Podcasts about how to write

“In addition to your villain's goal, they need a motivation. They feel like they're the hero of their own story. They have a good reason for wanting what they want.” - Beth BaranyIn some stories long after the final page is closed, the villain often captivates the reader over a hero. Their backstory, portrayal, beliefs and even down to certain acts of heroism, but how do you make your villain compelling?In the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Crafting a Compelling Villain: Goals, Motivation, Conflict” host Beth Barany, shares how to craft a compelling villain to engage readers, drive the plot of their story, and ways to build an depth conflict within their journey.Use the steps outlined in the episode to plan and draft out your villain and apply it to your story.Support us! https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranyGet the workbook: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ Join the Edit Lab before the price goes up! https://bethbarany.com/editlab✶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/✶ABOUT BETH BARANYBeth Barany is an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. Through her services and products, she guides novelists to write, revise, and publish stories that matter—blending practical craft guidance with a big-picture commitment to bright imagination, deep meaning, and wide-open possibilities. She calls writers to create with hope and courage—and to speak truth through art, even when it stretches them into a new version of themselves.✶ABOUT THE HOW TO WRITE THE FUTURE PODCASTHow To Write The Future is a podcast for science fiction and fantasy writers who want to imagine better worlds—and write stories that bring those futures to life. Each episode offers practical craft guidance, creative prompts, and big-picture inspiration to help you draft, revise, and publish with purpose.--------------------SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“That ties into your whole theme — because the theme of my novels is ‘Lose yourself in the fiction. Find yourself in the truth.'” - Brownell LandrumDo you know what sciences we use in making a wish? When blowing out the candles become more than a birthday moment?In this captivating How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Turn Your Wish Into Story Fuel with Brownell Landrum” host Beth Barany interviews storyteller and inventor Brownell Landrum where together they discuss Brownell's novel where she shares the science exploration behind making a wish and how she researched over 70 scientists calling it a “cosmic whack-a-mole.”ABOUT BROWNELL LANDRUMBrownell Landrum is a storyteller, speaker, inventor, and change catalyst. She's the author of over a dozen books, including The Art & Science of Wishing and the upcoming The Art & Science of Wishing at Work. She got curious about the sciences involved in wishing while writing a novel entitled A Love Story to The Universe. Brownell combines her corporate and entrepreneurial background and logical, business-oriented skills with a compelling storytelling style. The motto for her stories is “Lose yourself in the fiction… Find yourself in the truth.”Site: https://brownelllandrum.com/Here's the link to Chapter 1 of the Art & Science of Wishinghttps://dl.bookfunnel.com/qfhl9a3m8vHere's the link to Part 1 of A Love Story to the Universehttps://dl.bookfunnel.com/a4s6x8lwk5Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brownell.landrum.authorX: https://x.com/BrownellLandrumInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brownelllandrum/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brownell.landrumYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brownell.landrumABOUT 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 is an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. They help novelists write, revise, and publish stories that matter—blending practical craft guidance with a big-picture commitment to imagination, meaning, and possibility.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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“Amlet AI creates a tool that allows authors to make it known to machine to developers that their work can be licensed and is available and that they expect to be compensated.” - Julie TrelstadIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “AI Content Licensing for Authors: Julie Trelstad,” host Beth Barany interviews publishing professional, Julie Trelstad. Julie shares her publishing journey, what AI content licensing is, and how authors and publishers can protect themselves against copyright or AI theft by using the newly created Amlet AI.Amlet AI is a platform where authors can register books with machine‑readable metadata to enable licensing, compensation, and control over AI training use; it covers European deadlines, opt‑out options, ISCC standards, metadata enrichment.ABOUT JULIE TRELSTADJulie Trelstad is the founder of Paperbacks & Pixels, where she coaches authors on building publishing platforms with AI as a collaborator. She has been in publishing since 1989. Originally trained as an architect at Columbia and Parsons, she ran the Architectural Graphic Standards franchise at John Wiley & Sons, acquired Sarah Susanka's The Not-So-Big House at The Taunton Press, served as Director of Digital Rights at Writers House, and led US Publishing at StreetLib. She is also Head of US Publishing at Amlet AI, an AI rights registry helping authors and publishers participate in AI licensing on fair terms.https://paperbacksandpixels.comRun a free AI-driven autopsy on your book description with resuscitation instructions. paperbacksandpixels.com/book-description-autopsyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paperbacksnpixelsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julietrelstadABOUT 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 is an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. They help novelists write, revise, and publish stories that matter—blending practical craft guidance with a big-picture commitment to imagination, meaning, and possibility.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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

How To Write a Press Release for Your Startup Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Press releases can help the startup gain exposure in the marketplace. This helps recruit employees, find customers, and attract investors. Founders can do this upon closing a round of funding. Here are the steps to write a press release for your startup: Start with a compelling headline that motivates the audience to read further. Describe in the first paragraph the content you want every reader to have. In most cases, this will be all that they read. Create a standard paragraph explaining what the business does. This can be reused in future releases. Include quotes from the founder on the mission and values of the company. Add visuals such as photos of the team. Action pictures are more interesting than posed pictures. Add links to the website and other relevant information. Include enough information that a journalist can tie your press release to a current story. Finally, add your contact details and include the name and phone number of someone the reader can contact for more information. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let's go startup something today. _______________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please follow, share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of Bensound.

“One thing I recommend is that if you're really sure about something look it up cause you're probably wrong.” - Sue BurkeIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled, “Goal-Based Sci-Fi Research With Sue Burke,” host Beth Barany talks to author and translator Sue Burke on the importance of goal-based research and how it can help generate conflict in your stories and avoid clichés.ABOUT SUE BURKESue Burke is an author and translator. Her novel Semiosis was nominated for the Arthur C. Clarke Award, John W. Campbell Memorial Award, and the Locus Best First Novel Award. Its sequels are Interference and Usurpation. She has also written the novels Immunity Index and Dual Memory, short stories, poetry, journalism, and essays, and she won the 2016 Alicia Gordon Award for Word Artistry in Translation from the American Translators Association. She was born in the Milwaukee, lived in Texas and Spain, and is now in Chicago.Website: https://sueburke.site/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/burke.sueX: https://x.com/SueBurkeSpainLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sueburke/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueburkespain/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sueburke.bsky.socialRESOURCESFOR 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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“Fiction is a wonderful arena for dealing with some really complex topics and some difficult issues in a safe space.” - Alex KingsleyIn the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode titled, “Alex Kingsley: Writing Speculative Futures,” host Beth Barany chats with Alex Kingsley, a science fiction writer, playwright, game designer, and more exciting roles that inform their fiction writing.Together they talk about AI cognition, the importance of human intelligence in creating for the future, how speculative fiction can help readers cope with complex issues, and why compassion matters in sci-fi.ABOUT ALEX KINGSLEYAlex Kingsley (they/them) is a writer, comedian, game designer, and playwright. They are a co-founder of the new media company Strong Branch Productions. They are the author of Empress of Dust, Relic of Haven and The Strange Garden and Other Weird Tales, as well as short fiction appearing in Translunar Travelers Lounge, Radon Journal, Sci-Fi Lampoon, and more. Alex's sci-fi plays have been produced in LA, Philadelphia, and Chicago. Alex's SFF-related non-fiction has appeared in Interstellar Flight Magazine and Ancillary Review of Books. Their games can be downloaded pay-what-you-will at alexyquest.itch.io. Alex is currently a graduate student studying speculative fiction at the University of Illinois, Chicago.Website: http://alexkingsley.orgInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hitchhikersguidetothealexyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kingsley-56342a139/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexyquestBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alexyquest.bsky.socialNewsletter: Newsletter: https://alexkingsley.substack.comSHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYQuestions? Comments? Send us a text!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“I'm trying to make sure we have artists, the next generation people who can get to the open mic for the first time and learn how to hold a microphone.” - Khafre JayIn the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Hip Hop for the Future” host Beth Barany interviews hip hop organizer Khafre Jay where they discuss the importance of hip hop as a culture within the San Francisco Bay Area and his plans for the future to get more community members involved.From his business creating slogan clothing, to building local creative spaces to his beliefs on public health and the impact live music can have on an audience, this episode is sure to broaden your horizons on the entire hip hop culture.ABOUT KHAFRE JAYHailing from Hunters Point, San Francisco—a city with the highest income inequality in the nation—Khafre Jay has dedicated his life to fighting for socioeconomic justice and empowering his community through Hip Hop organizing.Now leading Hip Hop For The Future SPC, Khafre is pioneering the use of Hip Hop to reimagine public healthcare, aiming to increase Black life expectancy and bring transformative resources to marginalized populations.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hiphopforthefuturespcFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/khafrej/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khafrejay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khafrejay/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theunapologeticblackguyAlbum: https://music.apple.com/us/album/critical-race-hip-hop/1757033018Website: http://www.hiphopforthefuture.orgSHOW 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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“I was a science fiction reader from the beginning, and I continued to identify myself as a science fiction writer. However, a lot of my stuff would have to be classified as fantasy.” - David D. Levine In the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Read, Write, Repeat with David D. Levine” host Beth Barany talks to science fiction author David D. Levine about his career path, the challenges of history research, and how he uses it in his novels, including gender throughout the ages.ABOUT DAVID D. LEVINEDavid D. Levine is the author of Andre Norton Nebula Award winning novel Arabella of Mars, sequels Arabella and the Battle of Venus and Arabella the Traitor of Mars, space-opera caper novel The Kuiper Belt Job, and over sixty SF and fantasy stories. His story “Tk'Tk'Tk” won the Hugo, and he has been shortlisted for awards including the Hugo, Nebula, Campbell, and Sturgeon. Stories have appeared in Asimov's, Analog, Clarkesworld, F&SF, Tor.com, numerous Year's Best anthologies, and his award-winning collection Space Magic.Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/david.d.levine.sfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/daviddlevine/Website: https://daviddlevine.comBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/daviddlevine.comRESOURCESGET 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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“Oh my goodness. Sue has so much to say about research and how to use research strategically about finding conflicts and problems and learning as much as you need to know to be able to move forward. So be sure to listen to our conversation. It was really fun talking with her. I so admire her.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “5 Upcoming Inspiring Interviews“ host Beth Barany shares with listeners upcoming interviews for the podcast including with a fellow science fiction and fantasy author, hip hop organizer, novelist and Masters student, award-winning science fiction novelist, creative nonfiction author, and a long-time publishing professional. You're also invited to be interviewed on the podcast which Beth explains how to do.RESOURCESPodcast presskit: https://bethbarany.com/podcastpresskitFOR 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/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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Google just dropped three updates in a single week — and together, they don't just change search. They change the entire customer journey.In this episode, Exposure Ninja's CEO, Charlie Marchant, breaks down what's actually happened, what it means for businesses that rely on search to generate leads and revenue, and why marketing leaders need to be paying attention right now.The biggest of the three? Google's new Personal Intelligence feature inside Gemini. For the first time, Google is connecting decades of behavioural data — your Gmail, Google Photos, YouTube history, Maps activity — into a single personalised AI that can answer questions based on your actual life. It already knows what car you drive, what brands you've bought from, and where you've been on holiday. Now it's going to use all of that to decide whose products to recommend.In this episode, Charlie and Dale cover:Why Google's Personal Intelligence is a fundamentally different kind of personalisation — and why ChatGPT can't come close to matching it (yet)What the Google–Apple AI partnership actually means: how overnight, virtually every smartphone on the planet is about to run on Google's AIThe Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) — the quietly named but enormous development that lets users complete purchases directly inside AI Mode, without ever visiting your websiteHow the buyer funnel is being compressed at a speed that most marketing teams haven't caught up withThe dark traffic problem: why AI-assisted purchases are showing up as direct traffic in your analytics, and what to do about itWhat a McKinsey report found about how many buyers are now starting their journey inside an AI platformExactly what C-suite marketing leaders should do this week in response to all three updatesAs Charlie explains in the episode:"All that actually matters at the end of the day is that AI search is going to become a new normal, no matter which platform is the winner. What you actually want to be doing is focusing on where the revenue's coming from for your business and how you're going to be showing up in an AI search world."If you're responsible for marketing strategy at a business that depends on search — organic or paid — this episode is your briefing.Request a Free Marketing Review:exposureninja.com/reviewRead the podcast notes:https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-63/Listen to these episodes next:If My SEO Traffic Dropped, Here's Exactly What I'd Do (It's Easy)https://exposureninja.com/podcast/378/How To Write a Marketing RFP (That Actually Gets Results)https://exposureninja.com/podcast/377/The Budgeting Mistake Costing You a 10X ROIhttps://exposureninja.com/podcast/376/

“What is creativity? Here's the short of it. For me, creativity is about combining disparate elements, elements we might not even think of putting together. For us, for us as science fiction and fantasy writers, what might this look like? Well, this will be a fusion of tropes and genres and settings and your own personal spin.” - Beth BaranyIn the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode titled “Uncertain Times: Five Creative Superpowers” host, Beth Barany shares what creativity means to her and what the five “superpowers” are that writers can use to enhance their writing. RESOURCESEDIT YOUR NOVEL CHECKLISThttp://edityournovelchecklist.comFOR 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/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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

Welcome back to another fantastic episode of The Writing Community Chat Show! With over 400 interviews under our belts - chatting with everyone from indie debutants to NYT bestsellers - we are incredibly proud to continue bringing you the very best insights into the publishing world. It's been an amazing journey recently reaching number 3 in the top 10 writing podcasts in the UK, and we couldn't do it without this brilliant community.This week, we are thrilled to welcome the award-winning author of contemporary women's fiction and romance, Fiona Lucas (also known for her decades of enchanting readers as Fiona Harper). Fiona has written over 30 books, hit the number one spot on the Kindle bestseller list, and cracked the code for authors on TikTok, accumulating over a million likes!Whether you are plotting your first romance or trying to figure out how to market your latest release on social media, Fiona's journey from a mother of two seeking a creative outlet to a seasoned industry veteran is packed with actionable advice.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community

“If you need help with ideas, if you want to play with randomness, to inspire you, to jumpstart your creativity, to come up with new ideas that you wouldn't have ordinarily thought of.” - Beth Barany***In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Use Divination Cards to Spark Stories,” host Beth Barany shares her personal journey with Tarot, plus how you can use Tarot and the Mythulu Desk for your science fiction and fantasy stories. Discover practical tips for writers, including how to develop your characters using these decks. RESOURCESBooks and products mentioned in this episode:Mythulu deck: https://mythulu.com/pack-a-intro/Crowley Thoth deck by Aleister Crowley and painted by Lady Frieda HarrisMirrors of the Soul: Handbook for the Aleister Crowley Tarot Paperback by Gerd ZieglerWriter's Adventure Guide by Beth BaranyStory Grid by Shawn CoyneShop here: https://bookshop.org/lists/writing-resources-mentioned-on-how-to-write-the-future-podcast***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!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

How do you turn the rhythm of a song into the heartbeat of a novel?In this episode of The Writing Community Chat Show, we sit down with the multi-talented Antonio Michael Downing—a writer, musician, and "creative force" whose work spans critically acclaimed memoirs like Saga Boy and his stunning new debut novel, Black Cherokee.Antonio shares a perspective on the craft that is as soulful as it is practical. We dive deep into his "sensory hypnosis" ritual—why he writes every first draft longhand with a "sacred" fountain pen—and explore his "gardening mindset" for productivity, which might just change the way you look at your daily word counts forever.In this episode, we discuss:The Economy of Words: What novelists can learn from hip-hop legends and the tight structure of a three-minute song.Ritualising the Flow State: How to use physical objects to "hypnotise" your brain into writing mode.Writing What You Don't Know: The meticulous research and radical empathy required to write across culture, gender, and history.Reverse-Engineering Emotion: How to study the books that move you to figure out exactly how the "magic" works.The 1990s & The "Trail of Tears": Why Antonio chose a pre-cellphone era to explore the history that "never stays in the past."Whether you're an indie author struggling with your first draft or a seasoned pro looking for a fresh spark of inspiration, this conversation is a masterclass in staying curious and finding your own unique "fingerprint" on the page."Your job is to be available... to create the conditions so that tomatoes can grow. Then the tomatoes will naturally grow." — Antonio Michael Downing.Connect with Antonio:Website: antoniomichaeldowning.comInstagram: @antoniomichaeldowningJoin the WCCS Community: Don't forget to like, subscribe, and check out our upcoming community project, "The 100," where we'll be writing 80,000 words together starting this May! Visit https://substack.com/@thewccs for more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community

“Life is messy. Life is unpredictable, and so is creating. Make room for that. Create compassion.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Beginning, Middle, End — And Mess” host Beth Barany shares why embracing the mess in creativity can have powerful results.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. 2026 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!Support the show---♦︎ JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP: For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what?Join the Edit the Future: Sci‑Fi/Fantasy Revision Lab. Get premium weekly lessons and a monthly Q&A on Zoom. Subscribe: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2012061/subscribe♥︎ FREE: Sign up here for the Edit Your Novel ChecklistHelps writers revise faster with less overwhelm by focusing first on diagnosis, not fixing. Get yours at http://edityournovelchecklist.com.♡ SHOP: Sci‑Fi & Fantasy 24 Writing Prompts: https://ko-fi.com/s/4ac9160a74❤️ Want to be interviewed on the podcast? => Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“Traditionally, at least for the last 200 years, there's been a cultural divide between being in business and being a creative, which is born out of a lot of images of the starving artist and really different movements that thought being an artist is totally different from being in business.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode titled “Business Advice Creatives Can Actually Use” host Beth Barany shares business advice for creative entrepreneurs and creative writers. From pitching your work, filtering advice that suits you, as well as Beth sharing an early business struggle of hers, this episode will inspire you to get creative in your marketing. What is your Creative Business Style? Take the quiz!https://bethbarany.com/quiz/Risk Taking Without Desperation: Write From Trusthttps://writersfunzone.com/blog/2026/03/02/risk-taking-without-desperation-write-from-trust/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/bethbarany***SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANYQuestions? 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/htwtfreadytoeditWant to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us!CONNECT WITH BETHvia emailvia LinkedInCREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

“ I care very much about your success and I really believe that our future is in our hands and as creatives, we have some incredible skill sets we get to bring to that.” - Beth BaranyIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Fun Values Check-In for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Writers,” host Beth Barany shares what values are most important to her, why that matters, how values can guide the choices we make, and about an upcoming creative business training. Beth also reveals how she found inspiration for her current work in progress, something about marinating.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

“In difficult days when I'm struggling with my story or I'm struggling with my creative entrepreneur business. I turn to what I know and to what I trust, which is my emotions, my breathing, my physical body, and often it's a sign I need to do a bunch of self-care.” - Beth BaranyWhat can you trust? Who do you trust? How To Write the Future host, Beth Barany asks you these questions in her latest episode, titled “Trust Your Creative Process” where she shares how learning to trust her emotions lead to understanding her creative process, plus she invites you to the Find Your Creative Entrepreneur Niche Bootcamp which Beth is co-hosting with Gala Russ.This bootcamp will provide you with support, guidance, and how to discover your strengths to help you take steps towards being a creative entrepreneur.Find Your Creative Entrepreneur Niche Bootcamp: March 20-24, 2026 online eventhttps://bethbarany.thrivecart.com/findyournicheMORE RESOURCESFOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERSGet your Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success:https://bethbarany.com/quiz/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

“Every creative project involves risk, whether you are writing a novel, creating a play, a film, or starting your own creative entrepreneur business.” -- Beth BaranyIn the this episode of How To Write the Future podcast, titled “Risk Taking Without Desperation: Write From Trust,” host Beth Barany discusses how taking risks is unavoidable in both the realm of storytelling and being a creative entrepreneur.She shares her own business growth and future plans including different ways she thinks about risks.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

“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

“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

You've probably heard about the importance of journaling, putting thoughts on paper to help process the daily vicissitudes of life. But it's easy to stall once you see a blank page or get self conscious about what exactly you're writing. On this episode of How To!, we bring together Anna Quindlen, bestselling novelist and author of the new book Write For Your Life, and John Dickerson, co-host of Slate's Political Gabfest, CBS News reporter, author and veteran journaler. They share their wit and wisdom on how to start writing about your personal life — and how to keep it going amid all the distractions. (And stay tuned after the credits for an exclusive sneak peek of Anna Quindlen's next novel). If you liked this episode, check out "How To Write a Bestseller" and "How To Get Your Book Published."

You've probably heard about the importance of journaling, putting thoughts on paper to help process the daily vicissitudes of life. But it's easy to stall once you see a blank page or get self conscious about what exactly you're writing. On this episode of How To!, we bring together Anna Quindlen, bestselling novelist and author of the new book Write For Your Life, and John Dickerson, co-host of Slate's Political Gabfest, CBS News reporter, author and veteran journaler. They share their wit and wisdom on how to start writing about your personal life — and how to keep it going amid all the distractions. (And stay tuned after the credits for an exclusive sneak peek of Anna Quindlen's next novel). If you liked this episode, check out "How To Write a Bestseller" and "How To Get Your Book Published."

“For me, writing fiction is a place of play. So, yeah, that Aha came to me recently and I thought, okay, I need to dedicate myself to just playing with fiction for the next few days or the next few weeks, not taking everything so seriously. Just have some more fun.”How do you get unstuck in your writing? How can you make the process more fun? These are a couple of the questions How To Write the Future host, Beth Barany ask you in this episode titled “Writing Constraints: The Fast Creativity Reset” where she describes overcoming a creative slump using writing prompts to rediscover the joy of writing. RESOURCES10 Ways to Generate Ideas ebook - get your free copyhttps://BookHip.com/JWZVXWPMYTHULU CARDS - https://mythulu.com/pack-a-intro/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

“I think that if you sit on the sidelines and you choose to ignore these tools, you have no chance to compete in this new marketplace. You have no chance. I'm not gonna sugarcoat it. These tools can help you do structure, do deep thinking, do critical thinking very quickly and very, very good, and you're gonna be competing with very hungry writers that wanna learn craft, that have incredible tools in their hands.” —Ana del ValleIn this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Ethical AI for Writers with Ana del Valle” host Beth Barany interviews a leading authority in ethical AI for creative writing on tips on how to get the most out out your chat GPT questions plus predictions on the future of AI and how it will affect traditional publishers in 2026. ABOUT ANA DEL VALLEAward-winning novelist and technologist, Ana Del Valle is a recognized authority on AI in fiction writing, host of The Novelist Studio Podcast & YouTube channel, and founder of the AI Creative Writing Academy — the first AI-Assist Writing system recognized by the U.S. Copyright Office. Through her AI-Assist framework, she transforms the way writers approach fiction — harnessing AI as a creative ally to build complex, compelling novels, without ever losing their voice, their copyright control, or publishing rights.Website: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/Story Spark Bootcamp: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/story-spark-bootcamp-2dfc8808-f331-459f-8eba-27e82535328fAI Creative Writing Academy: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/ai-creative-writing-academyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sevennblueInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoveliststudio/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anadistasio/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@noveliststudioEbook: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/ebookSupport 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

“ 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

“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

“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

“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

“ 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

“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

Slate staff writer Rebecca Onion wants to improve her singing voice, but she's unsure about belting it out in public. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace introduces her to G. Phillip Shoultz III, associate director of VocalEssence, for advice on strengthening her voice, performing with confidence, and (gasp!) auditioning for a vocal group. If you liked this episode check out How To Write the Perfect Breakup Song With Ben Folds. Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. This episode is for Slate Plus members. Join now to unlock it—plus other exclusive How To! bonus episodes and ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen.

Slate staff writer Rebecca Onion wants to improve her singing voice, but she's unsure about belting it out in public. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace introduces her to G. Phillip Shoultz III, associate director of VocalEssence, for advice on strengthening her voice, performing with confidence, and (gasp!) auditioning for a vocal group. If you liked this episode check out How To Write the Perfect Breakup Song With Ben Folds.  Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slate staff writer Rebecca Onion wants to improve her singing voice, but she's unsure about belting it out in public. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace introduces her to G. Phillip Shoultz III, associate director of VocalEssence, for advice on strengthening her voice, performing with confidence, and (gasp!) auditioning for a vocal group. If you liked this episode check out How To Write the Perfect Breakup Song With Ben Folds.  Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slate staff writer Rebecca Onion wants to improve her singing voice, but she's unsure about belting it out in public. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace introduces her to G. Phillip Shoultz III, associate director of VocalEssence, for advice on strengthening her voice, performing with confidence, and (gasp!) auditioning for a vocal group. If you liked this episode check out How To Write the Perfect Breakup Song With Ben Folds.  Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slate staff writer Rebecca Onion wants to improve her singing voice, but she's unsure about belting it out in public. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace introduces her to G. Phillip Shoultz III, associate director of VocalEssence, for advice on strengthening her voice, performing with confidence, and (gasp!) auditioning for a vocal group. If you liked this episode check out How To Write the Perfect Breakup Song With Ben Folds.  Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“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

“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

“Written from the point of view of one character and then another scene from the another character. Now, we would never shift point of view within a scene, but each scene, each segment of the book is from a different point of view.” - Lawrence ConnollyIn this How To Write the Future episode, “Building Character-Driven Action Adventure Stories with Lawrence Connolly,” podcast host Beth Barany interviews author Lawrence Connolly, where they explore his upcoming exciting projects, including a feature film with his brother and his new novel. They also dive into using deep POV to create characters that are emotionally compelling to draw a reader into the author's world and share advice for writers working on film adaptations.ABOUT LAWRENCE C. CONNOLLYLawrence C. Connolly's books include the collections This Way to Egress, whose titular tale of psychological horror was adapted for the Mick Garris film Nightmare Cinema; and the Bram-Stoker-nominated Voices, which features Connolly's best stories from The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Twilight Zone, Year's Best Horror, and other top magazines and anthologies of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. A third collection, Visions, was praised by Publishers Weekly for featuring an eclectic mix of “entertaining and satisfying” SF. His novels include the eco-thrillers Veins, Vipers, and Vortex. World Fantasy Award winner T. E. D. Klein called Veins “a crime thriller as intense and fast-moving as a Tarantino movie.” This fall, Caezik Science Fiction will release his new novel Minute-Men: Execute & Run, a globetrotting adventure that combines elements of military science fiction, gaming, and medical suspense in a thrilling reinvention of the superhero genre. He is collaborating with brother Christopher Connolly and Academy Award-winning producer Jonathan Sanger to develop a feature film based on Execute & Run. He is also the writer of Mystery Theatre, a podcast produced by Prime Stage Theatre, who premiered his adaptation of Frankenstein in 2022. His newset commission, a play based on the life and works of Edgar Allan Poe, opens in November 2025 at Pittsburgh's New Hazelett Theatre.More at MinuteMenNovel.com. Website: https://lawrencecconnolly.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawrence.c.connolly.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawrence_c_connolly/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

“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

“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

“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

“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

In Episode 260 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Colby Acuff, a singer-songwriter carving out his own space in country music with his unique blend of storytelling, independence, and grit. The conversation dives into the creation of his new album Enjoy The Ride, a project that showcases Colby's raw vocals, lived-in lyrics, and powerful sense of self. Colby opens up about his path from Idaho roots to Nashville, including how fishing and the wilderness shaped his worldview and writing. The guys talk about the realities of the road, finding balance in the chaos of touring, and what it means to be a truly independent artist.  Follow on Social Media: Colby Acuff: @colbyacuff Matt Burrill (Host): @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Rage Rowdy(00:02:11) - How I Paid for My College on My Own(00:05:03) - Colby Acuff on His New Album(00:06:57) - Interviewing 40 People For Enjoy The Ride(00:11:56) - Colby Acuff on His Personal(00:15:12) - Trail Less Traveled(00:17:34) - Honky Tonk Heaven(00:21:30) - "Take It For Granted"(00:25:44) - How To Write a Love Song(00:27:39) - Favorite Song from Your Face or Mine(00:28:19) - How Many Dates Will Your Live Show Have This Year?(00:28:56) - John Legend on His Headlining(00:33:29) - Talking About John's Americana Album(00:35:35) - Duck Hunting and Fly Fishing(00:38:59) - Fly Fishing, Duck Hunting(00:43:37) - Enjoy the Ride(00:49:07) - Colby Acuff on His New Age Outlaw Label(00:53:22) - Tom Petty on His Own Music(00:53:32) - Drop Tines on Ending 2020(00:57:46) - The Raised Rowdy Camper Party(01:01:07) - The Family(01:05:04) - Colby on Enjoy the Ride(01:08:05) - Raise Rowdy(01:10:13) - "I'm Just A Two-Trick Pony"

In this episode, Jeff sits down with author Mary Van Everbroeck to work through a short story she's written. They talk about the complexity of writing and "big cast" scene, and creating powerful emotional tension in a scene.  For more on the craft of writing, check out https://dialoguedoctor.com/

In this episode, Jeff sits down with author John Krause to talk about John's work in progress. They look at John's Middle Grade mystry thriller and discuss how to build emotional peaks into the climax of the plot.  For more on the craft of writing, check out https://dialoguedoctor.com/

In this episode, Jeff, JP Rindfleisch IX, and Laura Humm (all the Dialogue Doctor Coaches) come together for a COACHES CALL! They discuss why they stop reading books, the best teachings to come out of the Dialogue Doctor, and places they are finding beauty in the world.  For more on the craft of writing, or to hire a coach, come to https://dialoguedoctor.com/

In this episode, Jeff and JP Rindfleisch IX dig into the book Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody. They discuss the the major teachings of the book, how the book impacted their early writing, and how they have move away from its teachings over time.  Find more on Jessica here: https://www.jessicabrody.com/ Check out JP's work here: https://shop.jprindfleischix.com/ For more on the craft of writing, go to https://dialoguedoctor.com/

Comic, writer and LEGEND Carol Leifer (Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Hacks) is here to talk about her new book, How To Write a Funny Speech... for a Wedding, Bar Mitzvah, Graduation & Every Other Event You Didn't Want to Go to in the First Place. We also discuss her love of TMZ, the book as public service, getting into comedy, misconceptions, those maniacs who put a half empty can of soda back in the refrigerator, Joan Rivers, snacks and food and so much more. Plus we did a round of Just Me Or Everyone and Podcast Pals Product Picks. Get yourself some new ARIYNBF merch here: https://alison-rosen-shop.fourthwall.com/ Subscribe to my Substack: http://alisonrosen.substack.com Podcast Palz Product Picks: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alisonrosen/list/2CS1QRYTRP6ER?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfalisonrosen_0K0AJFYP84PF1Z61QW2H Products I Use/Recommend/Love: http://amazon.com/shop/alisonrosen Check us out on Patreon: http://patreon.com/alisonrosen   Buy Alison's Fifth Anniversary Edition Book (with new material): Tropical Attire Encouraged (and Other Phrases That Scare Me) https://amzn.to/2JuOqcd You probably need to buy the HGFY ringtone! https://www.alisonrosen.com/store/ Try Amazon Prime Free 30 Day Trial

Carol Leifer entered comedy when a woman stand-up was considered a novelty or a niche, but even then she knew "things would eventually change." And change has come, due in no small part to Carol's own stelar show biz contributions. Carol joins us this week to talk about her formative years, her early standup, giving voice to iconic characters like Elaine Benes and Deborah Vance, and her new book, How to Write a Funny Speech!Carol's relationship with her father, an optometrist with an ear for comedy and a quick wit that delighted both patients and family, laid the foundation for her career trajectory. Her supportive parents encouraged her to pursue stand-up when the opportunity struck, and very soon, she was right at home at The Improv and on The Tonight Show.Even within the male-dominated comedy space, Carol found herself buoyed by peers and colleagues, in the clubs and on the sets of seminal sitcoms such as Seinfeld, The Larry Sanders Show and Curb Your Enthusiasm.Carol's Seinfeld contributions tapped into women's lived experiences and brought us the skinny mirror, the marble rye and the nail salon, but she reveals which of Elaine's iconic storylines was not her brainchild - 'sponge-worthy' was actually coined by male writer, Peter Mehlman!Enjoy an exciting spin on your favorite podcast showbiz trivia game as we invite Carol to play IMDB Roulette: Writer's Edition, where she dives into the intricacies of writing for: Seinfeld, Curb, Hacks, SNL and Ellen, plus traveling the globe with Henry Winkler, George Foreman, Terry Bradshaw and William Shatner! (She now calls him Bill.)Carol also shares her SNL writing regrets. (If she could only have gotten in better with Lorne.) We talk about her latest runaway hit book How To Write a Funny Speech and close the show with Fritz's favorite new Carol Leifer joke!In recommendations -- Weezy: The HBO original, My Mom Jayne: A Film By Mariska HargitayFritz: Netflix documentary, Trainwreck: The Cult Of American ApparelCarol LeiferHow To Write A Funny Speech: for a Wedding, Bar Mitzvah, Graduation & Every Other Event You Didn't Want to Go to in the First Place by Carol Leifer and Rick MitchellCarol Leifer on WikiCarol Leifer on InstagramCarol Leifer on FacebookCarol Leifer Amazon Author PageMy Mom Jayne from Mariska HargitayTrainwreck: The Cult Of American ApparelMedia Path PodcastMedia Path on Buy Me a Coffee