Podcasts about fiction writers

“Marketing and selling, especially learning how to do it in written form, is also a form of magic. It's just using words in a different way.” — Beth BaranyAre you ready to learn the skills needed to market your novel? In this episode of How To Write the Future podcast, titled “Marketing and Selling Tips for Sci-Fi & Fantasy Writers” Beth takes listeners on an encouraging journey to guide you over the fear of marketing your novel. From crafting effective marketing hooks to using emotional tropes to how your own writing can market itself. Own your fear and get marketing ready with the supportive guidance from host and award-winning science fiction and fantasy author Beth Barany. FOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

 Blog Post on Stakes with Examples If your story feels flat or like it's not going anywhere, check your stakes!Today, we break down what stakes really are, why “just make it worse” isn't helpful advice, and how to create meaningful consequences for your characters that keep readers emotionally invested.We'll talk personal, relational, and thematic stakes—and how to pressure-test them so your story actually holds.Timestamps 00:00 What Stakes Really Mean 01:37 Why Stakes Come from Choice 06:43 Personal + Relationship Stakes 11:09 Thematic Stakes 12:27 Pressure-Testing Your Story Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“If you start asking for feedback too soon, it can really destroy the creative process for you. It can make you doubt the direction you're going in. There's all kinds of reasons why I recommend that you get feedback after you finish your first draft.” - Beth BaranyDo you want feedback on the first page of your manuscript? Need to know if there's something just missing?In “Level Up with Writer Feedback,” this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host Beth Barany guides you through receiving creative writing feedback, with tips on joining local or online groups, reaching out to developmental editors, or potentially receiving feedback from Beth herself as she also explains the importance of finishing your first draft.RESOURCESGet your Page One Assessment here:https://bethbarany.com/page-one-assessment-for-novelists/FOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/quiz/GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

What does it really take to build a successful novel? Kate Broad discusses leaving her romance author career to write literary fiction and how her debut novel, Greenwich, required multiple drafts and rewrites. She shares what it's like to scrap early drafts, rebuild the story from the ground up, write complex characters that are hard to like, and what she tells herself when the writing feels hard. If you need a reminder that your first draft can become something magical, that struggling is just part of the work and process of bringing a novel to fruition, and that you're not doing anything wrong, you'll enjoy our conversation. Timestamps 00:00 – Why Revision Is Where the Magic Happens 00:19 – Welcome to Write It Scared 01:29 – Meet Kate Road 03:20 – Writing Greenwich and Starting Over 05:03 – Themes of Wealth, Power, and Privilege 07:34 – Crafting Complex, Unlikable Characters 15:47 – How the Book Changed in Revision 21:40 – Self-Doubt and Staying in the Work 30:25 – Resilience and the Reality of the Writing Life 39:43 – Final ReflectionsKate Broad holds a BA from Wellesley College and a PhD in English from the CUNY Graduate Center. She is a Bronx Council on the Arts award winner for fiction, and her writing has appeared in The Rumpus, No Tokens, Electric Literature, LitHub, The Baltimore Review, and elsewhere. Her debut novel, Greenwich, was released in 2025 from St. Martin's Press and was named one of People Magazine's Best New Books, a Vanity Fair Summer Read, and an Amazon Editor's Pick for Best New Literature and Fiction. Originally from Massachusetts, she lives in the Bronx.  GREENWICH - Out now from St. Martin's Press / Macmillan!https://katebroad.comHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

How do you write a sex scene that readers actually read and not just skim? That's what today's episode is all about! Author Accelerator certified book coaches Stacy Frazer and Jennifer Larkin team up for an honest conversation about writing sex in fiction—without cringe.Stacy and Jen discuss when sex scenes belong in a story, how explicit they need to be, and how to write intimacy that deepens character and advances the plot. You'll learn how genre expectations (including YA vs. adult), consent, and emotional intent shape effective intimate scenes—and how to make intentional choices that serve your story.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction 01:50 Guest: Jennifer Larkin 03:20 Do you need a sex scene in your novel? 10:04 Sex scenes in YA vs. adult 21:16 Purpose of sex scene and level of explicitness 26:20 Common mistakes 29:09 Consent on the page 35:05 When to include a sex scene Jennifer Larkin helps romance writers turn good ideas into epic stories and jagged drafts into lovable novels. Grab her free guide to writing better romance scenes at https://jenniferlarkin.kit.com/scenes.Connect on Social Media:Instagram: @jenniferlarkinbookcoachSubstack: @jenniferlarkinbookcoach Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Self-publishing isn't a shortcut nor a consolation prize. It's a publishing model that works well for some writers and not at all for others.Today, I'm joined by Libby Waterford, a prolific romance author and self-publishing educator with more than twenty books published across pen names.We break down what self-publishing actually involves: the costs writers don't always anticipate, the level of control and responsibility it requires, and how marketing, timelines, and long-term goals factor into whether it's a good fit for you.This episode is about education and understanding your options, asking questions, and making intentional decisions about your writing career based on your long-term goalsTimestamps01:43 Meet Libby Waterford05:28 Why Libby chose self-publishing after being with a traditional publisher08:47 Pros and cons of self-publishing16:38 The advantages of being your own publisher23:09 Budgeting and essential costs27:09 Marketing, ROI, and sustainability38:53 Advice for new authors41:07 What Libby's working on next and education resourcesGuest Bio:Libby Waterford is the author of Sawyer's Cove, the Reboot, and The Never A Bride Contemporary Romance Series, and under her other pen name, Elle Waters, writes steamy Small Town Gay Romance. A former president of the Connecticut Chapter of Romance Writers of America, Libby is also a self-publishing coach and instructor at the Westport Writers Workshop in Westport, Connecticut, where she teaches classes on genre fiction and self-publishing.Linkshttps://libbywaterford.com/, https://www.instagram.com/libbywritesromance/, https://ellewatersbooks.substack.com/https://westportwriters.org/ Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“ I really recommend you write your book anyway. Let it be as messy and chaotic as first drafts are.” - Beth BaranyHooking a reader in at the beginning without overwhelming them with information is essential, which is why in this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “World-Building Without Information Dumping” host Beth Barany breaks down how to draw your reader in by starting with your main character's perspective, introducing key elements and essential details gradually. MORE RESOURCES3 Powerful Techniques to Weave Backstory Into Your Novel by Beth Baranyhttps://writersfunzone.com/blog/2024/12/12/3-powerful-techniques-to-weave-backstory-into-your-novel/Where to insert backstory (Q&A)https://writersfunzone.com/blog/2024/08/12/where-to-insert-backstory-qa/Search Result Resources on Writers Fun Zonehttps://writersfunzone.com/blog/?s=podcast+world+buildingDecode The Obsidian Tower's Settinghttps://writersfunzone.com/blog/2026/01/12/decode-the-obsidian-towers-setting/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“What does my character want?” Sounds like a simple question—until it isn't. If you've ever struggled to figure out the difference between your character's wants and needs, been confused by the language of conscious goals and unconscious goals or desires, this episode is for you! Today, we simplify things so you never get confused again!  We look at how goals create momentum on the page to inform the plot, while desires drive the character's internal change.  You'll also get practical ways to diagnose what's missing when a character feels stuck—and how to fix it.Timestamps: 01:32 Why “what does my character want?” is a loaded question 03:14 Goals vs. desires: what's the difference? 04:53 Examples of clear external goals 06:11 The messier truth of character desire 11:08 Using goals and desires to drive transformation 13:37 Practical tools for revision 15:29 Closing thoughts + book coaching note 16:37 Wrap-upHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

There's a persistent myth that if writing feels hard, you're doing it wrong. This conversation with debut novelist Charlene Wang gently dismantles that idea. We talk honestly about messy drafts, perfectionism, long revision timelines, and the quiet persistence it takes to keep going when doubt creeps in.Charlene shares her path to publishing I'll Follow You, including years of revision, mindset shifts, and learning to trust the process even when progress felt slow. If you've ever wondered whether struggle means failure, this episode offers reassurance that struggle is often part of becoming the writer you're meant to be.Timestamps: 01:27 Welcome + meet Charlene Wang 02:47 Charlene's path to becoming a writer 05:11 Talking about I'll Follow You 08:22 The realities of drafting and revision 14:43 Research and character development 20:29 Plotting, pantsing, and everything in between 21:38 Navigating self-doubt 24:33 Tools for sticking with the work 26:12 Productivity, perspective, and patience 29:18 Becoming a writer over time 36:26 Advice for writers in the thick of it 38:03 What Charlene is working on nowLinks mentionedLeigh Bardugo's Ted Talk: The Art of DiscomfortIra Glass The GapCharlene's debut novel, I'll Follow You, is out now.You can learn more and connect with her at charlenewangauthor.com or on Instagram @charleneshiyiHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“Do your research, read widely in the genre, and don't limit yourself to strict rules; go ahead and create something new. That would be cool.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “Fantasy Steampunk: Do You Need Magic?” host Beth Barany answers a listener's question on whether magic is needed as an element to a steampunk novel. She dives into how to understand what genre you are writing, how to work using your instincts, plus why it can be exciting to create something completely new and unique by combining genres and elements. RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR FICTION WRITING BY A NOVELIST AND WRITING TEACHER AND COACHSchedule an exploratory call here and see if Beth can support you today: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/discovery-call/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Send us a text"Perhaps I must pick me up/ Perhaps I must carry me home gently." How do artists survive in a world gone mad? How can we find ways to hold space for ourselves and for others? Can our art really be a safe space for us to both fall apart and piece ourselves back together?In the first Journey of an Artist of 2026, Emmeline tackles these questions and more with one of DFW's most beloved poets, River. River shares how various art forms have served as coping mechanisms for her over the years--from her poetry to her visual art--and how creation is not only a response to, but an antidote to destruction. She also shares two poems from her beautiful book of poetry, Still River.To learn more about River, or to follow River's artistic journey, find her on Instagram. You can also grab any of her books at her next live show!For behind-the-scenes information and more about Journey of an Artist, visit the Journey of Series official webpage, or follow Emmeline on social media at @EmmelineMusic.

“By setting in this case, we are getting the scope of the world. We are learning the rules of magic in this story.” — Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Decode The Obsidian Tower's Setting,” host Beth Barany analyzes The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso, showing you exactly how she works as a developmental editor and coach. You'll discover how character voice hooks readers, how setting creates intrigue, and how to ground your story in your character's perspective. Plus, Beth throws down a challenge for you to try.RESOURCESThe Obsidian Tower (Rooks and Ruin Book 1) by Melissa Caruso: https://books2read.com/u/b5NqYAFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/HOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

What happens when you stop trying to make your story palatable—and start making it true?Today, I'm joined by author Ivette Diaz for a powerful conversation about writing hopeful dystopian stories, the importance of representation on the page, and choosing integrity over marketability. We talk about writing through hard seasons, navigating self-doubt, and why community—not competition—is what sustains a writing life.If you've ever wondered whether your story belongs, felt pressure to soften your voice, or needed a reminder that you are doing enough, this episode is for you.Guest Bio: Ivette N Diaz is an author of dystopian sci-fi/fantasy novels, an entrepreneur, and a daydreamer who, through the gift of storytelling, strives to provide an element of hope in each story and help each person realize the unique purpose for their life. She has published Rise of Power, Choices of Power, and Struggles of Power, all part of the I Am Chronicles series. Her short story, Taino: An Untold Story, is featured in the Flame Tree Publishing Anthology Beyond & Within: Latin American Shared Stories, edited by V. Castro.To connect with Ivette and read her work:Website: ivettendiaz.comInstagram & Threads: @ivettendiazauthorHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“Go ahead and base your sci-fi entirely on your own imagination, whatever science that you want to integrate into your story. And make it feel real.“ —Beth BaranyHow Much Science in Your Sci-Fi Stories? That's the question from a listener Beth Barany is answering in this How To Write the Future podcast episode. She answers whether you can base your novel entirely on your imagination, whether studying science is necessary, plus she invites you to get in touch with any questions that are niggling you about your science fiction writing. ABOUT THE HOW TO WRITE THE FUTURE PODCASTThe How To Write The Future podcast is for science fiction and fantasy writers who want to write positive futures and successfully bring those stories out into the marketplace. Hosted by Beth Barany, science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. We cover tips for fiction writers and get curious about the future of humanity.ABOUT BETH BARANYBeth Barany, an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist, teaches novelists how to write, edit, and publish their books as a coach, teacher, consultant, and developmental editor.RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Draft It Scared Group CoachingReal Talk: Writer to WriterAre you afraid of being judged for what you write? You're not alone. Me too. And in this episode, I get personal by sharing my writing updates, how publishing a short story felt exposing, and how I'm learning to navigate the fear of being seen for what I write.We also talk about changes to the podcast and setting writing intentions for 2026 that align with your life, not work against it. Timestamps: 00:00 Personal reflection 01:23 Easing into the new year 02:02 The fear of being seen 03:53 Writing update 07:55 Writing intentions for 2026 10:48 Reflection + next steps 11:33 ClosingLinks Mentioned:Draft It Scared Group CoachingThe Leave Still Fallow: An Anthology of Queer LoveBig Thinking Publishing Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“ It's essentially a marketplace. You want to shop around. You want to make sure that this person has a good reputation and you want to talk off the record in confidence with other writers.”— Beth BaranyFinished your novel and ready to land a literary agent? In this How To Write the Future episode, Beth Barany shares how to research reputable agents, start smart conversations with fellow writers, evaluate fit, and communicate professionally—so your submissions stand out and your interests align.RESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

In this end-of-year bonus episode, Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill reflect on the past year of reading, writing, and podcasting — and look ahead to what's coming next.They discuss the books that shaped their thinking, Bernard Cornwell's The Winter King, Tolkien, Roman history, Churchill biographies, audiobooks, and the reality of trying to finish novels before Christmas.A thoughtful, funny, and honest conversation for readers, writers, and anyone who loves historical fiction and historical adventure.

“Learning how to write fiction-- most people never learn in school, so we're learning as adults and therefore we're gonna have a huge learning curve.” - Beth BaranyIn this How to Write the Future podcast episode, “Writing Consistently: Facts and Myths,” host Beth Barany shares the common misconceptions about writing consistently, plus tips on how to find the rhythm of writing that suits and works for your writing style and a bit about her own writing journey. GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“It's hard to fix a manuscript that is not yet finished. This is what I counsel all of my clients and people who might want to work with me is write the whole first draft because there's something that brought you to the story.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future episode, “How to Handle Plot Holes Effectively,” host Beth Barany answers a listener's question on how to handle your story's plot holes when you're deep into writing the rough draft and how to take the necessary steps, depending on whether you're a plotter or a panster.In this episode:Gain insight into how to handle plot holesTips to help you solve the problems in your story developmentGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Don't believe you're cut out to be a writer? Think again. Cozy mystery author Iris Applewood talks about how personal challenges and a whole lot of curiosity shaped her path to writing cozy mysteries and what she's learned about the genre.We explore the creation of her magical town, Serenity Falls, how community is a character, and discuss what to do when your “whodunit” isn't so clear. It's a grounded, encouraging conversation about following your heart and finding joy in the mystery of creating novels.Timestamps: 01:23 Meet Iris Applewood 02:44 Draft It Scared announcement 04:13 Iris's writing journey 13:04 Writing process + challenges 17:57 Community as a character 19:36 Storytelling challenges 19:56 Internal narratives 20:34 First manuscript struggles 24:56 Plotting vs. pantsing 26:55 Building a routine 27:47 Turning real-life into a story 31:05 Creative vulnerabilityTo connect with Iris and read her books, please visit her website: https://irisapplewood.com/Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“In my opinion, the cure for writer's block is writing -- pure and simple.” - Beth BaranyDo you wonder why you're not writing and wish you were? Then listen to “Writer's Block: Five Steps Forward,” the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, where host and writing teacher, Beth Barany, shares five steps forward that you can put into action to help with your writer's block. Plus, she shares the importance of creating a safe writing space and how to create a routine that will help you progress daily in your WIP. ABOUT THE HOW TO WRITE THE FUTURE PODCASTThe How To Write The Future podcast is for science fiction and fantasy writers who want to write positive futures and successfully bring those stories out into the marketplace. Hosted by Beth Barany, science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. We cover tips for fiction writers and get curious about the future of humanity.GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Info on Group Book Coaching with Write It ScaredWorking on a rom-com? This conversation with bestselling author Kate Archer is packed with craft insights and the best mindset support!We get into what makes humor land, how to keep your characters authentic, and how to keep conflict fresh in a genre built on familiar beats.Kate also shares how she built her writing life, the routines that keep her grounded, and the strategies she uses to push past fear, resistance, and the inner critic. It's an honest, encouraging look at the realities of writing comedy, staying consistent, and showing up for your creativity.Timestamps: 01:23 Meet Kate Archer 03:58 Kate's writing journey 07:32 Why Regency romcoms resonate 12:27 Crafting humor that feels true 22:23 Writing from the servant's perspective 22:43 Revision + learning through mistakes 25:04 The power of a writing schedule 27:43 Overcoming psychological blocks 33:46 The struggle + joy of writing 36:14 Advice for aspiring writers 41:14 Final thoughts + where to find KateLinks:Visit Kate at: https://www.facebook.com/ and https://katearcher.weebly.com/ or get in touch at katearcherauthor@yahoo.com. Check out Kate's books here Draft It Scared Small Group Book Coaching Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“I am currently deeply involved with the process and the importance of creativity in the second half of life.” - Catherine BramkampIn this episode of How To Write the Future, “Writing Through Chaos: Creativity and Resilience with Catharine Bramkamp,” host Beth Barany chats with fellow writing and creativity coach Catharine Bramkamp. Catharine dives into why creativity matters in the second half of life and shares resources to keep your spark going. Together, they explore how life's chaos can actually fuel creativity and compare how artists in the past and today respond to turbulent times.ABOUT CATHARINE BRAMKAMPCatharine Bramkamp is a successful writing coach, Chief Storytelling Officer, former co-producer of Newbie Writers Podcast, and author of a dozen books including the Real Estate Diva Mysteries series, and The Future Girls series. She holds two degrees in English and is an adjunct university professor. After fracturing her wrist, she has figured out there is very little she is able to do with one hand tied behind her back. She delights in inspiring her readers.Website: https://catharine-bramkamp.com/Catharine Bramkamp books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Catharine-Bramkamp/author/B009NI5CN0Real Estate Diva Mystery Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0843TJ54YFuture Girl: https://www.amazon.com/Future-Girls-Changing-harder-looks-ebook/dp/B07NDF21Y8RESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE - Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCAST - Sign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Could a gratitude practice be the reset your writing life needs?Gratitude can shift your mindset, ease the pressure you put on yourself, and bring you back to the heart of why you write. You'll hear how a simple practice helped me reconnect with my creative life, why it matters specifically for writers, and a challenge to help you create your own writing gratitude list.Timestamps: 00:00 The power of gratitude in writing 01:33 Why gratitude matters right now 02:23 Draft It Scared enrollment info 03:32 My gratitude list story 04:55 Benefits of a gratitude practice 05:49 Gratitude as action 06:42 Bringing gratitude into your writing 07:17 Your writing gratitude challenge 08:52 What this practice can shift 13:03 Closing + next episode previewLinks MentionedElizabeth Gilbert: Big Magic, Creative Living Beyond Fear Gratitude ResearchJanuary 2026: Draft It Scared Group Coaching Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“I try to write worlds that I believe are attainable and that I think we can aspire towards.” - Abigail Hing WenIn this future‑forward episode of How To Write The Future, host Beth Barany chats with author‑filmmaker Abigail Hing Wen about The Vale — a middle‑grade fantasy where a family builds a clean, AI‑generated virtual world. They get into why ethical AI matters for storytellers, what “clean AI” looks like, and the real‑world tradeoffs creators face as tech evolves.Why ethical AI matters for writers and readersWhat “clean AI” means: trained on your work and public‑domain classicsCraft meets tech: worldbuilding across book, short film, and RobloxPractical questions around indemnification, settlements, and building responsiblyABOUT ABIGAIL HING WENAbigail Hing Wen is an author, film producer and director as well as former tech executive. She is the New York Times best selling author of multiple novels for young people, including Loveboat, Taipei, which has been adapted as the movie Love in Taipei, now on Netflix. Abigail served as an executive producer and on set during production. Abigail is directing her first short film starring Lea Salonga, a prequel to her middle grade debut THE VALE, coming September 2025, and featuring an inventor family that builds an AI generated virtual world. She serves on the board of Harvardwood and as a judge for the 2025 Golden Trailer Awards recognizing the industry's most outstanding film trailers.Abigail is a frequent keynote speaker for young people, including Y'Allfest, US Presidential Scholars, and the Los Altos High Writer's Week, as well as libraries, colleges, schools and bookstores around the country. She's also given keynotes and fireside chats for the National Conference of State Legislatures, Meta, Google, Paramount, Paypal and other companies, and spoken on panels at SDCC, LACC, LA Times Festival of Books and ALA.Website: www.abigailhingwen.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigailhingwen/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=abigailhingwenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigailhingwen/RESOURCES: GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYQuestions? Comments? Send us a text!--- CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

In this episode, I chat with debut author Jean Ende, who published her first novel, Houses of Detention, at seventy-nine. Jean shares what inspired her to start writing, how she mined her family history for fiction, and what she's learned about persistence, rejection, and finding community along the way.It's an honest, uplifting reminder that it's never too late to chase your creative dreams or to finally write the story that's been waiting for you.Timestamps: 00:00 Finding your creative spark at any age 01:31 Meet Jean Indy 07:04 The inspiration behind Houses of Detention 16:40 Turning family stories into fiction 31:14 Rejection, resilience, and the long road to publication 36:37 The power of writing groups 39:17 What's next for JeanConnect with Jean and read Houses of Detention Links mentioned in the show: Inquire about Draft It Scared Group Coaching for January 2026Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Special Offer: Mini-Blueprint Strategy Session Author Accelerator is running a Black Friday Book Coaching Sale, and I'm one of 80 certified coaches offering a limited-time Mini Blueprint Strategy Session to help 100 writers get unstuck before the year ends.If you've been spinning your wheels or second-guessing your story, this session is designed to help you find clarity and momentum. For $299 USD, you'll get:Big-Picture Project AnalysisProfessional editorial feedback on your first 3,000 wordsA 50-minute private coaching call with meThis offer is ideal for commercial fiction writers—romance, mystery, thriller, speculative, and more—and it expires December 1. I only have space for three writers this winter, so if this sounds like what you need, head to writeitscared.coOr check out the other participating coaches on the Author Accelerator Black Friday Book Coaching Sale website.  Let's get you unstuck and excited to write again. See you Monday!Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Ever get feedback that your main character feels flat, reactive, or like things just happen to them? That's because they lack agency, one of the main ingredients in narrative drive — the force that makes readers keep turning the pages and engage with the story. In this episode of the Write It Scared podcast, we're digging into what real agency looks like on the page and how to give your characters the power to act, choose, and change their fate. I'll walk you through the three key ingredients every active protagonist needs—motive, means, and opportunity—and show you how to use them to turn a passive story into a page-turner.Timestamps 00:00 – Why Some Characters Feel Passive (and How to Fix It) 00:19 – Welcome to Write It Scared 01:15 – What Is Character Agency, Really? 01:55 – Why Agency Is the Beating Heart of Story 05:10 – The Three Ingredients: Motive, Means, and Opportunity 07:54 – Creating Moments of Choice That Matter 09:27 – How to Spot When Your Character's Lost Control 11:08 – Final Takeaways Links mentioned in this episode:Episode 76: Narrative Drive: The Secret to Story Momentum and Reader EngagementWire For Story by Lisa Cron. Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

On this episode of the daily with Syl stein we are talking all about The 8 essential elements of a story by using the website by Editor, Author and former literary agent Nathan Bransford and his website: nathanbransford.com I am also going to have another amazing author interview on Friday with another talented author : I am so happy to be interviewing Sonny Hudson Crime and Fiction Writer. Stay tuned.

“I love plot, I love character, and I just feel like the colors are bolder and brighter and there's more to work with when I'm writing about science fiction and fantasy.” - Randee DawnIn this How To Write the Future episode, “Future Fantasy, Real-World Resilience with Randee Dawn,” podcast host Beth Barany interviews Brooklyn-based author and veteran entertainment journalist Randee Dawn, where Randee shares how her love of “new journalism” started and they discuss how to portray monsters in their novels that leave their readers guessing whether they're good or evil, how to craft stories with emotional resonance, and the power of a writing community. ABOUT RANDEE DAWNRandee Dawn is a Brooklyn-based author and veteran entertainment journalist. In 2025, she has two dark rock n' roll fantasies being published through Arc Manor/Caezik: The Only Song Worth Singing (April), and Leave No Trace (September).Born in Virginia, raised in Maryland, she's now based in Brooklyn with her spouse and never enough mangoes.Website: https://randeedawn.com/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRandeeDawnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/randeedawn/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randeedawn/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@randee.dawnRESOURCESRELATED EPISODE: Monsters and Humanity in Fiction with Surekha Davies https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/episodes/18046744-177-monsters-and-humanity-in-fiction-with-surekha-daviesGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!Invitation to join our Romancing the Subplot Workshop coming soon. Link in the show notes.--- JOIN US! ROMANCING THE SUBPLOT - SAT + SUN, NOV. 15-16, 2025 on ZoomRomancing the Subplot Masterclass Workshop, Weekend Writing Retreat with Gala Russhttps://bethbarany.thrivecart.com/romancingthesubplotfall2025/ CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Struggle to believe your work is good enough? Yeh. Me too. We all do. Ever wonder what it takes to write in a language that isn't your first—and still sound like you?In this episode, I sit down with writer and book coach Karmen Spiljak to talk about what it really means to write without borders. Karmen shares her journey from Slovenia to indie publishing in English, and the mindset shifts that helped her move past perfectionism, comparison, and imposter syndrome to find joy and freedom on the page.We talk about giving yourself permission, learning to trust your gut as a writer, embracing the messy drafts that lead to growth, and practical ways to keep your creative fire alive—like writing a letter to yourself about why you write and keeping a “Nice Things” folder for those encouraging words we all need to revisit sometimes.If you've ever doubted your voice or wrestled with the question, “Am I good enough?”—this conversation will remind you that progress matters more than perfection, and writing what you love is always worth it!Timestamps: 00:00 Starting the Journey: Writing Without Borders14:59 Challenges of Writing in English15:42 Mindset Shifts and Comparisons18:49 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome21:26 Writing for Yourself and Reconnecting with Joy24:31 Tools and Resources for Writers28:40 Final Thoughts and AdviceHow to Connect with KarmenShort Story Blueprint (I've created it for the podcast listeners): https://storyallegiance.com/short/ author website https://karmenspiljak.comOther Links Mentioned:Karmen has also published articles on Jane Friedman's blog, including how to use food as a character development tool and how to navigate writing in a second language.Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“It all started with too much Star Trek, although you could say that that's a lie because there is never too much Star Trek.” - Surekha DaviesIn the latest How To Write the Future podcast, titled “Monsters and Humanity in Fiction with Surekha Davies,” host Beth Barany talks to science and art historian, monster consultant, and author, Surekha Davies. Together they discuss why understanding monsters matters, how they function as boundary-markers for humanity, and how writer's can apply an historian's perspective on monsters to deepen their storytelling. ABOUT SUREKHA DAVIESSurekha Davies is a historian of science, art, and ideas, a speaker, and a monster consultant for TV, film and radio. She is the author of "Humans: A Monstrous History" just out from the University of California Press, and writes the free newsletter, "Strange and Wondrous: Notes From a Science Historian." Her first book, "Renaissance Ethnography and the Invention of the Human: New Worlds, Maps and Monsters," won the Morris D. Forkosch Prize for the best first book in intellectual history from the Journal of the History of Ideas and the Roland H. Bainton Prize in History and Theology. Her work has appeared in the Times Literary Supplement, Nature, Science, and Aeon Magazine.For a free excerpt from HUMANS: A MONSTROUS HISTORY sign up for my newsletter, "Strange and Wondrous": https://buttondown.com/surekhadaviesWebsite: https://www.surekhadavies.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surekhadavies/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surekha-davies-53711753/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@surekhadavies?lang=enRESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!Invitation to join our Romancing the Subplot Workshop coming soon. Link in the show notes.--- JOIN US! ROMANCING THE SUBPLOT - SAT + SUN, NOV. 15-16, 2025 on ZoomRomancing the Subplot Masterclass Workshop, Weekend Writing Retreat with Gala Russhttps://bethbarany.thrivecart.com/romancingthesubplotfall2025/ CONNECTContact BethLinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

What does it really take to write and publish more than forty books—and still love the process? In this episode of Write It Scared, I sit down with fantasy author Michelle Miles, who's done exactly that.Michelle pulls back the curtain on the realities of indie publishing—how to manage burnout, balance creativity with deadlines, and build systems that let you keep writing for the long haul. We talk about shifting from traditional to indie publishing, finding joy in the work again, and learning when to push forward (and when to pause).If you've ever dreamed of a full-time writing career—or wondered how to make it sustainable—this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom, practical strategies, and heart.Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Rapid release strategies that actually work 01:25 Meet fantasy author Michelle Miles 03:29 From traditional to indie publishing 06:21 Lessons from 40+ books: challenges, triumphs, and persistence 17:31 Finding balance between writing and real life 24:17 Building sustainable publishing systems 31:01 Advice for aspiring indie authors 34:19 When to hire an editor (and when to trust yourself) 40:58 Dealing with doubt and staying motivated 48:38 Final thoughts and encouragementLinksHolly Lisle How To Think SidewaysLiegh Bardugo's TED Talk: The Art of Discomfort Miles Beyond the Page Podcast Michelle Miles Author WebsiteDirect Store: http://www.michellemilesbooks.comHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Melissa Bank, who passed away in 2022, was a fabulous writer and an incredible person. We met a few times in person, out here in Southern California when we were both speakers at the Literary Guild, and in NYC when I traveled there for conferences. She came on the show a couple of times, for Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing and The Wonder Spot. Her output was modest though her books became bestsellers. She received an MFA from Cornell University and won the Nelson Algren Award for short fiction from the Chicago Tribune. I'll always remember when I asked her to talk about how to write a novel, she said, “I don't know how to write a novel.” What she knew how to do, she was, was write stories. Stories became chapters and chapters become a book. If you've never read these two books, check them out. My guess is you will become a fan. For more information on Writers on Writing and to become a supporter, visit our Patreon page. For a one-time donation, visit Ko-fi. You can find hundreds of past interviews on our website. You can help out the show and indie bookstores by buying books at our bookstore on bookshop.org. It's stocked with titles by our guest authors, as well as our personal favorites. And on Spotify, you'll find an album's worth of typewriter music like what you hear on the show. It's perfect for writing. Look for the artist, Just My Type. Email the show at writersonwritingpodcast@gmail.com. We love to hear from our listeners! (Recorded on October 7, 2007) Host: Barbara DeMarco-BarrettHost: Marrie StoneMusic: Travis Barrett (Stream his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.) 

“So the habits of mind are: curiosity, openness, engagement, creativity, persistence, responsibility, flexibility, and metacognition. So that's a whole lot of terms. Metacognition is typically the one where people go, huh, I don't know what you're talking about. So that's the one that I wanna talk about. It is also one of the ones that I think is foundational to all the rest.” - Bailey LangIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “Bailey Lang's Habits of Mind for Writers,” host Beth Barany talks to book coach, editor, and ghostwriter Bailey Lang, where they discuss the uses of AI in a creative world, and Bailey shares what the Habits of Mind are and why they are important to writers and how they can help them build sustainable practices. ABOUT BAILEY LANGDr. Bailey Lang is a book coach, editor, and ghostwriter. At the Writing Desk, Bailey offers one-on-one coaching and manuscript reviews to support authors in building sustainable, enjoyable writing practices that take their books from draft to done. Bailey pairs a deep knowledge of the writing process with intuitive and highly customized practices that help writers develop confidence, grow in their craft, and produce writing they're proud of—without burning out.Bailey's free newsletter, Word to the Wise, features writing advice you'll actually use—plus regular interviews with published authors. https://usethewritingdesk.kit.com/Website: https://usethewritingdesk.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bailey-lang/ABOUT BETH BARANYBeth Barany, an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist, teaches novelists how to write, edit, and publish their books as a coach, teacher, consultant, and developmental editor.RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--CONNECTContact Beth: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/podcast/#tve-jump-185b4422580Email: beth@bethbarany.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethbarany/CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT: https://get.descript.com/0clwwvlf6e3jMUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

If you've ever worried your story feels flat or stalled, this one's for you. Today, we're digging into one of the trickiest but most essential tools in your writer's toolbox: narrative drive. This is the force that makes your reader lean in, turn the page, and stay invested in your character's journey.I'll break down what narrative drive actually is, why it matters so much, and how to wield it on the page. We'll talk about the three C's—concern, curiosity, and control of information— and how to use them to keep the reader invested. Plus, I'll share some practical strategies you can use right now to keep your story moving!Episode Timestamps: 00:00 What narrative drive really means 01:24 Why narrative drive matters for your story 02:46 How character and conflict fuel narrative drive 06:12 The 3 C's: concern, curiosity, and control of information 10:23 Practical tips to build story momentum 13:26 Final thoughts + your next stepsLinks Mentioned:Episode 27: How to Write Suspense and Tension in Your NovelThe Fiction Lounge PodcastHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Send us a textStephanie Oswald and Elizabeth Wilson talk about the benefit of learning from other genres and what Stephanie Oswald has discovered for her writing while participating in the Memoir Master Plan Cohort. You'll have to tune in to find out about Stephanie Oswald's recent celebrity author encounter!What's the common thread in your writing?As Stephanie Oswald has been working on manifesting the future version of herself as a writer on stages and tour, she kept wondering what she'd talk about in those moments. Sure, she could talk about what her book is about, but what's really at the heart of the stories. What's the purpose for showing up to write everyday to get her book written. That's what Stephanie felt was missing. As an additional writing coach supporting Elizabeth Wilson's Memoir Master Plan Cohort, Stephanie found she could take the content from the program and apply it to her fiction writing. Your core message is how you connect with your readers through your writing. For Stephanie Oswald, it's the theme she's landed on that is helping her stay focused and find purpose for showing up to the blank page each day to keep writing her novel. A lot of life events derailed Stephanie's process, but it's been through her connection with the memoir writers in the Memoir Master Plan Cohort that she's been able to bring deeper meaning to her work in fiction. What do you want your readers to take away? Welcome to the Inspired Writer Collective podcast. If you've ever felt the pull to write your truth, to shape the chaos of real life into something meaningful and to share your journey with the world, you're in the right place. We're your hosts, Elizabeth and Stephanie, writers, coaches, and entrepreneurs who believe in you and know how important it is to find a writing community to guide you on your path to self-publishing. You're invited to connect with us by joining our Embodied Writing Experience where you'll get a writer's retreat directly to your inbox on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays each week. Whether you're working on a memoir, a novel, or journaling for yourself, this is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and write with embodied intention. Join our Embodied Writing Experience where you'll get a writer's retreat directly to your inbox on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays each week. Whether you're working on a memoir, a novel, or journaling for yourself, this is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and write with embodied intention. Get on the waitlist for the Memoir Master Plan cohort here. If you prefer video versions of the podcast, you can find all of them on our YouTube channel.

“I am a horrible little goblin like that, and it's just what happens. So I have to trick myself and the ways that I trick myself are to really let myself see what I want to create.” - LA BourgeoisAbout this episodeIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host Beth Barany, talks to Kaizen Muse Certified Creativity Coach, end of life doula, and author LA Bourgeois where they define the meaning behind a creativity coach, and LA discusses strategies for establishing writing habits, emphasizing the importance of starting with tiny, manageable steps to overcome resistance.About LA BourgeoisLA Bourgeois is a Kaizen-Muse certified creativity coach, end-of-life doula, and author. Her readers delight in her Diary of a Lesbian Housewyfe and find inspiration & book reviews at The Thriving Creative.FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/housewyfe/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/la.bourgeois/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/lahousewyfe/LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/la-bourgeois-16b7542b/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@LAHousewyfeSubscribe to the Thriving Creative and get my quick tips on Tricking Yourself into a Creative Habit!https://labourgeois.substack.com/ABOUT BETH BARANYBeth Barany, an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist, teaches novelists how to write, edit, and publish their books as a coach, teacher, consultant, and developmental editor.RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--CONNECTContact Beth: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/podcast/#tve-jump-185b4422580Email: beth@bethbarany.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethbarany/CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT: https://get.descript.com/0clwwvlf6e3jMUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Today I'm chatting with middle-grade and YA author Ali Terese, author of Free Period and Vote for the G.O.A.T. Ali shares her journey to becoming a published author, the challenges of writing for kids, and the joy of tackling tough topics with humor. We discuss current word count trends in middle-grade literature, working with critique groups, connecting with librarians and educators, and why rewriting is where the real magic happens.If you're navigating your own kid lit path—or just need encouragement to keep going—this conversation will leave you inspired.Episode Highlights: 01:34 – Meet Ali Terese & her writing journey 04:13 – Writing middle grade fiction 07:09 – Community and critique partners 09:45 – Vote for Goat and Free Period 14:32 – Ali's writing process & rewriting 17:47 – Middle Grade word count and publishing trends 19:28 – Writing for the “in-between” readers 21:58 – Supporting and connecting with librarians 25:06 – Overcoming doubt & finding your voice 31:47 – The joy and surprises of writing 34:34 – Advice for aspiring kid lit writers 36:14 – Current projects & where to find AliLinks mentioned:Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)Connect with Ali Terese:Event booking: How Now Booking https://www.hownowbooking.com/speakers/terese/Website: www.aliterese.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alitereseauthor/Frequently Asked Questions  https://aliterese.com/about/Discussion guide, actions, recipes, crafts, mayhem  https://aliterese.com/resources/Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

“I'm not asking for everybody to center queer characters in their narratives in world-building, which would be nice, actually, you know, as nice as that would be.But just to include us and to show that we exist and in whatever ways are appropriate in your world, whether that is a more like marginal existence in some worlds.” - Chad GraysonIn this episode on the How To Write the Future podcast, “Seamless Queer Characters in Fantasy World Building,” host Beth Barany talks to sci-fi and fantasy author Chad Grayson about the importance of queer and neurodivergent representation in world building, protecting your creativity, and shares productivity tips for neurodivergent writers.ABOUT CHAD GRAYSONChad Grayson has worn many hats: tech support flunky, gas station philosopher, reluctant middle school wrangler, and, for one unforgettable night, cheese-mold removal specialist. These days he lives in far Northern California, where he writes hopeful, character-focused sci-fi and fantasy that will break your heart and duct tape it back together. He can usually be found painting tiny fantasy heroes and monsters, wandering the woods in deep narrative contemplation, or yelling at his plot outlines like they've personally betrayed him (they know what they did).His superpowers include procrastination, dyscalculia, and making emotionally devastating story beats sound like a perfectly reasonable life choice.Here is a short story collection that showcases my fiction. https://dl.bookfunnel.com/b2p8y4vi0lWebsite: https://www.chadgrayson.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/c.e.graysonRESOURCESSupport our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR FICTION WRITING BY A NOVELIST AND WRITING TEACHER AND COACHSchedule an exploratory call here and see if Beth can support you today: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/discovery-call/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--CONNECTContact Beth: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/podcast/#tve-jump-185b4422580Email: beth@bethbarany.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethbarany/CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT: https://get.descript.com/0clwwvlf6e3jMUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Feeling like giving up on your novel?Don't. In this episode, I talk with fantasy author Bruce Buchanan about how he went from years of false starts to giving up entirely to finally publishing his debut novel, The Blacksmith's Boy. Bruce shares what finally broke through his mental blocks, how community kept him going, and the role of process in quieting doubt and imposter syndrome. If you're struggling to finish, this one's full of encouragement and practical tips!Timestamps 00:00 Overcoming the First Manuscript Hurdle 00:30 Welcome to Write It Scared 01:31 Bruce's Journey from Journalist to Fantasy Author 03:36 Writing Process + Challenges 09:44 The Blacksmith's Boy 15:18 What's Next for Bruce 18:58 Community + Publication Path 27:23 Battling Imposter Syndrome 29:10 Final EncouragementLinkshttps://brucebuchananauthor.com/Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Nicholas Binge has lectured in creative writing, co-hosts the 'Binge Reading Book Club' podcast, and has just published his 4th book. It's called 'Extremity'.It follows up the success of 'Professor Everywhere', which won the Proverse Prize for Literature, 'Dissolution', and the bestselling, 'Ascension'. 'Extremity' is a time-travelling police procedural. It follows Julia Torgrimsen, brought out of retirement to investigate the murder of a billionaire she once worked with. When she finds the body... there's an identical one right next to it.We discuss how this book came to be a novella - does the idea dictate the form? Also, you can hear why he found it tricky becoming a full-time writer, why he always tries to celebrate the small wins, and about his winding path to publication.This episode is sponsored by IngramSpark. Try it now at ingramspark.com/learnmoreSupport the show at - patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineGet a copy of the book - uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineGet the newsletter - writersroutine.substack.com@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Indyana Schneider—international opera singer and novelist—shares practical ways to write rhythm and desire on the page, craft scene-level tension, and shape compressed-time narratives; plus lessons from drafting her debut on the Tube.  You'll learn:How to build sentence-level cadence: vary lengths and read aloud to tune flow.A simple spine for short-timeframe novels: day-by-day beats, rising stakes, a final choice.Where to start and stop scenes so pages move (start late, leave early).Writing desire without cliché: stay in character voice; revise for rhythm and clarity.Turning musical training into prose: sensory sequencing that guides attention.When to query (and what “ready” looked like) plus handling editorial feedback.Smart ways to measure success beyond sales and keep momentum across careers. Resources and Links:

“Your biggest challenge is how to start, how to overcome confusion and overwhelm, and maybe how to overcome some procrastination.” - Beth BaranyRevisit an informative, positive, and uplifting episode with host Beth Barany to help “Your Story World Diagnosis: What Stage Are You In?” where she will share the five stages of story world building, including common world-building challenges and how to overcome them.In this episode, you will:Be able to identify the main stages of building a story worldGain direction on the symptoms to know which stage you are inLearn solutions on how you can progress through each stage.RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR FICTION WRITING BY A NOVELIST AND WRITING TEACHER AND COACHSchedule an exploratory call here and see if Beth can support you today: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/discovery-call/SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--CONNECTContact Beth: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/podcast/#tve-jump-185b4422580Email: beth@bethbarany.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethbarany/CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT: https://get.descript.com/0clwwvlf6e3jMUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Today we're busting one of the sneakiest myths out there: that you need a literary background to write a great novel. Spoiler—you don't. In this episode, I share a story from a coaching call, plus my own late start as a novelist, to remind you that credentials matter far less than persistence, passion, and the willingness to keep learning by doing. Writing skills can be learned—but the only thing that really counts is that you keep showing up. The takeaway? Don't let yourself fail before you even start. You are a writer if you choose to be. So choose it—today, tomorrow, and the day after. Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Here are some readings from our series New Arrivals, a pocket-sized book tour with Bay Area authors. 

Have you stopped to ask yourself: what is it that you want? And dared to listen to the answer.” - Beth Barany In the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, “In the Age of AI, Think Critically, Write Creatively, Act Compassionately,” host Beth Barany encourages listeners to critically think about the tools they are using and to create a compassionate place to be curious about the systems they live within. She encourages listeners to learn from their mistakes: “feedback, not failure,” and asks, “Would you dare listen to the answer if you stopped to ask yourself what it is you wanted?”ABOUT THE HOW TO WRITE THE FUTURE PODCASTThe How To Write The Future podcast is for science fiction and fantasy writers who want to write positive futures and successfully bring those stories out into the marketplace. Hosted by Beth Barany, science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. We cover tips for fiction writers and get curious about the future of humanity.ABOUT BETH BARANYBeth Barany, an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist, teaches novelists how to write, edit, and publish their books as a coach, teacher, consultant, and developmental editor.RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSSign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success.https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCASTSign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR FICTION WRITING BY A NOVELIST AND WRITING TEACHER AND COACHSchedule an exploratory call here and see if Beth can support you today: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/discovery-call/ SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--CONNECTContact Beth: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/podcast/#tve-jump-185b4422580Email: beth@bethbarany.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethbarany/CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT: https://get.descript.com/0clwwvlf6e3jMUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Debut author Christine Ma-Kellams talks about her novel The Band, a story that mixes psychology and K-pop. We dig into how real-life experiences can shape your fiction, what it takes to move through self-doubt, and why chasing perfection is the fastest way to stall your draft.Christine shares her perspective on trusting your subconscious, embracing the chaos of the writing process, and staying grounded when social media starts to feel like a trap. This one's equal parts practical advice and encouragement—with a little humor to keep you going.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Write It Scared Podcast 00:27 Meet Christine Ma-Kellams 01:47 Christine's Writing Journey 04:17 The Band: Plot and Themes 06:05 Writing Process and Advice 11:27 The Role of Personal Experience in Writing 18:46 Overcoming Self-Doubt 19:22 The Voice of Doubt and How to Push Back 22:51 Why Reading Matters for Writers 25:02 Creative Advice and Encouragement 28:54 Navigating Social Media as an Author 31:33 What's Next for Christine and Where to Find HerLinks:Novel: THE BAND Atria 2024https://www.christinema-kellams.comhttps://www.instagram.com/choppstixzHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Nothing cuts quite like that dreaded question: “So… how's your book coming?”  In this episode of Write It Scared, I dig into why it stings, how to answer without spiraling, and how to reframe it into an empowering moment. Because progress isn't about speed or polish—it's about staying true to what you value and what you're making meaning of in your creative life.Timestamps: 00:00 The Writer's Spiral 01:27 The Dreaded Question 02:20 Why It Stings 03:27 Reframing the Conversation 06:44 The Truth About Writing 07:48 How to Share about Your Journey 09:53 Keep Going 11:01 Closing Thoughts Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

To mark 20 years of Design Matters, Debbie Millman revisits some of her most memorable conversations with acclaimed non-fiction writers Lisa Taddeo, Malcolm Gladwell, Anne Lamott, Maria Konnikova, and Alain de Botton. This anniversary collection captures the insight, candor, and wisdom of five extraordinary thinkers whose work continues to shape how we see ourselves and the world around us.For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.