Podcasts about writing life

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  

In this episode of The Writing Life, illustrator Hayley Wells delves into the importance of representation in children's books.   Hayley Wells is an Essex-based illustrator with an MA in Children's Book Illustration from Cambridge School of Art. Their work has been shortlisted for the World Illustration Awards, featured on television, and published worldwide.   They sit down with NCW's Ellie Reeves to discuss The Spectacular Suit, a picture book which celebrates individuality, identity and self-expression. Together they touch on the relationship between writer and illustrator, their advice for people wanting to develop ideas for a children's book, and the value of representing yourself and your experiences in your art.

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

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.

Join us for this week's episode as host Pamela Cook gives us a post Romance Writers of Australia wrap-up chat and the talented Camille Booker returns to the convo couch. Camille's latest novel, The Woman in the Waves, is a haunting historical mash-up that is getting a lot of buzz. In this episode she chats historical research, genre-bending and life with a small press. There's something in there for everyone! And in the bonus ep for paid Substack subscribers Camille talks about the pros and cons of being with a small press AND what she looks for when she judges the Hawkeye Publishing Prize. SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Substack https://writes4women.substack.com/ Camille Booker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @amelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

Content warning: Mentions of rape, sexual assault, and war.   In this episode of The Writing Life, bestselling author Pat Barker shares insights about the art of retellings, and the craftsmanship and research needed to write reimaginings of classic literature.   Pat Barker was born in Yorkshire and began her literary career in her late thirties, when she took a short writing course taught by Angela Carter. She has published sixteen novels, including her masterful Regeneration Trilogy which includes the Booker Prize-winning The Ghost Road. The Silence of the Girls was shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction and won an Independent Bookshop Award 2019. The Women of Troy was a number one Sunday Times bestseller. The Voyage Home continues the series.   She sits down with NCW's Holly Ainley to discuss her Regeneration Trilogy, and how retellings can bring stories to new audiences. They touch on offering fresh perspectives to Greek mythology, finding inspiration in unexpected places, and how reimaginings can make stories accessible to readers through contemporary language and references.

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!

In this episode of The Writing Life, award-winning writer Val McDermid shares insights on writing contemporary crime fiction, and the importance of learning patience as a writer.   One of the UK's most accomplished and respected novelists, Val McDermid has sold over 19 million books to date across the globe and is translated into more than 40 languages. She is perhaps best-known for her Wire in the Blood series, featuring clinical psychologist Dr Tony Hill and DCI Carol Jordan, which was adapted for television starring Robson Green and Hermione Norris. She has written four other series: private detective Kate Brannigan, journalist Lindsay Gordon, cold case detective Karen Pirie, whose debut appearance in The Distant Echo is now a major ITV series. The second in the series, 1989 was published in paperback in February 2023. Val has also published several award-winning standalone novels, books of non-fiction, short story collections and a children's picture book, My Granny is a Pirate. Val returns to Karen Pirie with her latest book, Past Lying.   She sits down with NCW's Chief Executive Peggy to discuss her writing career, and how her research process and routine have changed over time. Together, they discuss Val's Harriet Martineau Lecture at Norfolk & Norwich Festival 2025, her journey into new genres and styles, and what readers can expect from the next book in her Inspector Karen Pirie series.

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.

In this episode of The Writing Life, writer and Dragon Hall Cottage resident Wen-yi Lee shares insights into building a writing career, and the process of taking a project from conception to completion.   Wen-yi Lee likes writing about girls with bite, feral nature, and ghosts. She is the author of historical fantasy When They Burned the Butterfly and YA horror The Dark We Know, and has also published speculative fiction and essays in venues like Lightspeed, Uncanny, Strange Horizons, Reactor, and various anthologies. A University College London alum, she is currently based at home in Singapore. In February 2025, she completed a residency in our Dragon Hall Cottage.   She sits down with writer and mentor Kate Worsley to discuss her journey as a multi-genre writer, and the importance of representation in literature. Together, they touch on navigating queer storylines, finding a writing community online, and striking the balance between vulnerability and protection when exposing parts of yourself in your writing.

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.

In this episode of The Writing Life, prize-winning poet and writer Michael Pedersen shares his experience writing between genres, and how pushing the boundaries of literary categories can enhance your writing.   Michael Pedersen is a prize-winning poet and author of the memoir Boy Friends, which was a Sunday Times Critics Choice and shortlisted for the Saltire Scottish National Book Awards. He was awarded a Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship and is the current Writer in Residence at the University of Edinburgh, and Edinburgh's Makar (Poet Laureate). Muckle Flugga is his debut novel.   He sits down with NCW Chief Executive Peggy Hughes to discuss Muckle Flugga, a lyrical, windswept novel of a lighthouse keeper and his son, whose lives are turned upside down by a stranger's arrival. Together, they discuss the beauty of fusing elements from different genres in one work of writing, his decision to heighten the fantastical elements of a real-world setting in his fiction, and the importance of being excited about what you are writing.

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

In this episode of The Writing Life, prize-winning writer Julia Armfield shares insights on world building in horror fiction, and writing catastrophic and intense circumstances.   Julia Armfield's work has been published in Granta, The White Review and Best British Short Stories 2019 and 2021. In 2019, she was shortlisted for the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year award. She is the author of salt slow, a collection of short stories, which was longlisted for the Polari Prize 2020 and the Edge Hill Prize 2020. Her debut novel, Our Wives Under The Sea, won the Polari Prize 2023 and was shortlisted for the Foyles Fiction Book of the Year Award 2022. She lives and works in London.   She sits down with NCW's Steph McKenna to discuss her second novel Private Rites, a stunning, unsettling novel following three sisters navigating queer love and faith at the end of the world. Together, they discuss her use of imagery in her fiction, the influence of horror cinema on her writing, and how she maintains a blanketing sense of dread throughout her novels.

In this episode of The Writing Life, writers Eleanor Anstruther and Simon K Jones discuss the world of Substack, and how they use the platform to publish and share their work.   Eleanor Anstruther is the author of A Perfect Explanation, and A Memoir In 65 Postcards & The Recovery Diaries. Her new novel, In Judgement of Others, is out now. You can find her on Substack at The Literary Obsessive.   Long time listeners of The Writing Life will remember Simon K Jones, as he used to host and produce the podcast when he worked with us at NCW. He writes science fiction and fantasy, much of it released in serialised form online. You can find him on Substack at Write More with Simon K Jones.   They sit down to discuss Eleanor's latest witty satirical novel In Judgement of Others, which she released both in serialised form online and in paperback. They also take a deep dive into the benefits of Substack as a means to connect with a community of writers, and how the platform can be used to share work, live stream, and build a readership.

Get signed up for the Book Sales School Summit here: https://katcaldwell.com/booksalessummit2025If you're a fiction teacher or coach you might be interested in the Fiction Teachers Summit. Sign up here:https://katcaldwell.com/fiction-teachers-summitRhonda Douglas is starting her Book Finishers Bootcamp July 18th. It's a ver good way to get ahead in your writing this summer: https://katcaldwell.com/book-finishersWe're talking about 13 ways to keep writing this summer. All the links I promised are below.Check out Jessie Cunniffe's Book Blurb Magic course. It really is magic! https://katcaldwell.com/book-blurb-courseBooks: Writing Archetypal Character Arcs, Creating Character Arcs, 2000-10000, The Science of Storytelling, The Heroine's Journey, Three Story Method, Story Genius, Wired for Story.Be sure to fill your ebook reader this summer as well. Get Across the English Channel from me or from Amazon or Kobo.

Are you working hard, staying disciplined, and STILL not seeing the freedom or results you want as an entrepreneur?In this episode of the Garlic Marketing Show, Ian Garlic sits down with Craig Ballantyne, author of The Dark Side of Discipline and co-owner of EarlyToRise.com, to unpack the surprising truth about discipline, identity, and business vision.Craig reveals how entrepreneur burnout is often the result of misguided discipline and why effortless discipline built around clarity and systems is the key to long-term growth. He also shares his top coaching funnel strategy, how he uses audiobooks and video testimonials to convert, and why AI will never replace coaching grounded in human connection.Whether you're a high performer or business coach, this episode will reshape how you think about productivity, identity, and building a business that doesn't burn you out.What You'll Learn:The Dark Side of Discipline and Filtering the Right HabitsHow Accountability Creates Effortless DisciplineFinding Your Why and Creating a Vision FilterWhen “Good Habits” Sabotage Great OutcomesThe Perfect Day Formula and Writing Life into RealityVision Misalignment and the Cost of Choosing the Wrong MarketEliminating vs. Adding More DisciplineBuilding a New Identity with SystemsCoaching and Audiobooks as Discipline ToolsCraig's Most Profitable Funnel and Russell Brunson's Unintentional BoostWill AI Replace Coaching? Craig's ThoughtsWhy Human Connection Still WinsConnect with Craig Ballantyne:Website - https://www.earlytorise.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigballantyne/Book: The Dark Side of Discipline - https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Side-Discipline-Chasing-Achieve-ebook/dp/B0DX41KMRBBook: The Perfect Day Formula - https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Day-Formula-Control-Your/dp/1619613557Book: Double Double by Cameron Herold - https://www.amazon.com/Double-Your-Revenue-Profit-Years/dp/1608320995Resources:Connect with IanDownload a Tackle Box!Supercharge your marketing and grow your business with video case stories today!Book a Discovery Call Today with Our ExpertsSubscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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...

In this episode of The Writing Life, bestselling author André Aciman shares the intricacies of writing romance, from the magic of first meetings to the nuances of portraying older characters falling in love.   André is the New York Times bestselling author of Call Me By Your Name, Find Me, The Gentleman From Peru, Out of Egypt, Eight White Knights, False Papers, Alibis, Harvard Square, Enigma Variations, and the essay collection Homo Irrealis. He's the editor of the Proust Project and teaches comparative literature at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York.    He joins NCW's Steph McKenna from his home in Manhattan to talk about his latest novella Room on the Sea, a tender love story set in the sweltering heat of New York City. Together, they discuss his writing routines, the process of writing for an audio-first format, and his approach to dialogue, narration, and the art of leaving things between the lines.

This week I'm so excited to bring an interview with Spoken to you! They are truly changing the audiobook industry and I want you to be part of it! I've always wanted to have audiobooks, but it's been so far out of reach due to price for me, but not any more! Spoken Studio is the first purpose-built workflow empowering authors breaking the sound barrier. Spoken deeply analyzes each work and character to surface, or design from scratch, the perfect voices. These voices, whether of voice actors or character-generated, are used to craft the perfect single or multi-cast narration. Once a project is narrated, intelligent mastering and publishing tools make distribution a breeze.Check them out here https://www.spoken.press/ and use code PENCILS to start making your own audios! Listen to my short story, Chilled Wine, here: https://ihave.spoken.press/p/QVRdJVQYXm1Pre-order Across the English Channel here: https://www.amazon.com/Across-English-Channel-Stepping-Book-ebook/dp/B0F6QGS6M2/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 @katcaldwell_writing

In this episode of The Writing Life, novelist and screenwriter Eimear McBride on the power of language, and the ways literary fiction can evoke emotion and connection.   Eimear McBride is the award-winning author of four novels: A Girl is a Half-formed Thing, The Lesser Bohemians, Strange Hotel and The City Changes Its Face. Her debut novel A Girl is a Half-formed Thing won the inaugural Goldsmiths Prize, Irish Novel of the Year, the Bailey's Prize for Women's Fiction, The Desmond Elliott Prize and the Geoffrey Faber Memorial Award. The City Changes Its Face is a continuation of this novel, and follows an intense story of passion, jealousy and family.   She sits down with NCW's former Chief Executive and lover of books Chris Gribble to discuss the recently published The City Changes its Face, a continuation of her debut novel A Girl Is a Half-formed Thing. Together, they discuss the process of returning to characters and storylines previously written, her experience adapting her novel into a screenplay, and the machine of writing and publishing; going from the solitary task of writing to the hustle and bustle of book tours and literary events.

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.

The Dandy Warhols formed in Portland, Oregon in 1994, born from the city's gritty alternative scene. Fronted by the charismatic and sardonic Courtney Taylor-Taylor, the band initially carved out a niche with a sound that merged psychedelic rock, shoegaze textures, and garage grit. Their name, a clever play on pop artist Andy Warhol, reflected their art-house attitude and offbeat sensibility right from the start.The band's 1995 debut Dandys Rule OK was released on the indie label Tim/Kerr Records and earned them a deal with Capitol Records. It wasn't until their third album, Thirteen Tales from Urban Bohemia (2000), that they broke through internationally—led by the iconic single “Bohemian Like You.” The song's catchy riff and slacker spirit captured a moment, helped along by a high-profile feature in a Vodafone ad, which made it an anthem of early-2000s alt culture.Known as much for their aesthetic and attitude as their music, The Dandy Warhols often played with the line between satire and sincerity. Their early 2000s feud/friendship with Brian Jonestown Massacre—documented in the acclaimed film Dig!—added to their mythos, painting them as the more commercially savvy counterparts in a tale of two brilliant but volatile bands.Despite ups and downs with labels and shifting public tastes, the Dandys have remained prolific. Their sound evolved over time, incorporating synth-pop, glam, and even industrial influences, while keeping that core fuzzed-out irreverence intact. Albums like Welcome to the Monkey House (2003) and Distortland (2016) showed their willingness to shift gears while poking fun at pop culture and themselves.Still active today, The Dandy Warhols continue to tour and release new material, including 2024's “Rockmaker”—a return to heavy grooves and wry commentary. Whether you're revisiting their hits or diving into deeper cuts, the Dandys remain a band that defies easy categorization, staying true to their motto: “It's not about being famous, it's about being cool.”Official Links:

In this episode of The Writing Life, writer Joanna Miller shares her insights into writing strong female characters in historical fiction.   Joanna Miller studied English at Exeter College, Oxford and later returned to the University to train as a teacher. After ten years in education, she set up an award-winning poetry gift business. She is an alum of our Escalator New Writing Fellowships, which helped her to transform her debut novel, The Eights, from a first draft to its final form. The Eights tells the story of Oxford University's first admitted female students, and the unlikely, life-affirming friendship they form in their time there.   Joanna sits down with NCW Learning & Participation Producer Katie to discuss her debut novel, and the importance of exploring women's voices and experiences in historical fiction. They also touch on her research process, writing about friendship and found family, and the inspiration behind the characters and plot in The Eights.

In this episode, we are joined by Tom Bromley, author, ghost writer, and writing teacher who is currently the Head of Learning at Reedsy, where he teaches the How to Write a Novel course, a writing course for authors at all stages of their career looking for insights and guidance on writing their first (or second, or third…) novel. We spoke to Tom about his path to becoming a published author, how his musical talents have helped him write prose, learn more about his ghostwriting career, and get into the How to Write a Novel course he teaches at Reedsy. Tom had some great insights into novel-writing and shared some great stories about students past and present. For those looking to join the course, look no further: the next class begins on April 28th 2025! Listeners of the KWL podcast can use the code WRITINGLIFE to get 10% off the course fee (valid until April 28th 2025). Learn more on Tom's website, and be sure to check out Reedsy and Reedsy's How to Write a Novel course!

Writing a novel is a long road, and no one knows that better than Piers Torday, Andrea Stewart, and L.R. Lam. In this live interview, they share what writing looks like on a daily basis, how they help new writers at The Novelry, and how reading with a writer's mind can change the way you experience books. I think you'll find their insight helpful whether you're working on a manuscript or just trying to understand your favorite novels more deeply.Interested in writing your own novel? Check out The Novelry at: https://www.thenovelry.comSend Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:

This week on The Writing Life, we're diving into the world of romantasy — a genre that blends the best of romance and fantasy. Romantasy novels have taken the publishing world by storm in recent years, with sales expected to hit a staggering $610 million in 2024. And on TikTok, the #Romantasy tag has amassed over 800 million views. What is it about these stories that captivate readers? And what makes romantasy such a rewarding genre to write? To help answer these questions, we're thrilled to welcome novelist Sangu Mandanna to the podcast. Sangu is the author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom, and several other enchanting novels filled with magic, monsters, and myth. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a heartwarming and uplifting fantasy about an isolated witch who finds the chance to build a new family — and maybe even a new love. Her upcoming romantasy novel, A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping, will be published in July 2025.

Join Pamela Cook on Writes for Women as she chats with Lauren Keegan about her debut novel 'All the Bees in the Hollow.' Learn how Lauren's background in perinatal psychology shapes her storytelling and character development. Discover the intriguing folklore of Lithuanian beekeeping and the challenges of writing historical fiction. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to be an ARC reader for my historical romance? Click and share the link: https://katcaldwell.com/ARC-historical-romanceCheck out curios.com, Check out Manuscript Report https://katcaldwell.com/manuscript-report and use code KAT5 for $5 off.Like Substack? Find me at Lessons In Story. https://lessonsinstory.substack.com 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 @katcaldwell_writing

Nicola Slawson, creator of the award-winning newsletter The Single Supplement, shares her journey of building a creative career on her own terms. From launching her newsletter with zero subscribers to securing a book deal, Nicola offers insights into embracing your unique story, building an authentic community, and navigating the realities of freelance journalism and book writing.*ABOUT NICOLA SLAWSON Nicola Slawson is a freelance journalist, writer, and public speaker. She is the creator of The Single Supplement newsletter and author of Single: Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms. Nicola is passionate about telling human stories and empowering others to embrace their own.*RESOURCES & LINKS

This is a special bonus episode featuring some thoughts on The Writing Life by Annie Dillard. If you'd like to dig a little deeper you can read more here: https://troycartwright.substack.com/p/finding-a-honey-tree.New Episodes every Tuesday.Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. Social Channels for Ten Year Town:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokThis podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth. Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here. Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. Artwork design by Brad Vetter. Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

In this episode of Drafting the Past, host Kate Carpenter is joined by historian Dr. Lyndal Roper. Lyndal is a professor at the University of Oxford and the author of six books on gender, religion, witchcraft, and German history. Her newest book out this year is a history of the sixteenth-century German Peasants' War titled Summer of Fire and Blood. The book follows the movement, beliefs, hopes, and actions of the peasants in this mass uprising. I loved the opportunity to talk with Lyndal about how she wrote about such a massive and relatively obscure event for a general audience, the way her own movement across the land shaped her work, why she prefers the screen to the handwritten page, and much more.

"The only joy in the world is to begin" - Cesare Pavese, This Business of LivingWelcome to Episode #107:The writing life is full of possibilities and paradoxes, yet some times you need some tips and tricks on how to move forward, how to make time, how to get past the resistance and the limitations, and just write. Living a creative life takes a little audacity, a dose of commitment and a tonne of self care, it's about nurturing your creativity and your projects until they are ready to bloom.  Today I share some of the tools, the tricks, some tips and the books on writing and creativity that have helped me complete my books, or more so, just get started. It is all about beginners mind and the art of small compounding victories that lead you to build momentum and structure over time. Anyway, this is what I have discovered over thirty years of being curious and absolutely determined to keep creating and making things along the way!Find all Shownotes at  michellejohnston.lifeBuy my new book:  In the Shadow of a Cypress - An Italian Adventure Book Link for my MichelleJohnston.life© 2025  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and lifeMusic Composed by Richard Johnston © 2025Music Available on Spotify & Apple Music, today I featured Richard's 'The Ghan' on the Show!! Enjoy xoSupport the show

Welcome to episode 100 of Alchemy for Authors! To celebrate this incredible milestone, I've put together a bumper episode filled with powerful manifestation advice and insights from some of the amazing guests who have graced the show over the years. Whether you're looking to attract more abundance, align your mindset with success, or manifest your dream writing career, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you on your journey. Thank you for being part of this Alchemy for Authors community—I couldn't have reached 100 episodes without you!   Recommended episodes to revisit: ·         Episode 13: Manifestation & Mindset for Authors with Monica Hay  ·         Episode 16: Millionaire Author Mindset with Carissa Andrews  ·         Episode 24: Mindset to Maximize Your Author Career with Spencer Jones  ·         Episode 33: Physical Alignment for Manifestation Success with Sara Garofalo  ·         Episode 34: Transformational Writing with Nadia Krauss  ·         Episode 41: Living a Happy Author Life with Julie Leonard  ·         Bonus Episode: Millionaire Author Manifestation with Carissa Andrews ·         Episode 51: Connection, Optimism, & Publishing Wide with Mark Leslie Lefebvre ·         Episode 55: Write to Riches with Renee Rose ·         Episode 56: Spirits, Past-lives, Hypnosis & Writing with Tammy Tyree ·         Episode 58: Author Alignment & the Enneagram with Claire Taylor ·         Episode 72: Manifestation & Hypnosis for Authors with Carissa Andrews & Tammy Tyree ·         Episode 74: Go Creative Planning with Orna Ross ·         Episode 76: Travel Writing, Photography, & Being a Multi-Passionate Creative with Jeremiah Gilbert ·         Episode 77: Money Magic & Mindset with Lee Savino ·         Episode 78: Writing the Shadow with Joanna Penn ·         Episode 82: Writing Lessons from a Centenarian with Babette Hughes ·         Episode 86: Marketing with Testimonials & Romanticising Your Writing Life with Lyda McLallen ·         Episode 91: Pivoting & Sustainability in Your Author Career with Troy Lambert ·         Episode 94: Relax to Riches with Renee Rose If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe, rate and review. You can also support the show by buying me a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jobuer. Your support helps me keep this podcast going and is greatly appreciated. If you have a question you would like answered on the show, or a topic suggestion for a future episode, leave a voice message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/AlchemyForAuthors Follow me on Instagram: @alchemyforauthors and @jobuerauthor. Follow me on Facebook: @alchemyforauthors and @jobuerauthor. Join the Alchemy for Authors Facebook Group here.  Join my Alchemy for Authors newsletter and download your FREE copy of Manifestation for Authors here.  Download your FREE copy of Affirmations for Authors with a Day Job here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/dnj980xva5 Check out my Author Resources page here: https://jobuer.com/author-resources/ If you enjoy Gothic Suspense, you can join my reader's newsletter and download a FREE copy of my short story collection, Between the Shadows, here. You can find all my books at https://jobuer.com or visit https://Books2Read.com/JoBuer for links to your favourite store. Visit my website for the full transcript of this episode: https://jobuer.com/alchemy-for-authors/

Chapter 1 What's Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard"Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" is a non-fiction narrative by Annie Dillard, published in 1974. It is a contemplative exploration of nature, spirituality, and existence as Dillard reflects on her experiences while living in a secluded area of Virginia near Tinker Creek. The book blends lyrical prose with philosophical musings, examining the beauty and brutality of the natural world.Dillard observes the intricacies of nature, from the life cycles of various animals to the phenomena of light and water. She grapples with the paradoxes of life, such as the coexistence of beauty and suffering. Throughout her journey, Dillard delves into themes of perception, consciousness, and the divine, inviting readers to contemplate their relationship with the world around them. Richly detailed, the work is both a love letter to the natural landscape and a profound meditation on broader existential questions, encouraging an appreciation for the mysteries and complexities of life. Dillard's keen observations and poetic style illuminate the interconnectedness of all living things.Chapter 2 Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard Summary"Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" by Annie Dillard is a contemplative narrative that explores the author's observations and reflections on nature, life, and spirituality. Published in 1974, the book is a series of interconnected essays that chronicle Dillard's experiences as she spends a year in the Tinker Creek area of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains.The work is structured around the seasons and is steeped in vivid, poetic descriptions of the natural world. Dillard immerses herself in the landscape, writing about the intricate details of wildlife, plants, and the cycles of life and death she witnesses. She observes everything from the behavior of insects to the grandeur of the mountains, drawing profound insights from these observations.Throughout the book, Dillard grapples with existential questions, reflecting on themes such as the beauty and brutality of nature, the concept of God's presence in the world, and the search for meaning and truth. She often contrasts the serene beauty of nature with its inherent violence, illustrating the duality of existence.Dillard's writing is deeply philosophical, inviting readers to appreciate the small, unnoticed aspects of life. Ultimately, "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" serves as a meditation on the interconnectedness of all living things and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the ordinary. Dillard encourages a mindfulness of the world around us, prompting readers to consider their own relationship with nature.Chapter 3 Pilgrim at Tinker Creek AuthorAnnie Dillard is an acclaimed American author, best known for her literary nonfiction that intertwines nature, philosophy, and spirituality. Her most famous work, "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," was published in 1974 and won the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction in 1975. Key Details about Annie Dillard:Birth Date: April 30, 1945Education: Dillard graduated from Hollins College in Virginia, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English.Writing Style: Her writing is characterized by deep observations of nature and existence, often exploring themes of awareness and the intricacies of life. Other Notable Works:In addition to "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," Dillard has written several other influential works:"Holy the Firm" (1977) A meditation on suffering and spiritual quest, set against the Pacific Northwest."Teaching a Stone to Talk" (1982) A collection of essays that reflect on her relationship with the natural world."The Writing Life" (1989) An introspective look into the processes and challenges of being a writer."For the Time Being" (1999) An exploration of time, existence, and the biblical...

Learn how to conquer self-doubt in writing and transform it into a driving force for growth and improvement.

"You actually have permission to orient your life according to your nature rather than according to your culture and what you were taught was expected of you" - Elizabeth Gilbert, Living an Imperfectly Perfect Life - In Conversation with Sarah Grynberg Welcome to Episode #105:After three days in Sydney pondering a workshop with Elizabeth Gilbert I come away with this share. It was a gift to myself to just get away for a few days, number one there was that. Number two, I could have just gone there to see the tsunami of women of all ages ready, pens and journals in hand waiting. There were people of all ages, including some men, one beside me scrawling notes, trying to catch what poet she quoted, all listening, waiting, watching, talking and mostly just feeling her words ricocheting off the podium where she stood. In such an experience there is before, there is then and then there is after. …. it's the holy trinity… And so it has been many years of knowing her work from afar, reading her books, loving her books and Liz sharing the art of creative living. For most of us it did start with the iconic ‘Eat Pray Love' - for some it was the love story, for some the epic travel journey, for some the long pasta lunches in Italy, for some it was the spiritual seeking and the searching for herself. For me, it was everything. Livy was in my belly when I first read ‘Eat Pray Love', and she is now sixteen years old. I have had three kids, and managed to live a creative life and stay married, in my mind it is quite the endurance test. It is lovely to see her and listen to her to talk, but it is bigger than that, Liz Gilbert does the work. She questions and she calls it out, and she is willing to ride the wave and get dumped a few times. And if you see her live, you are with her walking into the fire, you are warmed and you are transformed, rising from the flames, anew and alive to whatever you are calling in next!This share I go all the way in the deep end of living my own personal journey and feeling the rumble of change and growth and my own potential hovering in the wings as I share this podcast. It is creative living and I wouldn't change any of it - it's a grand adventure and a joy to share along the way…..Find all Shownotes at  michellejohnston.lifeBuy my new book:  In the Shadow of a Cypress - An Italian Adventure Book Link for my MichelleJohnston.life© 2025  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and lifeMusic Composed by Richard Johnston © 2025Support the show

Delve into the impact of AI on fiction writing. Explore the opportunities and concerns surrounding the incorporation of AI in creative work.

Recover from creative burnout with these holistic strategies. Create space in your life to rebuild creativity and overcome writer's block.

TJ Klune, author of The House in the Cerulean Sea, talks with Debra Fitzgerald about his (extremely well-written) book that was selected for this year's Door County Reads program, which began Jan. 18 and runs through February). Klune talks about his writing process, why he writes, who he writes for – and life on a remote 10 acres in Washington state. The Lamda Literary Award-winning author Klune has written 30 books, including the sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea – Somewhere Beyond the Sea.

Gain insights from life-changing lessons and intentions for growth in the new year. Explore the powerful connection between writing and life.

This year, I read more than 100 books. Why so many? Because I wanted to! And because I chose to make time for it. In this episode, I'll share my favorite tips for reading more in 2025 (spoiler alert: it starts with saying no to mediocre TV). You'll also get my 7 top picks, from classic detective novels to soul-nourishing wisdom and even a little “woo woo” that actually works. If you're ready to find your next great read, this episode is for you.My 2024 Book List:1. "The Choice" by Og Mandino2.Raymond Chandler's Philip Marlowe series3."A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society" by Eugene Peterson4."Never Eat Alone" by Keith Ferrazzi5."Hell and Back" by Craig Johnson6."The Writing Life" by Annie Dillard7. "Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway" by Susan Jeffers PhD  Other Books From This Episode:"The Greatest Salesman in the World" by Og Mandino"The Big Sleep" by Raymond ChandlerKeep up with my book list on GoodReads!Let me know your book recommendations on Instagram!Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!Book me to speak at your event or to your team! I'm also on Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.My new book All It Takes Is a Goal is available! You can grab a copy from your favorite bookstore or at atgbook.com.Grab my books, Soundtracks and Finish, today!Have me speak at your next event!

Discover the top 10 books of 2024. Dive into captivating fantasy novels and explore fascinating non-fiction works.

Discover the 5 gift rule for writers this Christmas. Find sustainable and mindful gift ideas that will delight the writers in your life.