Geddes

Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism - Amanda Montell

She Who Became The Sun - Shelley Parker-Chan

The Little Prince - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Richard Howard (Translator)


Find more about Metsacent their website: https://metascent.com/

The artworks discussed can be found on their Instagram @metascent


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When it’s more about how things make you feel than performing a function that meet societal expectations? What is the importance and impact of giving space for a fully realised artistic experience?


Australian perfume brand Metascent is reaching out into the fragrance community in a variety of different ways. From creating their own compounds, allowing people to explore making their own perfume, bring scent into art to create a fully immerse experience and taking the Australian fragrance profile into an international context, it’s hard to think of what else they still have left to explore and achieve. In talking with Janelle Donnelly, CEO of Metascent, seeing the way they are thinking about fragrance beyond something that is purely commercial but is also exploratory, make for some really fun pairings. From Australian Historical Fiction to Non fiction books on the language of Cults - we cover a lot of ground.


Fragrances mentioned:

Origin - Aqualis London

Carmelia - Metascent

Gaslight - Metascent

Adrenaline - Metascent

Love Affair - Metascent


Books mentioned:

The Story Thief - Kyra Geddes

Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism - Amanda Montell

She Who Became The Sun - Shelley Parker-Chan

The Little Prince - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Richard Howard (Translator)


Find more about Metsacent their website: https://metascent.com/

The artworks discussed can be found on their Instagram @metascent


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mentoring Mentoring Tue, 18 Jun 2024 20:00:26 GMT 1:13:02 666e6ce4fb88970013817ad2 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/mentoring 666e6ce4fb88970013817ad2 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 mentoring with Guy Vincent full 1 13 How can we bring out the inherent and intrinsic qualities of each other. What Spaces can we make to come together and offer support to elevate from the mundane?


This episode we are doing something a little bit different. The guest is Guy Vincent - CEO of Dutjahn Sandalwood Oils, an Western Australian supplier of Santalum spicatum. Dutjahn are a 50% traditionally owned company that sustainably farm Sandalwood for international distribution. Guy is a self proclaim ‘Aussie scrapper’ in the world of fine fragrance and has previously work for the Estée Lauder company as head perfumer for the Aveda brand.

As this material is sacred to the indigenous communities, we decided to discussion how Sandalwood performs as a character in the narrative of fragrance - how it can elevate the other materials in a composition,


Fragrances mentioned:

Shalimar - Guerlain

Santal 33 - Le Labo

Portrait of a Lady - Frederic Malle (Dominique Ropion)

D’Orange Vert - Hermes


Books mentioned:

Assassin Apprentice - Robin Hobb

Batman: Earth One - Geoff Johns, Gary Frank (Illustrator)

The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #1) - Rick Riordan

Out of Sight - Elmore Leonard

(and here is the movie trailer in case you need to remember the film)


Find more about Dutjhan Sandalwood Oils On their website: https://www.dutjahn.com/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How can we bring out the inherent and intrinsic qualities of each other. What Spaces can we make to come together and offer support to elevate from the mundane?


This episode we are doing something a little bit different. The guest is Guy Vincent - CEO of Dutjahn Sandalwood Oils, an Western Australian supplier of Santalum spicatum. Dutjahn are a 50% traditionally owned company that sustainably farm Sandalwood for international distribution. Guy is a self proclaim ‘Aussie scrapper’ in the world of fine fragrance and has previously work for the Estée Lauder company as head perfumer for the Aveda brand.

As this material is sacred to the indigenous communities, we decided to discussion how Sandalwood performs as a character in the narrative of fragrance - how it can elevate the other materials in a composition,


Fragrances mentioned:

Shalimar - Guerlain

Santal 33 - Le Labo

Portrait of a Lady - Frederic Malle (Dominique Ropion)

D’Orange Vert - Hermes


Books mentioned:

Assassin Apprentice - Robin Hobb

Batman: Earth One - Geoff Johns, Gary Frank (Illustrator)

The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #1) - Rick Riordan

Out of Sight - Elmore Leonard

(and here is the movie trailer in case you need to remember the film)


Find more about Dutjhan Sandalwood Oils On their website: https://www.dutjahn.com/


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Secundus: Grief, Love and Longing Secundus: Grief, Love and Longing Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:17:45 GMT 54:31 66580c0eef00590012749d74 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/secundus-grief-love-longing 66580c0eef00590012749d74 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 secundus-grief-love-and-longing with Nuri McBride full 1 11 Sometimes it takes two episodes to get to the heart of a topic. Sometimes people just really enjoy literary critique and fragrant tangents


This is part two of what started off as a simple idea that unfurled into a three hour long discussion of scent, grief, love longing - all woven into the discussion of Annihilation. The guest is the wonderful Nuri Mc Bride who explores the intersection of olfaction and death rituals at the Death/Scent project, as well as  being co-editor of the community-focus scent culture journal Alabastron, the first edition of which is now available if you would like to find yourself a copy. If you have not has a listen to Part 1, I really recommend listen to that first before embarking on this episode.


Fragrances mentioned:

Orris Tattoo - Parle Moi Parfum

Koala - Zoologist

Squid - Zoologist

Bat - Zoologist 

Gypsy water - Byredo

Books mentioned:

Seven Skins of Esther Wilding - Holly Ringland

100 Love Sonnets (Cien Sonetos de Amor) - Pablo Neruda (Poem: XVII - I do not love you)


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sometimes it takes two episodes to get to the heart of a topic. Sometimes people just really enjoy literary critique and fragrant tangents


This is part two of what started off as a simple idea that unfurled into a three hour long discussion of scent, grief, love longing - all woven into the discussion of Annihilation. The guest is the wonderful Nuri Mc Bride who explores the intersection of olfaction and death rituals at the Death/Scent project, as well as  being co-editor of the community-focus scent culture journal Alabastron, the first edition of which is now available if you would like to find yourself a copy. If you have not has a listen to Part 1, I really recommend listen to that first before embarking on this episode.


Fragrances mentioned:

Orris Tattoo - Parle Moi Parfum

Koala - Zoologist

Squid - Zoologist

Bat - Zoologist 

Gypsy water - Byredo

Books mentioned:

Seven Skins of Esther Wilding - Holly Ringland

100 Love Sonnets (Cien Sonetos de Amor) - Pablo Neruda (Poem: XVII - I do not love you)


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Primer: Grief, Love and Longing Primer: Grief, Love and Longing Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:17:23 GMT 1:32:26 665708c61eb8ac00114b19d8 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/primer-grief-love-longing 665708c61eb8ac00114b19d8 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 primer-grief-love-and-longing with Nuri McBride full 1 11 The topic of grief is huge. As is love. Intertwining both is a sense of longing. Tackling these topics requires many experiences and expressions of self exploration.


There is no one that I would like to embark on this topic more than Nuri McBride - perfumer, community educator, and writer. Nuri explores the intersection of olfaction and death rituals at the Death/Scent project, writes about fragrance history in her monthly newsletter, Aromatica de Profundis. As well as being co-editor of the community-focus scent culture journal Alabastron, the first edition of which is now available if you would like to find yourself a copy. Nuri was also program curator for the Scent & Society lecture series at the Institute for Art and Olfaction. This is part 1 of a long and winding conversation that covers what it’s like to be a perfumer, some of the trials and tribulations of the industry, as well as the important role that scent can play in rituals that help us process emotions around loss and longing


Fragrances mentioned:

Kouros - Yves Saint Laurent

Attendre & Espérer - P.Frapin & Cie

Fig Porn - Born to Stand Out

Steamed Rainbow - DS & Durga


Books mentioned:

The Foul and the Fragrant - Alain Corbin

Carmilla - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

Annihilation - Jeff VanderMeer

The Ballad of Black Tom - Victor LaValle


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The topic of grief is huge. As is love. Intertwining both is a sense of longing. Tackling these topics requires many experiences and expressions of self exploration.


There is no one that I would like to embark on this topic more than Nuri McBride - perfumer, community educator, and writer. Nuri explores the intersection of olfaction and death rituals at the Death/Scent project, writes about fragrance history in her monthly newsletter, Aromatica de Profundis. As well as being co-editor of the community-focus scent culture journal Alabastron, the first edition of which is now available if you would like to find yourself a copy. Nuri was also program curator for the Scent & Society lecture series at the Institute for Art and Olfaction. This is part 1 of a long and winding conversation that covers what it’s like to be a perfumer, some of the trials and tribulations of the industry, as well as the important role that scent can play in rituals that help us process emotions around loss and longing


Fragrances mentioned:

Kouros - Yves Saint Laurent

Attendre & Espérer - P.Frapin & Cie

Fig Porn - Born to Stand Out

Steamed Rainbow - DS & Durga


Books mentioned:

The Foul and the Fragrant - Alain Corbin

Carmilla - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

Annihilation - Jeff VanderMeer

The Ballad of Black Tom - Victor LaValle


Find Nuri McBride on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Intimacies Intimacies Tue, 28 May 2024 20:18:50 GMT 1:11:23 6640a5b31f998c0012255448 false https://paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/intimacies 6640a5b31f998c0012255448 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 intimacies with Sondrine from Cygnet Perfumery full 1 10 Sometimes the act of placing a perfume affords a little moment of intimacy with one’s self and celebration of memories.


In talking with Sondrine Kehoe, perfumer and founder of the independent artisanal fragrance house Cygnet Perfumery, the Podcast explores intimacies - how they can enrich one’s life, how a celebration of these moments can take many forms and what it can look like when we miss the mark for these moments of connection. Through out the podcast we discuss and pair with Cygnet’s heirloom collection and Sondrine’s experiences that went into creating these scents. Cygnet perfumery is based on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia.


Fragrances mentioned:

Forrest Essentials - Cologne Intense: Madurai Jasmine  

Antiquarian

Primaveral

Conifer

Nocturne

Vigneron

Plein Air

Youth Dew - Etsee Lauder


Books mentioned:

People of the Book - Geraldine Brooks

The Complete Poems - Emily Dickinson (Poem - A Light Exists in Spring)

A Thousand Mornings - Mary Oliver (Poem - When I’m Among The Trees)

Swimming in the Dark - Tomasz Jedrowski

The Grief Nurse - Angie Spoto

The Masterpiece - Emile Zola 

The Signature of All Things - Elizabeth Gilbert


Find Cygnet Perfumery on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Sometimes the act of placing a perfume affords a little moment of intimacy with one’s self and celebration of memories.


In talking with Sondrine Kehoe, perfumer and founder of the independent artisanal fragrance house Cygnet Perfumery, the Podcast explores intimacies - how they can enrich one’s life, how a celebration of these moments can take many forms and what it can look like when we miss the mark for these moments of connection. Through out the podcast we discuss and pair with Cygnet’s heirloom collection and Sondrine’s experiences that went into creating these scents. Cygnet perfumery is based on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia.


Fragrances mentioned:

Forrest Essentials - Cologne Intense: Madurai Jasmine  

Antiquarian

Primaveral

Conifer

Nocturne

Vigneron

Plein Air

Youth Dew - Etsee Lauder


Books mentioned:

People of the Book - Geraldine Brooks

The Complete Poems - Emily Dickinson (Poem - A Light Exists in Spring)

A Thousand Mornings - Mary Oliver (Poem - When I’m Among The Trees)

Swimming in the Dark - Tomasz Jedrowski

The Grief Nurse - Angie Spoto

The Masterpiece - Emile Zola 

The Signature of All Things - Elizabeth Gilbert


Find Cygnet Perfumery on Instagram or on their website.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Innovative Classics Innovative Classics Tue, 21 May 2024 20:21:13 GMT 1:21:57 66336fbd1a1585001272ed15 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/innovative-classics 66336fbd1a1585001272ed15 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 innovative-classics with Suzy Nightingale full 1 9 Part 2: when the pairing process is finally complete. Uncovering classic literature with a twist and thinking a little outside the box.


Following on from our deep dive into Susanna Clarke’s Piranesi, Suzy and Clare discuss a multitude of text and olfactory experience. From literary cannon to fantasy that makes you view the world a little differently, an array of experiences are covered. Suzy is a multi-award winning fragrance writer, currently writing for The Perfume Society’s magazine ‘The Scented Letter’ and co-host of the wonderful fragrance podcast ‘On the Scent’. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Part 1, please indulge. We hope you enjoy Part 2 as much as we did recording it.


Fragrances mentioned:

Ormonde Jayne - Woman

Musc Ravageur - Fredrick Malle by Maurice Roucel

Paloma Picasso - Paloma Picasso

Ingenious Ginger - Goldfield & Banks

Silky Woods Elixir - Goldfield & Banks


Books mentioned:

Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte

A Scandal In Bohemia - Arthur Conan Doyle

A Room of One’s Own - Virginia Woolf

(The performance of this book can be found in full on Youtube. The actress is Eileen Atkins)

The Garden Party: A Novel - Grace Dane Mazur

Uprooted - Naomi Novak


Find Suzy on Instagram, listen to her via the On the Scent Podcast, sign up to read The Scented Letter.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Part 2: when the pairing process is finally complete. Uncovering classic literature with a twist and thinking a little outside the box.


Following on from our deep dive into Susanna Clarke’s Piranesi, Suzy and Clare discuss a multitude of text and olfactory experience. From literary cannon to fantasy that makes you view the world a little differently, an array of experiences are covered. Suzy is a multi-award winning fragrance writer, currently writing for The Perfume Society’s magazine ‘The Scented Letter’ and co-host of the wonderful fragrance podcast ‘On the Scent’. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Part 1, please indulge. We hope you enjoy Part 2 as much as we did recording it.


Fragrances mentioned:

Ormonde Jayne - Woman

Musc Ravageur - Fredrick Malle by Maurice Roucel

Paloma Picasso - Paloma Picasso

Ingenious Ginger - Goldfield & Banks

Silky Woods Elixir - Goldfield & Banks


Books mentioned:

Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte

A Scandal In Bohemia - Arthur Conan Doyle

A Room of One’s Own - Virginia Woolf

(The performance of this book can be found in full on Youtube. The actress is Eileen Atkins)

The Garden Party: A Novel - Grace Dane Mazur

Uprooted - Naomi Novak


Find Suzy on Instagram, listen to her via the On the Scent Podcast, sign up to read The Scented Letter.


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The House The House Tue, 14 May 2024 20:24:20 GMT 1:21:44 66333964194f1b00123db094 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/the-house 66333964194f1b00123db094 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 the-house with Suzy Nightingale full 1 8 A deep dive into a single and singular novel. Float away on the tide of interpretations of scent and story.


Trying to describe what it’s like to have such an in depth conversation with Suzy Nightingale, is a little like nailing jelly to a tree. Suzy is a multi-award winning fragrance writer, currently writing for The Perfume Society’s magazine ‘The Scented Letter’, co-host of one of my favourite fragrance podcast ‘On the Scent’ and the ultimate perfume prescription giver. Apart from being hugely knowledgeable about fragrance, Suzy has written many a pairing article. This is part one of a two part conversation, as we were having too much of a good time to keep it short and simple


Fragrances mentioned:

Ink - Perfumer H

The Herbalist - Heretic Parfum

Plein Air - Cygnet Perfumery (this is an extrait, not an oil. I apologise)

Moonmilk - Stora Skuggan

Mitti Attar - Kannauj

Purple Heart V5 - Map of the Heart

Rose Geranium (Bath Essence) - Floris

Cristalle - Chanel

Egoïste - Chanel

Rose Ardoise - Atelier Materi

Megamare - Orto Parisi


Book mentioned:

Piranesi - Susanna Clark


Find Suzy on Instagram, listen to her via the On the Scent Podcast, sign up to read The Scented Letter or check out her talk on the 18th of May 2024 at the Barnes Fragrance Fair


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A deep dive into a single and singular novel. Float away on the tide of interpretations of scent and story.


Trying to describe what it’s like to have such an in depth conversation with Suzy Nightingale, is a little like nailing jelly to a tree. Suzy is a multi-award winning fragrance writer, currently writing for The Perfume Society’s magazine ‘The Scented Letter’, co-host of one of my favourite fragrance podcast ‘On the Scent’ and the ultimate perfume prescription giver. Apart from being hugely knowledgeable about fragrance, Suzy has written many a pairing article. This is part one of a two part conversation, as we were having too much of a good time to keep it short and simple


Fragrances mentioned:

Ink - Perfumer H

The Herbalist - Heretic Parfum

Plein Air - Cygnet Perfumery (this is an extrait, not an oil. I apologise)

Moonmilk - Stora Skuggan

Mitti Attar - Kannauj

Purple Heart V5 - Map of the Heart

Rose Geranium (Bath Essence) - Floris

Cristalle - Chanel

Egoïste - Chanel

Rose Ardoise - Atelier Materi

Megamare - Orto Parisi


Book mentioned:

Piranesi - Susanna Clark


Find Suzy on Instagram, listen to her via the On the Scent Podcast, sign up to read The Scented Letter or check out her talk on the 18th of May 2024 at the Barnes Fragrance Fair


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mountains, Moors and Mechanical Friends Mountains, Moors and Mechanical Friends Tue, 07 May 2024 20:17:23 GMT 1:04:21 661de4e5c7126b001656552d false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/mountains-moors-and-mechanical-friends 661de4e5c7126b001656552d 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 mountains-moors-and-mechanical-friends with Cherie from The Top Note full 1 7 An episode that delves into robotic companions, empowering scents, comfort, inner diva connections, and romantic allure.


There is a multitude of diverse topics that are covered in this in-depth conversation with Cherie, a multifaceted fragrance reviewer, blogger, and vlogger. Whilst we start with existential crises, we wander through a captivating exploration of scents interwoven with literature, cultivating a safe haven where one can discover companionship during life's adversities. Our conversation covers to the profound solace and camaraderie found in childhood memories and certain scent profiles, evoking a sense of comfort and connection that resonates deeply. Furthermore, we explore the empowering potential of embracing your true self authentically, navigating through life with sincerity and courage.


Fragrances mentioned:

Precious Forest - Keiko Mecheri

Gucci - Memoire d'une Odeur

Fueille - Miskeo

Blackwater Thistle - Criminal Elements

Ormonde Jayne - Woman

Diva - Emanuel Ungaro

Songes - Goutal


Books mentioned:

Psalm for the Wild Built - Becky Chambers

Anne of Green Gables - L. M Montgomery

Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte

Diva - Daisy Goodwin

Violetta - Isabel Allende


Find Cherie on Instagram, Youtube, TikTok and The Top Note Website


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> An episode that delves into robotic companions, empowering scents, comfort, inner diva connections, and romantic allure.


There is a multitude of diverse topics that are covered in this in-depth conversation with Cherie, a multifaceted fragrance reviewer, blogger, and vlogger. Whilst we start with existential crises, we wander through a captivating exploration of scents interwoven with literature, cultivating a safe haven where one can discover companionship during life's adversities. Our conversation covers to the profound solace and camaraderie found in childhood memories and certain scent profiles, evoking a sense of comfort and connection that resonates deeply. Furthermore, we explore the empowering potential of embracing your true self authentically, navigating through life with sincerity and courage.


Fragrances mentioned:

Precious Forest - Keiko Mecheri

Gucci - Memoire d'une Odeur

Fueille - Miskeo

Blackwater Thistle - Criminal Elements

Ormonde Jayne - Woman

Diva - Emanuel Ungaro

Songes - Goutal


Books mentioned:

Psalm for the Wild Built - Becky Chambers

Anne of Green Gables - L. M Montgomery

Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte

Diva - Daisy Goodwin

Violetta - Isabel Allende


Find Cherie on Instagram, Youtube, TikTok and The Top Note Website


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Film Adaptations Film Adaptations Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:26:19 GMT 1:14:57 660f994a3ab20b001792722a false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/film-adaptations 660f994a3ab20b001792722a 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 film-adaptions with Suzy from ScentnSensibilty full 1 6 Throwing fragrances into the mix whilst exploring that age old discussion about whether the book is indeed better than the film


This episode delves into the captivating world of pairing fragrances with books that have been brought to life on the silver screen. Suzy from ScentnSensibility, known for her expertise in pairing films and fragrances on Instagram and TikTok, joins us as we combine our powers of pairing to explore the intersection of literature, cinema, and scent. Together, we meticulously compare and contrast our selections, delving into the nuances of how fragrances can evoke the essence of beloved stories that have made their transition from page to film. Join us for a sensory journey as we unravel the enchanting connections between these art forms.


For fragrances and books meioned (there are quite a few) please go to www.paperbackperfumes.com


Find out more about Suzy on Instagram and TikTok



Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Throwing fragrances into the mix whilst exploring that age old discussion about whether the book is indeed better than the film


This episode delves into the captivating world of pairing fragrances with books that have been brought to life on the silver screen. Suzy from ScentnSensibility, known for her expertise in pairing films and fragrances on Instagram and TikTok, joins us as we combine our powers of pairing to explore the intersection of literature, cinema, and scent. Together, we meticulously compare and contrast our selections, delving into the nuances of how fragrances can evoke the essence of beloved stories that have made their transition from page to film. Join us for a sensory journey as we unravel the enchanting connections between these art forms.


For fragrances and books meioned (there are quite a few) please go to www.paperbackperfumes.com


Find out more about Suzy on Instagram and TikTok



Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Individuals and Archetypes Individuals and Archetypes Tue, 23 Apr 2024 20:26:00 GMT 1:12:45 660d05c2afbd0a0015c30c71 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/individuals-and-archetypes 660d05c2afbd0a0015c30c71 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 individuals-and-archetypes with Pep aka The Scentinel full 1 5 The processes of reconnecting with self, self-actualization through scent and archetypal tropes in texts


In this episode, we are joined by Pep, also known as The Scentinel, a prominent figure in the Australian fragrance community. Since 2017, Pep has captivated audiences with his deep-seated love for perfumes, particularly those crafted by niche and independent perfumers. Through the lens of archetypes, personal odysseys, and folklore, we are set to uncover the layers of meaning embedded within the fragrances we wear. Prepare for an enriching conversation that transcends the boundaries of scent and narrative, as we unravel the tapestry of individual experiences and universal symbols.


Fragrances mentioned

Teatro alla Scala - Krizia

Rule 72 - 27 87

Guidance - Amouage

Fate Woman - Amouage

Eau d’Hermes - Hermes

Boujee Bougie - Guilded

Pistil - Miskeo

Espices - Miskeo

Brume - Miskeo

Daim - Miskeo


Books mentioned

Taste: My Life Through Food - Stanley Tucci

Rogues: True Stories of Grifters, Killers, Rebels and Crooks - Patrick Radden Keefe

The Alchemist - Paulo Calho

Where the Wild Things Are - Maurice Sendak

The Wolf and The Woodsman - Ava Reid

Kitchens of the Great Midwest - J Ryan Stradal

The Gardener - Salley Vickers

The Women In Black - Madeline St John


Find Pep on

Instagram @the_scentinel_

Youtube @TheScentinel

In Podcast land @ Pep Talks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The processes of reconnecting with self, self-actualization through scent and archetypal tropes in texts


In this episode, we are joined by Pep, also known as The Scentinel, a prominent figure in the Australian fragrance community. Since 2017, Pep has captivated audiences with his deep-seated love for perfumes, particularly those crafted by niche and independent perfumers. Through the lens of archetypes, personal odysseys, and folklore, we are set to uncover the layers of meaning embedded within the fragrances we wear. Prepare for an enriching conversation that transcends the boundaries of scent and narrative, as we unravel the tapestry of individual experiences and universal symbols.


Fragrances mentioned

Teatro alla Scala - Krizia

Rule 72 - 27 87

Guidance - Amouage

Fate Woman - Amouage

Eau d’Hermes - Hermes

Boujee Bougie - Guilded

Pistil - Miskeo

Espices - Miskeo

Brume - Miskeo

Daim - Miskeo


Books mentioned

Taste: My Life Through Food - Stanley Tucci

Rogues: True Stories of Grifters, Killers, Rebels and Crooks - Patrick Radden Keefe

The Alchemist - Paulo Calho

Where the Wild Things Are - Maurice Sendak

The Wolf and The Woodsman - Ava Reid

Kitchens of the Great Midwest - J Ryan Stradal

The Gardener - Salley Vickers

The Women In Black - Madeline St John


Find Pep on

Instagram @the_scentinel_

Youtube @TheScentinel

In Podcast land @ Pep Talks

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Lumious Omissions Lumious Omissions Tue, 16 Apr 2024 21:20:58 GMT 41:46 65fd23118d6ad80016497f6b false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/luminous-omissions 65fd23118d6ad80016497f6b 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 lumious-omissions with Vanessa Lindenmann full 1 4 Shining Light in Dark Places: simplicity, pathways, healing and connection

In this episode of Paperback Perfumes episode, Clare engages in a fascinating discussion with Vanessa Lindemann, widely recognized as @vanessasskins, delving into the distinctions between the perfume sectors in Europe and New Zealand. Our conversation delves deep into the profound impact of narratives on scents, underscoring the immense significance of even the most minute intricacies.


Fragrances discussed:

Lovely - Al-Rehab

Clementine and Starfruit Hair and Body Mist - Body Shop 

Revolucion - Carner Barcelona

A Drop D’issey - Issey Miyake

Black Anise - Abel


Books discussed:

Winter Gifts - Ben Aaronovitch 

Kazou Ishigoru - Klara and the Sun

Small Things Like These - Claire Keegan



Catch Vanessa on Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest.


Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Shining Light in Dark Places: simplicity, pathways, healing and connection

In this episode of Paperback Perfumes episode, Clare engages in a fascinating discussion with Vanessa Lindemann, widely recognized as @vanessasskins, delving into the distinctions between the perfume sectors in Europe and New Zealand. Our conversation delves deep into the profound impact of narratives on scents, underscoring the immense significance of even the most minute intricacies.


Fragrances discussed:

Lovely - Al-Rehab

Clementine and Starfruit Hair and Body Mist - Body Shop 

Revolucion - Carner Barcelona

A Drop D’issey - Issey Miyake

Black Anise - Abel


Books discussed:

Winter Gifts - Ben Aaronovitch 

Kazou Ishigoru - Klara and the Sun

Small Things Like These - Claire Keegan



Catch Vanessa on Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest.


Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Return of the Rivers Return of the Rivers Wed, 10 Apr 2024 20:45:42 GMT 42:57 65fcd9c64048c500174ce4fe false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/return-of-the-rivers 65fcd9c64048c500174ce4fe 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 return-of-the-rivers with Laura Bass full 1 3 The world of magic will ensure that your life is never the same again.


Laura Bass, the Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Lore Perfumery, recently embarked on a wonderful pairing event for Library Lover’s Day to team up with Clare. The duo planned to co-host a special event centered around the intriguing connection between scents and the diverse dimensions of relationships.

Although they encountered a minor setback due to technical glitches, Laura graciously took on the challenge of reprising her role as the fragrance maestro. She's meticulously paired fragrances that have the power to transform lives with literary treasures that are nothing short of magical and timeless.


Fragrances discussed

Dirty Hinoki - Heretic Parfum 

The Herbalist - Heretic Parfum

Eight and Bob - Eight and Bob

Terror & Magnificence - Beaufort London 

Silver Musk - Nassomato

Terroni - Orto Parisi

Coven- Andrea Maack 


Books discussed

Jerusalem: The Biography - Simon Seabag Montefiore

Sarah J Mass series (very brief mention, don’t get too excited)

Rivers of London - Ben Aaronovitch 

Return of the King - J.R.R Tolkien 


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Find Lore Perfumery on Instagram, Facebook and their website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The world of magic will ensure that your life is never the same again.


Laura Bass, the Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Lore Perfumery, recently embarked on a wonderful pairing event for Library Lover’s Day to team up with Clare. The duo planned to co-host a special event centered around the intriguing connection between scents and the diverse dimensions of relationships.

Although they encountered a minor setback due to technical glitches, Laura graciously took on the challenge of reprising her role as the fragrance maestro. She's meticulously paired fragrances that have the power to transform lives with literary treasures that are nothing short of magical and timeless.


Fragrances discussed

Dirty Hinoki - Heretic Parfum 

The Herbalist - Heretic Parfum

Eight and Bob - Eight and Bob

Terror & Magnificence - Beaufort London 

Silver Musk - Nassomato

Terroni - Orto Parisi

Coven- Andrea Maack 


Books discussed

Jerusalem: The Biography - Simon Seabag Montefiore

Sarah J Mass series (very brief mention, don’t get too excited)

Rivers of London - Ben Aaronovitch 

Return of the King - J.R.R Tolkien 


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Find Lore Perfumery on Instagram, Facebook and their website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Elegant Vamps and Big Ships Elegant Vamps and Big Ships Wed, 10 Apr 2024 20:30:05 GMT 54:20 65fca39a2f72c10016485bd3 true https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/elegant-vamps-and-big-ships 65fca39a2f72c10016485bd3 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 elegant-vamps-and-big-ships with Dr Tamsin Paige full 1 2 Where incense filled churches meets sapphic socialites with fortitude


Dr. Tamsin Paige, a distinguished Senior Lecturer at Deakin Law School, is renowned for her work on dissecting legal practice in popular fiction through her academic papers. Apart from her scholarly pursuits, she is also known as a DJ, a former french pâtissier, and intriguingly, has potentially been involved in apprehending Somalian pirates at some point, only to later document the experience in writing.


During the episode, hosts Clare and Tamsin engage in a unique activity where they select fragrances for each other that would perfectly complement a book of their choosing. This exercise leads to a captivating discussion exploring the intricate connections between scent, fiction, and ethics. Tune in to delve deep into the world of literature and perfume with Clare and Dr. Tamsin Paige in this thought-provoking episode of Paperback Perfumes.



Fragrances discussed

Cherry Blossom - L’Occitane

Vanilla Vibes - Juliette Has A Gun

Izia La Nuit - Sisley 

Bois d’Encens - Armani Prive

Dragonfly - Zoologist

Books discussed

84k - Claire North

Bone Season - Samantha Shannon

The Old Lie - Claire Coleman 

Newflesh trilogy - Mira Grant 

Dead Witch Walking - Kim Harrison 

A Restless Truth - Freya Maske


Additional texts mentioned:

Legally Blonde

Black Sails

Star Trek (Original Series)

Picard

Starship Troopers

Dredd (2012 Film)



Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Where incense filled churches meets sapphic socialites with fortitude


Dr. Tamsin Paige, a distinguished Senior Lecturer at Deakin Law School, is renowned for her work on dissecting legal practice in popular fiction through her academic papers. Apart from her scholarly pursuits, she is also known as a DJ, a former french pâtissier, and intriguingly, has potentially been involved in apprehending Somalian pirates at some point, only to later document the experience in writing.


During the episode, hosts Clare and Tamsin engage in a unique activity where they select fragrances for each other that would perfectly complement a book of their choosing. This exercise leads to a captivating discussion exploring the intricate connections between scent, fiction, and ethics. Tune in to delve deep into the world of literature and perfume with Clare and Dr. Tamsin Paige in this thought-provoking episode of Paperback Perfumes.



Fragrances discussed

Cherry Blossom - L’Occitane

Vanilla Vibes - Juliette Has A Gun

Izia La Nuit - Sisley 

Bois d’Encens - Armani Prive

Dragonfly - Zoologist

Books discussed

84k - Claire North

Bone Season - Samantha Shannon

The Old Lie - Claire Coleman 

Newflesh trilogy - Mira Grant 

Dead Witch Walking - Kim Harrison 

A Restless Truth - Freya Maske


Additional texts mentioned:

Legally Blonde

Black Sails

Star Trek (Original Series)

Picard

Starship Troopers

Dredd (2012 Film)



Theme music for the episode created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Deadly Creatures and Dames Deadly Creatures and Dames Wed, 10 Apr 2024 20:10:35 GMT 26:43 65f966c5faa83e0016b803ae false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/deadly-creatures-and-dames 65f966c5faa83e0016b803ae 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 deadly-creatures-and-dames with Elissa Rose full 1 1 The world of femme fatales and murder: uniqueness, heroes and colloquialisms


In the debut episode of Paperback Perfumes, Clare and her guest, Elissa, a musician, fashion designer, and self-proclaimed lover of all things vintage, reflect on their recent olfactory expedition to a nearby perfumery, also known as a 'Sniffari'. Engaging in a lively conversation, they delve into the realm of signature scents while reminiscing about vintage fragrances and sharing anecdotes about working behind perfume counters. The discussion meanders to noir films, murder mystery novels, and the unique experience of seeing books come to life through film and television adaptations.


Fragrances discussed

Fracas - Robert Piguet

Rhinoceros - Zoologist

Nuit De Bakerlite - Noami Goodsir


Books discussed

The Big Sleep - Raymond Chandler

The Secret at Chimneys - Agatha Christie

The Herb of Death - Agatha Christie


Find Elissa on Instagram @ms_elle_rose

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The world of femme fatales and murder: uniqueness, heroes and colloquialisms


In the debut episode of Paperback Perfumes, Clare and her guest, Elissa, a musician, fashion designer, and self-proclaimed lover of all things vintage, reflect on their recent olfactory expedition to a nearby perfumery, also known as a 'Sniffari'. Engaging in a lively conversation, they delve into the realm of signature scents while reminiscing about vintage fragrances and sharing anecdotes about working behind perfume counters. The discussion meanders to noir films, murder mystery novels, and the unique experience of seeing books come to life through film and television adaptations.


Fragrances discussed

Fracas - Robert Piguet

Rhinoceros - Zoologist

Nuit De Bakerlite - Noami Goodsir


Books discussed

The Big Sleep - Raymond Chandler

The Secret at Chimneys - Agatha Christie

The Herb of Death - Agatha Christie


Find Elissa on Instagram @ms_elle_rose

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Paperback Perfumes Paperback Perfumes Fri, 05 Apr 2024 23:01:03 GMT 1:18 660f5bbddfaf11001716d747 false https://www.paperbackperfumes.com/episodes/teaser-trailer 660f5bbddfaf11001716d747 65d2eb5c8cc32000152072b7 paperback-perfumes Show Trailer trailer 1

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>