Podcasts about novel writing

Have you ever wondered how childhood obsessions evolve into creative careers? Fiction writer Pemi Aguda takes us on her journey from creating mini-magazines as a six-year-old in Lagos, Nigeria to publishing internationally acclaimed fiction. In today's chat, Pemi reveals how her "lonesome" childhood with books transformed into a writing career that explores Nigerian women's experiences and the weight of ancestry. Stay for Pemi's tips on how to become a better writer and on how to find your artistic voice as a author. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide as part of a fictional narrative. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone. Resources for support are listed below. Chapters 00:00 Introduction  02:56 Pemi Aguda's Journey from Lagos to Writing 05:50 The Evolution of Pemi's Writing Process 08:55 Understanding Creative Voice and Teaching 12:01 The Art of Revision and Storytelling 14:52 Exploring Themes in Pemi's Work 17:59 The Influence of Ancestry on Writing 21:12 Literary Influences and Inspirations 24:11 Writing Habits and Routines 27:06 Life Beyond Writing: Hobbies and Interests 29:55 Conclusion and Future Works Connect with Pemi Aguda Website: pemiaguda.com Instagram: @pemi.i Order "Ghost Roots" : Penguin Random House Connect with Your Host Website: martineseverin.com Instagram:Instagram Newsletter:Creative Matters This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinoza. Suicide Prevention Resources American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988lifeline.org If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Veterans, press 1 when calling. Crisis Text Line Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

Join us for a special episode of Off The Shelf Book sas we sit down with the incredibly talented Lori Keesey! With over 40 years of experience in journalism—writing for newspapers, regional publications, and trade magazines—Lori brings a wealth of insight and storytelling expertise to the conversation.For two decades, she also played a vital role in public outreach at NASA, blending her passion for communication with science and innovation. A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, Lori holds a B.S. in journalism.Lori is the author of the heartfelt novel Always Think of Me and has published touching short stories like The Note and Robert's Prayer. Don't miss this inspiring books author chat filled with books, stories, entertainment, wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at her incredible journey as a writer.

When a former NYT journo who now writes novels (that would be me, hi) gets together with a current NYT journo now writing novels, they—we!—cannot stop talking about the challenges, advantages, schedules, pros and cons of book leave and what it is about fiction that lights some journalists up, and turns some off. It's the good, the bad and the overcome-able, and a class in how people who know they can get the work done also flail, and yet still get the work done.Mentioned on the pod:Fates and Furies, Lauren Groff Twice in a Full Moon, Christina Lauren #AmReadingLiz: Naked in the Promised Land, Lillian FadermanKJ: Didion and Babitz, Lili AnolikFollow Liz on Instagram: @lizzyaharris This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amwriting.substack.com/subscribe

This week, I'm in conversation with Lauren Steinstra, author of The Beauty of the End. We discuss genetics, how her career in science influenced her work and whether or not people should delete their 23 and Me accounts. Plus, lots of book recommendations. This episode is sponsored by People of the Titanic by Shawn CarlowAndrew Porter, author of The Imagined Life recommends a favorite read. Giveaway: Girls and Their HorsesBooks Discussed:The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson WalkerSky Full of Elephants by Cabo CampbellThe Unthinkable: Who Survives Disasters and Why by Amanda RipleyDan and Jane at the End of the World by Colleen OakleyOur Hideous Progeny by C.E. McGillOther books Mentioned:The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca SklootGallery info: I have a piece of art on display at the Rod Briggs Gallery through May 24th. Click here for more info. Art Hang Recording: Draw Book CoversSupport the showGet your Books Are My People coffee mug here!I hope you all have a wonderfully bookish week!

Thrilled to be joined by author and publishing expert Courtney Maum! She gives us insight behind her terrific book, Before and After the Book Deal, and talks about the highs and lows of the publishing business. Tune in for her knowledgable tidbits about marketing, building an online platform, self-publishing, memoir, and more!Courtney MaumWebsite: https://www.courtneymaum.com/Substack: https://courtneymaum.substack.com/p/welcomeSocial: @cbmaumGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BNEW! Writing Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

In this episode of Short Stories we are joined by special guest Miles Spencer, adventurer, tech investor, and co-author of ‘A Line in the Sand.' We talk with Miles about the inspirations behind his story, the underlying message he hopes to share, the writing process, and best of all, his escapades across the Middle East! Having grown up in Saudi Arabia, we particularly enjoyed talking to Miles about his adventures in the Kingdom, and hearing his perspective on certain issues that hit close to home. Find out more about Miles at milesspencer.com and check out ‘A Line in the Sand' on Amazon!

Guest:Sam Foster 

It's a brand new season and that means two brand new story theory principles to discuss! This time around, I'm studying the core event (aka a story's climax) and Melanie is studying progressive complications. The writers of THE BANK OF DAVE definitely poured some sugar on this genuinely sweet, feel-good movie. It's rock solid. As an added bonus, it also features Def Leppard (seriously!). Let me know if you literally stand up and dance at the end of this movie. I did! -V. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Guest:Sam Foster 

Guest:Robin HamiltonWebsite: https://www.aroundrobin.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinhamilton123/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title:

Guest:Robin HamiltonWebsite: https://www.aroundrobin.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinhamilton123/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title:

Guest: Frank ScaliseWebsite | https://franksaverio.comWebsite | https://frankscalise.comWebsite | https://frankzafiro.com_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title:

Guest: Frank Scalise Website | https://franksaverio.com Website | https://frankscalise.comWebsite | https://frankzafiro.com _____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title:

“ I would say I live in this space with my Janey McCallister Space Station Mystery series. I think a lot about the sweet spot between current technology and future speculation.”In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host and award-winning science fiction author, Beth Barany, discusses how science fiction and fantasy can inspire social change and presents eight potential topics for future episodes, including AI characters, climate fiction, and Afrofuturism, inviting audience participation through voting on your favorite.1 - Writing Speculative Fiction for Social Change2 - World Building in Climate Fiction3 - AI and Robot Characters in Fiction4 - Afro-futurism and Cultural Narratives5 - Space Opera and Interstellar Societies6 - Near Future Technology in Fiction7 - Time Travel Narratives8 - Biotech and Future MedicineCast your vote on which topics you'd like to see highlighted by emailing beth@bethbarany.com or connecting on Instagram @BethBarany or taking the poll here: https://bethbarany.com/htwtfpoll25ABOUT 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.RESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Sign 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 coach. Schedule 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 by Kerry-Ann McDadec. 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

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title: The Rhythm of Storytelling: From Screenwriting to Novels with Stephen Jay SchwartzGuest: Stephen Jay SchwartzShort Intro: How does storytelling change across books, movies, and music? Stephen Jay Schwartz joins Marco to discuss the art of crafting stories that resonate across mediums.Show Notes:Storytelling is more than words on a page—it's rhythm, structure, and emotion. In this episode of Audio Signals, Marco Ciappelli welcomes back Stephen Jay Schwartz, a novelist, screenwriter, and former director of development in Hollywood. Their conversation explores the differences between writing novels and screenplays, the challenge of adapting stories across mediums, and the musicality of language in writing.What happens when a book becomes a movie? Many argue the book is always better, but is that really the case? Schwartz, having worked closely with directors and screenwriters, explains how the transition from text to film is often a process of distillation—finding the essence of a story and reshaping it to fit a new format. He shares insights from his experience in Hollywood, where screenplays often change hands and visions evolve. Does this creative transformation enhance the original work, or does it strip away its soul?The discussion then shifts to a more fundamental aspect of storytelling: rhythm. Drawing from his musical background, Schwartz describes how writing, much like composing music, involves an inherent cadence. Sentences have beats, paragraphs flow with momentum, and dialogue needs a natural tempo. Whether consciously or not, every good writer crafts their prose with a certain musicality that enhances readability and engagement.Marco and Stephen also touch on the way different minds visualize stories. Not everyone ‘sees' scenes play out in their head while reading—some need visual prompts, while others experience narrative through an auditory lens. How does this affect the way we consume stories? With attention spans shrinking, are we losing the patience for immersive storytelling in books, gravitating instead toward visually driven media?Before wrapping up, they pose a philosophical question: When is a story truly finished? Da Vinci reportedly never considered the Mona Lisa complete, and writers often feel similarly about their work. Does a story ever really end, or does it just reach a stopping point?For anyone fascinated by the intersection of storytelling, film, and music, this episode offers thought-provoking insights. Tune in for a conversation that challenges assumptions about creative processes and the evolving landscape of narrative arts._____________________________ResourcesBio, books, and more: https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signalsWatch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexAAre you interested in advertising your brand on ITSPmagazine?

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastWebsite: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________Episode Title: The Rhythm of Storytelling: From Screenwriting to Novels with Stephen Jay SchwartzGuest: Stephen Jay SchwartzShort Intro: How does storytelling change across books, movies, and music? Stephen Jay Schwartz joins Marco to discuss the art of crafting stories that resonate across mediums.Show Notes:Storytelling is more than words on a page—it's rhythm, structure, and emotion. In this episode of Audio Signals, Marco Ciappelli welcomes back Stephen Jay Schwartz, a novelist, screenwriter, and former director of development in Hollywood. Their conversation explores the differences between writing novels and screenplays, the challenge of adapting stories across mediums, and the musicality of language in writing.What happens when a book becomes a movie? Many argue the book is always better, but is that really the case? Schwartz, having worked closely with directors and screenwriters, explains how the transition from text to film is often a process of distillation—finding the essence of a story and reshaping it to fit a new format. He shares insights from his experience in Hollywood, where screenplays often change hands and visions evolve. Does this creative transformation enhance the original work, or does it strip away its soul?The discussion then shifts to a more fundamental aspect of storytelling: rhythm. Drawing from his musical background, Schwartz describes how writing, much like composing music, involves an inherent cadence. Sentences have beats, paragraphs flow with momentum, and dialogue needs a natural tempo. Whether consciously or not, every good writer crafts their prose with a certain musicality that enhances readability and engagement.Marco and Stephen also touch on the way different minds visualize stories. Not everyone ‘sees' scenes play out in their head while reading—some need visual prompts, while others experience narrative through an auditory lens. How does this affect the way we consume stories? With attention spans shrinking, are we losing the patience for immersive storytelling in books, gravitating instead toward visually driven media?Before wrapping up, they pose a philosophical question: When is a story truly finished? Da Vinci reportedly never considered the Mona Lisa complete, and writers often feel similarly about their work. Does a story ever really end, or does it just reach a stopping point?For anyone fascinated by the intersection of storytelling, film, and music, this episode offers thought-provoking insights. Tune in for a conversation that challenges assumptions about creative processes and the evolving landscape of narrative arts._____________________________ResourcesBio, books, and more: https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signalsWatch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexAAre you interested in advertising your brand on ITSPmagazine?

Science Explainer: That is a term that has come out in the last bit of years to explain someone or to describe somebody who shares about science to the general public.In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, host and science fiction author Beth Barany shares more of her “Favorite Science Explainers on YouTube (Part 2)” and the types of science they share including orbital mechanics and exploring the unexpected. YouTubers mentioned in this episode:Scott Manley: https://www.youtube.com/@ScottManleyUniverse Today - Frasier Cain: https://www.youtube.com/@frasercainJoe Scott: https://www.youtube.com/@joescottSciShow: https://www.youtube.com/@SciShowJust Have A Think (Dave Borlace): https://www.youtube.com/@JustHaveaThinkABOUT 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.RESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Sign 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 coach. Schedule 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 McDadec. 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

“As you may have noticed, these are all women science explainers and scientists, because I really want to highlight women doing science.”In the latest How To Write the Future podcast episode, host and science fiction author Beth Barany shares her “Favorite Science Explainers on YouTube (Part 1)” and the types of science they share including physical experiments and educational demonstrations. Sabine Hossenfelder: https://www.youtube.com/@SabineHossenfelderPhysics Girl, Diana Cowern: https://www.youtube.com/@physicsgirlGeo Girl:, Rachel Phillips: https://www.youtube.com/@GEOGIRLDr. Becky (Dr Becky Smethurst): https://www.youtube.com/@DrBeckySpace Weather Woman, Dr. Tamitha Skov: https://www.youtube.com/@TamithaSkovRESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Sign 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 coach. Schedule 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 McDadec. 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

“Because It's grounded on a very simple principle. Story, well told, well crafted, well structured, will have a pattern of ebb and flow. The ebb is where the tension builds up, and the flow is where it releases.”-- Leon Conrad In this episode of How to Write The Future podcast, host, Beth Barany talks to award winning author and tutor Leon Conrad where they discuss story structure, storytelling techniques, and how to map story structure for individual characters.ABOUT LEON CONRADLeon Conrad grew up among the souks and bazaars of Egypt. Early encounters with storytelling from a living 'Arabian Nights'-type oral tradition started him on a life-long quest to explore the unique power the human voice has to inspire. A talented pianist and linguist, he studied music in London, UK, working with opera singers and musical theatre performers. He studied storytelling with Shonaleigh Cumbers, a Jewish storyteller from a living oral tradition.As an author, his ground-breaking book 'Story and Structure: A complete guide' has won several literary awards including the IPNE Nonfiction Book of the Year and was shortlisted for The People's Book Prize. Leon set up The Unknown Storyteller Project in 2018 to help writers use story structure techniques to craft tighter stories and to spot and fix plot holes more effectively.As a tutor, he works with gifted and talented students age 7+ , helping many to publish their work independently and traditionally. He runs courses for writers of all ages.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhyDoesStoryStory/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeonConradInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unknownstorytellerproject/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-conrad/RESOURCESStory and Structure: A Complete Guide by Leon Conradhttps://www.amazon.com/Story-Structure-Complete-Leon-Conrad/dp/1906069255/Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Sign 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 coach. Schedule 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 McDadec. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbaQuestions? 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

Eavesdrop as Jaime Jo Wright chats with author Kimberly Rose Johnson, exploring her journey as a writer, her experiences with publishing, and her passion for writing romantic suspense and Christmas stories. Kimberly shares insights into her writing process, the differences between screenwriting and novel writing, and her favorite works. www.madlitmusings.com Like & Subscribe! youtube.com/ @madlitmusings #christianfiction #podcast #bookishthoughts #booktok #literaryhype #literaryreview #bookishinsights #author #jenniferdeibel #Jaimejowright #madlitmusings

The Art of Novel Writing: Insights from George Galdorisi.  In this episode of the Admiral's Almanac, host Rear Admiral Garry Hall talks with George Galdarisi, a  New York Times bestselling author, about the intricacies of fiction writing. They dive deep into why people are drawn to novel writing, the essential elements of a successful novel—plot, characterization, and action—and how to effectively pitch your story to agents. The discussion also covers different types of fiction, from literary to trade, and practical advice on balancing plot and character development. Tune in for invaluable insights and tips for aspiring novelists. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:37 Series Overview and Episode Focus 00:59 Diving into Fiction Writing 03:08 The Importance of Mentorship 03:49 Key Elements of a Successful Novel 05:07 Types of Fiction 07:35 Plot vs. Character Driven Stories 16:31 Action in Novels 17:34 Selling Your Novel 20:39 Protagonists and Antagonists 22:24 George's Favorite Works and Advice 24:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac speaks with author Leslie Rasmussen about her book, The Stories We Cannot Tell, which addresses the often-taboo subjects of miscarriage, infertility and a woman's right to choose. They discuss the importance of sharing personal stories to foster connection and support among women. Leslie shares her journey from TV writing to novel writing, highlighting the differences in the creative process and the impact of the political climate on women's narratives. The conversation also touches on Leslie's upcoming projects and the emotional weight of the stories she tells. What We Talk About... We need to talk more and share our stories. These experiences are not unique to individual women. It's important to have compassion for others' choices. Sharing stories can help others feel less alone. The creative process in writing novels is very different from TV writing. Political climate influences how women's stories are told. Leslie's journey reflects the importance of storytelling. Women often feel embarrassed about their experiences. The author community is supportive and collaborative. Writing about difficult topics can lead to healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:58 Exploring 'The Stories We Cannot Tell' 06:09 Personal Experiences with Pregnancy and Loss 09:02 Transitioning from TV Writing to Novel Writing 11:57 The Evolution of Humor in Television 14:53 The Writing Process: Collaboration vs. Solitude 18:02 Upcoming Projects and Themes in Writing 21:11 The Importance of Sharing Women's Stories 24:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links Mentioned Leslie Rasmussen's Website https://www.lesliearasmussen.com The Stories We Cannot Tell by Leslie Rasmussen https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9798988971214  Leslie Rasmussen's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lesliearasmussenauthor Leslie Rasmussen's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leslierauthor

In this episode, we sit down with Audrey Gale to discuss her latest novel, The Human Trial. As the second release of her medical-thriller trilogy, this book explores the gap between traditional medicine – while incorporating the findings of the great physicists of the 20th Century… Audrey has always dreamed of becoming an author. Now that this dream has become a reality, she is on a mission to flush out her fascination with historical and scientific research in a thoughtful and engaging way.  Tune in now to learn about: The premise of The Human Trial, and what led Audrey to write it.  Challenges that can arise while writing a novel. The power of holistic medicine. Other novels that Audrey is looking forward to writing.  Want to find out more about Audrey and her work as an author? Click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C

It's that time again! We've reached the end of the season and that means Melanie and I are wrapping up all our a-ha moments and lessons learned about writing exposition and creating character arcs. Plus we've got a special surprise coming for you and we talk about it in this episode to be sure to listen all the way to the end! - V."The closer a scene and its exposition are to real life, the easier it is to make it invisible." - Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesSeason 12: Exposition + Character Arcs For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Escalation in tension is important for your novel. The lack of tension by the middle is why many people put a book down and never pick it up again. It might also be why you're stuck in the muddy middle trying to figure out what to write next. But on this episode I'm not just going to tell you why you need escalating tension, I'm going to tell you a reason no one else is speaking about that could be the reason why you're stuck. Bended Love is out!! https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-loveGet the prequel, Bended Dream, here: https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-prequel Like Substack? Find me at Lessons In Story. https://lessonsinstory.substack.comSign up for my writers' newsletter to learn more about the craft of writing, know when my workshops are and be the first to get exclusive information on my writing retreats. https://katcaldwell.com/writers-newsletterWant more information on my books, author swaps, short stories and what I'm reading? Sign up for my readers' newsletter. https://storylectory.katcaldwell.com/signup You can always ask me writing questions on instagram @katcaldwell_writing

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli_____________________________This Episode's SponsorsAre you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/_____________________________Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli_____________________________This Episode's SponsorsAre you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?

Ready to navigate the publishing landscape and want some practical advice? Mary Kole is joined by writing expert John Matthew Fox to chat about his work helping authors and founding his company, Bookfox. Conversation topics include the different publishing paths available to writers, the benefits and drawbacks of traditional vs. self-publishing, the challenges of effectively marketing one's work, and going beyond commercial success.John Matthew FoxWebsite: https://thejohnfox.com/Social: @johnmatthewfoxGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitSuccessful Query Letters: 40+ Real World Query Letters With Literary Agent Feedback: https://amzn.to/3WvZ600Writing Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQNEW! Writing Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/goodstorycoInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

Perhaps best known for his novels Motherless Brooklyn (1999), The Fortress of Solitude (2003), and Chronic City (2009)—or, more recently, Brooklyn Crime Novel (2023)—the author, essayist, and cultural critic Jonathan Lethem could be considered the ultimate modern-day Brooklyn bard, even if today he lives in California, where he's a professor of English and creative writing at Pomona College. His most celebrated books take place in Brooklyn, or in the case of Chronic City, on Manhattan's Upper East Side, and across his genre-spanning works of fiction, his narratives capture a profound sense of the rich chaos and wonder to be found in an urban existence. Lethem is also the author of several essay collections, including the newly published Cellophane Bricks: A Life in Visual Culture (ZE Books), which compiles much of his art writing from over the years written in response to—and often in exchange for—artworks by friends, including Gregory Crewdson, Nan Goldin, and Raymond Pettibon.On the episode, Lethem discusses his passion for book dedications; the time he spent with James Brown and Bob Dylan, respectively, when profiling them for Rolling Stone in the mid-aughts; how his work is, in part, a way of dealing with and healing from his mother's death in 1978, at age 36; and why he views his writing as “fundamentally commemorative.”Special thanks to our Season 10 presenting sponsor, L'École, School of Jewelry Arts.Show notes:Jonathan Lethem[5:35] Cellophane Bricks[5:35] High School of Music and Art[5:35] Motherless Brooklyn[5:35] The Fortress of Solitude[5:35] The Disappointment Artist[5:35] Maureen Linker[7:15] Carmen Fariña[8:26] Julia Jacquette[8:26] Rosalyn Drexler[9:08] The Great Gatsby[9:08] Brooklyn Crime Novel[10:59] Lynn Nottage[13:08] Bennington College[13:08] Bret Easton Ellis[13:08] Donna Tartt[23:41] The Collapsing Frontier[23:41] Italo Calvino[23:41] Cold War[23:41] Red Scare[23:41] J. Edgar Hoover[27:37] Dada movement[27:37] Ernest Hemingway[27:37] Gertrude Stein[27:37] Dissident Gardens[29:38] Reaganism[29:38] “Does intergenerational transmission of trauma skip a generation?”[31:21] John Van Bergen[31:21] Nan Goldin[34:33] “The Ecstasy of Influence”[34:33] Lawrence Lessig[35:31] Copyleft movement[35:31] Hank Shocklee[38:46] Hoyt-Schermerhorn Station[42:32] “Being James Brown: Inside the Private World of the Baddest Man Who Ever Lived”[42:32] “The Genius and Modern Times of Bob Dylan”[51:00] Chronic City[54:04] The Thalia[55:50] “Lightness” by Italo Calvino[1:06:26] Jorge Luis Borges

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

In this episode of Creative Chats, we dive into the artistic world with Michael DiMartino, Co-Creator of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and "The Legend of Korra." Michael shares his experiences balancing large studio projects with personal creative work, providing invaluable insights that will inspire your artistic endeavors. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories for anyone passionate about animation, storytelling, and creative exploration. 3 Key Takeaways:

Despite the challenges of balancing writing with a day job and parenting, middle grade and YA author Tracy Badua keeps churning out adventurous contemporary fantasy stories. Tracy's books, all featuring Filipino-American characters, explore themes of cultural identity and family expectations, even drawing inspiration from Filipino superstitions she grew up with. Her stories provide joyful, diverse representation for young readers while also tackling complex emotional and cultural issues faced by her tween and teen protagonists. Check out her newest release, Thea and the Mischief Makers, available now!Read the transcript for this episode here: https://goodstorycompany.com/blog/tracy-baduaTracy BaduaWebsite: https://tracybadua.com/Social: @tracybaduawritesGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitSuccessful Query Letters: 40+ Real World Query Letters With Literary Agent Feedback: https://amzn.to/3WvZ600Writing Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQNEW! Writing Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/goodstorycoInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

The Rolling Stone's song ‘You Can't Always Get What You Want,' is my earworm this season. This week, I started to pick apart how wants, needs and arcs are connected. Dorian Gray is a classic cautionary tale about selling your soul. Dorian arrives in London as a beautiful but naive young man and dies with a rotten and decrepit soul - he is unredeemable. Dorian gets what he wants, but he doesn't get what he needs because there are no consequences for his actions. Understanding how wants, needs and character arcs is an essential story tool. Good exposition is invisible. Valerie highlights how exposition is masterfully delivered and where it fails. Exposition is all about information management - the what and the how. -M“Understanding wants and needs is important for story arcs because they determine the protagonist's motivations and actions.” Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesThe Woman King (Season 8 Episode 2)The Social Network (Season 12 Episode 1) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Whoa. This season has been a heavy season. Narrative Drive and Conflict Triangles are two major concepts that can - and will - transform your writing. In this episode, Melanie and I summarize everything we learned this season. -V For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Young adult author Farrah Penn (Twelve Steps to Normal & Cancelled) details her publishing journey, from striking out on submission to her newest novel. Listen in to this conversation for thoughts on the young adult genre, using tropes, crafting stakes and curveballs for your characters, and how screenwriting may help when writing a novel. Farrah PennWebsite: https://www.farrahpenn.com/Social: @farrahpennGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitSuccessful Query Letters: 40+ Real World Query Letters With Literary Agent Feedback: https://amzn.to/3WvZ600Writing Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQNEW! Writing Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryTwitter: https://twitter.com/goodstorycoInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

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

This episode is with Dr. Grace Farris, a hospitalist in Texas and published author. We discuss:- The inspiration between her comics, and specifically "weekend mom"- The decision to move her family from Boston, to NYC, and then to Texas- Working as a hospitalist in NYC during the COVID pandemic with two young boys- Working full time- Coaching youth soccer- Her next graphic novel See One, Do One, Teach One, which is a memoir of her time in medical school and residency- and so much more!  Connect with Moms of Medicine:- Instagram @moms_of_medicine- Momsofmedicine@gmail.comConnect with Dr. Grace Farris:- Instagram @coupdegracefarris- Mom Milestones and Mom Calendar

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

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

In this episode, I'm talking about ONE crucial strategy for novel writers: the idea of leaning into your wins. I believe this practice can be a key tool for overcoming obstacles and achieving your  goals. Especially when it comes to your writing and publishing journey.Tune in to find out how you can start incorporating this one thing into your writing practice in order to turn things around and follow your novel writing dreams.Website | Instagram | Programs | My New Book!

Here's what to expect on the podcast:Deborah's journey to finding her purpose in publishing.Primary challenges that women face when it comes to writing a book.Maintaining a balance between openness to new experiences and clarity in intentions leads to personal growth and fulfillment.The differences between traditional publishing, self-publishing (independent publishing), and hybrid publishing models.And much more! About Deborah:As the founder and chief inspiration officer of Highlander Press, Deborah Kevin (pronounced “KEY-vin”) loves helping change-makers tap into and share their stories of healing and truth with impactful books. She's guided hundreds of authors to craft and publish impactful books of which they are proud. Debby, a graduate of Stanford University's Novel Writing program, graduated in 2021 with a master's degree in publishing from Western Colorado University. She's trekked over 350 miles of the Camino de Santiago, and her passions include travel, cooking, hiking, and kayaking. She lives in Maryland with the love of her life, Rob, her sons, and their puppy Fergus—that is when they're not off discovering the world. Connect with Deborah Kevin!Websites: https://highlanderpressbooks.com/ | https://deborahkevin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpressInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/highlanderpressTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpressSTORYTELLHER Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/storytellher/id1727732111 Connect with Candice Snyder!Website: https://hairhealthvitality.com/passion-purpose-and-possibilities/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candice.snyderInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/candicesny17/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicesnyder/ICAN Institute: https://vl729.isrefer.com/go/mindandbody/PassionPurpose22/Shop For A Cause With Gifts That Give Back to Nonprofits: https://thekindnesscause.com/

Left-brained stories (mysteries, crime thrillers, spy stories) are among the highest selling books on the market today. Readers can't get enough of them, and that means the bar for authors is really high because we have to create a puzzle that our readers haven't seen before. Add to this the fact that the fundamentals of storytelling work in a slightly different way than they do with other stories. In this episode, Melanie and I summarize all the lessons we've learned over the past 10 episodes and we share our greatest a-ha moments.Our study of left-brained stories didn't stop with the podcast though. Offline we've been diving deeply into this genre that we both love. We've gathered up everything the writer of a left-brained story needs to know and we've put it in a webinar coming up on May 2, 2024. Don't miss it! To register, click here. - V."In a left brain story, the hook is an intellectual one, it's not an emotional one." - Valerie Francis REGISTER FOR THE 2024 SPRING WEBINAR SERIESFor access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Are you planning to use a twist at the end of your story? Have you ever wondered how M. Night Shyamalan pulled off this famous gotcha ending? If so, this episode is for you! Melanie does a deep dive into story twists and surprises so that you can craft an ending that delights your reader. I focused on the Central Dramatic Question which is a key part of creating Narrative Drive (and you must have brilliant Narrative Drive if your reader is going to get all the way to the end of your novel).-V."Creating a good twist requires a deep understanding of human nature." - Melanie HillRELATED STORY NERD EPISODESTHE DRY (Season 9, Episode 2)Story Form (Season 5)The Hero's Gift Expressed (Season 2)  REGISTER FOR THE 2024 SPRING WEBINAR SERIESFor access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

If you've been second-guessing yourself and letting doubt hold you back from your writing goals, this episode is for you!As a book coach, I have writers come to me and admit they have a nice story outline with all kinds of good research and prep work complete…yet they just can't find a way to get words onto the page.So, today I want to talk about something that comes up in different phases of our writing process and that is the subject of roadblocks. Inside this episode, I'm breaking down writing roadblocks into four different categories. Writer's blockPlot holesCharacter developmentPerfectionismLet's first identify them and then talk about ways to overcome them.Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide | MAP YOUR STORY COURSE✍

In this episode, Mary shares the origin story of her newest tool "A Novel in 52 Prompts" and shares the first 3 prompts so you can knock out your first 5,000 words.

Here's what to expect on the podcast:What are the positive outcomes or advantages that business owners can gain from engaging in anthology publishing?Beyond generating income, what alternative goals should business owners consider when contemplating book publishing?What resources and support systems are essential for a first-time author entering the world of book publishing?What potential concerns or pitfalls should writers consider when relying on AI tools for book writing?And much more! About Deborah:As the founder and chief inspiration officer of Highlander Press, Deborah Kevin (pronounced “KEY-vin”) loves helping change-makers tap into and share their stories of healing and truth. She's guided hundreds of authors to craft and publish impactful books of which they are proud. Debby holds a master's degree in publishing from Western Colorado University and graduated from Stanford University's Novel Writing program. She's the host of the STORYTELLHER podcast, where she's elevating women's voices, one story at a time. Debby has trekked the Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrimage ending in Santiago, Spain, and lives in Maryland with the love of her life, Rob, their sons, and their puppy Fergus—that is when they're not off discovering the world. Connect with Deborah Kevin!Website: https://highlanderpressbooks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highlanderpressFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpressTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpressSTORYTELLHER Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/storytellher/id172773211Check out Deborah Kevin's book, Heart-Centered Marketing: Proven Strategies That Naturally Attract and Nurture Clients. Connect with Kamie Lehmann!Website: https://www.kamielehmann.com/

This week we chat to Maura Cheeks, who has written pieces and columns all over the place, being featured in the New York Times, The Atlantic and the Harvard Business Review. Her debut novel is called 'Acts of Forgiveness', and is out on the 13th February.It tells the story of Willie Revel who gives up a career as journalist in New York to help run her family's struggling company in Philadelphia. When the President prepares to pass a bill allowing black families to claim reparations if they can prove they're descendants of slaves, Willie delves into the family history and learns much more than she expected.We chat about the importance of subject, how writing columns as a journalist changes what you do as an author, and her method of free-writing. Her dad is NBA legend Maurice Cheeks, currently assistant coach of the Chicago Bulls, and we discuss whether growing up with successful parents has any impact on your own quest for success.This week's episode is sponsored by 'Who is the Cheese Wire Killer?', about a 1983 unsolved murder, one of Scotland's grimest... and you can be part of the live investigation. Find it wherever you get your shows.Support us at patreon.com/writersroutine@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“ The purpose of a first draft is not to come up with something that's perfect. Instead, the purpose is to explore your story and get it out of your head.” - Savannah GilboTransform your writing as I reveal 5 all-too-common mistakes that plague writers. Learn the savvy strategies to sidestep these blunders and discover my top-notch tips for rectifying them if you've already fallen prey. Here's a preview of what's included:[01:20] Having gratitude for every mistake encountered and acknowledging that they served as valuable lessons. The repetition of these errors helped Savannah develop numerous solutions, contributing to her growth as a writer, editor, and book coach[05:38] The essence of a story lies in how external events impact someone striving for a challenging goal and the subsequent transformation they undergo. The narrative's power lies in the underlying story, not just the eloquence of words. Without a compelling story, the manuscript lacks substance.[11:07] Common worries and self-doubt faced by writers often revolve around questioning one's capability and self-worth. Shift to tackling these concerns by identifying the content genre of the story, offering a pathway to navigate and overcome these common anxieties in writing.[17:53] Advice to choose one or two writing methods that resonate with writers and focus on them. Whether it's scene structure or character development, selecting a preferred approach like scene and sequel or goal-motivation-conflict is encouraged.Links mentioned in this episode:How to Outline Your Novel with Save the Cat!How to Write a Well-Structured SceneNotes to NovelClick here to register for the free masterclass > The Confident Writer's Roadmap: 5 Steps To Writing A Novel Without Letting Perfectionism Or Procrastination Get In The Way!Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

Episode link → This New Year's Resolution Has Me on Track to Become a Millionaire! Only Takes 20 Mins a Week (:   Real talk here: Do you want to feel stabilized with money? That's usually a New Year's resolution of many people. Do you have enough money for college? Is it too far fetched to think you could eventually become a millionaire?   Well, I started doing this one thing back in high school, and now in my late 20s, this one resolution has me on track to become a millionaire. Legit, no joke. Thanks to Bonnie for having me on her podcast to discuss this topic!   Bonnie Jean Schaefer's Podcast --> PUBLISHED BEFORE COLLEGE -- How to Write a Book, Creative Writing, Self Publishing on Amazon, Fantasy Books, Book with Series on Apple Podcasts   Explore the official online fantasy world of Author DK Drake here: Author D.K. Drake – The Official Online Fantasy World of Author D.K. Drake (authordkdrake.com) Book mentioned --> New! Baby Steps Millionaires (ramseysolutions.com)   P.S. Come join our FB Christian College Girls Community, and tell us what traditional degree you're getting, and how you want to use it in an unconventional way(: Facebook --> Christian College Girl Community ~ Scholarships & Graduate Debt-Free | Facebook @ tinyurl.com/karacommunity  Instagram --> @moneyandmentalpeace Email --＞ info@moneyandmentalpeace.com   Related Episodes: 98 - Get FREE Access to $1 Million in Scholarship Opportunities with my CONTEST GIVEAWAY!!!!!! on Apple Podcasts 102 - Apply for This $40,000 Easy, NO Essay Scholarship!! (NOT CLICKBAIT) on Apple Podcasts 145 - Questioning Your Career Choice? 2 New Year's Resolutions That Will Help You Choose A College Degree You'll LOVE! on Apple Podcasts   **Get scholarships and pay for college without student loans!**   Are you worried about how to pay for college? Stressed because it's so expensive? Are you having trouble finding scholarships, or all you find don't apply to you? Overwhelmed with all things school and money?   Welcome fam! This podcast will help you find and get scholarships, avoid student loans and maybe even graduate college debt-free!   Hey! I'm Kara, a Christian entrepreneur, amateur snowboarder, and scholarship BEAST! I figured out how to not only finish college debt-free, but I even had $10k left over in the bank after graduation. (& btw, my parents weren't able to help me financially either!)   During school, I was worried about paying for next semester. I couldn't find scholarships that worked specifically for me, and didn't know how to get started while juggling homework and keeping up with ALL.THE.THINGS.   But dude, I learned there was a better way! With God's direction, I tested out of classes, and found the perfect scholarships, grants, internships, and weird budget hacks that helped me go from overwhelmed to debt-free with $10k in the bank–all with God on my side.   ... and I'm here to walk you through this, too.   If you are ready to find scholarships specific to you, learn to manage your money well, and have enough money to kill it at college, this pod is for you!   So grab your cold brew and TI-89, and listen in on the most stress-free and debt-free class you've ever attended: this is Money and Mental Peace.     PUBLISHED BEFORE COLLEGE -- How to Write a Book, Creative Writing, Self Publishing on Amazon, Fantasy Books, Book with SeriesAuthor DK Drake -- Adventurous Storyteller, Christian Author, Writing Coach for Teens, Oreo Addict About Bonnie's podcast: Fantasy Fiction & Novel Writing for Authors in Training   Are you a mom of an avid reader with an active imagination?   Do you want to nurture your child's creativity, but you're not sure how to help him turn his fantasy world into a quality story others can enjoy?   Do you want your child to learn from a Christian author you can trust to teach storytelling from a Biblical worldview?   Then welcome to Published Before College, the podcast with short and entertaining shows for authors in training. Through these episodes, your child will learn how to hone his creative writing skills so he can go from avid reader to stellar storyteller to published author before he even steps foot on a college campus.   I'm your host D.K. Drake, author of the Dragon Stalker Bloodlines Saga. (Full disclosure: D.K. Drake is a pen name. Listen to episode one to discover my true identity and find out why I chose to use a pen name.)   As fantasy author DK Drake, my mission is to bring you entertaining, engaging, wholesome adventures too packed with action to leave room for eye-rolling sappiness or mind-numbing fluff.   As a creative writing coach, my mission is to help young authors find their voice, craft captivating stories, and take ownership of the publishing process.   You see, I struggled to understand my God-given strength of storytelling when I was a kid despite my wild imagination and creative soul. It wasn't until I was a senior in college mere months away from graduation that I realized my deep desire to be an author. Then it took another decade or so of struggle to figure out how to bring that dream to life.   This podcast is designed to help your child skip those unnecessary struggles I went through and discover that his imagination is a gift God wants to use now, not decades from now. That's why I will challenge him to put creative writing strategies into action as we build stories together. Then he'll learn how to package and publish those stories so he can boldly share them with the world.   I'll also read my own books one chapter at a time, sharing an insider tip about that chapter in each reading episode because behind-the-scenes stuff is fun.   Adventure awaits, so ignite your imagination, latch on to that dragon swooping overhead, and let the storytelling quest begin. It's time to play in our own fabulous fantasy worlds.   Explore the official online fantasy world of Author DK Drake here: [https://authordkdrake.com/](https://authordkdrake.com/)   Snag one or all of the Dragon Stalker books here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FK5V1HJ   Join the Help! My Kid Wants to Write a Book Community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authordkdrakeinsiders