Steps to Story

I've been noticing some common themes in the conversations I'm having with writers. So today, instead of answering specific questions you've sent me, I want to address five patterns I keep seeing in my work with novel writers. Patterns that go beyond craft and into how we sustain ourselves as creative people.These aren't just technical writing problems. They're the deeper challenges that can make or break our writing career. They're about mindset, sustainability and what it really takes to show up as an intentional and heart-centered writer in this industry. Tune in to learn more.For more, visit my Website | Substack

In this inspiring episode, bestselling author J.T. Ellison shares what it really takes to build a creative life that stands the test of time. From honoring the seasons of your writing career to navigating burnout and rediscovering joy, J.T. offers candid insights into the mindset shifts, boundaries, and community connections that keep creativity sustainable. Whether you're in the trenches of a first draft or navigating the ups and downs of publishing, her wisdom is a reminder that longevity in the creative world isn't about hustle—it's about alignment, intention, and protecting what matters most.Find more on J.T. Ellison here and here.Find more in Nicole Meier here.

In this episode, I sit down with the writing duo Ali Brady (Alison Hammer and Bradeigh Godfrey) about creative collaboration. The former critique partners share how they evolved from giving each other feedback to co-authoring bestselling novels during the pandemic, emphasizing that collaboration multiplies rather than diminishes creative potential. They discuss their writing process where each takes a different character's perspective, their mutual respect and shared work ethic, and how they support each other through both successes and setbacks. The conversation highlights their latest release, Battle of the Bookstores, a romantic comedy about two competing bookstore managers who unknowingly fall for each other online while battling for the same job in real life.

Writing can feel lonely, but it doesn't have to be. In today's episode, I'm diving into what it really means to build your literary village: the people who support, challenge, and celebrate you from idea to launch. I'm sharing the behind-the-scenes of my fourth novel's journey—from my editor to beta readers, agent, publicist, and indie booksellers—and offering practical tips on how you can find the right support team for your season of writing. Because while the writing may be solitary, the publishing journey is anything but. Book a Call | Website | Book Coaching | Substack

Join me today as creative coach Tedd Hawks and I talk about why sharing your writing is so terrifying, the neurological reasons our brains resist putting our work out there, how to overcome the fear of rejection by reframing it as fear of regret, why the "lone genius" writer myth is harmful, and practical ways to find and build a supportive writing community that will help you grow as a writer.Find more on Tedd Hawks here.Find more on Nicole here.

Today I'm diving deep into the writer mindset with my dear friend and accomplished therapist, coach, author, and speaker Molly Carroll.We cover so much ground from the transformative power of morning rituals to reframing our resistance through a completely new lens. Molly shares incredible insights about self-care through the creative process, and honestly, so much more than I could have hoped for.I encourage you to turn in to hear more.Find more on Molly Carroll hereFind more on Nicole here.

There's something happening to us writers right now, isn't there? The algorithms reward, consistency. The platform's demand content, and somewhere in the rush we've started to believe that faster means better. That value comes from volume, that our worth as creators is measured in word counts and publishing schedules.If you've been feeling the pressure of creating faster, publishing more, and somehow keeping up with the relentless pace of the digital world. This episode is my gift to you.Website | Substack

Today's episode marks a gentle transition, one I've been contemplating for some time and am excited to finally share it with you. This podcast is embracing a new name, The Whole Writer. I'm sharing the why inside the episode.Want to connect? Email: nicole@nicolemeier.comSubstack: @nicolemeierwrites

In this episode I dive into the quiet, hidden fear that holds so many writers back — the comfort of invisibility. Whether you've told yourself “I'm not ready yet” or “this isn't good enough,” chances are it's not your story that's the problem. It's fear dressed up as perfection, safety, or self-doubt. Let's unpack why staying unseen feels deceptively comfortable, and how taking small, brave steps toward visibility can shift everything. If you've been hiding your work, this one's for you.Website | Substack

What does it mean to be a whole writer? For me and for so many of the writers I work with, it means expanding our definition of success.It means creating a writing life that includes, yes, the craft of storytelling, but also a creative rhythm that honors your energy and life season. A community of other writers who get it and who share your values. A curiosity about your ideal reader, not from a marketing lens first, but from a connection lens.Tune in to find out more.Links and resource from this episode:Website | Substack

In this heartfelt episode, we chat with debut novelist Jennifer O'Brien, whose publishing journey took a surprising and inspiring turn. After a real-life dream of buying a fixer-upper didn't pan out, she turned the experience into fiction—crafting a novel rich with themes of love, self-discovery, and the true meaning of home.We explore how real-life experiences influence story development, the deeper messages she hopes readers will carry with them, and the pivotal moments she leaned on intuition to guide her path—from finding the right literary agent to choosing the best publishing home for her book. If you're a writer chasing your dream or a reader who loves stories grounded in emotional truth, this episode will leave you inspired.Find more on Jennifer O'Brien here.Find more on Nicole Meier here.

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the writers we work with.And as we talked, I couldn't help but think, what if I could bring their wisdom and encouragement straight to you? So that's exactly what this three part series is all about. Over the next three episodes, in these round table style conversations, you'll hear insights, guidance, and heartfelt advice to help you write forward with clarity and confidence.You'll notice a variety of skill sets and focuses among the group. Some specialize in memoir, some specialize in children's books and others while coaching adult fiction. Bring a unique perspective to the work. I hope you'll grab a notebook, settle in, and soak up the wisdom these writing coaches have to share.Links to guests from this episode:Kerry SavageMonica CoxAbigail RaekeNicole Meier

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the writers we work with.And as we talked, I couldn't help but think, what if I could bring their wisdom and encouragement straight to you? So that's exactly what this three part series is all about. Over the next three episodes, in these round table style conversations, you'll hear insights, guidance, and heartfelt advice to help you write forward with clarity and confidence.You'll notice a variety of skill sets and focuses among the group. Some specialize in memoir, some specialize in children's books and others while coaching adult fiction. Bring a unique perspective to the work. I hope you'll grab a notebook, settle in, and soak up the wisdom these writing coaches have to share.Links to guests from this episode:Suzy VadoriStephanie DethlefsJoanne HainesDani Abernathy

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the writers we work with.And as we talked, I couldn't help but think, what if I could bring their wisdom and encouragement straight to you? So that's exactly what this three part series is all about. Over the next three episodes, in these round table style conversations, you'll hear insights, guidance, and heartfelt advice to help you write forward with clarity and confidence.You'll notice a variety of skill sets and focuses among the group. Some specialize in memoir, some specialize in children's books and others while coaching adult fiction. Bring a unique perspective to the work. I hope you'll grab a notebook, settle in, and soak up the wisdom these writing coaches have to share.Links to guests from this episode:Susan DeFreitasSuzette MullenJulie ArtzSamantha SkalJanet FoxNicole Meier

Today I'm discussing one of the most crucial parts of your novel: the first pages. You've heard it a million times, your opening pages need to quote hook readers, but why is that so important? Well, these first pages are your novels, handshake. They set up expectations, pose story questions, establish tone.And if you're aiming for traditional publishing, they might just be your one shot at impressing literary agents or editors at publishing houses. In this episode, I'll unpack why those first pages matter so much and how to make them work hard for your story.Website | April Workshop

Today, I want to talk about one of the hardest parts of writing: embracing the imperfection of that first draft. I know it can feel like you're slogging through a swamp of clunky dialogue, meandering plots, and sentences that don't quite shine. You might even wonder if you're wasting your time.But here's what I want you to know: Your so-called flawed first draft is actually a gift. It's a sign that you're showing up to the page with courage and letting the story unfold, no matter how messy.In this episode, I'm diving into why those imperfect drafts are so valuable—and how to shift your mindset to embrace them. I think by the end of it, you'll see what I mean.Website | Book Coaching | Developmental Editing

Today we're talking about that one thing: the mysterious, nagging problem in your novel that you just can't seem to fix. Every writer hits this wall, and today I'm going to help you find a way through.Join me as I discuss four effective methods for overcoming story writing struggles.Website | VIP Day Coaching | Substack

In this episode, I sit down with my literary agent Abby Saul for a deep dive into the querying process, the realities of an agent's role, and what makes a submission stand out. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of querying, you won't want to miss her top advice for catching an agent's eye in a crowded inbox.We also debunk common myths about what agents actually do, break down what grabs their attention in a query letter, and explore current market trends—plus, how to balance industry awareness with staying true to your unique voice. And for writers facing rejection, Abby shares words of encouragement to help you keep going.Whether you're just starting to query or refining your pitch, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the path to representation with more confidence!For more on Abby Saul, visit larkwords.comFor help with agent query strategy, visit bookworks.co

In today's publishing world, authors aren't just storytellers—they're also the CEOs of their own brand. That responsibility can feel overwhelming, but the good news is, you don't have to do everything all at once.In this episode, Gretchen Schaffer and I break down the three core "Why's" of building your author platform. Our goal is to help writers take intentional next steps in connecting with the right audience—without the stress of trying to be everywhere at once.Here's what we'll share:Why you need a platform (before you publish)Why a platform isn't what you think it isWhy it's important to start with what you haveFor more on Gretchen & Nicole, visit bookworks.co 

I'm pulling back the curtain in today's episode and talking about what it's really like to be an author in today's market. With me, are two of my author friends to help with a healthy and honest discussion around the business of being an author. Tracey Lange and Kerry Chaput join me to discuss:Balancing writing time and publishing responsibilitiesWorking on a deadlineThe benefits of writing groupsFeedback and revisionsThe journey of draft to publicationThe ever-changing marketYou can find more on Tracey Lange here.You can find more on Kerry Chaput here.For more on Nicole: Website | Books | Substack

Today we're diving into a topic that every novelist encounters sooner or later: how to handle feedback without losing your voice. Inside this episode, I'll cover the different types of feedback you might receive, how to process it with grace and clarity, and how to make changes while staying true to the story only you can tell. To find more on Nicole: Website | Substack

Today on the pod we're covering an important topic, the writer mindset. For anyone who has found themselves facing creative anxiety or procrastination, this episode is for you. My guest today is Rhonda Douglas, an award winning poet and fiction author. She is the host of the Resilient Writers radio show and a longtime creativity coach and writing mentor.Together, we're discussing:How to tackle creative anxiety The art of being presentThe power of creative communityFacing off with perfectionismI encourage you to curl up somewhere quiet and give a thoughtful listen. To find more on Nicole: Website | SubstackTo find more on Rhonda Douglas: Website | The Resilient Writers Radio Show

In this week's episode, I'm having an honest and inspired roundtable discussion with four of my writing clients. We dive into the nerves, surprises, and triumphs of attending their first writers' conference. We share:⁠✨ Why they took the plunge into their first conference—and how to prepare like a pro.⁠✨ The most unexpected moments that left them stunned (in the best way!).⁠✨ Smart tips for networking, even if you're an introvert.⁠✨ That unforgettable moment of inspiration and validation every writer dreams of.⁠✨ Lessons learned and advice for first-time attendees to make the most of the experience.⁠Whether you're gearing up for your first conference or reflecting on your own journey, this episode will inspire you to show up, shine, and own your space as a writer. Tune in to hear their nuggets of wisdom!To find more on Nicole: Coaching | Book WorksTo find more on:Megan Eilers: Substack | InstagramKelly Kearsley: Substack Christi (Ella Merriweather): Website | Instagram

What comes first when writing a novel? The dreaming or the drafting? The plotting or the planning? ⁠It seems simple—until it doesn't. First-time novelists often hit a moment where they wonder: Am I doing this all wrong?⁠⁠In this episode, we're breaking down the order of operations for novel writing, helping you find clarity and confidence in your process. Because spoiler: There's no “wrong” way, just your way.⁠⁠Tune into Steps to Story now to get unstuck and move forward with your novel. Check out my DIY Courses

If you're here, it's because you've got a story on your heart that's yearning to be written—and published.⁠But let's get real for a second: Are you just daydreaming about being an author, or are you actually building the roadmap to make it happen? ⁠In today's episode, I'm breaking down the tough love truths about what it really takes to write, finish, and publish your novel. No fluff. No generic advice. Just the plan you need to move forward. ⁠In fact, my focus for Season Two is to give you the real-real. Season One was a lot of how to strengthen your manuscript…which I'm still here for 100%. This season, however, I'm also aiming to help you strengthen your plan to get it into the world. ⁠Want to know more? Tune in and find out!Website | Courses | Coaching

Inside this (replay) episode I'm sharing an unfiltered look at my author journey over the last decade. After four published novels, I'm sharing the Top 10 things I've learned - everything from working with gatekeepers, understanding market trends, building community, and identifying meaningful author goals. This episode also marks the end of Season 1 of the Steps to Story podcast. I'm taking a small break, but will be back in 2025 with more!Happy listening!Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Ever wish you could go behind-the-scenes and ask an author how they went from idea to finished manuscript, how they overcame writing challenges, and how they went about the business of self-publishing their first book? Good news, I'm doing that today with author Saleema Ishq. Please join me as we dive into Saleema's journey from short story writer to debut novelist!You can find more about Saleema and her book at fearlessphrases.comTo find Nicole:Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Feeling stuck in your writing? There's a difference between forcing a story and letting it flow. ⁠With the New Year approaching, it's easy to feel the pressure to “just get it done.” But sometimes, the best progress happens when we lean into flow.⁠In today's episode, I'm sharing three ways to know when to push and when to let go: ⁠1️⃣ Write from intention, not tension. ⁠2️⃣ Build habits that invite ease, not strain. ⁠3️⃣ Approach your story with curiosity, not pressure.⁠Tune in to learn more.Website | Instagram | Free Guide | BOOK WORKS RETREAT!

Listeners, you're in for a treat today. I'm chatting with friend and author coach, Camille Pagan. We're diving into the topics of... author mindsetcareer decisions roadblocks market trends...and so much more. You can learn more about her work at www.camillepagan.com and www.evenbetter.co For more on Nicole: Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Today is another Ask Me Anything! Inside this episode I'm answering these five questions:1) How to tell if you're over-revising your novel manuscript.2) What to do if you've hit a wall and can't move forward.3) How to consider social media and your author platform.4) What to do when you're feeling sick of reading your own work.5) How to tackle self-doubt.Tune in to hear my tips and suggestions!Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

In today's episode, I'm diving into a crucial question for novel writers. Are you relying on tactics or strategies to move your work and progress forward? This is a subtle but essential distinction, and getting clear on it can make all the difference in your writing process. Today, I'll walk you through three key questions to ask yourself when it comes to your work in progress. Plus, I'll also give tips on how to shift from reactive tactics to purposeful strategies...and how to balance both!Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Today I'm diving into one of my all time favorite topics: writing retreats. What makes them such a transformative experience for authors and how can they benefit our writing?I'm talking about solo retreats, group retreats, and everything in between. If you've been feeling stuck, uninspired, or just overwhelmed by the day to day hustle, tune in because this episode will help you see how a retreat can not only recharge your creativity, but propel you forward in your writing journey.Visit BookWorks.co for retreat info!Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

In today's episode of Steps to Story, we're diving into one of the most crucial aspects of storytelling, your story's structure. For those of you who follow me, you'll know that my mission is to help you blend story structure with the story that's on your heart. Because as many of us know, it's not typically the actual story idea that needs work.It's the structure, the way in which we're telling it that often requires strengthening. I'll be covering two related topics:1) Strengthening the bones of your story2) Getting personalized coaching that will empower you to go deeperTune in to learn more.Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Suspense, mysteries and thrillers, oh my! Welcome to spooky season! Inside this episode of Steps to Story I'm talking with book coaches Samantha Skal and Kerry Savage about:The ideation of twistsKnowing your villainCharacter POVThe power of creativity communityManaging your WIPAnd so much more!You can Samantha Skal here.You can find Kerry Savage here.You can find Shadows & Secrets here.To find more on Nicole -Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Today I'm exploring how you can strategically allow yourself to be distracted and how those moments can open up new avenues in your novel writing. I'm uncovering six strategies that will not only give your brain a creative break, but allow you to bring fresh insights into your work in progress.Tune in to find out how.Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨

Are you an emerging author who's starting to think about your author platform? Or perhaps you're just dipping your toe into the world of publisher pitches and agent queries.

Do you know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of creative burnout? The state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion that affects your creative work?⁠⁠Are you feeling like you need to step back and refill your creative well? ⁠⁠

Today I'm talking with fellow book coach Savannah Gilbo about how to write an action story that works. Inside the episode we're discussing:The idea of doing your best workIdentifying frameworks that can help or hinder your progressHow to triage your work with an analytical brainPlus, Savannah's sharing details about her brand new book for novel writers. Tune in to find out more.To find more on Savannah - website: savannahgilbo.comInstagram: savannah.gilboBook: AmazonTo find more on Nicole - Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide

If you didn't get a chance to attend my free webinar on August 27th, which was titled: How to Go From Idea to Action in Your Novel Writing; the good news is, I'm sharing the content again here inside this episode in the form of a free mini-masterclass.Inside this mini-masterclass, I'll be sharing four steps:1) Identifying your story message2) Determining whether you have enough to fill a whole book3) Creating your novel's roadmap4) Moving through obstaclesFor those who want to go deeper, head to stepstostory.com/programWebsite | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program

You're going to hear a special episode today. It's a replay where five of my past students get together and talk about their experiences inside the Steps to Story program. Hopefully it will give you insight into my Steps to Story group novel writing program, but also some good motivation for your own work in progress.Inside we're covering topics such as:How to go from idea to actionWhat's working and not working in novel writingThe power of creative communityand so much more!Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program

Those who adapt a healthy mindset from the start are usually the ones who follow through with their novel writing dreams. That's why I'm breaking down some key mindset habits for writers inside today's episode.Tune in to learn 5 tips that will help you elevate your novel writing process.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program | FREE WEBINAR

Here's the tough truth, I often see writers (myself included at one time) who are so excited about their story idea that they rush through the process and forget to establish a strong foundation for their novel. The result is a writer who hits the midpoint with no idea how they got there or where they're going next. The pages suddenly don't seem to hang together and both the character and story arcs are lacking. I don't want this for you!That's why today I'm sharing four steps to building your foundation:Knowing your story messageCreating healthy writing habitsStudying elements of story structurePushing through self doubtTune in to learn more.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program | FREE WEBINAR

Today's episode is all about story craft! I'm diving into the red flags that signal your novel manuscript might need a tune-up. Writing a book is a massive undertaking, and with so many moving parts, it's easy to lose sight of crucial structural elements along the way.The four issues I'm diving into are: Flat charactersPoor narrative driveConfusing timelinesLack of conflictTune in to find how to identify and strengthen these elements.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program | FREE WEBINAR

Inside this episode, I'm diving into a topic that most writers are not immune to: project overwhelm. Sound familiar?I'm guessing the answer is yes. Because Whether you're a seasoned novelist or just starting your first manuscript, the weight of writing can sometimes feel like too much. There are so many elements of story structure to learn, so many demands on keeping up a writing routine, and so many good authors to compare ourselves to.I'm sharing six ways to avoid overwhelm and keep your creative spirit riding high. Tune in to learn what they are!Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST

Today I'm tackling a question that every novelist faces at some point: "How do I know if my story premise will fill a whole book?" If you're excited about your idea but hesitant to dive into writing, this episode is for you. I'm going to break it down into 3 simple steps to help you confidently take action with your novel.Tune in to learn more.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST

Today I'm diving into four crucial mistakes to avoid when writing your novel. While there is no wrong way to write your book, because your writing process should be your own, I can tell you that there are certain mistakes to be avoided in your process.Today I'm covering topics such as:Not having a roadmapRushing the processWriting as if someone is looking over your shoulderComparing your journey to othersTune in to learn how to avoid and overcome these writing mistakes in order to draft a strong novel manuscript.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST

Small but consistent efforts will keep you connected to your work this summer. Tune into today's short but sweet episode to learn three quick ways to keep your writing flow moving in the right direction this summer. Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST

I have the privilege of getting to know fiction writers and their stories because of the work that I do. And lately, I've been noticing some trends. Today's episode is all about the list of trends that are unique to my corner of the world.Tune in to the episode to learn:1) The types of "smart stories" coming across my desk2) Risks and payoffs of genre-blending and going indie3) The authentic and unapologetic ways writers are showing up4) Misadventures of story structureand more!Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Amplify Character Story Self-Paced Course | Small Group Program WAITLIST

In today's episode, we're going to dive into a hot topic in the novel writing process: Beta readers versus developmental editors. If you're a novelist looking to take your work to the next level, stay tuned, because we're about to uncover why beta readers and developmental editors are your secret weapon.Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST

I sent out a CTA to my followers asking their burning questions about their writing and publishing journeys. I got a great response and am happy to say that the questions sent back to me have a nice range of topics. This episode of Steps to Story is all about answering those questions!Inside this episode, I'm covering topics such as:The best method for outlining your novelHow to know when you're done writingWhether or not to include an epilogueHow to start your next novel manuscriptThe ins and outs of self-publishingTune in to learn more!Website | Instagram | Programs | Map Your Story Course 

Are flat characters killing your story? It's something I see all too often in my book coaching and developmental editing business. In this episode of Steps to Story, I'm breaking down the WHY, HOW, and WHAT when it comes to breathing new life into your novel's cast of characters. Let's give your novel manuscript the attention it deserves!Tune in to learn more!Website | Instagram | Programs | My New Book!