The Resilient Writers Radio Show

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.In this heartwarming and insightful episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Matty Dalrymple—thriller author, podcaster, speaker, and indie publishing pro. Matty's not only the writer behind the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels and Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, but also a passionate advocate for the power of short fiction—and trust me, she has so much wisdom to share.We kick things off with Matty's love of all things nautical (yes, even boat-watching on vacation!), and quickly dive into how she first began writing short fiction. What started as a way to keep her readers engaged between novels quickly turned into a cornerstone of her writing life. Matty's “snippets” from the Ann Kinnear universe are fan favorites—and she now has a growing collection of suspenseful short reads that offer bite-sized thrills and deep character moments.Matty walks us through the practical side of indie publishing short fiction, sharing tips on affordable cover design, working with beta readers, and even bringing her stories to life through audio narration. Her approach is smart, approachable, and encouraging—perfect for writers who want to do more without burning out or breaking the bank.One of my favorite parts of our conversation? Hearing how short fiction can act as a creative refresh. Whether she's exploring a quirky character like Garak Mazur (Ann's ghostly, curmudgeonly mentor) or experimenting with settings and ideas that don't quite fit a full novel, Matty embraces short stories as a playful way to stay inspired—and sometimes, they even lead to new books she hadn't planned on writing!And if you've ever wondered whether there's a real market for short fiction? Matty's answer is a resounding yes. Her short stories continue to sell (even with minimal promotion!), and they've become an unexpected income stream as well as a way to keep her readers excited and engaged.We wrap up with encouragement for any writer who's curious about short fiction but unsure where to start. Matty's advice? Don't overthink it—just try it out. A short story can be a creative experiment, a reader gift, or even a new path forward in your writing career.Tune in and fall in love with the possibilities of short fiction, all over again

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ana del Valle Distasio, author, book coach, and host of The Novelist Studio podcast. Ana brings a fascinating mix of creative writing chops and tech-savvy brilliance to the table — and she's on a mission to help writers harness the power of AI without compromising their voice or creative control.We talked about everything from her early love of storytelling (her first story was a love story… written in Spanish at age six!) to her journey through Silicon Valley and why she made the bold leap from fantasy YA under her pen name S.N. Blue to her upcoming humorous women's fiction novel, Valley of the Dudes.But where things really got juicy? When we dove into how Ana is using tools like ChatGPT to support novelists — not to replace their creativity, but to amplify it.Ana's take is refreshingly grounded. She reminds us that AI isn't some evil robot out to steal your manuscript. Instead, she likens ChatGPT to a super-smart assistant — like a “robot librarian” that can help you brainstorm, organize, and refine your work… if you know how to guide it properly.We got into the common fears writers have around AI — like privacy, copyright, and whether the output is even any good (spoiler: it can be, but only if you know how to prompt it well). Ana explained how she's built a thoughtful framework for using ChatGPT to outline, edit, and develop character backstories — all while ensuring that the writer remains in full control of the story.We also didn't shy away from the big-picture stuff: bias in AI, its environmental impact, and whether we risk losing skills like summarizing or editing when we rely on tools like this. Ana had such a thoughtful and honest perspective — especially on how to train ChatGPT to work in a way that actually supports your process.If you're curious about using AI as a co-creative ally — especially for outlining or developmental edits — this episode is a must-listen.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Canadian author Alexis von Konigslow—and what a fascinating conversation it was.Alexis is the author of The Capacity for Infinite Happiness, and her latest novel The Exclusion Zone is one of those books that stays with you long after you've put it down. Set in the haunting and still-radioactive landscape surrounding Chernobyl, it follows a scientist grappling with fear—both personal and collective—and offers an atmospheric, anxiety-tinged exploration of what it means to confront the unknown.We dug into the origin of Alexis's obsession with the Exclusion Zone (spoiler: it started with a commute and a news article) and how her deep dives into science and nature sparked the seed of this novel. Alexis brings a unique perspective as someone with a background in mathematical physics and a day job as a technical writer—she's fluent in both the scientific and creative languages, and she uses that skill to craft stories that bridge the two.I loved hearing about her writing process, which, as she humbly shared, involved a lot of “stolen moments”—from writing in the Notes app on her phone while standing in line at the grocery store, to letting scenes unfold in her mind during a daily commute. This book took ten years from first draft to publication, and Alexis doesn't shy away from how real life—work, parenting, and all the everyday details—complicated that process. But she kept going, one minute at a time.We also talked about writing fear and tension into your setting and how emotional honesty—pulling off the band-aid, as Alexis put it—can help create that lived-in, visceral feeling for the reader. She shared some beautiful insights about being open to observation and about writing the kind of book only you can write, even if it takes longer, and even if it's different from what the market “wants.”If you're someone who's balancing writing with a busy life, wondering how to stay true to your creative voice, or just love a good science-meets-story moment, this episode is for you.The Exclusion Zone is out in May 2025 from the always-fabulous Canadian indie press Wolsak & Wynn. Go grab your copy—and get ready to be unsettled in the best possible way.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.What happens when your personal journey of healing and transformation inspires a novel? That's exactly what happened to this week's podcast guest, award-winning author SL Clarke (Sherrie Lynn Clarke), whose debut novel, When He Returns, explores resilience, trauma, and redemption.In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, Sherrie Lynn shares the fascinating backstory behind her novel's evolution—from its first publication as True Strength to its rebranding and relaunch as When He Returns.We discuss the deep emotional roots of the story, how martial arts played a crucial role in her personal growth, and why she ultimately decided to change the book's title and cover to better fit the women's domestic suspense genre.Here's what you'll discover in this episode:✨ How Sherrie Lynn channeled her own emotional transformation into her protagonist's journey ✨ The challenges of self-publishing and why she decided to rebrand her book ✨ How she tackled cover design, book marketing, and genre alignment ✨ What it's like to write about deeply personal experiences while keeping fiction fictional ✨ Her current memoir-in-progress about grief, faith, and self-discoveryIf you've ever struggled with finding the right title, cover, or marketing approach for your book, this episode is packed with insights! Plus, you'll love hearing about Sherrie Lynn's creative journey—from marching band and martial arts to indie publishing and beyond.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I sat down with the wonderful Kat Caldwell — and let me tell you, it was such an energizing, heartfelt conversation that I just know you're going to love.Kat is the host of the Pencils&Lipstick podcast, a multi-genre indie author, and someone who's passionate about helping writers like us stay creative and resilient. She's been on this writing journey for over a decade, and together, we dove into the realities of what that path actually looks like — spoiler alert: it doesn't magically get easier after you publish your first (or third!) book.Kat opened up about how she first fell in love with stories as a kid, rewriting endings and imagining new adventures. But like so many of us, she struggled to figure out how to “make writing a real thing” when it came to careers and degrees. One thing that really stuck with me was how honest Kat was about the mental hurdles we face. She described the fear of finishing one project and worrying there might not be another idea after it. I could completely relate — I've been there too! But Kat reminded me (and all of us) that even when you switch genres or work on a new type of project, it's always a fresh beast to tackle. Each book, each story, demands its own unique approach, and that's part of what keeps this work exciting (and yes, sometimes maddening!).We talked about the importance of joy in the writing process — how crucial it is to write what you love, without judgment. Kat encouraged writers to let go of the idea that every word or every story has to be “literary” or world-changing. Whether you're passionate about romance, sci-fi, or even writing short flash fiction pieces just for fun, it's all valuable. Not every word needs to be published — sometimes writing just for yourself is what keeps the spark alive.Kat also shared some smart advice about learning to toss out what isn't working (including, in her case, tossing a whopping 60,000-word draft!) and recognizing that not every review or piece of feedback matters. What truly matters is creating work you're proud of.She even gave us a sneak peek into her resource: 10 Ways to Bring Joy Back Into Your Writing Life — which you can grab at the link. If you're feeling stuck or disconnected from your writing right now, this is the episode for you.I walked away from this conversation feeling re-energized and reminded that we are resilient writers — we keep going, not because it's easy, but because we love the process and the stories we're here to tell. I hope you tune in and feel the same spark of inspiration I did!

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.In today's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm absolutely thrilled to sit down with the incredible Canadian author Catherine Bush. Catherine has written five novels—including Blaze Island and The Rules of Engagement—and has racked up an impressive list of accolades along the way. But today, we're diving into something a little different: her very first collection of short stories, Skin.I loved hearing Catherine talk about why she turned to short fiction after years of working in long-form novels. Like many of us, she found herself exhausted during the pandemic and needed a new creative challenge—something playful, something pleasurable. Short stories, flash fiction, and even novella-length pieces became her way back into joy. Skin isn't just a collection of new work either; it brings together pieces from across her writing life, reimagined and revisited with the wisdom she's gained over the years. I loved hearing her describe it as a "fractured writer's autobiography."We also explore how Catherine's work continues to weave in themes of climate change and environmental intimacy, from a man obsessed with extreme windstorms to a woman's strangely moving encounter with a glacier. Catherine shares how she tries to reframe the typical “doom and gloom” narrative around climate change by writing about it in ways that are fresh, intimate, and full of wonder. Her reflections on finding new, non-cliché language to capture the natural world were so inspiring.One of the things I found especially fascinating was how Catherine thinks about revision. Whether working on a novel or a short story, she approaches the process slowly, deeply, and with a fierce dedication to re-seeing the work each time she sits down. Revision isn't just about tweaking words—it's about returning to the heart of the story, again and again, to bring it closer to its fullest, most alive version. Hearing how she balances specificity with liveliness was a real reminder to be patient with our own messy drafts.We also talked about tenderness—how important it is to bring a loving, attentive gaze to both our characters and our readers. Catherine's thoughts on writing as a reciprocal act, a gift exchange between writer and reader, really stayed with me. It's not about judgment; it's about listening and offering something meaningful.Catherine's new collection Skin is published by Goose Lane Editions, and she shares a bit about what it was like working with them (hint: she's thrilled with the stunning cover!). Plus, she talks about the gift of working with fellow writer André Alexis as an editor for this project—how his intense, detailed feedback pushed her stories to an even deeper level.Whether you're working on a novel, experimenting with short stories, or simply needing a boost of creative inspiration, this conversation is full of encouragement, wisdom, and heart.Thanks for tuning in, Writer—I'm so glad you're here!

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.I've got some news...this week I am going back to producing the show on a WEEKLY basis, instead of doing Seasons of 12 episodes. Expect more writerly goodness to come!I'm so excited to introduce you to the wonderful Sarah Selecky — award-winning author, beloved teacher, and founder of the Sarah Selecky Writing School. In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah and I dive into the rich and beautiful connection between creativity, mindfulness, and the writing life.Sarah shares how she's come to see writing not just as an art form, but as a contemplative practice — a way of being present, tuning into curiosity, and connecting with wonder. We talk about her brand-new book, Story is a State of Mind: Writing and the Art of Creative Curiosity, where she distills decades of her teaching and personal writing practice into a thoughtful, encouraging guide for writers who want to nurture both their intellect and intuition.During our conversation, Sarah and I explore something I know many writers struggle with — the balance between structure and creative freedom. She shares how her early writing grew from intuition rather than structured plotting, and what it looked like for her to learn how to bring structure into her storytelling without losing the sense of mystery and discovery that makes writing feel so alive.Sarah even offered a simple, beautiful exercise you can try — using pen and paper to list words starting with a single letter — to help ease into creativity without judgment. It's such a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the smallest rituals can gently open the door to deeper creative work.We also talked about the power of community — and how important it is for us, as writers, not to try and do this alone. Sarah shared her journey from solitary writer to community builder, and how her online space, Centered, grew out of a desire to support writers in a way that feels nourishing, intuitive, and sustainable. I love how Centered invites writers into a creative life rooted in wonder, rest, and shared joy — not hustle or competition. I've been part of this community and can highly recommend it!You can join in a workshop Sarah is offering through Centred on May 14th, with Amy T. Won, entitled Creative Contemplation Through Wonder, for just $20 as a drop-in fee.Throughout our conversation, what touched me most was Sarah's emphasis on giving ourselves grace. Writing creatively isn't easy — it asks us to bridge the worlds of structure and imagination in a way that's neurologically complex and deeply human. If you've ever struggled to trust your own creative instincts or felt overwhelmed by the pressure to “get it right,” this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. I hope you'll find inspiration here to be gentler with yourself, reconnect with your love of words, and savor the deep, sustaining beauty of the writing life.Welcome back to the podcast -- I'm so glad you're here!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of building your author platform? Not sure where to start or how to connect with your readers? You're not alone! In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I sit down with author and certified book coach Nicole Meier to break it all down into simple, actionable steps.Nicole is the author of The House of Bradbury, The Girl Made of Clay, and The Second Chance Supper Club, and her latest book, City of Books, is out now! She's also a developmental editor and co-founder of Bookworks, where she helps writers create an engaging author platform that aligns with their goals.In our conversation, Nicole shares why so many writers feel stuck when it comes to marketing themselves—and how to move past the overwhelm. If you've ever thought, Do I have to be on every social media platform? Do I need a newsletter? What kind of content should I even be sharing?—this episode is for you!Key Takeaways:✅ Start with Your “Why” – Before diving into social media or email marketing, take a moment to reflect on what you want from your platform. Do you want to connect with readers? Build credibility? Attract an agent? Understanding your purpose will help you make smarter choices.✅ Go Where Your Readers Are – Not every platform is right for every author. Romance writers might thrive on Instagram, while nonfiction writers may find their audience on LinkedIn. Nicole shares how to identify the best place to focus your energy.✅ Less is More – The biggest mistake writers make is trying to be everywhere at once. Nicole recommends choosing one platform and showing up consistently rather than spreading yourself too thin. Quality and consistency matter more than quantity!✅ Be Authentic – You don't have to dance on TikTok or create elaborate content if it doesn't feel right for you. Share your writing journey, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights into your creative process—authenticity is what truly connects readers to authors.✅ Newsletters Are Gold – Social media is great for visibility, but email lists convert better when it comes to book sales. Nicole explains why a newsletter (via Substack or another platform) can be a game-changer for your author career.✅ Avoid Common Mistakes – Nicole highlights the top three mistakes authors make: not knowing their purpose, overcommitting to too many platforms, and feeling like they're not “worthy” of having a platform. She reassures us that small, consistent efforts are what really matter.If you want a step-by-step plan to grow your audience, this episode could be exactly what you need!

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had an absolute blast chatting with sci-fi suspense author JC Spark about her thrilling debut novel, Dire Contact: No Brainer Book 1. JC is a recent graduate of my First Book Finish program, so it was a real delight to catch up!If you love books that keep you up at night turning pages, this one's for you! JC describes Dire Contact as “if Good Omens and Doctor Who had a baby.” (I mean, come on—how fun does that sound?) But beyond the book itself, we dive deep into her incredible journey from idea to published novel, including the challenges of outlining a complex, multi-POV sci-fi series and navigating the world of self-publishing.Some highlights from our conversation:

Do you ever find yourself wondering, “Am I really a writer?” or “Is my work even good enough?” If so, you're not alone! Confidence is something so many writers struggle with, which is why I'm thrilled to bring you this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show featuring confidence coach and book editor, Kirsten McNeill.Kirsten is the founder of Worthy Writers Editing and the host of the Worthy Writers Podcast. She helps writers break through self-doubt, embrace their creative journey, and build a writing life filled with passion and confidence. If you've ever hesitated to share your work or doubted your ability to finish a book, this episode is packed with insights just for you!In This Episode, You'll Discover:✅ The real reason self-doubt keeps holding you back—and how to break free from it.✅ Why embracing imperfection is a game-changer for your writing.✅ How your why can fuel your confidence and motivation.✅ The connection between craft and confidence—and why you don't need to be an expert to start.✅ Simple, practical strategies to boost your belief in yourself as a writer.Kirsten also introduces her Feed Your Horses Confidence Thought Exercise, a fun and insightful workbook designed to help you reframe negative thoughts and build a more confident writing mindset. You can grab your free copy here!If you're tired of second-guessing yourself and want to feel more confident about your writing, don't miss this episode.

Hey there, Writer! Welcome back to another episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show.This week, I had an inspiring conversation with Laura Jevtich—a writer, author, and social media creator with a fascinating journey that took her from geology to writing memoirs and beyond.Laura's story is anything but conventional. Originally trained as a geologist, she spent over a decade in the field before jumping ship during the Y2K era to become a computer trainer. This shift led her to start her own business in 2003, helping realtors with website content and blog posts. Little did she know that this early experience in writing would pave the way for her future as an author.In 2005, Laura and her husband Sasha made a bold decision that would change their lives forever—they bought a truck camper and hit the road, embracing a nomadic lifestyle that was nearly unheard of in their Northern Virginia community. As they traveled, Laura began documenting their journey, which led to the creation of her memoir, Unusual Adventures Traveling Through Life: A Memoir of Frugalness to Financial Freedom.Their journey wasn't just about travel; it was about reclaiming their time and energy. The couple realized that homeownership was holding them back from the adventurous life they craved. So, in 2006, after a six-week sabbatical, they sold their house and nearly all their possessions, choosing instead to live full-time in their RV. Their travels took them to national parks across the U.S., where Laura worked as a park ranger in places like the Grand Canyon and Canyonlands. Along the way, she continued writing, capturing their experiences in long-form articles and blog posts.By 2018, Laura decided to take a break from the road, settling in Pahrump, Nevada, where she and her husband built a home. But the writing never stopped. Encouraged by her father, she pivoted from writing about organization and minimalism to focusing on her memoir. We talked about how she dived into the writing world, reading memoirs, joining online communities, and learning the craft of storytelling. In 2022, she committed to finishing her memoir, winning NaNoWriMo by typing up her handwritten manuscript and completing the draft. After a rigorous self-editing process, she published the book in July 2023.Laura didn't stop there. She returned to her unfinished book on organizing, completing and publishing it in early 2024. She has since been deeply involved in the writing community, attending conferences like 20 Books to Vegas (now Author Nation) and embracing direct sales and marketing strategies.Now, Laura has once again jumped ship—this time from nonfiction to fiction. She's currently writing a historical romance, sharing her journey on Ream Stories, and was even featured on their homepage for historical romance.Throughout the episode, Laura shares valuable insights on following your passions, embracing change, and navigating the self-publishing world. She's a true example of resilience and reinvention, proving that it's never too late to chase a new dream.Enjoy the episode!

If you've ever worried about using tropes in your writing—wondering if they make your story predictable or overdone—this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show is here to change your mind. I'm joined by Jennifer Hilt, USA Today bestselling author, story consultant, and the brilliant mind behind The Trope Thesaurus series. She's an expert in crafting compelling plots and characters using tropes in fresh, exciting ways.We often hear about “tired tropes” or “overused storylines,” but Jennifer breaks down why tropes are actually the essential building blocks of storytelling. She explains how they create familiarity and connection with readers while still allowing for creativity and originality. But tropes are at play everywhere -- the trick is knowing how to twist them in unexpected ways so they feel new.Jennifer shares how she first became fascinated by tropes during the pandemic, diving deep into books, movies, and TV shows to analyze what makes stories work. She also clarifies the difference between tropes and stereotypes—tropes are neutral storytelling tools, while stereotypes often come with negative connotations. By understanding this distinction, writers can use tropes effectively without falling into lazy or problematic storytelling.Understanding how tropes function can be a game-changer, especially if you're feeling stuck in the middle of your book. Jennifer shares practical ways to use tropes to guide your story forward. Instead of staring at a blank page, ask yourself: What tropes am I already using? Can I flip one on its head? Can I combine multiple tropes to create something fresh? This can help you revitalize your plot and character arcs, keeping both you and your readers engaged.Jennifer also has a free trope list to help spark new ideas in your writing! You can find it in the show notes, along with links to her books, including The Trope Thesaurus, The Horror Trope Thesaurus, and The Trope Thesaurus: Romance.So grab your notebook, tune in, and get ready to embrace the power of tropes in your storytelling!

Have you ever sat down to write only to suddenly need to do the dishes, scroll TikTok, or reorganize your bookshelf? You're not alone! Writing resistance is real, and it can show up as procrastination, perfectionism, self-doubt, or just an overwhelming sense of stuckness.In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I talk with Monica Hay, a writer, coach, and mentor who has spent years studying the brain science of writing resistance. She shares why resistance happens, how it's completely normal, and—most importantly—how to work with your brain, not against it, to build a sustainable writing practice.For many of us, writing was easy as kids. We wrote stories just for fun, without that nagging inner critic. But as we got older, perfectionism crept in. We started worrying about whether our writing was good enough, if we were real writers, or if our stories would ever get published.Monica shares that resistance isn't about laziness or lack of talent—it's just how our brains are wired. It all comes down to a battle between:

In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, we're diving deep into the world of character development with the amazing Megan Fuentes! Megan is a writer of flash fiction and historical fiction, specializing in strong female leads and captivating narratives set against the backdrop of real-world events—especially the fascinating history of World's Fairs.In our conversation, Megan shares her journey as a writer, from her earliest days of storytelling to the moment she realized she had no idea how to create a proper character arc. (Yes, even published authors hit those moments of doubt!) She talks about working with a former Penguin Random House editor who gave her the eye-opening feedback that changed everything, and how she then dove headfirst into mastering character development.If you've ever struggled with crafting compelling character arcs, you won't want to miss this episode! Megan breaks down her process for building deep, meaningful character transformations using a modified version of Dan Harmon's Plot Embryo and Eva Deverell's One-Page Novel method. She walks us through an 8-step framework that helps writers ensure their characters grow in believable, emotionally satisfying ways.This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to write characters that truly resonate with readers. Whether you're writing historical fiction, romance, or any other genre, Megan's insights will help you craft deeper, more compelling protagonists who keep readers hooked.

This week, we're diving deep into the art of crafting heroic characters—the ones who overcome obstacles, stand for something greater, and keep readers turning the page. Joining us is Mary Dezember, award-winning author of Wild Conviction and a seasoned writer of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.Mary's novel, Wild Conviction, is a historical, socially conscious epic adventure with a touch of magic. Set in 1858—a tumultuous period just before the U.S. Civil War—the story follows Twilight, a young woman who discovers life-altering secrets on her 16th birthday. Raised in the North by an abolitionist grandmother, Twilight is forced to return to her parents in Memphis, Tennessee—the largest inland trading port for cotton and enslaved people. As she grapples with the burden of truth, she embarks on a dangerous journey, trying to reconcile the world as it is with the world she wants to help create.Mary shares her process of writing heroic characters, exploring what makes them compelling. Heroism, she explains, isn't just about grand, world-changing acts. Sometimes, it's about inner transformation, fighting personal battles, and standing by one's values despite opposition. Whether you're writing fiction, memoir, or poetry, a heroic character gives your story urgency, emotional depth, and a sense of purpose.We also discuss the challenges of writing historical fiction. Mary shares her meticulous research process to ensure historical accuracy, while also making creative decisions to avoid reinforcing outdated narratives. For example, she chose not to use certain historically accurate but harmful language, opting instead for inventive, respectful alternatives.Mary shares her framework for believing in your story, which includes:Character connection – making characters human through universal emotions and struggles.Power of urgency – crafting a compelling story that demands to be heard.Magic of the muse – embracing the creative flow and trusting your instincts.If you've ever struggled with self-doubt about your writing or felt unsure if your story is worth telling, this episode is for you. Your voice, your perspective, and your characters matter.

Hey there, and welcome back to another episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show! This time, we're diving into all things editing with the wonderful Stacy Juba, founder of Shortcuts for Writers. Stacy has been crafting stories since her school days, and her passion for writing has led her to publish everything from mystery novels featuring determined women sleuths to sweet and sassy chick-lit, plus books for children and young adults. In other words, Stacy really knows her stuff—and she's here to share her editing know-how so we can all polish up our manuscripts and become better writers.In this chat, Stacy breaks down the different types of edits your manuscript might need. We cover developmental editing, which looks at the big-picture elements like plot, structure, characterization, and pacing. Get those foundations right, and the rest of your editing becomes so much easier.Next, she explains line editing, the stage where you tighten your prose, eliminate redundant words, and make your sentences sing. Think of it as the polishing phase for your unique writing voice. Finally, there's copy editing, which handles all those nitty-gritty grammar, punctuation, and spelling details. One of the coolest resources Stacy shared is her Looks and Gazes Quick Start Guide, a handy list of fresh ways to describe how characters look at each other—so you're not stuck writing “He looked at her” or “She gazed at him” for the thousandth time! It's completely free and a perfect example of Stacy's knack for simplifying the editing process.If you've been feeling overwhelmed by the idea of polishing your manuscript or you're ready to level up your writing skills, you won't want to miss Stacy's insights. By the end of this episode, you'll feel more confident about tackling your own edits—plus, you'll discover new tools to make the process smoother and more fun.Listen in, take notes, and get ready to embrace the power of editing! Your future, fully polished novel will thank you.

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, Rhonda speaks with bestselling author and TEDx speaker Marcy Pusey -- diving into the often-feared challenge of writer's block, exploring its deeper causes and offering insights on how writers can overcome it. Marcy, who is also a therapist, shares her unique perspective on how writing can be a deeply therapeutic process, connecting the act of storytelling to emotional healing. She explains that writer's block is not always about a lack of creativity but may be linked to unprocessed emotions or trauma, stored in the brainstem, which can affect one's ability to find the right words.The episode breaks down the various types of creative blocks that writers experience, such as mental, emotional, and scarcity blocks. She emphasizes that these blocks are often rooted in deeply held beliefs or fears, such as the idea that there's not enough time, money, or talent to succeed. Understanding these psychological hurdles can help writers address the root causes of their resistance and find ways to move past them. In addition to offering tools for overcoming writer's block, Marcy also addresses the debilitating issue of imposter syndrome, which often holds writers back, especially those just starting out. She encourages writers to challenge their limiting beliefs and embrace the idea that they are on a journey of growth. By focusing on learning and evolving, writers can shift away from the perfectionism that keeps them stuck.This episode is a must-listen for any writer struggling with creative blocks or self-doubt, as Marcy offers both practical advice and emotional support to help you move forward with your writing projects.

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, host Rhonda Douglas sits down with Mia Botha, a seasoned writing coach and creator of popular writing challenges like "12 Stories in 12 Months" and "30 Days of Flash Fiction." The conversation dives into the common struggles writers face, particularly the ever-present hurdle of procrastination.Mia shares her unique journey from grappling with unfinished manuscripts to creating community-driven deadlines that transformed her productivity. She explains how procrastination can sneakily disguise itself as "productive" activities—like cleaning grout or taking yet another writing class. Recognizing this, Mia emphasizes the importance of balancing indulgence in these distractions with discipline and accountability. For her, outsourcing discipline through public deadlines and collaborative challenges has been a game-changer.The episode also explores the concept of "procraftination," where writers spend more time learning about writing than actually writing. While craft development is essential, Mia advises being mindful of when it shifts from helpful to avoidant behavior. For her, it's crucial to focus on writing more than procrastinating, even if the writing feels imperfect or experimental. In fact, she believes that magic often lies in the brave, "wonky" stories.This episode is packed with practical advice and a warm reminder that writing is a journey best traveled with intention, community, and a bit of self-compassion. Whether you're struggling with procrastination or looking for ways to reignite your creative spark, this discussion offers encouragement and actionable takeaways to help you build a resilient and joyful writing life.

In this first episode of Season 6 of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, host Rhonda Douglas dives into the world of nonfiction writing with expert Meghan Stevenson. Meghan, a seasoned professional in crafting nonfiction book proposals, shares her wealth of experience, having helped her clients secure over $5 million in publishing advances and contributing to the success of 16 New York Times bestsellers.The conversation explores the distinct differences between nonfiction and fiction markets, emphasizing how nonfiction is driven by purpose—whether to educate, solve a problem, or inspire change. Meghan highlights the importance of recognizing books as products, a mindset shift essential for authors looking to navigate the publishing world successfully.The discussion also demystifies the nonfiction book proposal—a pivotal tool for securing an agent or publisher. Meghan likens it to a “mullet of publishing,” combining business-driven content in the front with creative writing in the back. Proposals typically include an overview, chapter summaries, a sample chapter, and business sections detailing marketing strategies, comparative titles, and a compelling author bio. Meghan strongly advises against writing the full book before selling it, as the publishing process often involves refining and reshaping the idea.The episode is packed with valuable advice for writers aiming to break into the nonfiction space. Meghan's blend of candid humor and actionable insights provides a clear roadmap for authors to navigate the challenging but rewarding world of publishing. From recognizing the business side of writing to understanding the importance of collaboration and patience, listeners walk away with a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed as a nonfiction author.Whether you're an entrepreneur, expert, or simply someone with a great idea, this episode serves as an encouraging guide to bringing your nonfiction book dreams to life. Rhonda and Meghan's warm and engaging conversation reminds writers that with the right tools and mindset, they can overcome the hurdles of publishing and create lasting impact with their work.

In this last episode of Season 5 of the podcast, I am doing a solo show talking about a step-by-step guide on how to create your own DIY writing retreats. These DIY retreats, which I've organized for myself for over 20 years and now include in my First Book Finish program, have helped me reconnect with my projects and make significant progress on my manuscripts. Here's a link to where you can find the DIY Writing Retreats resource I mention in the show.That is it for Season 5 of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. We are going to be kicking off Season 6 in about four weeks time. See you soon!--Rhonda xo

In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I interview Jeanne Blasberg. Jeanne is a bestselling author known for her novels Eden and The Nine. Her latest novel, Daughter of a Promise, came out in April 2024. This latest novel is a contemporary retelling of the Biblical story of David and Bathsheba, set in modern-day New York. Jeanne explains that while she kept the essence of the original plot, she made significant changes to reflect contemporary themes, including giving her heroine more agency than Bathsheba had in the Bible.Our conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of reimagining classic stories in a modern context. Jeanne was inspired to explore the timelessness of themes like consent, attraction, and power dynamics, especially during the #MeToo movement. By writing from the perspective of Betsy (her modern Bathsheba), Jeanne gives a voice to a character who, in the original story, is largely voiceless. Towards the end of the interview, we also get into indie publishing vs. traditional publishing – a topic I know a lot of think about! 

This week's episode from The Resilient Writers Radio Show features an interview with Sue Brown-Moore, a book coach and developmental editor. We go deep into the intricacies of developmental editing, particularly for fiction and romance authors. The conversation dives into the purpose, timing, and benefits of developmental editing.When it comes to self-editing, Sue encourages writers to conduct their own developmental edits by stepping back from their manuscripts before revisiting them with fresh eyes. She  offers a free 30-minute webinar teaching authors to pre-edit their manuscripts to ensure foundational storytelling issues are addressed before a formal edit.

Something a little different this week! In this episode, I am speaking with Brooks Elms, a professional screenwriter and coach who shares his insights into screenwriting. Our conversation covers both the technical and creative aspects of the craft, as well as tips for those who are new to screenwriting or looking to transition from other writing forms, such as novel writing.Brooks offers advice for beginners, emphasizing the importance of just starting and having fun with the process. He suggests beginning with short scripts and experimenting with the unique structure of screenwriting, which relies heavily on what is seen and heard rather than interior thoughts. He breaks down the basics of screenplay formatting, including the use of slug lines and action lines, and encourages writers to focus on the subtext, which conveys a character's emotions and motivations through actions rather than explicit dialogue.One of the key topics discussed is how screenwriting differs from other forms of writing, particularly novels. While novelists often rely on interiority to express characters' thoughts and feelings, screenwriters must find ways to show this visually. Brooks explains that a character's emotions can be revealed through subtle actions, gestures, or dialogue that suggests deeper meaning. For example, how a character enters a room can indicate their emotional state without them needing to state it outright.Listen to the full episode to see if screenwriting is for you!

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I host my friend, author and book coach Emma Dhesi, to explore the psychological and practical challenges that writers face, especially when completing a novel. Emma shares her personal journey of overcoming sporadic writing, highlighting how a realistic understanding of the difficulty of writing is crucial. She notes that aspiring authors often underestimate the work involved, partly due to idealized portrayals of writers in media. The conversation also covers Emma's "four pillars" for a successful writing practice. This episode serves as a reminder of why writers started, encouraging enjoyment of small achievements and creative freedom.

This week I have an interview with Kevin T. Johns, a writing coach and author who is also based in Ottawa, Canada, where I live. Our conversation revolves around the challenges aspiring authors face, particularly in completing their first draft, and how writers can better approach storytelling and the writing process.Kevin emphasizes that many writers spend too much time perfecting their first few scenes, not realizing that once the manuscript is complete, those scenes often need rewriting or cutting. His key advice is to write the first draft quickly to have something to work with, as the real work begins during the revision process. Kevin also points out that the education system contributes to the misconception that writing is a one-and-done process, as students often submit essays without ever revising them.Kevin's approach to helping writers focuses on commercial genres, such as horror, romance, sci-fi, and fantasy, where there are clear expectations for plot structure and genre conventions. He runs a program called "Story Plan," which helps writers plan the fundamental aspects of their story, from genre and structure to character arcs and theme. He encourages writers to know their genre and the expectations readers have, as this forms a contract between the writer and the reader. Planning helps create a coherent story and gives the writer confidence as they move through the drafting process.

This week's episode features an interview with Janelle Hardy, a multifaceted creative with expertise in dance, somatic experiences, and memoir writing. We explore how body awareness influences creativity and our writing. Janelle shares her journey from feeling disembodied to becoming more connected through somatic practices and nervous system regulation. She emphasizes the importance of using the body as a resource in creative processes, such as memoir writing, to avoid mental burnout and re-traumatization.Our discussion concludes with thoughts on how memoirs can be a healing process and a means of making meaning from life experiences, with Janelle advocating for working slowly and intentionally with both mind and body.

This week, I interview Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, an author, speaker, and Choctaw storyteller from Texas who has published 19 books. Sarah writes historical fiction, primarily focusing on American Indian characters, particularly from her own Choctaw heritage. Her *Choctaw Tribune* series, for example, highlights the Choctaw people, although she also includes characters from other tribes like the Chickasaw and Cherokee. Sarah shares the importance of writing about American Indian characters authentically. We discuss her frustrations with historical fiction's common stereotypes and how Native characters were often depicted inaccurately. And then we talk about the use of dictation in writing, a technique she has mastered to write more efficiently and comfortably. Dictation has doubled her writing speed, allowing her to produce up to 4,000 words an hour, making it easier on her body and reducing the exhaustion associated with typing.

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm chatting with author and life coach Riley Lindhardt. We dive into Riley's journey as a writer, her experience as a life coach, and how she helps other writers overcome mental blocks to finish their novels.Throughout the episode, Riley offers practical advice for writers, such as how to set daily writing goals, develop detailed plot outlines, and use life coaching techniques to maintain momentum. She encourages writers to focus on becoming the type of person who can write great books, rather than fixating on publication from the start.

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm interviewing my friend Traci Skuce. We get into her philosophy on embodied writing, which integrates body awareness and mindfulness into the creative process. Embodied writing involves tapping into the physical, emotional, and sensory experiences of both the writer and the characters, creating richer, more nuanced narratives. Traci encourages writers to slow down, fully inhabit scenes, and write from a place of presence rather than rushing to finish or relying solely on their intellect. She emphasizes the importance of patience, deep inquiry, and allowing stories to unfold organically, without adhering strictly to templates or formulas. Join us for this episode and use what you learn to go deeper with your own writing!Sign up for Traci's new workshop here: You're Not Doing It Wrong!

Editing your book can be fraught. There are so many different types of editing: developmental, line, copy, proofreading. Which ones do you need most? How do you prioritize? And what should you expect from each kind of editor? In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm talking to the editing experts at Gemini Writers Studio to get answers to these questions and more!

Wondering how to outline a book that works without spending hours and hours detailing every beat in a spreadsheet? My guest Lewis Jorstad of The Novel Smithy teaches a new method called Intuitive Outlining. Listen to the episode to hear us talk about this (and so much more!) and then be sure to sign up for his free class on Intuitive Outlining happening on September 12th!

This episode features an interview with Meggie Lee Calvin, an Amazon bestselling author, coach, and speaker, who specializes in helping spiritually attuned writers market and sell their books. The conversation delves into Meg's journey from writing plays as a child to becoming a published author and coach for writers. In addition to her spiritual approach, Meg discusses the practical aspects of becoming an Amazon bestselling author. She outlines 7 pillars for achieving bestseller status, which include creating a compelling book cover, developing a strong personal brand, and utilizing organic social media marketing. Meg emphasizes the importance of building a promotional team and doing thorough research on Amazon's algorithms to maximize a book's visibility and sales.You can find out more about Meg at megcalvin.com.

In this last episode of Season 4 of the podcast, I am doing a solo show talking about how to choose a writing project, as well as the mindset shifts we need to make in order to stick with the project we've chosen. Let's banish Shiny New Idea Syndrome once and for all!Here's a link to where you can find the Essential Book Outline resource I mention in the show.I'm taking a few weeks off now to record new episodes. See you soon for Season 5 of the show!--Rhonda xo

This week on the podcast, I'm speaking with a poet and that always means opening our heart, doesn't it? Join us as we explore the heart-centred, authentic and more vulnerable sides of this art of writing -- and enjoy a little poetry break as well! Meredith Heller is the author of Writing by Heart, Write a Poem, Save Your Life, and several poetry collections. A poet, singer-songwriter, avid nature lover, and educator with degrees inwriting and education, she leads writing workshops online and in-person at schools, juvenile detention centers, women's prisons, and wellness retreats. Visit her online at MeredithHeller.com.

Writing the book is one thing, but many authors cringe when it comes to put ourselves "out there" and ask people to buy the book. Today I'm speaking with book marketing expert Emily Enger, who advocates for "good enough" book marketing so that you don't have to sell your soul while selling your book. Listen in as we dive into how to do just that! You can learn more about Emily at: emilyenger.com

In this episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm speaking with Chelene Knight, an acclaimed author known for her novel "Junie" and memoir "Dear Current Occupant." Chelene is also the founder of Breathing Space Creative, a literary studio focused on creative sustainability and coaching for writers. In this episode, we're talking about Chelene's latest book, "Let It Go: Free Yourself from Old Beliefs and Find a New Path to Joy." The book explores themes of self-love and joy, topics she had only touched upon in her previous works. The process of writing the book helped Chelene uncover new aspects of herself and expanded her professionally and emotionally.The book is organized by seasons, a structure that Chelene finds both practical and symbolic. Seasons act as pillars of stability, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and creativity. Chelene reveals that she adapts her personal and creative routines to different seasons, recognizing that each brings out different facets of her personality and work.One unique feature of "Let It Go" is the inclusion of community call questions, designed to prompt introspection and clarity. Questions like "What do I need or want to make space for right now?" encourage readers to slow down and reflect on their inner lives. We also talk about the importance of setting boundaries to protect our writing time, especially given our busy schedules serving other writers. 

This is a special episode because I am sharing a replay from my First Book Finish program when we had Monique from Atticus.io come into to speak with us about how to use their easy software to format your books for self-publishing.During the episode, Monique offers a special deal for listeners of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. Sign up for Atticus before the end of June and get access to their special online course on publishing for Indie authors! Go to:  https://www.atticus.io/resilient to get the course.

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm speaking with author and publisher Lynne Golodner. Lynne is the author of nine books, as well as many articles, and host of the Make Meaning podcast. Our discussion focuses on Lynne's writing journey, her latest novel "Woman of Valor," and her experiences within and outside the Orthodox Jewish community. We also talk about maintaining control over your story via self-publishing and dive into Lynne's experience creating a hybrid publishing company: Scotia Road Books.

This week on the podcast, I am delighted to be speaking with my friend Sara Power. We're talking about short stories! Sara has just published her first collection of stories, to much acclaim. We talk about the story as an offering and staying true to the story. If you're a lover of short stories, you don't want to miss this episode!Sara Power's stories have appeared in journals across Canada, the US, and the UK, and most recently in Best Canadian Stories 2024. Sara was a finalist for the RBC/PEN Canada New Voices Award and received a nomination for a National Magazine Award in the fiction category. Her stories have been recognized with fiction awards from The Malahat Review, Riddle Fence, The Toronto Star, Prairie Fire Magazine, and The New Quarterly. Sara completed a Bachelor of Science from the Royal Military College of Canada and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of British Columbia. Originally from Labrador, Sara currently lives in Ottawa with her husband, three children, and coonhound. Her debut work is a collection of short stories: ART OF CAMOUFLAGE, just out with Freehand Books.

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm chatting with Savannah Gilbo. Savannah Gilbo is a certified developmental editor and book coach who helps fiction authors write, edit, and publish stories that work. She's also the host of the top-rated Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast, where she delivers weekly episodes full of simple, actionable, and step-by-step strategies that you can implement in your writing right away. When she's not busy crafting her own stories, you can find Savannah curled up with a good book, a cozy blanket, and her three dogs. In this episode, we get into how to start writing a novel, covering five key areas that authors should consider before drafting: theme, genre, protagonist, setting, and plot.Savannah emphasizes the importance of addressing these areas to create a solid foundation, which helps prevent common pitfalls like writing without a clear direction or having a protagonist without a clear goal. She also discusses the value of community for writers, sharing experiences, and overcoming self-doubt.

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm chatting with my friend Danika Bloom. Danika is a USA Today bestselling romance author and the lead cheerleader at AuthorEverAfter.com where she mentors and supports pre-published romance writers to finish and indie publish their first books. Her most recent book is The Billionaire's Shrubbery.We talk about writing romance novels, how to write sex scenes, as well as self-publishing, book promo and what makes for a great book cover...among other things!

This week, I'm speaking with Beth Kaplan -- a fellow Canadian author -- about writing non-fiction. We get into finding the right shape for memoir,  finding the thematic "hot moments" for your story, and the true nature of drafts.Beth is a former actrress and the author of a biography and two memoirs -- All My Loving and Loose Woman. The latter was a finalist for the Whistler Independent Book Award. She also the author of True to Life, a textbook guide to creative writing. She has taught nonfiction writing at two Toronto universities for thirty years and is the winner of the University of Toronto's Excellence in Teaching award.Her new memoir-in-essays, Midlife Solo: Writing through Chaos to Find my Way in the World, was described in a newspaper review as “an extraordinary life, written with tremendous heart, insight, and humour.”It's currently available from the publisher, Mosaic Press,https://mosaicpress.ca/products/midlife-solo More information about Beth, her teaching, books, articles, and blog, on her websitehttps://bethkaplan.ca/ 

This week on the podcast I'm speaking with Beth Barany,  and we get into story structure, play and experimenting -- especially for Science Fiction and Fantasy. Beth is an award-winning novelist, master neurolinguistic programming practitioner, and certified creativity coach for writers. She's also an experienced international speaker and podcaster. When she's not helping writers, Beth writes magical tales of romance, mystery, and adventure that empower women and girls to be the heroes of their own lives. And she makes short films and TV shows. You can learn more about Beth and sign up for her newsletter here. She also has a great podcast for Science Fiction and Fantasy writers, called How to Write the Future.

This week, I'm chatting with Karen Lea Armstrong, about her novel DROWNPROOFING, which is set in Northern Ontario. We talk about what it means to write a so-called "regional novel" -- one with such a strong sense of place. And we talk about Karen's publishing journey. Karen was in my First Book Finish program, so it's such a delight to see this book out in the world.

In this week's episode, I'm speaking with Elizabeth Chatsworth, who is the author of the steampunk fantasy series, The Brass Queen. She's also been in my First Book Finish program. We talk about how she wrote the sequel to The Brass Queen – Grand Tour: Brass Queen II – while facing some challenging life circumstances, and the roller coaster ride of publishing that followed.

Writing can be challenging at times, even more so when we're tired. The problem nowadays is that it seems like we're all always tired. Doesn't it feel that way to you?If we want to write for the rest of our lives and finish our books, we need to make sure we're getting enough rest so we have the energy to write. But don't fret—there are lots of little steps we can take to make a big impact on how we generate new energy as part of our creative process.

In this final episode of Season 3, I'm going back to interviews with writers who answered my final question: "What does it mean to you to be a resilient writer?" Listen to see if their answers match up with your understanding of what it means.

In this final episode of this Finishers mini-series, I am sharing some of the lessons I've learned in the past four years from helping nearly 200 writers to finish their books -- finish drafts, revise, edit and get their books out into the world

There are times when we wonder if it's all worth it, if our intention to finish a book and get it out into the world really matters. Join me for the first episode in a series dedicated to all the writers intending to finish their books in 2024.

Here's a truth: no one really has time to write a book, especially a first book. Yet we can still manage to get them written and out into the world. In today's episode I'll walk through how you can fit finishing your book into an already busy life. And here's a free resource for you as well -- my guide called 30 New Ways to Find More Time to Write.

In today's episode, I'll walk you through the six phases of writing a book, which will not only make the overall book-writing process easier, but will help you defeat your self-doubt and get your book out into the world.