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Published by Clare Presser
Welcome to Paperback Perfumes! The host Clare Presser is a Librarian with a fascination for fragrances and their capacity to evokes memories and experiences through the activation of the olfactory system. In this podcast she chats with guests about their connections with scents and stories through the pairing of perfumes and literary texts. Think of it as reader’s advisory for fragrance lovers, or fragrance recommendation for bibilophiles - whichever experience is your first priority. It’s fun exercise that allows a lovely discussion around people’s personal interpretation of experience, scent, and story Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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"Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains." -Diane Ackerman, A Natural History of the Senses On September 12–13, I'll be at the Geelong Fragrance Fair and to mark it, this special episode gathers voices from everyone I've interviewed on Paperback Perfumes this past year. Sixteen perfumers, founders and scholars, each paired with a book, woven into one conversation about scent, story and identity. Here they are, in the order they first appeared on the show. Come find me at the Fair and say hello! Ep 3, Return of the Rivers — Laura Bass (Lore Perfumery) pairs fragrance with Rivers of London and The Return of the King. Ep 21, Artistic Aliens — Corey Newcombe (Criminal Elements) on a decade of artisanal scent, nose training and dream-born fragrances. Ep 26, Inheritance — John Domjan (Örök Fragrances) on telling queer community stories through scent. Ep 44, Futurism — Dr Caroline McMillan on smell tech, sci-fi and the future of olfactory art. Ep 46, Resilience — Aysha Hansen on sensory memory, teaching perfumery and building a fragrance line. Ep 47, Story Keepers — Juliette Fournier & Richard Adamson (Hart + Hedi) on collaboration, memory and native Australian botanicals. Ep 49, The Land of Flowers — Justin James (House of James) on niche perfumery as artistic rebellion. Ep 51, Fairy Tales — Michael Nordstrand (Mythologist Studio) on myth, the hero's journey and Scandinavian fairy tales. Ep 54, Kings and Heroes — Ashek Zubayer (Byermia) on the Epic of Gilgamesh and his mythological Folklore series. Ep 55, Aesthetics — Dr Liam Sardea on the philosophy of aesthetics, memory and meaning in scent. Ep 60, More Than a Dandy — Katrina Cochrane (Archer Farrar) on natural perfumery and The Scarlet Pimpernel. Ep 65, Sacred Scent — Lee Couch (LA COUCH), a Gamilaroi woman, on Aboriginal bush medicine, songlines and healing. Ep 71, A Box of Spices — Alina Tadevosyan (ARAKYÁL) on Armenian heritage, memory and cultural resilience. Ep 78, A Beautiful Grimoire — Troy Vu (Grimoire Perfumes) on Dorian Gray, myth and the macabre. Ep 82, Finding Language — Saskia Dodds-Painter (KOLIDO, Nose Magazine) on the language we use for smell. Ep 84, Makeup and Murder — David Clarke (Rivendare) on Agatha Christie and building a perfume house from scratch. Sixteen episodes, one thread: scent as story. Listen to the full compilation now, then come find me in person at the Geelong Fragrance Fair, September 12–13 — I'd love to swap book and fragrance recommendations with you. Tickets & info: geelongfragrancefair.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.
"Always throw spilled salt over your left shoulder. Keep rosemary by your garden gate. Add pepper to your mashed potatoes. Plant roses and lavender, for luck. Fall in love whenever you can." - Alice Hoffman, Practical Magic Aysha Hansen is an independent Australian perfumer with an uncompromising focus on exceptional quality, detail and sensorial elegance. Born in Geelong and raised in the coastal town of Torquay, Aysha's approach to perfumery is largely inspired by memories, daydreams and adventures. As an artisan perfumer, she draws on her passion for nature, history and travel to create fragrances that transport the wearer through evocative storytelling. Aysha conducts custom perfume workshops from her studio in Geelong, and has launched her eponymous luxury perfume collection in July of 2025. This episode welcomes back perfumer Aysha to reflect on a breakthrough year, including a finalist nomination at the Institute of Art and Olfaction's Golden Pears, an unforgettable trip to Athens, and the craft of turning memory into scent. The conversation explores community in perfumery, the restorative power of Aysha's workshops, and a book pairing with Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic that helps frame Aysha's first three fragrances: Golden Thread, Ghost Lover and Ambrosia. Fragrances mentioned: Golden Thread Ghost Lover Ambrosia Book discussed: Practical Magic - Alice Hoffman Find Aysha at: Instagram: @ayshahansenfinefragrance Website: www.ayshahansen.com Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Australian listeners — the Geelong Fragrance Fair is on from 11–13 September 2026, and tickets are on sale now. It's a great opportunity for the Australian fragrance community to get together — come and see me pair books with Lore Perfumery live on the Saturday! Tickets & info: geelongfragrancefair.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“In the secular night you wander around alone in your house. It’s Two-Thirty” - Margaret Atwood, In the Secular Night Regina Mamou is a research-based installation artist whose work sits at the crossroads of history, ideology and scent. Raised in a multiethnic household, her mother Polish-American, her father a Christian Chaldean priest who fled Iraq for fear of persecution. Regina's practice blends fact and fiction to interrogate belief systems, particularly communism and totalitarianism. Since 2020, she has been the first artist-in-residence at The Wende Museum of the Cold War in Los Angeles, where she investigates Iraqi-Soviet bilateral relations through an immersive, experiential installation. She holds an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design, and completed a Fulbright project on mapping and memory in Amman, Jordan. In this episode, Regina shares her unique work at the crossroads of olfactive art, history and political memory, and how scent can evoke powerful narratives and personal histories. We talk about her use of tincturing, and materials like gypsum, ash and bitumen, to conjure historical and cultural memory, and the delicate process of capturing vapour in immersive, scent-based installations. We dig into the role of surprise, secrecy and the unexpected in her work, echoes of surveillance and propaganda, and how her Iraqi heritage threads through pieces exploring Middle Eastern history and identity. Regina's piece "Hang Our Gods" was a finalist at the Institute for Art and Olfaction's Golden Pear Awards, and we talk about the audience reactions it provokes. We also pair the conversation with Margaret Atwood's poem "In the Secular Night," exploring its themes of solitude, loss and spirituality alongside Regina's own meditations on memory and belief. Works mentioned: Hang Our Gods (Institute for Art and Olfaction Golden Pear Awards finalist), Iraqi-Soviet relations installation — The Wende Museum residency Poem discussed: In the Secular Night - Margaret Atwood Find Regina at: reginamamou.com researchbermudatriangle.xyz Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Australian listeners — the Geelong Fragrance Fair is on from 11–13 September 2026, and tickets are on sale now. It's a great opportunity for the Australian fragrance community to get together — come and see me pair books with Lore Perfumery live on the Saturday! Tickets & info: geelongfragrancefair.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“The worst part of holding the memories is not the pain. It's the loneliness of it. Memories need to be shared.” ― Lois Lowry, The Giver Bawo Ijirigho is the founder and creative force behind Ilé Olomu, a fragrance house rooted in West African heritage and storytelling. A great-grand nephew of 19th-century Nigerian agricultural pioneer Nana Olomu, Bawo draws on his family's legacy and a modern artistic vision to bring the spirit of Nigeria into fine perfumery, co-developing each fragrance in Zürich alongside master perfumer Andreas Wilhelm. In this episode, Bawo takes us through his unexpected path from music into perfumery, and the meaning behind the name Ilé Olomu — Ilé means "house" in Yoruba, a deliberate departure from the French "Maison" tradition. We talk about how the Nigerian diaspora and indigenous flora, from the yellow trumpet to native lilies, shape his creative process, and the story behind Verdant, a fragrance built on memory, plantain and home, as well as the winner of the People Choice for the Gold Pear awards in 2026. Food and celebration run through the conversation too, with plantain, ginger and even a nod to Milo finding their way into his fragrance concepts. We also pair this episode with Lois Lowry's The Giver , exploring how storytelling and memory intertwine in both literature and scent, before Bawo shares his ambitions to take Ilé Olomu global and build lasting cultural connection. Ilé Olomu fragrances mentioned: Milora Verdant Atalẹ Gold Books discussed: The Giver - Lois Lowry Find Ilé Olomu at: Instagram: @ileolomu Website: ileolomu.com Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge . Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records Australian listeners — the Geelong Fragrance Fair is on from 11–13 September 2026, and tickets are on sale now. It's a great opportunity for the Australian fragrance community to get together — come and see me pair books with Lore Perfumery live on the Saturday! Tickets & info: geelongfragrancefair.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“There I was, a woman on the rocks by the ocean, wrapped in a blanket, waiting for the return of her lover. Everything I knew about art would say that I was a painting. I was certainly a poem. Sappho was too - her life, perhaps, unknowable, but her feelings were mine. I was mythic.” ― Melissa Broder, The Pisces April Lea is the founder, perfumer and creative force behind LVNEA, a Canadian fragrance house known for its richly layered natural perfumes. Drawing on mythology, folklore, art history and the natural world, April creates scents that invite us to slow down, reflect and connect more deeply with the stories carried by fragrance. Recorded prior to the 2026 Institute for Art and Olfaction Awards in Athens, our conversation explores the inspiration behind her award-finalist Vanitas fragrances and the centuries-old artistic traditions that informed their creation. April shares insights into her creative practice, from collaborating with perfumers and working with living botanical materials to translating emotion, memory and meaning into scent. We also discuss the complexities of natural perfumery, including ethical sourcing, sustainability and the environmental and cultural histories embedded within fragrance ingredients. Together, we explore how perfume can be both deeply personal and inherently political, connecting us to land, community and place. LVNEA fragrances mentioned: Vanitas Selkie Les Lunatiques Books discussed: The Pisces - Melissa Broder Find LVNEA at: Instagram: @lvneaperfume Website: lvenua.ca 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.
“At a small table, sitting very upright, was one of the ugliest old ladies he had ever seen. It was an ugliness of distinction—it fascinated rather than repelled.” ― Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express Most perfumers focus on crafting fragrance but David Clarke, the creative mind behind Rivendare, transforms the entire process into a story. From an unexpected starting point with no initial interest in perfume, he has built a distinctive voice in artisanal perfumery from a remote corner of Australia, earning recognition from the Institute for Art and Olfaction. Please note: this conversation was recorded prior to David receiving the Golden Pear Award in the Artisan category from the Institute for Art and Olfaction in June of 2026. In this episode, David shares how a failed online business became the unlikely gateway into perfume-making, and how that pivot shaped his philosophy around creativity, independence, and experimentation. We explore the role of scarcity and mystique in niche fragrance, and how stepping away from commercial expectations can open space for truly original work. David offers an inside look at the realities of small-batch perfumery, working with rare materials, navigating the challenges of sourcing from regional Australia, and pushing beyond conventional industry standards in pursuit of artistic freedom. His approach challenges traditional ideas of luxury, shifting the focus from status and scale to craftsmanship, creativity, and the ability of a fragrance to inspire and transport. Rivendare fragrances mentioned: 1747 Tundra Death by Vanity Books discussed: Murder on the Orient Express - Agatha Christie Find Rivendare at: Instagram: @rivendareperfume 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.
“Was I starting to feel evil? Yes, now I was worrying I'd be turned to the dark side by too much crochet.” ― Naomi Novik, A Deadly Education In this episode, I have an excellent conversation with Benjamin Esposito, the self‑taught perfumer behind New York’s House of Mammoth. I have always admired the way Benjamin talks about his work, grounding it in what he calls radical attention, the practice of noticing the strange, tender and absurd moments that shape a life. His path into perfumery started far from fragrance, but he is someone who loved making things from scratch. That curiosity eventually led him to scent as a way to tell stories and hold space for memory. We talk about how his fragrances draw from childhood moments, pop culture references and the sensory imprints of his cultural background. Benjamin shares why patience and slowness guide every part of his creative process and how artisanal work continues to matter in a world that moves faster every day. Fragrances mentioned: Everett - House of Mammoth & Michael Nordstrand You & I (Will Die) - House of Mammoth Voices - House of Mammoth DinoS’mores - House of Mammoth Snippid - House of Mammoth Bad Lily - TALE Parfum Vetiver - Guerlain Joy - Jean Patou Rauque - Roberto Greco/Christopher Sheldrake Books discussed: Calvin and Hobbs A Deadly Education - Naomi Novik Find House of Mammoth at: Instagram: @house.of.mammoth Website: houseofmammoth.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.
“These empires, however, have no power of the language of scent. Scent in situ resides outside of oppressive systems. Despite a massive market valuation for scented products, the language of scent itself cannot be commodified, owned or managed” - Catherine Hayley Epstein, Cognitive Impacts of Scent’s Languagelessness: A Persuasive Palette to Infuse Imagination and Healing, Nose Magazine , Issue 2 : Primed Saskia Dodds‑Painter is the founder of KOLIDO, a hands‑on perfumery based in the Yarra Valley on Wurundjeri Country, and the creator of Nose Magazine, an independent print publication dedicated to cultivating olfactive curiosity. Working with a small team, Saskia approaches scent as both craft and storytelling, designing and producing every perfume in‑house — from early formulation to bottling and shipping. Nose Magazine extends this creative vision into print, exploring the cultural and emotional dimensions of smell and appearing in stockists across Australia, Europe, the UK, and the US. In this episode, we explore how Saskia brings together her passion for scent, language, and community through the launch of KOLIDO and Nose . The conversation highlights the creative processes behind innovative fragrances, the importance of language in shaping how we experience scent, and the community‑driven approach that defines niche perfumery. Saskia shares how curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration guide her work, offering listeners insight into the evolving world of independent fragrance. Kolido fragrances mentioned: 70s Taxi Bareback Placebo Nymphetta Writing discussed: Nose Magazine - Issue 1: Top notes Nose Magazine - Issue 2: Primed Find Nose Magazine and Kolido at: Instagram: @nose.mag @kolido__ Website: nosenosenose.com kolido.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.
“Perfume is a language whose speech is worth learning and unpacking as one would a poem, book, or film. Scent is a path to getting closer to our senses, to instinct, and to our bodies and the earth at a time when those attachments are threatened.” Barbara Herman, Scent & Subversion: Decoding a Century of Provocative Perfume Barbara Herman is a writer, vintage‑perfume historian, and the founder of ERIS Parfums, a fragrance house inspired by the bold, unconventional beauty of classic perfume styles. Her journey began with collecting and researching vintage fragrances, which led her to create the blog Yesterday’s Perfume and later write Scent and Subversion: Decoding a Century of Provocative Perfume , a book exploring the cultural and artistic history of scent . Her fascination with the expressive power of perfume eventually evolved into creative collaboration with perfumer Antoine Lie, resulting in ERIS Parfums — a brand known for its daring, boundary‑pushing compositions that pay tribute to the past while speaking to a modern audience. In this episode, we explore the nuanced world of fragrance through vintage perfumes, challenge expectations as well as personal politics, and act as a form of artistic subversion. Fragrances mentioned: Lauren - Ralph Lauren Grey Flannel - Geoffrey Been Polo - Ralph Lauren Madeline de Madeline - Madeline Mono Nuit de Noel - Caron My Sin (Mon Peche) - Lavin Baghari - Robert Piguet Writing discussed: Scent & Subversion: Decoding a Century of Provocative Perfume - Barbara Herman Lolita - Vladamir Nabokov Alice’s Adventure In Wonderland - Lewis Carroll Dune - Frank Herbert Rebecca - Daphne De Maurier Miss Benson’s Beetle - Rachel Joyce The Giving Tree - Shel Silverman Find Barbara and ERIS parfums at: Instagram: @erisparfums @perfumaniac Website: barbaraherman.com erisparfums.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.
“There is a type of person who starts to GLOW FROM WITHIN when talking about perfumery…” - Pia Long, Excerpt from ‘Demo Accords’, featured in ‘On The Scent’ magazine, Issue 1 . Jo Fairley is a celebrated writer, journalist, and one of the most influential voices shaping how we understand and talk about fragrance. As co‑founder of On The Scent magazine (and it’s inclusion in a burgeoning media empire), she has spent decades translating the invisible world of scent into stories that explore memory, culture, and the emotional power of perfume. Her award‑winning writing has helped build a bridge between the perfume industry and everyday readers, making the language of fragrance more accessible, expressive, and deeply human. Alongside her work in scent journalism, Jo is also known for co‑founding Green & Black’s Organic Chocolate, a brand that reflects her instinct for storytelling, design, and thoughtful creation. Her entrepreneurial spirit and editorial eye come together in everything she builds, especially in her mission to cultivate community within the fragrance world. In this episode, Jo shares her journey through perfume writing, the evolution of scent culture, and the magic behind creating a groundbreaking magazine dedicated to fragrance. It’s a conversation about creativity, connection, and the way scent helps us understand ourselves and the world around us. Fragrances mentioned: Shocking - Elsa Schiaparelli Néroli Amara - Van Cleef & Arpels Eau des Sens - Diptyque Petitgrain - Perfumer H Writing discussed: On The Scent Magazine: Issue 1 (Digital Copy) Find Jo and On The Scent Media: Instagram: @jofairley @onthescentmedia Website: onthescentmedia.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 could go back, who would you want to meet?” ― Toshikazu Kawaguchi, Before the Coffee Gets Cold Delphine McPhilimey brings a quiet, intentional artistry to the world of natural perfumery, and this episode explores the depth behind her craft. A French‑born artisan perfumer, her path has taken her from traditional perfumery studies to hands‑on workshops in Bali, eventually leading her to establish Olfactora in West Leederville, Western Australia. Her work is shaped by a deep respect for natural materials, the discipline of classical technique, and the slow, thoughtful rituals that give fragrance its emotional resonance. Olfactora reflects this philosophy: a studio devoted to the beauty of considered creation, where people can learn, explore, and experience scent in its most authentic form. Delphine blends traditional craft with a contemporary, sustainable approach, creating perfumes that feel personal, expressive, and grounded in nature. Every experience in her studio honours refined craftsmanship and the quiet depth of raw materials. This episode also steps into the whimsical world of ‘Before the Coffee Gets Cold’ by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, a Japanese novel that explores time, acceptance, and connection - an unexpected but fitting companion to Delphine’s approach to scent. Through storytelling, philosophy, and the discipline of natural perfumery, she reveals how fragrance becomes a bridge between memory, emotion, and the moments that shape us. Fragrances mentioned: Coffee Break - Maison Margiela/Replica Awake - Akro Ember Shan - Byermia Brown Flowers - D.S. & Durga Opium - Yves Saint Laurent Book discussed: Before the Coffee Gets Cold - Toshikazu Kawaguchi Find Delphine and Olfactora on Instagram: @olfactora Website: olfactora.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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“ 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.
“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.
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