Podcasts about writing life

In a world often divided by beliefs, finding common ground can be a challenge. When I sat down with Huda Al-Mirashi, author of the new middle grade Hail Mariam, we delved into the intersection of faith and identity and the profound themes of understanding and respect that transcend religious boundaries.We also talk about Huda's writing journey, the challenges of pursuing traditional publishing, and finding your writing people.For bonus content and  info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter.I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores.If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

Rosa Hunt leads a discussion about the long tradition of clergy as writers. From poetry to fiction, we ask what drives ministers to write and whether it belongs within—or beyond—their calling. Through candid conversation, they examine questions of time, honesty and purpose, and whether writing becomes an extension of ministry or a space to challenge, reflect and communicate a deeper worldview. Joining Rosa are: Elinor Wyn Reynolds A Welsh poet and novelist from Carmarthen, her first novel was Gwirionedd. She also serves as General Secretary of the Union of Welsh Independents. Mark Clavier An Anglican priest, theologian and author of non-fiction books and his first novel, Tillers of the Soil.Nathan Munday A Welsh writer from Carmarthenshire, known for fiction and non fiction, including his novel Whaling and earlier travel writing.

In this episode we're joined by Bobby Jamieson as we discuss his most recently published book, Everything is Never Enough. Jamieson's book is a resonate survey of the truths of Ecclesiastes applied to the modern day. We talk about the complexity of Ecclesiastes and its evangelistic potential. We touch on receiving life as a gift, learning to relinquish control, and the art of writing.Resources Mentioned:Everything is Never Enough by Bobby JamiesonSermons on Ecclesiastes by Bobby JamiesonThe Uncontrollability of the World by Hartmut RosaResonance by Hartmut RosaPilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie DillardThe Supper of the Lamb by Robert CaponPensees by Blaise PascalOn the Writing Life by Annie DillardPoetry by George HerbertPoetry by A.E. StallingsFirst You Write a Sentence by Joe MoranHow to Write a Sentence: And How to Read One by Stanley Fish

In the spotlight is Canadian novelist Jane Bow, who grew up in Canada, the United States, Spain, England and Czechia. Three of her four novels have been award finalists in Canada, the United States and Britain. Bow has also written for literary journals, Chatelaine Magazine and CBC radio, and has presented herwork internationally. Bow, who lives in Victoria, Canada, is out with a new novel titled The Angels' Share. Learn more about Jane Bow here: https://janebow.com/ Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com

Play. Discover. Be discovered.Join award-winning fantasy and dreampunk author, Anna Tizard, in a funny and dark Alice in Wonderland-style journey into creative writing. Brainstorming and writing short stories has never been so rich in discovery and surprises, using the surrealist word game of Exquisite Corpse. Listeners' words are drawn from the legendary Socks of Destiny and mixed into writing prompts which lead to the most unexpected story ideas—and a fascinating exploration of writing craft.Listeners are also warmly invited to share their own microfiction and poetry based on the previous show's prompts. Subscribe for free to Anna Tizard's private email list and receive an e-book to begin your journey into The Bookof Exquisite Corpse (includes exclusive material not published anywhere else). Go to www.annatizard.com.The list of categories for the second round of brainstorms (chosen with a roll of the dice) is: 1) a book or magazine 2) a job or role, taken on reluctantly, 3) a pub or café, 4) a portalor means of travel, 5) a piece of treasure or magical, sought-after object, 6) a monster or creature, 7) an invention, 8) a weapon, 9) a hidden identity or disguise, 10) a scar (physical or psychological), 11) a ghost, or 12) or a cocktail or special tea (which, let's face it, is likely to be a magic potion or poison).

Medicolegal Death Investigator Paul Parker often brought chaos to once calm, orderly lives. What can happen when death is a constant companion and you don't develop the skillsets and tools to stay ahead of the pain. Paul and I discuss his journey in a world that at best, is misunderstood by most. Paul does a remarkable job of bringing the reader along for a ride that will leave you grateful and reconnect you with the humanity and the love thats required to "choose life in the face of death". You won't want to put it down, but you should, for a moment, to allow yourself to reflect upon the journey and how best to take what's written in the pages of his book to proactively apply it to your life. Sit back, reflect and choose to live a better life. Always, Johnhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulrparker/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3ByIAmGEVDSHG7jONJlmkhgA%3D%3Dwww.paulparker.comMore about Paul :I am the host of "Inside Death Investigation with Paul Parker" on YouTube. My memoir, “In the Shadows of Death: Writing Life's Final Chapter,” was published in April 2025 (Houndstooth Publishing). It is also the recipient of a "Get It" recommendation from the prestigious Kirkus Reviews, with its review featured in the January 1, 2026, issue of Kirkus Reviews Magazine.For almost 30 years, I worked inside the system responsible for investigating deaths that occur outside of routine medical care, such as sudden deaths, unexpected deaths, in-custody deaths, and deaths that raise legal, medical, or public concern. What most families, journalists, lawyers, and even policymakers don't realize is that a death investigation is not a single event. It is a process governed by statute, medical judgment, institutional constraints, and human decision-making. And when that process is misunderstood, mistrust fills the gap. My YouTube channel exists not to sensationalize death, capitalize upon it for profit, or create outrage. I aim to educate, inform, explain, and propose improvement measures.I have participated in several thousand on-scene medicolegal death investigations, conducted at least 13,000 solo telephonic/electronically reported medicolegal death investigations, and reviewed and approved reports and circumstances for more than 20,000 medicolegal additional death investigations.  I have also conducted several hundred in-person death notifications. As the former Executive Officer of the San Diego County Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB), I conducted on-scene in-custody death investigations and made numerous recommendations to reduce in-custody deaths, increase transparency of law enforcement operations, and increase communications with family members of persons impacted by in-custody deaths and deaths associated with law enforcement activitiesI was a member of the California Coroner Curriculum Development Committee, an instructor at the California Coroner Academy, an American Academy of Forensic Sciences Standards Board Medicolegal Death Investigation Consensus Body Member, ...Thank you for taking the time to give this podcast a listen. If you would like more information on other Law enforcement Life Coach initiatives, our "Sometimes Heroes Need Help" wellness seminar or our One-On-One life coaching please visit :www.lawenforcementlifecoach.comJohn@lawenforcementlifecoach.comAnd if you would like to watch the interview you can view it in it's entirety on the Law Enforcement Life Coach YouTube Channel :  https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCib6HRqAFO08gAkZQ-B9Ajw/videos/upload?filter=%5B%5D&sort=%7B%22columnType%22%3A%22date%22%2C%22sortOrder%22%3A%22DESCENDING%22%7D

After a long break in which your intrepid host has contended with everything from eye surgery to accreditation, the second part of the panel discussion on The Counselor is finally here.Returning for the second part of his first appearance on the podcast is Dr. Russell Hillier, whose consideration of the screenplay first sparked my interest in examining the text again.  He is Professor of English at Providence College, Rhode Island. He is the author of two books, Milton's Messiah (Oxford University Press, 2011) and Morality in Cormac McCarthy's Fiction: Souls at Hazard (Palgrave Macmillan, 2017), and he is coeditor of Combined Lights: Comparative Essays on the Writings of John Donne and George Herbert (University of Delaware Press, 2021). Additionally, he has published articles on many authors in many journals. Returning as well is the excellent Dr. Dianne Luce. She is the author of Reading The World. Cormac McCarthy's Tennessee Period, University of South Carolina Press, 2009, and Embracing Vocation: Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, 1959-1974, U South Carolina Press 2023. She is currently working on a second volume of Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, covering 1974-1985.  Bryan A. Giemza is Professor of Humanities and Literature at the Texas Tech University Honors College. His work bridges literature, climate communication, and public-facing humanities. He has published widely on McCarthy's engagement with science, theology, and the American West. His forthcoming edited volume, Sowing the West Texas Wind, examines the causes and consequences of misinformation through regional case studies. His work has been supported by major humanities funders including the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Fulbright Program. His book Science and Literature in Cormac McCarthy's Expanding Worlds was published by Bloomsbury in 2023. As always, listeners are warned: there be spoilers here.  Film trailer excerpts from The Counselor, directed by Ridley Scott, distributed by 20th Century Fox, 2013.  Thanks as always to Thomas Frye, who composed, performed, and produced the music for READING MCCARTHY.  The views of the host and his guests do not necessarily reflect the views of their home institutions or the Cormac McCarthy Society.  Download and follow this podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  If you're agreeable it'll help us if you provide favorable reviews on these platforms.  To contact the host, please reach out to readingmccarthy@gmail.com. Support the showStarting in spring of 2023, the podcast began accepting minor sponsorship offers to offset the costs of the podcast.  This may cause a mild disconnect in earlier podcasts where the host asks for patrons in lieu of sponsorships.   But if we compare it to a very large and naked bald man in the middle of the desert who leads you to an extinct volcano to create gunpowder, it seems pretty minor...

In this episode of The Writing Life, literary newcomer Grace Murray shares the process from mentorship to the publication of her debut novel Blank Canvas – a work of literary fiction about grief, reinvention and the ripple effects of telling lies.   Grace Murray was born in 2003 and grew up in Norwich. She has recently graduated from Edinburgh University, where she read English Literature and found time to write between her studies and two part-time jobs. Her short fiction has been published in The London Magazine. Blank Canvas was written over the course of a year as part of WriteNow, Penguin Random House's flagship mentorship scheme for emerging talent. Grace Murray won one of nine places on the scheme on the exceptional strength of her writing, selected from a pool of over 1,300 applicants.   She sat down with National Literacy Trust's Victoria Tynemouth to reflect on her path from early creative mentorships to publishing Blank Canvas. In their conversation, she also discusses writing about the female body, her approach to crafting unreliable and unlikeable narrators, and the process of developing her own voice and identity as a writer.   Help us to support more young writers like Grace by donating to our Big Give Arts for Impact campaign. For one week only (17–24 March 2026), every £1 you give becomes £2. Whatever you can donate, big or small, makes a difference. Find out more on our website!

Award-winning journalist and bestselling author Jennifer Breheny Wallace on mattering, resilience through relationships, and the writing practices behind two New York Times bestselling nonfiction books. You'll learn Why resilience as a writer has far less to do with self-care routines and far more to do with the people you surround yourself with. How to tell whether your idea is a series of articles or a book, and what structural test separates one from the other. A practical way to ask for feedback on your writing that actually leads to useful criticism instead of vague encouragement. Why putting yourself in a nonfiction book can transform it, even if every journalistic instinct tells you not to. The writing schedule that let a journalist with three kids produce two bestselling books, and why it starts at 4AM. Why your inner critic tends to sleep in, and how to take advantage of the hours before it wakes up. A visual trick involving artist sketches that can help you push through the frustration of early drafts. What a lesson from Morley Safer at 60 Minutes reveals about the tension between accuracy and storytelling in nonfiction. The surprising research behind mattering and why it goes deeper than self-esteem, belonging, or purpose on their own. A 30-second daily practice that can help you reconnect to your sense of purpose when long-term projects leave you feeling stuck. Resources & Links

Send us Fan MailToday's guest is Author and Publisher Terry Whalin.  Terry has been in book publishing for decades and worked with hundreds of authors. Many of these authors have unrealistic expectations about what will happen when their book is published. Terry offers valuable tips in today's episode on the importance of developing a solid book proposal and business plan. Terry makes the point that much of the publishing process is outside of anything an author can control. What can the author control? Their book proposal submission and business plan. Terry walks through the steps that result in success in these critical areas. Terry also has written 10 Publishing Myths to give authors realistic expectations and encouragement to take practical action steps to make their book a success. With an estimated 600 million blogs, Terry is one of the top 27 content producers with over 1,700 entries in his blog on The Writing Life. Listeners may use the following link to get Terry's free ebook: https://bookproposals.ws  More information can be found at Terry's website:  https://terrywhalin.com/ / LET'S CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:-IG: https://www.instagram.com/theearringsoffpodcast/?next=%2F// S U B S C R I B ENew Podcasts and Blogs Every Weekhttps://www.earringsoff.com/subscribeYoutube | https://www.youtube.com/@earringsoffpodcast/videos// F O L L O W   Website | www.earringsoff.comFacebook |  Earrings OffLou and Teresa are thrilled to bring you their weekly podcast, where they dive deep into fascinating topics, interview experts, and share inspiring stories. But guess what? We need your support to keep this show going strong! Here's how you can help:Follow us and subscribe to our Youtube Channel at Earrings Off Podcast.Consider supporting the show with a one-time donation. Your contribution helps us enhance our content, upgrade our equipment, and deliver even more engaging episodes. To donate, simply click the “Support the show” link below. Every bit makes a difference—thank you!Like and Share: If you enjoy our podcast, hit that like button! It helps us reach more listeners. And don't forget to share your favorite episodes with friends and family. Word of mouth is powerful! Support the showSupport the show

Nidhi Kona is a versatile professional who wears many hats and offers a refreshing perspective on topics that matter the most. As a molecular biologist, she brings her scientific expertise to the table. As a scientific writer, she crafts compelling content that breaks complex research into simple, inspiring insights. And as the author of the nonfiction personal transformation book 'Unshakeable You',(https://a.co/d/0gOSZZdg) she shares her scientific insights on fine-tuning the mind and the heart for happiness and success. 'The Mirror That Echoed'(https://a.co/d/0byX0thM) is a fictional take on one unforgettable lesson learnt on this journey we call life. Join Nidhi's newsletter Vantage: https://subscribepage.io/ow1Hy6 Sign up for the first Craft and Connect live event! https://tidycal.com/writeyourlife/craft-and-connect-live-march-24Sign 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 @author_katcaldwell

In this episode of The Writing Life, Trinidadian writer Celeste Mohammed reflects on the role of family, mythology, and Caribbean folklore in her writing.   Celeste has been a lawyer since 2001 but she has been telling stories all her life. A native of Trinidad and Tobago, in 2016, she graduated from Lesley University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction). Her debut novel Pleasantview won the 2022 OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature. Ahead of its publication in the Caribbean and the UK, a story from her current novel-in-stories Ever Since We Small was shortlisted for the 2024 Commonwealth Short Story Prize.   She sat down with her friend and fellow Trinidadian writer Ayanna Lloyd Banwo to discuss Ever Since We Small, a powerful novel-in-stories in which survival, resilience and self-discovery are passed down through generations of an Indo-Trinidadian family. Together, they explore her use of the short story form to create an intricately woven tapestry of stories, Caribbean folklore, and the book's themes of belonging, resistance, and legacy.

Today on the program, a trip into the archive and a return to Episode 863, my conversation with Yiyun Li from 2023. Yiyun Li is the author of several works of fiction—Wednesday's Child; The Book of Goose; Must I Go; Where Reasons End; Kinder Than Solitude; Gold Boy, Emerald Girl; The Vagrants; and A Thousand Years of Good Prayers—and the memoirs Things in Nature Merely Grow and Dear Friend, from My Life I Write to You in Your Life. She is the recipient of many awards, including a PEN/Faulkner Award, a PEN/Malamud Award, a PEN/Hemingway Award, a PEN/Jean Stein Book Award, a MacArthur Fellowship, and a Windham–Campbell Prize, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Her work has appeared in The New Yorker, A Public Space, The Best American Short Stories, and The PEN/O. Henry Prize Stories, among other publications. She teaches at Princeton University and lives in Princeton, New Jersey. Original air date: September 6, 2023. *** ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Otherppl with Brad Listi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is a weekly podcast featuring in-depth interviews with today's leading writers. This episode is sponsored by Ulysses. Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ulys.app/writeabook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to download Ulysses, and use the code OTHERPPL at checkout to get 25% off the first year of your yearly subscription." Available where podcasts are available: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, etc. Get ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠How to Write a Novel,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ the debut audio course from DeepDive. 50+ hours of never-before-heard insight, inspiration, and instruction from dozens of today's most celebrated contemporary authors. Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brad's email newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the show on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email the show: letters [at] otherppl [dot] com The podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠proud affiliate partner of Bookshop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, working to support local, independent bookstores. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

In the spotlight is Melissa Fraterrigo, the author of the memoir-in-essays titled “The Perils of Girlhood.” She has also written the novel “Glory Days,” as well as the short story collection “The Longest Pregnancy.” Her fiction and nonfiction have appeared in numerous literary journals and anthologies from Shenandoah and The Massachusetts Review to  storySouth and Notre Dame Review. She has been a finalist for awards from Glimmer Train on multiple occasions, twice nominated for Pushcart Awards, and was the winner of the Sam Adams/Zoetrope: All Story Short Fiction Contest.  She teaches creative writing at Purdue University and in the MFA program in creative writing at Butler University in Indianapolis and also offers instruction on the art and craft of writing at the Lafayette Writers' Studio in Lafayette, Indiana. Learn more about Melissa Fraterrigo here: https://www.melissafraterrigo.com/  Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no       Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com 

In this episode of The Writing Life, Singapore-based writer Choo Yi Feng shares his approach to writing speculative fiction.   Choo Yi Feng is an intertidal explorer, climate activist, ecologist and fiction writer. The Waiting Room is his debut short story collection. Elsewhere, his short stories have previously been published in Foglifter Journal, Anathema: Spec from the Margins, Queer Southeast Asia and Alluvium, the journal of Literary Shanghai. He was nominated for the Pushcart Prize in 2022. His residency in the Dragon Hall Cottage was supported by the National Arts Council of Singapore.   He sat down with writer and mentor Simon K Jones to discuss world building in speculative fiction, and how his work blends elements of science-fiction, horror, mythology, and more. Together, they touch on his month-long residency in Norwich UNESCO City of Literature, his method for developing mysterious, compelling characters, and how his interest in the sea and sea animals translates in his stories.

Send us a textIn today's episode, I'm chatting with Karen Winn. Karen is the author of two novels: The Society (Dutton, 2026), and Our Little World (Dutton, 2022). She earned her MFA from Fairleigh Dickinson University. For her undergraduate studies she attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she may or may not have belonged to a secret society. Writing is her first love and second career; she worked as a nurse for many years. Karen lives in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston with her husband, two children, and their 100-pound Bernedoodle.  Karen and I chatted about all this things - including switching careers and how her nursing skill set translated into her novel writing. Her book flight includes books about secret society and outsider protagnoists who get access.Episode Highlights:Transitioning from nursing to fiction writing—and navigating a second career.How medical training shapes character development and emotional realism.Writing as a “secret identity” before stepping fully into the role of author.The influence of place and setting, especially Boston's Beacon Hill, on creativity.Exploring secret societies in fiction.Outsider protagonists who suddenly gain access to hidden worlds.Connect with Karen:InstagramFacebookWebsiteShow NotesSome links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.Books and authors mentioned in the episode:Lucy Foley booksAnne of Green Gables by L.M. MontgomeryThe Found Object Society by Michelle MarykBook FlightThe Cloisters by Katy HaysNinth House by Leigh BardugoThe Secret History by Donna TarttThe 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here - a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallengeSupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website

On this episode of Restorative Reading & Writing for Wellness, I'm sharing three ways you can winterize your reading and writing life for wellness.Come listen as I talk about why reading and writing look a bit different in winter than in any other season, three ways you can make your reading and writing life warmer, cozier and more wintery and the science behind why all of this matters anyway.You'll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/01/13/winterize-your-reading-writing-life-for-wellness/Love this podcast and want more? Consider this your invitation to join my Get Lit(erate) Substack community! Each month, we take a deep dive into one bookish theme and work to bring it to life in our own lives. You'll get bonus episodes, book calendars, live book club and notebook sessions, special events and much more. Learn more at www.getliterate.co. Get your own Get Lit(erate). notebook to take notes on the books you want to read and notebook ideas you want to try: https://amzn.to/44wELKNIf you'd like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some Get Lit(erate). merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlifeAll earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLit

Send us a textIn today's episode, I am chatting with Susan May Warren. Susan is the USA bestselling, Awardwinning novelist with nearly 2 million books sold. She's lived all over the world (including Russia), and has penned over 100 novels, writing across genres such as contemporary and historical romances, romantic suspense, and thrillers. Susan's works have achieved USA Today, ECPA, and CBA bestseller status, won numerous awards  and have been translated into eight languages. She's a renowned writing coach, founder of Novel.Academy, and author of the popular writing method, The Story Equation. She lives in Minnesota and Florida with her handsome hubby, has 2 messy labradoodles, loves good wine, travelling and hanging out with her husband, 4 kids and their spouses and her 5 grandchildren. We are here today to discuss her latest book, Track of Courage. Episode Highlights:Why writing can be a meaningful and flexible career, especially during seasons of motherhood.How Susan uses structure and story blueprints to stay creative and consistent.What it really takes to maintain momentum and finish books.The balance between deep research and trusting your own voice as a writer.Why reading widely and learning the craft matters.How travel and lived experience continue to influence her stories.Susan's book flight and the books that helped shape Track of Courage.Connect with Susan:InstagramFacebookWebsiteBooks and authors mentioned in the episode:Debbie Macomber booksJames Scott Bell booksDonald Maass booksRedeeming Love by Francine RiversAcross the Ages by Gabrielle MeyerBook FlightNorthern Lights by Nora RobertsNashville Sweethearts by Rachel HouckWhat You Wish For by Katherine CenterThe 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here - a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallengeSupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website

Is it possible to set goals as a writer? As a creative? When there are so many different variables that go into creating a story? In this episode I go into the reality of goal setting as a writer, especially one just starting out (with 4 books or less). I believe in going into the new year with eyes wide open, but also with encouragement. Let's get those books written in 2026! And not falling into the pit of thinking we should be on track with everyone else out there.Sign 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 @author_katcaldwell or on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katcaldwell.author

Welcome, writers and book lovers. The Bleeders is a podcast about book writing and publishing. Make sure you subscribe to the companion Substack: https://thebleeders.substack.com/welcomeToday's guest is Sari Botton, writer, editor, and publisher of the Substack hits Oldster and Memoir Land, joining The Bleeders to talk candidly about her unconventional path through publishing, why she ultimately chose ownership, longevity, and creative control over chasing traditional industry validation, and how she built a thriving ecosystem around her work.In this episode, Sari breaks down what it really takes to build a sustainable writing and publishing career outside the gatekeepers. She shares how she launched bestselling anthologies like Goodbye to All That and Never Can Say Goodbye after being repeatedly told “you can't do that,” what it was like working at Longreads during a pivotal moment in digital publishing, and why Substack ultimately gave her the freedom she'd been seeking all along. We also dig into her debut memoir And You May Find Yourself... and the realities of publishing creative nonfiction, including the emotional and ethical challenges of writing about real people, the importance of blurring and revision, and why small presses—and even self-publishing—can sometimes offer more protection and creative freedom than major publishers. This conversation is a must-listen for writers questioning what success in publishing actually looks like in the creator economy.Subscribe to Sari's Substacks Oldster, Memoir Land, and Adventures in "Journalism." Follow her on Instagram @saribotton, and buy your copy of And You May Find Yourself... on Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold!The Bleeders is hosted by Courtney Kocak. Follow her on Instagram @courtneykocak and Bluesky @courtneykocak.bsky.social. For more, check out her website courtneykocak.com.Courtney is teaching some upcoming workshops you might be interested in:How to Make 2026 Your Best Writing Year Yet: Manifest Your Writing Goals: https://writingworkshops.com/products/how-to-make-2026-your-best-writing-year-yet-manifest-your-writing-goals-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocakNew Year's Newsletter & Pitch Party Extravaganza (use code BLEEDERS for $100 off): https://www.courtneykocak.com/store/new-years-newsletter-pitch-party-extravaganza-2026How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought: https://writingworkshops.com/products/how-to-build-a-platform-for-writers-who-shudder-at-the-thought-zoom-seminarStart a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business: https://writingworkshops.com/products/start-a-newsletter-to-supercharge-your-platform-network-business-zoom-seminarLand Big Bylines by Writing for Columns: https://writingworkshops.com/products/land-big-bylines-by-writing-for-columns-zoom-seminarSo You Want to Start a Podcast?: https://writingworkshops.com/products/start-podcast-workshop-courtney-kocakEdit & Elevate: Revision Intensive: https://writingworkshops.com/products/edit-elevate-revision-intensive-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocak

What did you think of this episode?No one is perfect, and praise the Lord, we're not expected to be! I hope you enjoy this fun and giggle-filled episode of bloopers.Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I'm your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I'm so glad you're listening in. During this episode, you experience the raw side of episodes.Merry Christmas!Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Vegan PBS chef Laura Theodore welcomes bestselling vegan cookbook author, Nava Atlas, who will share how to plan, prepare, and serve delicious, plant-based holiday menus. Nava's many books include 5-Ingredient Vegan, Vegan Holiday Kitchen, Vegan on a Budget, and many more. Nava also creates visual books on women's issues, including The Literary Ladies Guide to the Writing Life, and she runs two websites, The Vegan Atlas and Literary Ladies Guide. All recipes are 100% vegan. Learn more about Laura's television show, get access to over 500 vegan recipes, watch videos, and read her award-winning vegan blog at: JazzyVegetarian.com Learn more about Nava Atlas at: TheVeganAtlas.com Find Laura's vegan recipes at: JazzyVegetarian.com Stream full episodes of the television show online at: YouTube.com/@TheJazzyVegetarian Purchase signed copies of Laura's award-winning vegan cookbooks at: JazzyVegetarian.com/shop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Full disclosure time here on the READING MCCARTHY podcast.  When Ridley Scott's film The Counselor arrived in theaters with its very own shiny McCarthy screenplay, I was underwhelmed.  We'd been waiting for over half a decade for The Passenger and had no idea we'd be almost another ten years waiting for that project (and of course we had no concept of Stella Maris at the time). I found interesting elements in the film but didn't think it held together. But people smarter than me (such as my three guests in this program) convinced me to return to it it and here we are in a 2-parter.    Appearing for the first time is Dr. Russell Hillier, whose consideration of the screenplay sparked my interest in returning for another bout: he is Professor of English at Providence College, Rhode Island. He is the author of two books, Milton's Messiah (Oxford University Press, 2011) and Morality in Cormac McCarthy's Fiction: Souls at Hazard (Palgrave Macmillan, 2017), and he is coeditor of Combined Lights: Comparative Essays on the Writings of John Donne and George Herbert (University of Delaware Press, 2021). Additionally, he has published articles on many authors in many journals. Returning as well is the excellent Dr. Dianne Luce. She is the author of Reading The World. Cormac McCarthy's Tennessee Period, University of South Carolina Press, 2009, and Embracing Vocation: Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, 1959-1974, U South Carolina Press 2023. She is currently working on a second volume of Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, covering 1974-1985.  Bryan Giemza holds a Ph.D. and J.D. and is the Provost's Fellow for Outreach and Engagement in the Honors College at Texas Tech University.  His books include Irish Catholic Writers and the Invention of the American South as well as Images of Depression-Era Louisiana: The FSA Photographs of Ben Shahn, Russell Lee, and Marion Post Wolcott (2017). His book Science and Literature in Cormac McCarthy's Expanding Worlds was published by Bloomsbury in 2023. As always, listeners are warned: there be spoilers here.  Film trailer excerpts from The Counselor, directed by Ridley Scott, distributed by 20th Century Fox, 2013.  Thanks as always to Thomas Frye, who composed, performed, and produced the music for READING MCCARTHY.  The views of the host and his guests do not necessarily reflect the views of their home institutions or the Cormac McCarthy Society.  Download and follow this podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  If you're agreeable it'll help us if you provide favorable reviews on these platforms.  To contact the host, please reach out to readingmccarthy@gmail.com.  Support the showStarting in spring of 2023, the podcast began accepting minor sponsorship offers to offset the costs of the podcast. This may cause a mild disconnect in earlier podcasts where the host asks for patrons in lieu of sponsorships. But if we compare it to a very large and naked bald man in the middle of the desert who leads you to an extinct volcano to create gunpowder, it seems pretty minor...

Merry Christmas! Thank you for listening to Pencils&Lipstick this year! It's been an amazing one. And to finish it with a bang, I'm chatting with Viktoria Nikola about writing, social media (the pros and cons of it and being a writer) and so much more! You won't want to miss it!You can find out more about Viktoria on her website at: https://www.viktorianikola.com/Follow her on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@viktoriannkWant to participate in 12 Days of Christmas? Get on my writers newsletter for writerly goodies https://katcaldwell.com/writers-newsletter and get on my readers newsletter for books, audiobooks and short stories https://storylectory.katcaldwell.com/signup

This week, Justin sits down with bestselling author Laura McKowen for an honest, layered conversation about sobriety, identity, creative calling, and the slow, often painful work of becoming whole. Together they explore:• Why “place” matters for emotional and spiritual grounding• The strange internal pull that guides creative people long before they have language for it• How early snippets of desire can act as breadcrumbs into a future self• The difference between writing for yourself and writing for publication• Why AA saved Laura's life—and where its framing can unintentionally keep people small• How relapse, repeated “Day Ones,” and imperfect recovery are part of the human journey• The relationship between money, creativity, and integrity• Why the long work of sobriety is ultimately a long work of identityThe episode closes with a reading from In the Low and a reflection on why wholeness—not speed, not perfection—is the actual goal.Laura's Website - https://www.lauramckowen.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/laura_mckowen Links For Justin:Read Justin's SubstackOrder In The Low - NEW Book with Scott EricksonCoaching with JustinOrder In Rest - New Book of PoemsOrder Sacred StridesJustinMcRoberts.comSupport this podcastNEW Single - Let GoNEW Music - Sliver of HopeNEW Music - The Dood and The BirdThe Book - It Is What You Make itHearts and Minds Amazon Barnes and Noble

A short meditation on why sustainable writing comes from small, repeatable choices. We touch on Coetzee, Tom Stoppard, and the quiet ways stories ripple outward—then land on the core: build the habit, revise bravely, and let the work be enough.

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

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I share three stories from my own writing life of ways that gratitude has helped me.Gratitude has been the number one thing that has helped me sustain my writing career! Leaning into gratitude in all different seasons has brought feelings of purpose, contentment, excitement and joy. From my journey I'm sharing: How a gratitude practice I began back in high school was the seed that began my podcastThe ways gratitude allowed me to shift my mindset and perspective What allowed me to manifest my childhood dreamThe importance of figuring out the essential gratitude you have for your writing projectTune into this week's episode to hear ways you can incorporate gratitude into your writing and life, wherever you are along the journey.And if you want to end the year by nourishing your creativity, sign up for

The Writing Community Chat Show is proud to bring you insights from the writers dominating the charts. We recently sat down with Pip Landers-Letts, the winner of the prestigious 2025 Kindle Storyteller Award, to discuss her incredible journey from a 15-year career in retail banking to winning one of the UK's biggest literary prizes.The £20,000 Leap of Faith.For fifteen years, Pip Landers-Letts navigated the structured world of retail banking. But underneath the suits and spreadsheets, a powerful story was waiting to be told. Pip's shift from the stability of a corporate career to the uncertainty of a full-time author is the epitome of the creative leap many writers dream of—and fear.In our interview, Pip shared the pivotal decision to step away from the bank, admitting she didn't know who she was without that career. Writing, however, quickly became the spark she needed.“I owed it to myself to invest in the thing that brought me back to life.”This commitment to her craft—spending nine months meticulously rewriting and learning the rules after a fast first draft—is a vital lesson for anyone considering the pivot to professional writing.Choosing Indie: The Power of Creative Control.Pip's success story isn't just about winning an award; it's a monumental win for self-publishing. She made a conscious decision to forego the traditional route, choosing instead to publish independently via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).For Pip, this choice was essential for maintaining creative control and ensuring authentic representation. Her book, Pyg, is a queer retelling of George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion. Having grown up feeling a “drought of sapphic representation in mainstream media,” self-publishing provided the direct platform she needed to share nuanced, relatable stories without waiting for permission from traditional “gatekeepers.” This path champions the idea that diverse voices don't need validation from the establishment to find their audience.Pyg and the Art of Reclaiming Your Life.The winning novel, Pyg, is a high-heeled burst of chaos and transformation. Inspired partly by her own life milestone and the feeling of being lost when you're supposed to have it figured out, Pip describes the book as a story about “getting a grip of your life—letting go of the bad stuff to create space for the good.” It explores themes of kindness, compassion, and radical self-acceptance.Pip credits the success of Pyg partly to the lessons learned while writing her first novel, where she realized the necessity of mastering the craft. The resulting work captivated readers and judges alike, leading to the unprecedented success of winning the £20,000 prize.Buy PYG here.The Validation of a Lifetime.The £20,000 Kindle Storyteller Award celebrates the best self-published book of the year, blending bestseller rankings and reader reviews with the opinions of a distinguished judging panel. For Pip, the award served as a powerful antidote to a common affliction: imposter syndrome.“Winning the Kindle Storyteller Award has given me a huge shot of validation... What an honour to be recognised for the thing I love doing the most—writing!”The prize money itself is earmarked as a crucial investment in her burgeoning writing career, securing her place in the industry she was always meant to join. Her story proves that investing in yourself, trusting your voice, and choosing the path of creative independence can lead to the highest level of industry recognition.Watch or Listen to the Full Interview!Don't miss the full conversation with Pip Landers-Letts on her award, her book, and her tips for aspiring authors.The Writing Community Chat Show is ranked in the top 10 writing podcasts in the UK, bringing you over 360 interviews with bestsellers, celebrities, and indie authors.Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:Podcast LinkListen to the full audio episode wherever you get your podcasts:Listen on Spreaker (The Writing Community Chat Show Podcast)Join our brand new community on our Stanstore! After conducting 360 plus interviews, we have compiled digital products to help your writing. Plus, community members get access to our live writing sprints where we write with you, keep you accountable, and give you free access to our 1-on-1 video coaching. There are forum like tabs in our community group where you can post work and receive advice, plus, much more. Join here: https://stan.store/TheWCCS This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.

What do you do when your inbox goes quiet and the client work that once filled your calendar suddenly disappears?For many freelance medical writers—especially those transitioning into the CME space—quiet seasons can feel like failure. But what if those fallow periods are actually the most fertile ground for growth? In this conversation with seasoned writer Addie Nagy, we explore how to reframe slow seasons, rebuild confidence, and manage client relationships with steadiness and purpose.You'll learn how toReimagine client relationships as a dialogue rather than a power struggle so collaboration replaces anxiety.Turn information gaps and slow communication into opportunities for curiosity, clarity, and boundary-setting.Use “fallow time” to strengthen business foundations, refresh systems, and cultivate the mindset shift from freelancer to business owner.Press play to learn how to transform uncertainty into strategy and make every season of your freelance CME writing business work for you.Resources MentionedIlise Benun — The Creative Professional's Guide to Money: How to Think About It, How to Talk About it, How to Manage It. 2011. HOW Books. WriteCME Pro — a community and professional network that provides peer support and opportunities to hone CME writing skills.Mentioned in this episode:Alliance AlmanacLinkedIn Live AMAThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Literary agent and author Kate McKean shares how to pitch like a human, read rejection letters usefully, and protect your joy so you can build a durable writing life. You'll learn:How to build a clear 1–2 line pitch others can repeat and sell.How to read rejection letters, spot strong notes, and decide when to revise.Query etiquette and timelines: when to follow up and how resubmissions work.Fixing weak nonfiction proposals with clearer scope, audience, and takeaway.Write for the reader: comp titles, positioning, and a useful synopsis.US vs UK agenting models and what that means for money and process.Why agents don't steal ideas and why execution is what matters.Self-publishing realities: expectations, track records, and when it helps the book. Resources and Links:

If you went to high school in America, you probably read Moby-Dick — or, more likely, you skimmed the CliffsNotes and wondered why this dense, whale-obsessed novel was considered a classic.That was me in 10th grade.But earlier this year, I decided to revisit Moby-Dick in midlife, and it hit me completely differently. What once seemed like a tedious story about a guy chasing a whale revealed itself to be a profound meditation on free will, perception, self-reliance, leadership, and obsession. It's now one of my favorite novels.To help unpack why Moby-Dick endures — and why it might be worth picking up again— I'm joined by Mark Cirino, a professor of American literature. Today on the show, we discuss why Moby-Dick was initially overlooked, the novel's major themes, and the timeless mystery of Captain Ahab's monomaniacal quest.Resources Related to the PodcastMark's previous appearances on the AoM podcast:Episode #786: The Writing Life of Ernest HemingwayEpisode #922: For Whom the Bell TollsOne True PodcastThe Norton Library PodcastMark's Norton Library Edition of A Farewell to ArmsConnect With Mark CirinoMark's faculty pageSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Writing isn't just about words on a page — it's one of the ways God shapes our hearts. In this episode, I explore how the writing life can become a tool for spiritual growth, particularly in developing perseverance.Whether you're growing a platform, finishing a manuscript, or facing rejection from an agent, perseverance is an essential part of both the writer's journey and the Christian walk. I share personal confessions about my own struggle to stick with hard things, remind us of what Scripture says about endurance, and offer practical ways to strengthen your “grit muscles” — one small step at a time.In This Episode, You'll Learn:* Why writing can be a powerful means of growing in Christlike character* What the Bible teaches about perseverance and endurance* How to discern your role versus God's role in developing spiritual fruit* Practical ways to practice perseverance in your writing life* When it might actually be time to let go and move on from a projectWhat small act of perseverance are you taking this week? If you're a Substack subscriber, share your answer in the comments — let's encourage each other as we grow in endurance and Christlikeness through our writing.The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you'll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I'd love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

St. Sukie de la Croix has been a social commentator and researcher on Chicago's LGBT history for three decades. He has published oral-history interviews; lectured; conducted historical tours; documented LGBT life through columns, photographs, humor features, and fiction; and written the book Chicago Whispers (University of Wisconsin Press, 2012) on local LGBT history. You can see his complete body of work by clicking here. Spies, Lies, and Private Eyes is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers#writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #terrencemccauley #terrencemccauleybooks #bookouture #thrillers #TheTwilightTown #SukiedelaCroix #TheHuntfortheHairdoKiller

What are the keys to creating a sustainable writing life? It will be a little different for each writer, but Jenny Marcelene shares some of the elements of her own diverse writing experience. In this episode, we talk about things such as finding variety in our writing, taking a Sabbath, and the importance of prayer and our time with God.Jenny Marcelene lived cross-culturally for six years. She loves exploring new cultures and encouraging families to treasure Jesus above all else. Her debut children's chapter book series will be released September 30, 2025. Once upon a time she worked as a Kids' Ministry Coordinator for her local church—which catapulted her into writing for young readers. When she's not chipping away at a fiction book, she writes and edits non-fiction articles.You can pre-order her book, The Dreamer, here.You can also find her online at: www.jennymarcelene.com and on Instagram. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you'll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I'd love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.comDisclaimer: I believe in and approach life (and writing) from a distinctly evangelical Christian perspective, but some of my guests may not. When I interview a guest on a specifically spiritual topic, I do my best to know in advance that I can support their theological stances on the topics that relate to our interview. When the topic is not particularly spiritual, our theological views may differ. My interviewing of guests and providing links to their work does not necessarily indicate a complete theological endorsement of all their written work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

Originally aired on July 19, 2023Kate and Kristin talk with writer David Lebovitz about his career and life in France. He discusses how he went from pastry chef to food writer, how blogging strengthened his writing voice and why he pivoted to video during the pandemic. He shares his decision to write "the hardest book he ever wrote", the advice he gives to aspiring writers and his choice to move his writing to Substack. Finally, he tells us how decides what stories to tell and reveals a glimpse into a few new potential projects.Hosts: Kate Leahy + Molly Stevens + Kristin DonnellyEditor: Abby Cerquitella MentionsDavid LebovitzWebsiteInstagramSubstackPodcast The Idle Hour Visit the Everything Cookbooks Bookshop to purchase a copy of the books mentioned in the showDrinking French by David LebovitzL'Appart by David LebovitzMy Paris Kitchen by David LebovitzThe Perfect Scoop by David LebovitzReady for Dessert by David LebovitzThe Sweet Life in Paris by David LebovitzThe Great Book of Chocolate by David LebovitzThe Lost Kitchen by Erin French  

Join us for the first-ever Ski Moms Book Club and Author Chat with Megan in early October!  Contact us via DM @theskimoms or email for an invitation.In this episode, we welcome Megan Tady, author of the Washington Post noteworthy book "Bluebird Day," which follows a compelling mother-daughter alpine skiing duo in the Swiss Alps. From her journalism roots to becoming a novelist, Megan shares how she crafted an authentic story about competitive skiing despite not being an expert skier herself. Through extensive research, including interviews with Olympic athletes and sports psychologists, she brings depth and authenticity to her characters' experiences on and off the slopes.Megan tells about her personal journey with skiing, from humble beginnings at Nebraski to a transformative (and terrifying) experience on a Swiss glacier that later informed her writing. She discusses how this personal encounter with skiing anxiety helped shape her character development and contributed to the book's exploration of mental health in sports. As a mother of two young children just beginning their skiing journey at Berkshire East, Megan offers insights into balancing family life with creative pursuits and the delicate art of encouraging children in sports while respecting their boundaries. She thoughtfully weaves in broader themes about climate change's impact on winter sports, nature's healing power, and the importance of disconnecting from technology to connect with the outdoors.Keep Up with Megan!Website: www.megantady.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/@megtadyBuy Bluebird Day on AmazonKeep Track of Everything with Mabel's Labels From lunchboxes to water bottles, backpacks to hoodies—Mabel's Labels are durable, waterproof, and mom-approved. No more digging through the lost and found—everything comes home.Ski Moms get 15% off sitewide with code SKIMOMS at checkout. Shop now at mabelslabels.com Junior Lease appointments at Ski Haus open Sept 6! Book for each child 16 or under to get skis or a snowboard, boots, and bindings—plus a free Tenney season pass, Cranmore ticket & more. skihaus.com Find your perfect family-friendly mountain stay—or list your own!

Tracey Devlyn is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and historical suspense, which often contains elements of mystery, romance, and environmental crime. Visit her website at https://www.traceydevlyn.com Spies, Lies and Private Eyes is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers#writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #terrencemccauley #terrencemccauleybooks #bookouture #thrillers #TheTwilightTown #TraceyDevlyn #FlashPoint

Donna Leon's memoir, "Wandering through Life," gave her fans a colorful tour through her life, from childhood in New Jersey to adventures in China and Iran, to her love of Venice and opera. Nowhere, however, did she discuss her writing life.Now in her new collection of essays "BACKSTAGE: Stories of a Writing Life," Donna reveals her admiration for, and inspiration from, the great crime novelists Ruth Rendell and Ross Macdonald, examining their approach to storytelling as she dissects her favorite books of theirs. She expresses her love for Charles Dickens's Great Expectations and her appreciation for Sir Walter Scott's generosity of spirit. And she chronicles the amount of research she undertakes to be able to present her characters and work authentically.

Feeling bored at the movies? Learn what's happened to modern storytelling and what it will take to restore the magic and emotional impact.

Interview with Author Terry Whalin about his book, "10 Publishing Myths."===============================================

I'm going to WorldCon this week and will have copies of Never the Roses with me! Also: baby authors, midlist authors, writing full-time, ups and downs of the industry, and trying to coattail success. You can get signed bookplates from me here! https://www.jeffekennedy.com/store (scroll to the bottom)You can preorder MAGIC REBORN at https://www.jeffekennedy.com/magic-rebornBuy LoveLitCon tickets here https://lovelit.com/ Be sure to use my author-specific code for a $10 discount! LOVE8368 STRANGE FAMILIAR is live! https://www.jeffekennedy.com/strange-familiar  The posture-correcting sports bra I love almost more than life itself is here https://forme.therave.co/37FY6Z5MTJAUKQGAJoin my Patreon and Discord for mentoring, coaching, and conversation with me! Find it at https://www.patreon.com/JeffesClosetYou can always buy print copies of my books from my local indie, Beastly Books! https://www.beastlybooks.com/If you want to support me and the podcast, click on the little heart or follow this link (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/jeffekennedy).Sign up for my newsletter here! (https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/r2y4b9)You can watch this podcast on video via YouTube https://youtu.be/nxv4kD4mPTwSupport the showContact Jeffe!Find me on Threads Visit my website https://jeffekennedy.comFollow me on Amazon or BookBubSign up for my Newsletter!Find me on Instagram and TikTok!Thanks for listening!

Alice Kaltman on Alice's Big Book of Mistakes Guest: Alice Kaltman Host: Molly Southgate Episode Title: Laughing at Life's Stumbles: Alice Kaltman on Mistakes, Growth, and Writing Honestly

If writers don't consume stories with intention, who will? Here are 7 mindful habits to read more intentionally and get more from stories.

They were best friends—the kind who text all day, laugh until they cry, and show up for each other in every chapter of life. Miranda was a bridesmaid at Nadia's wedding. She stood up in front of the crowd and called Nadia her sister. So when Nadia moved two doors down from Miranda's house, it felt like the natural next step. Why wouldn't you want to live near your soul friend? But then… something shifted.Invitations stopped coming. Texts went unanswered. Nadia couldn't name what had changed—but she could feel it. And then came the moment that confirmed everything: they saw each other at a mutual event, and when Miranda locked eyes with Nadia, her face didn't light up. It fell.In this episode, Nadia shares the slow, confusing heartbreak of losing a friend who once felt like family.NADIA MAHJOURI is a Moroccan Australian writer, counsellor, and group facilitator specialising in maternal mental health. Her professional background is in health policy, governance and academia, where her research focused on ethics and feminist philosophy.Nadia and her husband live in Hobart/nipaluna with varying combinations of their family which includes three young adults, two school-aged children and a black labrador puppy called Russell Sprout.She is the host of The Whole Truth: Motherhood and the Writing Life. In this podcast, Nadia interviews authors about how they manage to keep writing while living in the messy middle of family life, work and creativity.Half Truth is her debut novel. You can find her at nadiamahjouri.com or @nadiamahjouriauthorNadia's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ipw8cEKyFz12236V7SNLg?si=SHDuVqSmT_-n1qE7WFisuwNadia's book: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/half-truth-9781761344558

Writer, mother, and reluctant socialite Asha Elias joins Cari to talk about reinvention, resilience, and the real story behind her rapid rise as a novelist. From launching Pink Glass Houses to celebrating the release of The Namaste Club, Asha opens up about writing, grief, raising two kids post-divorce, and how dating a younger man has taught her about love and softness in relationships. Asha has contributed to Cosmopolitan magazine and is a regular columnist for Miami New Times. She lives in Miami Beach. This conversation is honest, inspiring, hilarious, and packed with reminders that you can start over at any time — and do it loudly. This episode explores: Writing books faster than people have babies Reclaiming your voice after family childhood dysfunction Dating younger and being loved how you've always wanted Grieving a complicated relationship with her late mother Letting go of shame and the power of trying again If you're standing at the edge of reinvention, this one's your permission slip to leap. Books discussed: Pink Glass Houses & The Namaste Club Connect with Asha on Instagram @asha.sue.elias Connect with Cari on Instagram @cari.fund Listen to Surviving Roots wherever you get your podcasts.

Intentional storytelling means making creative choices with purpose. Here's why that matters more than ever in an AI-driven content world.

The 58th episode brings back the excellent Dr. Dianne Luce to discuss with us McCarthy's 2006 play The Sunset Limited (or is it a novel in dramatic form?). Produced first by the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago in May of 2006, it later went on to open in New York.  Dianne Luce saw it in Chicago during that opening run and we've both seen the Tommy Lee Jones directed film version which aired on HBO in 2011.  The play shows two men, a cynical, atheist white professor and an evangelical Black ex-con, who debate faith, whether life has meaning or consequence, and whether suicide is a viable option.Returning guest Dianne Luce has appeared previously on Reading McCarthy with discussions of The Orchard Keeper, Suttree, and McCarthy's legacy, among others. She is a founding member and past president of the Cormac McCarthy society. Together with Edwin Arnold she edited two seminal collections of essays on McCarthy's work, Perspectives on Cormac McCarthy and A Cormac McCarthy Companion: The Border Trilogy.  Additionally she is the author of Reading The World. Cormac McCarthy's Tennessee Period, University of South Carolina Press, 2009, and Embracing Vocation: Embracing Vocation: Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, 1959-1974, USC Press 2023. She is currently working on a second volume of Cormac McCarthy's Writing Life, covering 1974-1985.Thanks to Thomas Frye, who composed, performed, and produced the music for READING MCCARTHY. Film trailer for The Sunset Limited, directed by Tommy Lee Jones, 2011.The views of the host and his guests do not necessarily reflect the views of their home institutions or the Cormac McCarthy Society, although in our hearts we hope they'll follow along.  Download and follow us on Apple, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  If you're agreeable it'll help us if you provide favorable reviews on these platforms.  To contact us, please reach out to readingmccarthy(@)gmail.com. Support the showStarting in spring of 2023, the podcast began accepting minor sponsorship offers to offset the costs of the podcast. This may cause a mild disconnect in earlier podcasts where the host asks for patrons in lieu of sponsorships. But if we compare it to a very large and naked bald man in the middle of the desert who leads you to an extinct volcano to create gunpowder, it seems pretty minor...

Notes from James:I've written 25 books—some huge hits, some total flops—and what I've learned is this: anyone can write a book, but not everyone gives themselves permission to start. This episode is the foundation. I break down the mindset, motivation, and structure you need to go from blank page to published book—even if you've never written a word before.So you want to write a book. Where do you even start? In this kickoff to my new series on writing and publishing a book in just 30 days, I walk you through everything you need to know before you ever touch the keyboard.This episode isn't just for aspiring authors—it's for anyone who's ever wanted to turn an idea into something real, something lasting, and maybe even something that launches a new career. I'll tell you exactly why writing a book is more important (and more achievable) than ever, and how your book can become a business card, a personal legacy, and a gateway to new opportunities—even if you're not a “writer.”I also introduce the one structure that every great story (fiction or nonfiction) follows: the arc of the hero. It's the single most powerful tool for crafting stories that actually move people.This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/JAMES and get on your way to being your best self.What You'll Learn:The real reasons to write a book (none of them involve fame)Why books have a longer shelf life—and career impact—than blog posts or social mediaThe 3 essential questions to ask before you start writing: “Who are you? Why are you? Why now?”Why your first draft should be messy—and why that's a good thingThe biggest myths that stop new writers (and how to ignore them)How the arc of the hero applies to everything—from Star Wars to tweetsTimestamps00:00 Introduction: The Power of Writing a Book00:37 Why Write a Book?01:18 My Journey as an Author03:39 The Importance of Knowing Your 'Why'08:46 Common Myths About Writing15:39 The Arc of the Hero in Storytelling19:35 Star Wars: A Hero's Journey22:17 The Timeless Tale of Moses28:16 Walt Disney's Heroic Arc32:52 The Arc of the Hero in Nonfiction35:25 Romance Novels: Love's Heroic JourneyP.S. Want to go deeper? Check out my full course on Udemy or visit chooseyourselfacademy.com: How to Write and Publish a Book in 30 Days – available now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.