Writing Easy

Congratulations! You've written that short story. Now comes the hard part. What do you do with it? Today we are going to talk about what comes next. The short story market is a very interesting market, and it can be a way to get published. Join us as we talk about the three big spaces to sell your story: magazines, anthologies, and contests.  Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @meliwriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

Research, writing, editing, revising, pitching, selling, promo -- the list goes on and on. So how does one figure out what to do next and make the most efficient use of your time? Or better yet, what happens when you're managing multiple stories, novels, and screenplays at a time? In this episode, Mary and Melissa share a few tips and tricks they've learned to navigate this space and encourage listeners to think outside the box.   Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @meliwriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

Let's play! Today we're digging into the world of fan fiction. What is it? Why do people love it? How can it benefit you as a writer and creative? We're going to get into all of those questions and more. Also, Melissa confesses to being obsessed with the All The Young Dudes Mauraders fanfic.  Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @meliwriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

New Year, New Books! Let's talk about some of our favorite craft books for writing and why we love them so, so, so, so, much. Have a must-read, go-to book on your shelf for writerly wisdom and advice? Tag us on social media and we'll share with everyone! Book Picks for January! Writing in Flow by Susan K. Perry Story Trumps Structure: How to Create Unforgettable Fiction by Breaking the Rules by Steven James Characters & Viewpoint by Orson Scott Card* (*check out my critical review in 2011 -LOL) I still stand by it! Now, having met so many writers that don't know the basics of character development this will be helpful. Also, get it from the library, or a used bookstore!) The TV Writer's Workbook: A Creative Approach to Television Scripts by Ellen Sandler Writing the TV Drama Series: How to Succeed as a Professional Writer in TV by Pamela Douglas  

If you consider yourself a writer, chances are you also identify as a reader. But what do you do after you've finished that book? How do you track it for future reference? Today, Mary and Melissa discuss how they track their reading. From reading journals to GoodReads to eReaders, the options are plentiful. We'll cover what we've found helpful in our post-reading routine in service of becoming a better writer and living our best bibliophile life. Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

It's time to take stock and reflect on the past year. Join Mary and Melissa as we discuss the lessons that 2021 taught us.  How did your overall goals shift in the past year? Did you shift your writing process and outlook given the craziness of the world we live in? We did! Listen to find out how and also get a sneak peek at how we're starting 2022. Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

Happy New Year! We're starting 2022 by revisiting one of the GOATs. The Beatles! In this episode, Mary and Melissa discuss themes related to creativity, inspiration, determination, and persistence all illustrated in The Beatles: Get Back documentary now available on Disney+.   Watch the sneak peek of the documentary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UocEGvQ10OE   Like the episode! Leave us a review. It helps others discover the podcast.  Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

The holiday season is upon us, so this year, instead of sharing what we think would make cool gifts for writers, we decided to focus on giving back. In today's episode, Mary and Melissa explore all the ways you can support the writing community and highlight a few of our favorite organizations. And don't worry, there are plenty of ways to give back even if you aren't in a position to give a monetary donation.   Places to Donate * Nanowrimo.org * Donor's Choose * Heifer International * 826 National & 826LA * Critical Role Foundation * Comedy Central Store (proceeds on select items going to 826 National)! Wanna give back to the podcast? Leave a review. Drop a rating. Share an episode with a friend! Have a topic request for a future episode? Tag us on social media! Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot  

How exactly do you build your confidence as a writer?  Mary and Melissa are ready to find out. In this episode, we discuss what makes us feel confident in our writing knowledge and storytelling skills. We also share tips on how new and aspiring writers can gain a confidence boost in their writing life. Spoiler alert (screenwriters, authors, and poets take note), it takes a village! Like this episode? Share it with a friend. Leave us a review. Give us a rating. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and YouTube: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

What in the world is an enneagram, and why should it matter to writers? Mary and Melissa go deep on this personality assessment tool and discuss how they use it to breathe life into their characters. Bonus - it may also help you get to know yourself. Have you used the Enneagram in your writing? Tag us on Twitter and tell us how! Resources mentioned in this episode: The Honest Enneagram by Sara Jane Case The Art of Typing: Powerful Tools for Enneagram Typing by Ginger Lapid - Bogda PhD Like this episode? Share it with a friend. Leave us a review. Give us a rating. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and YouTube: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

Sprinting to the finish line? Today we're discussing what sprints are and how to use them to propel your writing. Made popular with the rise of NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and the Pomodoro Method, this is a handy technique that can be done in person, virtually, with a group, or all by your lonesome.  Do you love sprints? Tell us on the socials! Like this episode? Share it with a friend. Leave us a review. Give us a rating. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and YouTube: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

We're back. This week we're talking about our why. It's an important question to ask yourself every once in a while. The answer can help you push through a writing slump. It can also help you manage the highs and lows of external praise and criticism. So why do you write, and how can you surround yourself with reminders of those reasons in your regular writing routine. Like this episode? Share it with a friend. Leave us a review. Give us a rating. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and YouTube: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot

In Part 2 of our interview with David, we explore the world of making video games and the role writers and other storytellers can play in bringing these addicting worlds of gameplay to life. If you've ever wondered who does what or how to get started writing for video games, this episode is for you.  And if not, well you can still apply the video game writing concepts in your own fiction or screenplay.  

Join us for a fun interview with David Abzug, an instructor of game design at Bradley University. David has over 20 years of experience in the video game industry and is also a seasoned GM (Game Master for RPG games). In part one of our interview with David, we get to pick his brain about creative storytelling on the fly. How do you come up with creative and imaginative ideas in real time? We've got some tips. Did you like this episode? Don't forget to share with a friend and leave a review to help us grow our audience. Reviews help us get discovered by new listeners on the platforms.   Find us on the Web: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot Bradley University Interactive Media Studies  

The "Everyday Job" or EDJ is something all writers are familiar with. How does one support themself financially when their writing makes no money? Today, we explore the perfect everyday job and figure out why older and wiser advisors often say things like, don't quit your day job.  There are pros and cons to writing full-time, and we'll dig into some of them in today's show. Did you like this episode? Don't forget to share with a friend and leave a review to help us grow our audience. Reviews help us get discovered by new listeners on the platforms.   Find us on the Web: Twitter: @geekymary & @MeliWriter  Youtube: The Writing Easy Podcast & The Creative's Tarot  

Perfectionism isn't all it's cracked up to be. In fact, some might argue it is an addition. This week, Melissa and Mary discuss why and how perfectionism can get in the way of your writing and how to break free of thinking that no longer serves you. Out thoughts are inspired by the book, The Seven Secrets of the Prolific by Hillary Rettig.   LINKS Seven Secrets of the Prolific

Critiquing and feedback are a big part of being a writer. But it isn't easy. In this episode, we're discussing what we've learned about good critiques and confess where we've fallen short in the past. --- Bonus! Did you know we just celebrated 100 Episodes? As a thank you, we created a free Episode Guide. Woo hoo.  Hit the link below to grab your copy. Don't forget to sign up for the newsletter, so you get access to other insider sneak peeks. Writing Easy Episode Guide   Help Us Celebrate by Spreading the Word! Let's double our audience. Share this episode, or your favorite episode from the episode guide, with a friend. Just 1! That's it. Or leave us a review. It helps more writers discover the show.  Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis

We get it. As writers, we're not always super great with the whole "talking to people" thing, but there are some lines you really shouldn't cross. We'll talk about how to be a good member of the writing community, in person, and online.   LINKS Writing Easy Episode Guide Creatable Spaces Affirmations Deck

It's time to get your party on. In case you didn't notice, we've hit a huge milestone - 100 episodes!!! Honestly, we can't believe we made it this long. We barely remember what we were doing when we started.  In celebration, we are interviewing each other AMA style. Let's go behind the scenes on creating the podcast, what we loved, what we've learned, and what we do when we're not sitting at the mic. Also, as an added bonus, we're giving away free copies of our Episode Guide. Woo hoo.  Link below!   LINKS Writing Easy Episode Guide Creatable Spaces Affirmations Deck   Want to Help Us Celebrate? Let's double our audience. Share this episode, or your favorite episode, with a friend. Just 1! That's it. Or leave us a review. It helps more writers discover the show.  Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis  

Does having something to prove make you a better writer? Today, we're exploring the depths of the phenomenon known as "Imposter Syndrome".  With over 70% of people experiencing this false narrative about their talent and abilities learning how to cope in a productive way is absolutely necessary. Sometimes you need the extra push to move forward. Other times, push yourself harder doesn't work.  This is where affirmations, meditations, and a fresh perspective and voice on your writing can be a saving grace.   Like this episode? Leave us a review, hit that like button, and share with a friend. It helps more writers discover the show. (Let's overthrow the algorithm gods!) Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis

We've all heard that editors are important but why? What does an editor actually do, and when might you need one? Today we're talking about the difference between developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders, and more. We'll also share some tips on how to find the editor you need.   Referenced In Your Write Mind Virtual Conference: https://inyourwritemind.setonhill.edu/   Like this episode? Leave us a review, hit that like button, and share with a friend. It helps more writers discover the show. (Let's overthrow the algorithm gods!) Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis

Who, what, when, where, and why? It's that last question - why - that we focus on today. If writing is so hard, why do we do it? In today's episode, Mary and Melissa press pause to more deeply explore this seemingly simple and direct question. And hopefully, we inspire you to identify what you get out of writing, so that you have the motivation to keep going when things get a little tough.  Referenced: The Weight of Gold - Trailer The Weight of Gold - Panel Discussion w/ Michael Phelps Like this episode? Leave us a review, hit that like button, and share with a friend. It helps more writers discover the show. (Let's overthrow the algorithm gods!) Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis

You've heard us say it, time and time again. Writing is hard. But why? Why does it take so long to get good at writing? Today, Mary and Melissa talk about all the work that goes into becoming a writer and some of the unrealistic expectations we put on ourselves.    Like this episode? Leave us a review, hit that like button, and share with a friend. It helps more writers discover the show. (Let's overthrow the algorithm gods!) Don't forget to follow us on the socials! Twitter: @geekymary @meliwriter IG: @geekymary @writewithmelis

What goes into a name? How do you find that perfect name for a character? What are your favorite resources for untraditional first and last names? Mary and Melissa tell all about their character naming experiences and drop a few of their go-to tips and tricks for completing this essential task without resorting to swiping names from household products in your living room.   Resources The Writer's Digest Character Naming Sourcebook The Fantasy Name Generator The Baby Name Wizard Behind The Name Forbears.io  

Is it possible to hack your brain and make writing easier by adopting a few simple habits? Today, Mary and Melissa explore the advice on a video circulating the Writing Reddit boards called "How to Trick Your Brain to Like Doing Hard Things". This video summarizes a lot of content from The Book Atomic Habits by James Clear. We also reference the following book: Art and Fear: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/187633.Art_and_Fear.   Like this episode? Leave us a review, hit that like button, and share with a friend. It helps more writers discover the show. (Let's overthrow the algorithm gods!)

Hey friend! We need to talk about setting some boundaries. That may sound scary, but there's no need to fret. Mary and Melissa will walk you through the incredible benefits of setting boundaries in your writing life. As a bonus, we'll explore the six types of boundaries that exist and how you can use them to create conflict for your characters and your stories.    Resources: The Screenwriting Life Podcast: Episode 44 Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab IG: @NedraTawwab   Love this episode? Don't forget to drop us a review, share the episode with friends, or give us a thumbs up! You can also follow us on the socials: Twitter: @geekymary & @melissaannlong  

It’s time for part 2 of our interview with the amazingly talented Jay Smith, writer and producer of multiple audio dramas. Today, he explains the nuances of radio dramas and techniques he’s used along the way to create great stories.  ----------- Check out his work and podcasts here at jaysmithaudio.com or wherever you listen to podcasts!  Resources www.Freesound.org  

They say everything old becomes new again, and that is certainly true with radio plays turned podcasts. Our guest today is Jay Smith, an amazingly talented writer and producer of multiple audio dramas. He explains how to get started in narrative podcasting including, the difference between writing fiction and writing audios, telling serialized stories, and collaborating with actors and crew.  ----------- Check out his work and podcasts here at jaysmithaudio.com or wherever you listen to podcasts!    Referenced: Bombs Always Beep by Kc Wayland

Let's face it. We all have to deal with rejection in this business. At times it may feel impossible to push past all those no's to get to that coveted yes. So how do you deal with rejection when it comes knocking on your door? Today Mary and Melissa discuss their tips on navigating the minefield of emotions that come with rejection and the constant false starts as a writer. Resources: The Dan Hernandez Twitter Thread on Staffing: https://twitter.com/CubanMissileDH/status/1378869631679488002 Like this episode? Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform and follow us on Twitter for more writerly shenanigans: @geekymary and @melissaannlong.    

If you've spent any time at a writers conference or workshop, chances are you've heard at least one person bring up Save the Cat. Today we're talking about Blake Snyder's famous formula for screenwriting and how it has been adapted for fiction writing and television.  Books Referenced: Save the Cat Save the Cat Strikes Back Save the Cat Goes to the Movies Save the Cat Writes for TV *Side Note: Melissa was wrong. There are 7 total books available, including Save the Cat Writes a Novel and Save the Cat Goes to the Indies! So if you like the main book, definitely check out the expanded guidance for different mediums or problem areas. Don't forget to leave a review and let others know about the show! Follow us on Twitter - @geekymary and @MelissaAnnLong

Today we revisit Mary's experimental deep dive with four murder mystery books to see what she learned. If you're looking to write a cozy mystery or amateur sleuth novel, this is the episode for you.  Books studied include: * Murder on Pleasant Avenue - Victoria Thompson * The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie - Alan Bradley * Careless in Red - Elizabeth George * Murphey's Law - Rhys Bowen   Mystery writers, what advice do you have on writing and plotting the perfect mystery novel or series? What did we miss?

What makes a good scene? Mary and Melissa have thoughts! From beats to chapters to sequences and more, we're going to reflect on the ins and outs of writing and editing the perfect scene. If you can master the scene, you can master anything. Sort of. Don't forget to leave us a review or follow up on social media! We love hearing about your thoughts on the show. * @thewritingeasypodcast  * @geekymary * @writewithmelis * @thecreativestarot

Let's get witchy with Tarot! Today we are talking about how Melissa uses Tarot for her writing. We'll discuss what tarot is, how to get started, creative ways for using tarot as a tool in your writing practice.  For more on the subject, subscribe to Melissa's YouTube channel: The Creative's Tarot and learn more ways to incorporate tarot into your writing or creative life. Great Decks for Writers Any Rider Waite Smith Based Deck. I prefer the Modern Witch Tarot Deck - https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Witch-Tarot-Deck/dp/1454938684  The Spread Machine & Expansion Packs - https://fablesden.com/shop The Archetype Cards - https://www.amazon.com/Archetype-Cards-Caroline-Myss/dp/1401901840/r Other Resources Discussed Biddy Tarot http://www.biddytarot.com  Learning The Tarot by Joan Bunning (Not Mary Greer, though her resources are also great) - https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Tarot-Book-Beginners/dp/1578630487/ The Reckless Deck - a D&D Character Creator and World Building Tool - https://recklessdeck.com/        

We're back! This week we're geeking out over Dungeons & Dragons and all the ways it can help writers hone their storytelling skills. From character creation to world-building to improv, there are many ways to let your imagination run free.  We're going to talk about our favorite aspects of role-playing and where to start if you're a complete newb.   Resources Mentioned: https://www.naddpod.com/ - Not Another D&D Podcast https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC8zWIx8aBQme-x1nX9iZ0A - Dimension 20 https://critrole.com/ - Critical Role https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/adventure-zone/ Adventure Zone https://lysapenrose.com/behold-her-podcast Behold Her Podcast https://roll20.net/ Role20 https://www.dndbeyond.com/ D&D Beyond

Today we are interviewing Emily Leverett, author of the Wolf and Nun books, to learn more about her process for writing medieval fantasy and romance. The Wolf and the Nun is a series of novellas set in 12th century England and France, based on the lais of Marie de France, a nun at Shaftesbury Abbey. We're thrilled to dig into Emily's research process to learn how she takes on the challenge of writing about historical figures. You can learn more about Emily by visiting her website: https://emilylavinleverett.com/ or follow her on Twitter: @Emily_Leverett   Have some knowledge you want to share on the podcast? Hit us up on social media!   @thewritingeasypodcast   @geekymary  @writewithmelis  @thecreativestarot

The clock is ticking...are you going to make the cut? Today we're talking about deadlines. Are they friends or are they foes? How do you manage the stress of writing deadlines?  Tune in to hear Melissa and Mary share their experience and pointers on the topic.   Want to learn more about our thoughts on Critique Partners and Writer's Groups? Check out Episode 14 - Positive Critiquing.   What are your deadline hell stories? Share your tales of triumph or defeat with us on social media. * @thewritingeasypodcast  * @geekymary * @writewithmelis * @thecreativestarot  

Sometimes you just need a creative vacation. This week we're talking about how to plan a mini writing retreat without even leaving your home. It's so easy, Melissa was doing one while recording this podcast. We've got tons of ideas to get you started, but just in case you need a few more, check out the mini-retreat guide by Leonie Dawson.    What is a must-have on your mini-retreat? Share your tips with us on social media. * @thewritingeasypodcast  * @geekymary * @writewithmelis    

Life has a way of throwing you for a loop when you least expect it. This week, Mary and Melissa discuss what to happens when you just need to take a break.  Burn out is real. It sucks. But we're here to remind you that it happens to all of us. So, how do you know if it's time to rest or if you're procrastinating and avoiding something out of fear? Let's talk.   How do you rest? Share your tips with us on social media. * @thewritingeasypodcast  * @geekymary * @writewithmelis    

Practice makes perfect, and this week Mary and Melissa reflect upon ways in which you can engage in deliberate practice to improve your writing.  From writing fan fiction to timed writing sessions to mimicking the greats, we have a myriad of suggestions for you to try.    How do you practice? Share your writing burpees with us on social media. * @thewritingeasypodcast  * @geekymary * @writewithmelis   Want more content on Practice?  Check out Episode 43: Critical Reading.   Resource: Clockify.me - A free time-tracking app for those who want to know how your writing time breaks down.

Let's make some imaginary friends. This week we're talking about getting to know your characters. Learn all about Melissa and Mary's ever-evolving approach to characterization and building strong three-dimensional characters. Books discussed: Mastering the Process: From Idea to Novel by Elizabeth George Want to continue your character Masterclass? Check out these past episodes on character development. Episode 22: Character Wants and Needs Episode 24: Character Mash Episode 29 Shiny Unhappy People Episode 51: Send Me an Enneagram ---- Love this episode? Be sure to let us know by leaving a rating and review of the podcast. Share this episode with your writing friends and help more people discover the joy of Writing Easy.    Don't Forget! You can find Mary on Twitter and Instagram at @geekymary. You can find Melissa @writewithmelis or @thecreativestarot.   We're also on youtube! Search for the Writing Easy Podcast or The Creative's Tarot to find more great content for writers.    

What can you learn by dissecting a story? Mary and Melissa share some insights on their efforts to discover the secret sauce of popular books and TV shows to study the structure, pacing, and character arcs. Why are these stories so good? We're going to find out and let you know. Books discussed: Careless in Red by Elizabeth George Mastering the Process: From Idea to Novel by Elizabeth George Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Allen Bradley TV Shows discussed: Grimm ---- Love this episode? Be sure to let us know by leaving a rating and review of the podcast. Share this episode with your writing friends and help more people discover the joy of Writing Easy.    You can find Mary on Twitter and Instagram at @geekymary. You can find Melissa at www.writewithmelis.com or on Youtube at The Creative's Tarot.   Happy New Year!  

May the odds be ever in your favor as this week, Mary and Melissa dig deep into the world of writing competitions. From poetry to fiction, screenwriting to original pilots, we are spilling the tea on the good, the bad, and the ugly of "competitive" writing ventures. When does it make sense to enter? Can they really help your career? How do you stay motivated when you don't place or final? Writers of The Future Contest https://www.writersofthefuture.com/contest-rules-writers/   Romance Writers of America Contest Listing https://www.rwa.org/Online/Events/Chapter_Events.aspx#Contests   Screenwriting and Fellowship Contests for 2021 https://lauridonahue.com/resources/a-curated-list-of-the-most-worthwhile-screenwriting-fellowships-labs-and-contests/?fbclid=IwAR3Uk0GjXtxlxDrnz7aS32-X4igJqNb0Rl2xhWXSFG1l-Tj-lA4XjjvDa7g   Love this episode? Be sure to let us know by leaving a rating and review of the podcast. Share this episode with your writing friends and help more people discover the joy of Writing Easy.    You can find Mary on Twitter and Instagram at @geekymary. You can find melissa at www.writewithmelis.com or on Youtube at The Creative's Tarot.   Happy New Year!

It's the last episode of 2020, and we are spending our time focused on the year to come. What are we doing to prepare for the new season? Mary and Melissa are revisiting their goals, assessing their achievements this year, and moving forward with intention and purpose in their writing life. Join us to reflect and plan for the future. Referenced in the episode: Power Sheets https://cultivatewhatmatters.com/pages/2021-powersheets-collection (You can find other, cheaper goal-setting planners, but this is Melissa's favorite). Like this episode? Don't forget to leave us a review. Also, you can find us on all the socials @thewritingeasypodcast, @geekymary, and @writewithmelis See the show notes and past episodes on www.thewritingeasypodcast.com

It's December! Before we get caught up in the holiday festivities (or lack thereof) let's take a moment to revisit NaNoWriMo and see how we did.  Did we hit our 50K?  What did we learn? What happens next with our projects? In this episode, we'll answer all those questions and more. We also remind folks to rest, relax, and recharge this month. Twenty-Twenty is no joke. --- Like this episode? Leave us a review. It helps other writers discover the podcast. Thanks!

Hi All! Melissa's been sick so we don't have a new episode this week. Instead, we are re-airing one of her faves, the holiday gifts for writers from 2019. If you're looking for that special gift, we've got some suggestions. We'll be back with a new episode next week! If you like this episode, don't forget to leave us a review or hit us up on the socials. We're easy to find at www.thewritingeasypodcast.com.  

This week we're going deep into the well of procrastination with a review of the book The Seven Secrets of the Prolific: The Definitive Guide to Overcoming Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Writer's Block by Hillary Rettig https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Prolific-Definitive-Procrastination-Perfectionism-ebook/dp/B006J7BZ8E. Melissa and Mary reveal some of their own struggles around perfectionism and procrastination as we walk through the guidance in the book and ponder what strategies might work best for us in the future.

Let's talk about software! Today Mary and Melissa talk about some of the new and old tools they are using to make their writing life a little easier.  What are we using, and why? Listen in for the tea.   Word Processing Software: Writer Duet www.writerduet.com Scrivener www.literatureandlatte.com    Brainstorming Hacks Plottr https://getplottr.com/ Scapple www.literatureandlatte.com/scapple/overview Productivity Hacks Notion www.notion.so SelfControl selfcontrolapp.com/ Write Or Die writeordie.com Pacemaker.press www.pacemaker.press   Editing & Grammar Hacks Grammarly www.grammarly.com   Also, are you participating in NaNoWriMo this year? Just want to hang out with Mary and Melissa and chat about the podcast? We're now on Discord! You can access the link from our Facebook page or our website www.thewritingeasypodcast.com   

It's October 30th and NaNoWriMo is less than 48 hours away. As Preptober winds down, writers all over the globe are chomping at the bit to get started on their 50,000-word novels. Today, Mary and Melissa talk about their last-minute preparations for National Novel Writing Month.  If this is your first time, competing, you're in good company. Mary is definitely a NaNoWriMo Newbie.  Melissa has done little to no prep -- so don't think you have to have all the answers to participate.  You can find us on NaNoWrimo.org at the following names! Become our buddies and watch our progress along the way.   Mary is Geekymary Melissa is Meliwriter   Good luck everyone and "May the odds be ever in your favor!"

In the second half of our interview with Author Kenya Wright, we go deep to uncover how the F#$* she manages to write over 55 novels while being a single mom and homeschooling her 3 children.  What holds her back and what keeps her going? Tune in to find out what changed her life and writing practice the most, and how you can use it to help transform your own writing practice. Kenya's latest release, Dirty Obsessions is out now. You can find more about Kenya at www.kenyawrightbooks.com and all the socials at @kenyawrightbooks.  Find us on social media: TWITTER @geekymary @melissaannlong @writingeasypod1   INSTAGRAM @WritingEasyPodcast @writewithmelis   YouTube The Writing Easy Podcast The Creative's Tarot    Website www.thewritingeasypodcast.com   Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review if you enjoyed this episode.   

Today we welcome bestselling romance and erotica author Kenya Wright to share some insights on her journey as a writer and making a living as a self-published romance author. Kenya is the author of over 50 novels. She's also a single mom and somehow finds time to write and homeschool three kids. In part one of our interview, we discuss diversity in romance, the challenges in writing erotica, and keeping your books exciting.  You can find more about Kenya at www.kenyawrightbooks.com and all the socials at @kenyawrithgtbooks. You can also join her facebook group K Killers here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/251550581861327.  Find us on social media: TWITTER @geekymary @melissaannlong @writingeasypod1   INSTAGRAM @WritingEasyPodcast @writewithmelis   www.thewritingeasypodcast.com

We're going deep on our NaNoWriMo prep! Today Mary and Melissa talk about strategies to get reading for National Novel Writing Month. What do you need to do to get ready? Do you have a game plan for success? Tune in to find out, and then prep along with us.    TWITTER @geekymary @melissaannlong @writingeasypod1   INSTAGRAM @WritingEasyPodcast @writewithmelis   www.thewritingeasypodcast.com