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Insights from the Romance Writers of Australia Conference In this special bonus episode of 'Writes for Women,' host Pamela Cook shares her key takeaways from the Romance Writers of Australia conference held in Hobart. Pamela provides summaries of workshops and sessions from renowned authors like Sarah McClean, Sarra Cannon, Stacey McEwen, Brenda Novak, and many more. Topics include writing conflict in romance, writing through fear, different paths to publication, effective marketing tools, and tips for indie authors. Additionally, she offers insights from panels featuring publishers on what they look for in submissions and advice for avoiding common pitfalls. Grab a cuppa, a pen and notepaper and get ready for some fabulous writing tips! 1:04 Key Takeaways from RWA Conference 03:55 Insights from Indie Hybrid, and Traditional Authors 10:54 Publisher and Agent Panel Highlights 19:08 Tips for Tackling the Saggy Middle 25:39 How to Write a Romcom 28:13 Conclusion and Upcoming Events SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Substack https://writes4women.substack.com Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @amelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU Sarra Cannon on Youtube here Sarah Maclean on Fated mates here 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.
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
Have you noticed how everything Korean is so hot right now? From Squid Game to KPop Demon Hunters, the world is enamoured. Of course, for bestselling Korean-Kiwi author and AWC graduate Graci Kim, trends had nothing to do with her choice to mix stories from childhood with fantasy in her new novel, Dreamslinger. In this episode, Graci discusses the many experiences and inspirations that led her to this point, her writing process, advice and much more! 00:00 Welcome03:29 Writing tip: Reread a book you hated07:02 WIN!: We’ll Prescribe You Another Cat by Syou Ishida09:01 Word of the week: ‘Pantechnicon’10:40 The world of words: ‘Practice vs Practise’12:38 Writer in residence: Graci Kim13:30 Graci’s fascinating pre-writing lives21:07 Her relationship with writing over the years22:59 Rediscovering childhood stories and purpose25:40 Embracing her Korean name and heritage27:19 Graci’s journey into writing YA Fantasy31:21 Discovering a community through AWC32:00 The value of the Novel Writing Essentials course33:54 How Graci went about getting an agent37:13 Joining ‘Rick Riordan Presents’38:54 Introducing her new book, Dreamslinger40:35 What she did differently in this series.42:22 Graci’s world-building process43:33 Fun extras and connecting with fans48:06 Her writing routine and her creative process49:50 Advice for aspiring writers53:23 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
What if you could be locked away simply for having disturbing dreams? That’s part of the premise in internationally acclaimed author Laila Lalami’s latest novel, The Dream Hotel. In this episode, Laila discusses the themes that inspired and eventually mirrored her book, along with her background in writing, her daily routine, writing tips and more. 00:00 Welcome04:50 Writing tip: Avoid clichés!07:58 WIN!: A Forbidden Alchemy by Stacey McEwan09:35 Word of the week: ‘Apophenia’10:03 Writer in residence: Laila Lalami11:02 Laila outlines The Dream Hotel12:17 Speculative Fiction and real-world parallels14:20 The language of this near future world19:40 Dreams and their cultural significance21:58 Speculative Fiction and dreams as data22:50 Researching the novel27:17 The role of algorithms in society30:11 Laila’s journey to becoming a writer34:33 Balancing teaching and writing37:27 The challenges of book promotion39:20 Future writing projects40:59 Laila’s writing tips42:43 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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.
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
With more than 35 books under her belt, Australian author Christine Keighery has written across a range of age groups and genres. In this episode, she shares some insights from that time, along with details about writing her latest adult thriller, We’re Not Us Without You – all about modern day cults. 00:00 Welcome03:58 Writing tip: ‘Your best friend’s work’07:58 WIN!: The Bourne Escape by Brian Freeman10:55 Word of the week: ‘Desideratum’11:28 The world of words: Riband vs. Ribbon13:33 Writer in residence: Christine Keighery15:15 Christine’s fascination with cults17:17 Getting to know her characters20:20 Writing four perspectives22:00 Having great editors23:40 Religion vs cults25:20 The ingredients of a good thriller26:13 Balancing character and plot27:05 Transitioning from junior fiction to adult fiction28:27 Writing the Go Girl series33:02 The importance of character in all writing36:21 Christine's writing process40:56 Advice for aspiring writers45:28 What's next for Christine?47:04 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
Do you love true-crime podcasts? Author A.L. Tait got obsessed with them for a while and pulled those themes into her latest middle-grade crime-thriller novel Danger Road. She joins us to discuss her experience writing and publishing this one, along with her busy year of writing, her process and how she found her unique voice. 00:00 Welcome02:51 Writing tip: ‘Geolocating writing prompts’06:26 WIN!: Lights, Camera, Love by Natalie Murray09:36 Word of the week: ‘Objurgate’10:13 Writer in residence: A.L. Tait12:00 The inspirations for Danger Road16:41 Creating distinctive voices20:07 A busy year of writing.23:48 The importance of continuous writing24:41 Challenges of underwriting27:21 How Tait found her storytelling voice30:09 The ‘Your Kid’s Next Read’ community34:43 On writing nonfiction and ghostwriting36:00 Say yes to new writing avenues and genres38:18 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
And we're back! That's right, Season 4 of I Got Nothing is in the works! Leani shares the exciting news and what you can look forward to during the new season. Keep an eye on her revamped website for more details or join her on Patreon! Music by Kevin MacLeod
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
How do you go about adapting a stage play into a compelling murder mystery novel? For acclaimed actor and playwright Toby Schmitz, this was his challenge in creating his debut, The Empress Murders – set on the high seas amid the glamour and clamour 1920s. In this episode, Toby shares his inspirations, aspirations and perspirations in bringing his story to the page. 00:00 Welcome02:29 Writing tip: ‘Magazine apps to combat doomscrolling’07:32 WIN!: Arcana Academy by Elise Kova10:30 Word of the week: ‘Vicissitude’11:11 The world of words: Tack vs. Tact12:59 Writer in residence: Toby Schmitz14:02 Toby describes The Empress Murders16:06 Storytelling in the 1920s18:11 Themes of colonialism20:19 How the story started as a play22:05 Defining what an Australian story is26:17 The journey from play to novel27:01 Finding freedom in novel writing27:22 Crafting the story with index cards28:13 Maintaining the playwright's touch29:32 Exploring colonial guilt30:30 Switching genres throughout32:32 Inspirations for Toby35:36 Navigating historical authenticity37:16 The research process39:11 The emotional experience of publishing43:10 Reflections on feedback and notes45:08 Hopes for the reader's experience46:36 Acknowledging influences and support49:19 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
So You Want To Be A Writer with Valerie Khoo and Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre podcast
When award-winning author Demet Divaroren decided to write a fantasy novel, she went down a completely different path first, before finally arriving at what would become Blood Moon Bride. In this discussion, Demet shares the inspiration for this YA fantasy novel, the creative freedom of writing in this genre and how motherhood changed her perspective on storytelling. 00:00 Welcome04:51 Writing tip: ‘Tinder for writers’08:45 WIN!: A Passion for Passion by Alice Fraser11:53 Word of the week: ‘Kickshaw’12:25 Writer in residence: Demet Divaroren16:00 Starting with a different book19:45 Creating a fantasy world22:13 Writing for young adults25:42 Balancing writing and life26:12 How motherhood changed her writing29:14 The publishing journey32:07 The magic of writing33:08 Promoting the book35:16 Future projects 37:00 Demet shares a writing tip38:05 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ready to transform your manuscript from a rough draft into a polished gem? Discover the secrets to navigating the entire editing process, whether you're working with a professional editor or sharpening your skills to self-edit your book!In this episode, join Erin P.T. Canning and special guest Allyson Wilkins, an expert editor for YA and adult fantasy and fairy tale retellings, as we demystify everything you need to know about getting your book ready for readers. Learn how to know if your manuscript is truly ready for professional eyes, debunk common myths about working with editors, and get practical and actionable tips you can apply right away!What you'll learn: Understanding Editing Stages: The key differences between developmental editing, line editing, and proofreading, and when your manuscript is ready for each phase.Finding the Right Editor: How to choose a great editor who enhances your unique author voice, not changes it, and what happens once your manuscript leaves your hands.Editor Rates & Time: Get transparent insights into how editors charge, what goes into their work (the 1K–3K rule!), and realistic turnaround times.Self-Editing Masterclass: Actionable strategies for self-editing your own book, including the power of beta readers, show, don't tell, avoiding LY adverbs, and unique proofreading techniques.Common Mistakes to Avoid: Learn common pitfalls authors make before and during the editing process, and how to set your book up for success.Pacing Your Publication: Honest advice on managing publishing deadlines and preventing burnout.Guest Spotlight — Connect with Allyson: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getitwrite_editing Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getitwriteedit Website: https://getitwrite-editing.com Resources discussed: Editorial Freelancers Association: https://www.the-efa.org/ Connect with us: Website: https://erinptcanning.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinptcanning LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinptcanning/ Send us a textREADY TO TAKE YOUR WRITING FURTHER? Join our Patreon community and access our vibrant Discord writing group to get writing prompts, participate in sprints, download free resources, and more: https://www.patreon.com/erinptcanningeditor
Guest host Michelle Barraclough chats to best-selling author Jessica Dettman about her latest book, 'Your Friend and Mine'. Jess's fourth novel, it's a warm, witty and wise novel about second chances, friendship and romance for readers of Marian Keyes and Liane Moriarty. Michelle and Jess discuss Jessica's inspirations, her writing process, and the intriguing narrative which involves a 43-year-old woman, Margot, fulfilling posthumous tasks assigned by her deceased best friend, Tess. They also cover the role of research, the challenges of crafting a compelling ending, and the influence of editors in refining the manuscript SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Jessica Dettman Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Michelle Barraclough Website: click here Facebook: click here Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Instagram: click here This episode produced by Michelle Barraclough and Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever struggle to get into a widely popular book? Check out these potential reasons why.In this episode, host Erin P.T. Canning discusses the interesting choices Callie Hart, a successful former indie author, made with her romantasy novel, Quicksilver.Tune in to this unique case study from an editor's and reader's perspective. You will gain valuable insights into the flexibility of publishing guidelines, learning how authors can make informed decisions about manuscript length and structure. You will also uncover the nuanced reasons behind reader engagement and connection with characters, ultimately equipping you with a fresh perspective on the craft of writing and reading. Send us a textLOOKING FOR WRITING SUPPORT & FRIENDS? Join my Patreon to access my Discord writing group, get writing prompts, participate in sprints, download free resources, and more: https://www.patreon.com/erinptcanningeditor
Stephanie Gorton is a writer, editor, and journalist whose work has been published in a range of outlets including The New Yorker, Smithsonian, and Paris Review Daily. She has worked in editorial roles at several independent presses, and her first book came out in 2020, titled Citizen Reporters: S. S. McClure, Ida Tarbell, and the Magazine that Rewrote America. Her second book, which came out in November, is The Icon and the Idealist: Margaret Sanger, Mary Ware Dennett, and the Rivalry that Brought Birth Control to America. It's a fascinating dual biography that brings to life two complicated leaders of the birth control movement in the early 1900s, and the lasting impact of their actions and interactions. We spoke early this year, and I loved getting to hear more about Stephanie's research and writing process, especially how she thought about narrative structure and revising with feedback.
Imposter Syndrome. Comparisonitis. Self Doubt. Whatever we call it the fact is all writers and creatives suffer from it. In this episode host Pamela Cook delves into her personal struggles with imposter syndrome and discusses insights from previous podcast guests, including Eliza Henry Jones, Nikki Gammel, Sophie Green, Cassie Hamer, Natasha Lester, Holly Ringland, and Megan Della Camina, on managing self-doubt and fostering creativity. Join Pam as she digs deep into her own battle with imposter syndrome and finds answers in the wisdom of her fellow writers. 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 00:44 Technical Difficulties and Personal Updates 03:43 Substack Updates and New Initiatives 07:10 Exploring Imposter Syndrome 11:13 Insights from Eliza Henry Jones 13:42 Nikki Gammel on Male Confidence 17:16 Sophie Green's Perspective 21:08 Cassie Hamer's Inner Critic 24:28 Natasha Lester on Editorial Feedback 28:04 Holly Ringland on the Blank Page 34:35 Megan Della Camina's Inner Critic Work 37:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Instagram: click here Buy We Need Your Art by Amie McNee here Listen to Amie on Dear Rach and Soph here This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Padraic Scanlan. Padraic is an associate professor at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on the history of labor in Britain and the British empire. He's the author of three books, including Freedom's Debtors: British Antislavery in Sierra Leone in the Age of Revolutions and Slave Empire: How Slavery Made Modern Britain. His newest book, out this year, is called Rot: An Imperial History of the Irish Famine, and it offers a reinterpretation of the Irish Great Famine of the mid-1800s that shows how massive income inequality, debt, housing prices, precarious employment and more contributed to the disaster. I spoke with Padraic about how he thinks about writing for a general audience, his work with a developmental editor and why he loves editors, and his writerly inspirations.
Do you start writing fervently but get lost in the murky middle? Or have you ever had an idea for a story but you're not sure where to start? And sitting down to write a massive number of words feels intimidating?In today's episode, learn how discovery drafts can help you capture your story idea much more quickly—and provide flexibility for pantsers. Topics discussed in this episode: Two case storiesWhat is a discovery draft?What goes into a discovery draft?Many benefitsStructuring your discovery draftDevelopmental edits vs manuscript evaluationsJoin writing sprints and get my promptsResources discussed: Document navigation with styles: https://youtu.be/qjbMeZBrrOA Different types of editors: https://erinptcanning.com/book-coaches-and-editors-whats-the-difference/Send us a textLOOKING FOR WRITING SUPPORT & FRIENDS? Join my Patreon to access my Discord writing group, get writing prompts, participate in sprints, download free resources, and more: https://www.patreon.com/erinptcanningeditor
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, May 26, 2025 Kristen, Kelly, and Ashley talk about modern day idolatry – what it looks like in its many forms, why it’s such a difficult struggle for all of us, and why it’s important to keep putting God back […]
"We contain multitudes; you can be happy and jealous at the same time." -Mur Lafferty (This post went live for supporters on May 21, 2025. If you want early, ad-free, and sometimes expanded episodes, support at Patreon or Substack!) We're back! In this episode, we talk about the bullies that can sap our confidence and creativity again, today's bully is the Blade, a stern knife that can cut deep. (I also announce my new cozy fantasy, it's real now! I am of course stressing over storytelling complexities (again).) Let's talk about the Blade, and everything it stands for: mainly, jealousy, a feeling that can be sharp and painful. But fear not, we also discuss how to deal with these feelings and how to shut this bully up. Transcript Links Ted Chiang and "Story of Your Life" Arrival (Film) Six Wakes (Book) Evergreen Links See all books from Season 21 Like the podcast? Get the book! I Should Be Writing. My newsletter, The Hot Mic, and the community of Fabulists over at Patreon. Supporting either of those will get you perks like access to the discord, exclusive content, and early, ad-free episodes. Socials: Bluesky, Instagram, YouTube, Focusmate Theme by John Anealio Savor I Should Be Writing tea blends Support local book stores! Station Eternity, Six Wakes, Solo: A Star Wars Story: Expanded Edition and more! OR Get signed books from my friendly local store, Flyleaf Books! — "Jealousy and Bully #2: The BLADE" is brought to you in large part by my supporters, the Fabulists, who received an early, expanded version of this episode. You can join our Fabulist community with a pledge on Patreon or Substack! Some of the links above may be affiliate, allowing you to support the show at no extra cost to you. Also consider leaving a review for ISBW, please! CREDITS Theme song by John Anealio, art by Numbers Ninja, and files hosted by Libsyn (affiliate link). Get archives of the show via Patreon. May 20, 2025 | Season 21 Ep 8 | murverse.com "Jealousy and Bully #2: The BLADE" by Mur Lafferty is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 In case it wasn't clear: Mur and this podcast are fully supportive of LGBTQ+ folks, believe that Black Lives Matter, and trans rights are human rights, despite which direction the political winds blow. If you do not agree, then there are plenty of other places to go on the Internet. May 23, 2025 | Season 21 Ep 8 | murverse.com | CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
What happens when a best selling Fantasy author does a sneaky genre swap? Guest host Jo Riccioni welcomes bestselling author Lynette Noni to discuss her genre shift and new book, 'Wandering Wild.' They explore the departure from Noni's typical fantasy genre to YA contemporary, featuring a Hollywood actor and an Australian teen navigating a survival adventure. Lynnette reveals her inspirations, creative process, the challenges of addressing serious themes, and the joys of crafting new tropes. To hear the bonus chat on Lynnette's writing process sign up at Writes4Women on Substack at Writes4Women.substack.com SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Tracey Spicer Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Sandie Docker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Buy The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir here Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Instagram: click here This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every day for 25 years, Ben Snakepit has drawn a simple, 3 panel comic about his day. There's no overarching plot or theme, just Ben answering the question "what did you do today?" But answering that question daily for half his life (and collecting them in volumes) has led to insights about himself, the world, and what it means to live each day. This week on the podcast, Ben joins Joe and Elly to talk about the comic, punk life, and how the scene has changed.Check out all the Snake Pit comics here: microcosm.pub/snakepit************Thank you for watching the People's Guide to Publishing vlogcast! We post new episodes every Thursday about publishing, authors, and the book industry. You can also listen via your preferred podcast app, or by visiting linktree.com/microcosmGet the book: https://microcosmpublishing.com/catalog/books/3663Get the workbook: https://microcosmpublishing.com/catalog/zines/10031More from Microcosm: http://microcosmpublishing.comMore by Joe Biel: http://joebiel.netMore by Elly Blue: http://takingthelane.comSubscribe to our monthly email newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gIXT6vFind us on social media:Facebook: http://facebook.com/microcosmpublishingBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/microcosm.bsky.socialInstagram: http://instagram.com/microcosm_pub************
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, May 12, 2025 Kelly, Ashley, & Kristen meet up again to discuss what God means by “broken cisterns” and why heeding His warning is so important to having an unshaken faith. Idolatry = adultery against God, but was it only […]
In this episode, Jeff interviews Angela Haas and Cassie Newell from The Author Next Door podcast. Jeff, Angela, and Cassie discuss the life of an author and how it changes as you grow and mature. They talk about Cassie and Angela's new adventures into romance and their new podcast. To learn more about what Cassie and Angela are doing, check out https://theauthornextdoor.com/ For more on the craft of writing, check out https://dialoguedoctor.com/
Drafting the Past is a show about the craft of writing history, hosted by historian and writer Kate Carpenter. In this episode, Kate is joined by historian Dr. Omar Valerio-Jiménez. Omar is a professor of history at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he is also an associate dean for graduate studies. He originally worked as an engineer before going back to school to become a historian. His work focuses on histories of Mexican American civil rights, citizenship, education, and memory. His first book was called River of Hope: Forging Identity and Nation in the Rio Grande Borderlands, and his second book, which is the focus of this interview, is Remembering Conquest: Mexican Americans, Memory, and Citizenship. Remembering Conquest explores the collective memories of the U.S.-Mexico War and how those memories motivated civil rights campaigns among several generations of Mexican Americans. Omar is a pleasure to speak with, and his thoughtful approach to his work came through in our conversation. Keep an ear out especially for his work log system, which I might have to try out myself.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, May 5, 2025 Listen in as Kristen interviews 5 sweet friends who also have faith-based businesses/ministries: Melissa Flanagan with Lissa Sue Designs, Emily Hatfield with Wifey Wednesdays, Emily Hayes with The Pearly Peacock, Laura Jenkins with Thought Garden, and Rebecca […]
Readers love knowing what to expect from a publisher. Having consistent theming in your titles can help with discovery, trust, and bringing readers back for more.But how do you find your theme? And what happens if you want to diverge from your theme? Jelani Memory of A Kids Co is back on the pod this week to talk about it!
About Shani Raja Shani was a journalist who has written and edited for The Economist, Bloomberg News and the Wall Street Journal. Since leaving journalism a decade ago, Shani has gone on to become an instructor on LinkedIn Learning and Udemy, where his online writing courses have attracted more than 1 million students worldwide. Shani has also in coached TEDx speakers, taught journalism at UTS and edited copy for the likes of Microsoft, IBM, and PwC. Shani is currently writing a book that explains the craft of writing to non-specialists, and he is also working on a memoir sharing how he healed himself from terminal cancer, which he was diagnosed with four years ago. Shani recently launched The Alchemy of Writing Podcast on Spotify in which he explores the art of good communication with experts in writing, sales and public speaking. Episode Notes 00:00 Intro 02:52 Lesson 1: Thinking is Overrated and Often 22:02 Lesson 2: You Are One of One 25:47 Lesson 3: Life is an Opportunity to be Blissful 30:46 Lesson 4: Live in the Sunlight 34:46 Lesson 5 : Stop Trying to Fix People 39:04 Lesson 6: Don't Try to Squeeze Your Life into Roles 42:19 Lesson 7: Don't Trust Your Doubts Over Tangible Feelings 44:49 Lesson 8: Focus on Expressing Rather than Acquiring 54:14 Lesson 9: False Hope is Better than False Hopelessness 57:34 Lesson 10: Follow Your Excitement
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, April 28, 2025 Ashley, Kelly, and Kristen talk about (intentionally) training ourselves for godliness, forming good study habits, and understanding how trials can help us grow spiritually. Episode Resources: Waiting on the Lord scripture writing plan:https://www.theruffledmango.com/march-scripture-writing-plan-waiting-on-the-lord/ Waiting on the Lord […]
Welcome back to Drafting the Past, a podcast where we talk all about the craft of writing history. I'm Kate Carpenter and for this episode, I'm delighted to be joined on the podcast by Dr. Emily Herring. As you'll hear, I've been following Emily's career for a while now, and I was eager to ask about her first book and her shift from academia to full-time writing. Her book is called Herald of a Restless World: How Henri Bergson Brought Philosophy to the People. It's an intellectual biography of philosopher Henri Bergson, who achieved remarkable fame in the early 1900s, and it's a genuinely fascinating and pleasurable read. Let's dig into it. Here's my interview with Dr. Emily Herring. Buy Emily's book Find links and show notes at draftingthepast.com Support the show on Patreon Sign up for the free show newsletter
In this episode of Writes for Women, guest host Mary-Lou Stephens sits down with historical fiction author Emily Maguire to discuss her latest novel, 'Rapture', set in the ninth century. They delve into Maguire's transition from contemporary fiction, the extensive research involved, and the challenges of writing historical content while maintaining authenticity. Maguire also shares insights about her personal connection with faith and nature, the writing process, and the collaborative role of her editors. For paid Substack subscribers, additional content includes Maguire's experiences with literary awards and mentoring emerging writers. SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast Emily Maguire Website: click here Instagram: click here Mary Lou Stephens Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here Instagram: click here This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, April 14, 2025 Ashley, Kelly, & Kristen discuss the importance of growing spiritually, what happens to us (and those around us) when we don’t, and how fruitfulness is a good measure of spiritual maturity. Check the link(s) below for the […]
Welcome back to Drafting the Past. I'm Kate Carpenter, and this is a podcast about the craft of writing history. In this episode, I'm joined by historian and writer Dr. Surekha Davies. Surekha is a former history professor who now writes full-time, and she can also be found speaking about history and consulting on monsters. In fact, monsters have played a major role in much of her research. Her first award-winning book was titled Renaissance Ethnography and the Invention of the Human: New Worlds, Maps, and Monsters. Her second book, which is aimed at a general audience, is out now; it's called Humans: A Monstrous History. The book looks at, as she puts it, how people “have defined the human in relation to everything from apes to zombies, and how they invented race, gender, and nations along the way.” I spoke with Surekha about how she made the switch to full-time writing, her newsletter, Notes from an Everything Historian, and how she organized what could have been an unruly book. Enjoy my conversation with Dr. Surekha Davies.
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.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, March 31, 2025 Alyssa & Kristen discuss eagerly waiting for Jesus to come back, how faith & patience go hand in hand, why God delays, and what we should be doing while we wait. Check out our show notes at […]
Navigating the Journey of Indie Publishing with Sal Gallagher and Kirsten Nixon. In this episode of Rights for Women, host Pamela Cook delves into the world of indie publishing with guests Sal Gallaher and Kirsten Nixon. Sal discusses her novel 'Secrets in the Lakes', her journey through editing, and the challenges of self-publishing. Kirsten shares her experience writing 'Voices of Entrepreneurial Women', detailing her approach to interviews and the decision to go the self-publishing route. If you've ever thought about self publishing your book, or wondered what the process is like you'll love this chat with these two amazing women.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, March 17, 2025 Kristen and Christy talk about God’s compassion & consistency, how Jesus’ goodness matches the Father’s, and how the good gifts of the Holy Spirit and the holy scriptures affect our lives. Episode Resources: Subscription Links
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, March 3rd, 2025 Kristen and Christy talk about God’s compassion & consistency, how Jesus’ goodness matches the Father’s, and how the good gifts of the Holy Spirit and the holy scriptures affect our lives. Episode Resources: Subscription Links
In this episode Kate is joined by writer and historian Dr. Rebecca Brenner Graham. Rebecca is a post-doctoral research associate at Brown University, but before that she taught high school history, an experience that we talk a lot more about in this episode. Her first book, out now, is called Dear Miss Perkins: A Story of Frances Perkins's Efforts to Aid Refugees from Nazi Germany, and it is not only a compelling history but holds valuable lessons for readers now. I also asked Rebecca to dig into her approach for publicizing a recently released book, and I think her advice will be a big help for other authors.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, February 24, 2025 Kristen spotlights some hymn lyrics & prayer prompts for this month’s theme, plus introduces a helpful memorization tool for scripture. Episode Resources: Subscription Links
Why Your Podcast Isn't Growing: A Get More Listeners Podcast For Podcasters
Ever wondered why your podcast isn't capturing the audience it deserves? Dive into today's episode to uncover the often-overlooked power of effective show notes in podcasting.For podcasters grappling with slow growth, the key might lie in an unexpected place - your show notes. This episode addresses a common challenge faced by many podcasters: crafting show notes that not only inform but actively engage and convert listeners.In this episode you will discover:How to craft show notes that transform casual browsers into dedicated listeners.The critical balance between information and persuasion in your episode descriptions.Insights into using the ADA framework with Chat GPT to automate compelling show notes efficiently.If you're ready to revolutionize your podcast's reach with skillfully crafted show notes, press play now and embark on a journey to transform your podcast's engagement and growth.STEAL OUR SHOW NOTES CHATGPT PROMPT HERE:Attention (A): Please provide a hook question that grabs the reader's attention and is specific to the podcast episode's topic.Interest (I): With the focus on the reader, explain how the episode topic relates to a current problem or desired outcome for the reader.Desire (D): List the three main benefits listeners will gain from the episode without using the 'Title: Subtitle' format.Action (A): Include a one-sentence, specific, incentive-based call to action for the reader to play the episode without mentioning any extra CTAs from the transcript.Please follow the steps above to create podcast show notes from this transcript:[INSERT EPISODE TRANSCRIPT HERE]New episodes every Monday, Wednesday & Friday morning.More From Get More Listeners:Grab your FREE personalized audit + a copy of our bestseller Podcast Marketing.Book a 30-minute discovery call for the Get More Listeners AcademyView client results & case studiesLooking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics? Try Captivate for free hereEmail admin@getmorelisteners.com to get in contact with Taig & Anthony.This podcast is for entrepreneurs to learn proven podcasting audience growth, marketing & monetization tips & strategies including data-driven SEO, guesting, and social media strategy.You'll learn how to grow and monetize faster, get more listeners and engagement, increase downloads, attract more subscribers, clients or sponsors, and turn your show into a revenue-generating platform.If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll ours too! Podcasting Made Simple by Alex Sanfilippo, Grow The Show: How to Grow a Podcast Audience & Monetize by Kevin Chemidlin, School of Podcasting by Dave Jackson, Grow My Podcast Show by Deirdre Tshien, Podcast Marketing Trends Explained by Jeremy Enns & Justin Jackson, Organic Marketing Simplified by Juliana Barbati.
How do you decide when to publish your creative work? Is there a point at which you say it's "good enough"? Or do you have a tendency to polish and play around with those "last final tweaks" indefinitely? This week, we're talking about what it means to do your best in a world where "best" is subjective and perfect doesn't exist. Get ready! For show notes and a full transcript of this episode, please visit: https://www.sarahwerner.com/is-good-enough-good-enough/ Thank you for listening! To support the work I do here at the Write Now podcast, you can become a patron on Patreon at https://patreon.com/sarahrheawerner, or send me a tip on Ko-Fi at https://ko-fi.com/sarahwerner. Happy writing! — Sarah
This is Drafting the Past, a podcast about the craft of writing history. In this episode, host Kate Carpenter is joined by historian Dr. Marlene Daut. Marlene is a professor at Yale University and is the author of four books, as well as an editor of several more. The most recent two of those books are Awakening the Ashes: An Intellectual History of the Haitian Revolution, which was a winner of the 2024 Frederick Douglass Book Prize, and The First and Last King of Haiti: The Rise and Fall of Henry Christophe. She is also the author of many articles and essays in places like The New Yorker, Harper's, Essence, The Nation, and more. Our conversation covers some burning questions about Marlene's work, including how she works on more than one book at a time, why you might find her typing into her phone at the grocery store, and she is inspired by the work of investigative journalists. Enjoy Kate's conversation with Dr. Marlene Daut.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, February 10, 2025 Christy & Kristen discuss why we need to know if God is really good and if God’s justice takes away or adds to His goodness. Episode Resources: Subscription Links
Have you ever felt hopeless, helpless, or disillusioned about goal-setting, or found yourself asking, "Why bother?" This week, we're looking at what happens to make us feel that way, and how to set our writing lives on the path to success going forward. For show notes and a full transcript of this episode, please visit: https://www.sarahwerner.com/cynicism-about-goals-wn-163/ Thank you for listening! To support the work I do here at the Write Now podcast, you can become a patron on Patreon at https://patreon.com/sarahrheawerner, or send me a tip on Ko-Fi at https://ko-fi.com/sarahwerner. Happy writing! — Sarah ©2025 by Write Now, LLC. All rights reserved.
Welcome to the Kobo ReWriting Life Podcast! Alongside your regularly scheduled Kobo Writing Life podcast episode releases, we will also be featuring some highlights from our backlist. For the second episode of this series, we're bringing back an episode featuring Sagan Morrow from April 2021. Productivity strategist and author Sagan Morrow joins us on the podcast this week. Sagan tells us how she got into productivity strategy and what habits authors can implement to better fit writing into their schedule. She also talks to us about her polyamorous romantic comedy series, Polyamorous Passions, and how she's using the romantic comedy genre to break down common misconceptions about polyamory. Learn more on Sagan's website and check out Sagan's books on Kobo.
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, January 27, 2025 Kristen and Ashley dive back in to finish discussing the second half of the Unshaken Scripture writing plan. Here’s a preview: perfect peace, how God is like a Rock, a flannelgraph depicting Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, the wise & […]
Send us a textNew Year's resolution? Diet? Eat better for a few weeks, then go back to old habits? Well, maybe they aren't resolutions at all but wishful thinking.Resolution means to be resolved, a firm decision to do something or not. But what if deeper beliefs run contrary to that "resolution" preventing you from getting that better body or better life and not eating emotionally.Why keep going through that awful cycle of shame and diet, rinse and repeat?Something deeper is going on. A perfect podcast to start off the new year.Today I speak with author Marla Mervis-Hartmann who wrote the best-seller BE-Friend Yourself: Finding Freedom with Food and Peace with Your BodyShe is also the Tedx speaker of The Secret Ingredient to Feeling Good in your Body.We dig into the deeper associations we have with food. When an emotion feels too big, we binge, and for that moment the emotion is met, but no healing has taken place. It can be a black hole of trying to fill this empty feeling. It becomes a pattern, a cycle. We socialize and celebrate with food, we console loss with food, and we eat food on the couch when we're run down. But what if we've moved on and don't require food for that? What if you heal those stressors within, healing the wound, healing that emotion that correlates to the eating? What if a resolution truly meant just that, to treat your body and self with healthy food and self-regulation? Instead, creating a day of eating well to succeed, in your body and in your life.What if we were free from those crutches and food could be your friend?This is a deeper conversation about food and emotions. Take a listen and share it with someone who might be struggling with food, feeling alone in this fight. Find our more about Marla Mervis-Hartmann at https://www.loveyourbodyloveyourself.com/Also, receive a Free course Breaking the Cycle of Emotional Eating Mini Course: Seven Steps to Finding Freedom with Food https://goloveyourbodyloveyourself.com/emotionaleating Support the show
Hosts: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson | Released Monday, January 13, 2025 It’s finally here! Ashley & Kristen discuss the first half of the Unshaken scripture writing plan, focusing on why we can fully trust God to be a firm foundation to build our lives upon. Episode Resources: Subscription Links
Host: Robert Hatfield | Recorded January 1, 2025 Robert is joined by the hosts of The Light Network’s new podcast: Kristen Hicks, Alyssa Clark, Christy Cook, Ashley Deffenbaugh, and Kelly Epperson. The Ruffled Mango Scripture Writing Podcast debuts in January 2025 on The Light Network’s website (thelightnetwork.tv) and on your favorite podcast app! Watch the […]
A happy holidays to you! Hopefully you're wearing that Dead Pilots Society shirt you bought for yourself as a gift while listening to this episode! This is our interview with Amy and Brendan. In it you'll hear an honest take about how hard it is to sell things and make a living in Hollywood these days. We get into Amy & Brendan's writing dynamic, navigating writing with a partner versus writing solo, and the shows Amy and Brendan go back to for inspiration. Thanks for listening—we know you're going to love this episode!WE HAVE MERCH! Merch store: hereFor more information about Dead Pilots Society and to listen to past episodes featuring John Hodgman, Emerald Fennell, and many others, visit: https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/dead-pilots-society.