Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast For Fiction Writers & Writing Tips podcast

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

87 subscribers

تمت الإضافة منذ قبل five أعوام

المحتوى المقدم من Savannah Gilbo. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة Savannah Gilbo أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.

Biscuits & Jam

1
Shuai Wang’s Journey from China to Charleston 38:30

منذ يومين38:30

التشغيل لاحقا

قوائم

إعجاب

احب

38:30

Chef Shuai Wang was the runner-up on the 22nd season of Bravo’s Top Chef and is the force behind two standout restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina—Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ—where he brings together the flavors of his childhood in Beijing and the spirit of the South in some pretty unforgettable ways. He grew up just a short walk from Tiananmen Square, in a tiny home with no electricity or running water, where his grandmother often cooked over charcoal. Later, in Queens, New York, his mom taught herself to cook—her first dishes were a little salty, but they were always made with love. And somewhere along the way, Shuai learned that cooking wasn’t just about food—it was about taking care of people. After years working in New York kitchens, he made his way to Charleston and started building something that feels entirely his own. Today, we’re talking about how all those experiences come together on the plate, the family stories behind his cooking, and what it’s been like to share that journey on national TV. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

منزل السلاسل•Feed

Fiction Writing Made Easy is your go-to podcast for practical, no-fluff tips on how to write, edit, and publish a novel—from first draft to finished book. Hosted by developmental editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo, this show breaks down the fiction writing process into clear, actionable steps so you can finally make progress on your manuscript.

Whether you're a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to sharpen your skills, each episode offers insights on novel writing, story structure, character development, world-building, editing, and publishing. Savannah also shares mindset tips, writing routines, and revision strategies to help you stay motivated and finish your novel with confidence.

If you're asking these questions, you're in the right place:

How do I write a novel without experience?
What’s the best way to structure a story that works?
How do I develop strong characters and build immersive worlds?
How do I edit or revise my first draft?
When is my book ready to publish?
What are my self-publishing and traditional publishing options?

New episodes drop weekly to help you write a novel you're proud of—and get it into readers’ hands.

215 حلقات

#Books #Arts #Audio Drama #Savannah Gilbo #Fiction #Writing #Writing Tips #Podcasting Education #Authors #Writers #Write A Book #Novel #Writing Podcast For Fiction #Writing Community #Bestselling

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

87 subscribers

updated منذ يومين

منزل السلاسل•Feed

If you're asking these questions, you're in the right place:

How do I write a novel without experience?
What’s the best way to structure a story that works?
How do I develop strong characters and build immersive worlds?
How do I edit or revise my first draft?
When is my book ready to publish?
What are my self-publishing and traditional publishing options?

New episodes drop weekly to help you write a novel you're proud of—and get it into readers’ hands.

215 حلقات

#Books #Arts #Audio Drama #Savannah Gilbo #Fiction #Writing #Writing Tips #Podcasting Education #Authors #Writers #Write A Book #Novel #Writing Podcast For Fiction #Writing Community #Bestselling

كل الحلقات

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#202. Student Spotlight: How Kara Kentley Turned a Messy Draft Into a Published Romance (and How You Can Too) 51:36

منذ يومين51:36

51:36

After years of rewriting the same sagging middle and juggling two confusing timelines, Kara Kentley discovered the romance structure secrets that transformed her messy draft into a published novel that sells daily. Today I'm chatting with Kara Kentley, contemporary romance author of Another Summer and a Notes to Novel graduate, about how learning genre expectations finally helped her finish the book she'd been struggling with for years. In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like: [07:46] Why her 95,000-word draft had a "sagging middle" that lost readers halfway through (and the two-timeline problem making it worse) [11:55] How choosing one timeline and adding dual POV transformed her confused manuscript into a cohesive story [15:05] The relief she felt discovering romance novels have specific beats that happen in order—and how this became her roadmap [20”15] Kara’s nightmare writing conference experience (and what she learned about starting your book in the right place) [35:35] What happened when she launched without reviews or marketing—and still became #1 in her category for two weeks If you've been struggling to finish your romance novel or any manuscript with structural problems, Kara's journey from pantsed chaos to organized success proves that the right framework can set you free. Press play to discover how romance structure could be the missing piece you need to finally type "The End." 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Kara Kentley’s website Buy Another Summer by Kara Kentley Join the Notes to Novel waitlist The Complete Writer's Guide to Heroes and Heroines: Sixteen Master Archetypes by Tami D. Cowden, Caro LaFever, & Sue Viders Travis Baldree’s article I Need A Book Cover ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
Bonus: Making Time To Write: How 3 Busy Writers Finished Their First Drafts 16:20

منذ 7 أيام16:20

16:20

What if the reason you haven't written your novel has nothing to do with how many hours are in your day? "I don't have time to write" might be the most common excuse that stops aspiring authors before they even start. But here’s what I’ve learned after working with hundreds of writers… It’s not about how much time you have that matters. It’s about what you do with your limited time that counts. In this episode, you'll hear from three busy writers who had every legitimate reason to put their writing dreams on hold—yet didn't. Meet Maddie, a mom of four kids aged one to six who wrote her first draft while juggling pregnancy, a newborn, and a copywriting career. Rhonda, a clinical pharmacist who transitioned from competing in 14-hour triathlons to writing an 80,000-word manuscript. And Mark, a former college administrator, worried it was too late in life to learn how to write a novel. None of them found magical extra hours in their day. Instead, they discovered something far more powerful: how to make their limited writing time more effective. In this episode, you’ll learn: [03:00] How a mom of four young children completed her first draft in just six months of actual writing time, including taking a year-long break for pregnancy and a newborn, without losing momentum [06:25] Why one debut author discovered that following a proven framework didn't create a cookie-cutter novel—it actually freed him to be more creative and original [09:35] The mindset shift that helped a 45-year-old clinical pharmacist transition from grueling 14-hour triathlons to completing her first 80,000-word novel [13:20] Why having limited writing time can actually make you a more effective writer , when you know exactly what to write in each session Ready to stop using "no time" as your excuse? Join Maddie, Rhonda, Mark, and hundreds of other busy writers who've discovered that you don't need more hours—you need a better plan. Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Grab this free guide to discover how busy writers (with kids, jobs, and real lives!) find time to write consistently and finish their novels: 5 Time Management Strategies to Help You Write Your Novel Madi Unruh Instagram Mark Mrozinski Instagram ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#201. The Time Myth: Why ‘Finding Time to Write’ Actually Makes It Harder 15:29

منذ 9 أيام15:29

15:29

Feel stuck "finding time" to write your novel? You might be solving the wrong problem. Here's what's really going on—and what to do instead. Why does finding time to write feel impossible sometimes? We blame our busy schedules (and yes, that's definitely part of it). But there's something else lurking beneath the surface that stops your writing progress dead in its tracks. And it has a way of making you feel like you're failing at this whole writing thing. Which is so not true. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why "finding time" is actually making it HARDER to write your novel. Plus, I'm sharing 3 powerful mindset shifts and practical strategies to finally break free from this trap so you can finish your novel with the life you're actually living. You'll hear me talk about things like: [02:45] Why the writers who complain most about "no time" often spend hours on writing-related activities (just not actual writing) [03:15] The hidden truth about "not enough time" that's actually keeping you stuck (hint: it's not what you think) [05:15] How decision paralysis can waste your precious writing time—and the simple fix that takes 2 minutes [06:10] Why some writers accomplish more in 20 minutes than others do in 2 hours [07:25] The mindset shift that transforms time from your enemy into your creative ally (and 3 practical strategies to implement these shifts starting today) Your story deserves to be told. Not someday when you have "more time." Not eventually when life calms down. But now, with the life you're actually living. The time is already there—you just need to see it differently. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Grab the free Time Management Guide here! Join the Notes to Novel waitlist ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
Bonus: From Stuck to Breakthrough: How 3 Writers Found Their Path Forward 17:01

منذ 14 يومًا17:01

17:01

What if the reason you're stuck on your novel isn't about talent or creativity, but simply a missing piece of the puzzle that could change everything? Every writer knows that soul-crushing feeling of being completely stuck. Not just procrastinating or battling writer's block, but that specific paralysis where you love your story idea, want to write, but have absolutely no idea how to move forward. In this episode, you'll hear from three writers who faced this exact challenge in very different ways. Kelsey wrote 11,000 words of an adult fantasy novel before hitting a wall with no idea what should happen next. Liya spent eight years starting and stopping the same young adult series, never making it past the first few chapters. And Danyel loved her idea, but kept running into structural problems she couldn’t solve. What they discovered transformed not just their current projects, but their entire approach to storytelling—and their breakthroughs reveal exactly what might be missing from your own writing process. In this episode, you’ll learn: [05:05] The surprising way that reducing from two point-of-view characters to one solved major structural problems and created more mystery and page-turning tension in a thriller [08:00] Why having a flexible outline is like "someone turning on the lights and handing you a map"—and how it can make writing feel fun and exciting again instead of wandering in the dark [11:05] How understanding the crucial difference between scenes and chapters unlocked eight years of frustration for one writer and completely transformed her approach to story structure [14:15] Why being stuck isn't about lacking talent—it's simply an indication that you're missing a foundational piece of your story If you’re ready for your breakthrough moment—and want my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works— join the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Grab this free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past the most common writing roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through Danyel Nicole Instagram Kelsey Evans Instagram Liya Grey Instagram ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#200. Why Most Writers Give Up (And How to Finally Finish Your Novel) 15:49

منذ 16 يومًا15:49

15:49

Ever wonder why 97% of aspiring authors never finish their books? The answer might surprise you. If you've been dreaming about writing a novel but find yourself starting and stopping, getting stuck in the middle, or just staring at a blank page wondering where to even begin, you're not alone. Here's what I've noticed after working with hundreds of writers: the ones who actually finish their novels aren't more talented or creative than you. They've just learned to navigate around five specific roadblocks that trap everyone else in an endless cycle of starting and stopping. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what those writing roadblocks are and how you can sidestep them to break free from the cycle that keeps so many writers trapped. This is what I talk about: [03:00] The planning trap that leaves writers lost in the "saggy middle" with no clue how to move forward (and why even a simple roadmap changes everything). [04:50] Why chasing the perfect first sentence is killing your momentum and what successful authors do instead when they sit down to write. [00:00] How consuming endless writing advice keeps you from actually writing and the one thing you need to focus on to finally make progress. [06:35] Why trying to write your novel completely alone makes everything ten times harder, and what kind of support actually helps you finish. [08:10] The fundamental difference between writers who finish and those who don't (and it's probably not what you're expecting). If you've been stuck in the start-and-stop cycle or wondering if you'll ever actually finish your novel, this episode reveals precisely how to join the small percentage of writers who actually make it to The End. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Want my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works? Join the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of! Grab this free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past the most common writing roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#199. Struggling With Flat Characters? These 5 Books Will Transform Your Writing 15:26

منذ 23 يومًا15:26

15:26

Master character development with these five must-read books that transform static characters from boring to brilliant. You've created characters with compelling backstories , but somehow, they still feel... flat. They move through your plot but don't feel like real people. Here's the thing: character development is what makes readers fall in love with your story, not just read it. But it's also one of the trickiest parts of fiction writing. That’s why today, I'm sharing five books that have completely transformed my approach to character development. And they've also helped hundreds of my students create characters readers are totally invested in. You'll hear me talk about things like: [01:17] Why most characters feel flat even when they have clear goals and motivations (and which book can help you unlock the missing piece) [06:22] My favorite resource for understanding character arcs , whether you’re writing a positive arc, a negative arc, or a flat one [08:16] Which book can help you understand your villain's emotional wounds —and why this might be more important than perfecting your protagonist's backstory [10:35] A book that’ll help you make readers feel your character's emotions without ever naming a single feeling on the page [00:00] My go-to resource for learning how to marry your plot with your characters (this one’s especially good for pantsers who want a little more structure!) If your characters feel static despite having detailed backstories, or if you're struggling to show meaningful character growth throughout your story, this episode will give you the exact resources you need to create characters readers will never forget. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Join the waitlist for my Notes to Novel course Want me to send you this list of recommendations? Click here! ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#198. Book Reviews: Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Reader Feedback (With Emily Golden & Rachel May) 48:46

منذ 30 يومًا48:46

48:46

Learn how to handle book reviews without letting them crush your confidence or derail your writing dreams. Receiving your first book review can be both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. Whether it's a glowing five-star love letter or a brutal one-star takedown, reader reviews can send even the most confident authors into an emotional tailspin. I recently sat down with book coaches Emily Golden and Rachel May of Golden May Editing to discuss the challenge of negative reviews. Between their own publishing experiences and years of guiding clients through review season , they know exactly what separates thriving authors from those who let negative feedback derail their dreams. Tune in to hear us talk about things like: [03:45] Why book reviews feel so much more intense than beta reader feedback (and the one key difference that changes everything). [08:25] How to separate your novel from your identity so criticism doesn't feel like a personal attack on your self-worth. [11:05] Why trying to "toughen up" actually makes book reviews hurt worse (and what to do instead when they sting). [35:35] The simple boundary you can set with ARC readers to avoid getting ambushed by negative reviews. [40:25] Why we obsess over one-star reviews but barely notice five-star ones (and how to flip this script). [41:45] Whether you should let reviews influence your future writing decisions , and a brilliant way to use feedback as data, not direction. Whether you're approaching your first book launch or struggling with review anxiety , this episode offers practical strategies to navigate both praise and criticism. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Anti-Hustle Writing Life Masterclass Golden May Editing Website Story Magic Podcast FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#197. How to Write a Novel That Hooks Readers Through Curiosity (Not Confusion) 15:35

منذ 5 weeks15:35

15:35

Master the art of creating irresistible, page-turning curiosity without confusing or frustrating your readers. Have you ever written what you thought was a brilliantly mysterious scene, only to have readers say they were completely lost? Or maybe you've struggled with knowing how much information to reveal and when? Here's what most writers don't realize: there's a fine line between being mysterious and being vague. And the writers who master evoking curiosity without being vague or confusing are the ones who create truly compelling fiction. In this episode, you'll hear me talk about things like: [02:35] Why most writers mistake withholding information for creating mystery—and the simple test to tell if you're being mysterious or just vague [03:20] The movie trailer analogy that'll completely change how you think about revealing information to readers [6:55] How to give readers the essential context they need to stay grounded in your story without giving everything away [8:25] Why the missing information must matter deeply to your protagonist—and how to tie your mysteries to what characters desperately want [10:30] How to deliver information that keeps readers engaged and wanting more (without just withholding everything) [11:50] The one question that determines whether you're creating compelling mystery or confusing noise, plus how to apply this across every genre Whether you're writing romance, fantasy, thrillers, or any other type of fiction, this episode will help you create the kind of curiosity and tension that keeps readers glued to the page instead of accidentally driving them away. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program. FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#196. The Pros and Cons of Writing A Novel With Multiple Points of View 19:27

منذ 6 weeks19:27

19:27

Discover the pros and cons of writing a novel from multiple POVs—including how to avoid the #1 mistake that kills multi-POV novels. Are multiple point-of-view characters right for your story? Will they create the kind of depth that keeps readers hooked, or will they just leave you with a tangled mess of voices that never quite click together? Writing a multi-POV novel is one of the most challenging approaches to storytelling. When done well, it creates a rich, immersive experience that readers absolutely love. But when done poorly, it can completely derail your entire manuscript. In today's episode, I'll explain what it means to write a multiple-point-of-view novel, how it differs from other narrative approaches , and if it's the right choice for your story. You'll hear me talk about things like: [03:05] Why most writers confuse multiple POV with omniscient POV and how this one mistake can sabotage your entire story. [04:50] The surprising way multiple perspectives create story depth that makes readers think about your book long after finishing it (think Game of Thrones level complexity). [07:15] My favorite "secret weapon" technique that uses contrasting viewpoints to create those jaw-dropping "aha" moments readers can't stop talking about. [11:00] The #1 challenge that kills most multi-POV novels before they're even finished (hint: it's not plot structure, and it's definitely not what you think). [15:25] Five make-or-break questions to ask yourself before committing to multiple POVs (because choosing the wrong narrative approach can derail months of hard work.) If you've been wondering whether your story needs different character perspectives or if you're already writing from multiple points of view but feel overwhelmed by the nuances, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. #90 - How to Choose the Best POV For Your Novel ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#195. How Deliberate Practice Can Improve Your Fiction Writing (With Tim Grahl) 36:35

منذ 7 weeks36:35

36:35

Master the fundamental building block of fiction writing with this one exercise that's helped writers break through years of stalled progress in just weeks. Ever wonder why some writers seem to improve rapidly while others stay stuck for years, despite writing every single day? 🤔 The difference isn't talent or luck— it's deliberate practice. Most aspiring novelists think that accumulating word count is the path to improvement. But here's the truth: without targeted practice and expert feedback, you might be reinforcing bad habits rather than developing good ones. Tim Grahl is the CEO of Story Grid, author of six books, and has analyzed over 2,000 scenes from aspiring writers. What he's discovered about skill development might completely change how you approach your writing journey. In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like: [24:45] Why most writers don't improve even when they write every day—and the missing piece that separates writers who progress from those who stay stuck [02:11] The surprising shift Story Grid made from teaching big-picture structure to focusing on scene-level fundamentals instead [10:02] The 3-step framework for creating a deliberate writing practice that builds real skills instead of just word count [15:16] The three most common scene-writing mistakes that kill narrative momentum—and how to avoid them [24:27] Why getting expert feedback (not just writing in isolation) is the crucial element most writers miss Whether you're staring at your first blank page or you've got a drawer full of unfinished manuscripts, this episode will show you exactly how to break the cycle of starting and stopping and finally make meaningful progress on your writing! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Story Grid’s Scene Checklist (Free Resource) ⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#194. Self-Publishing Your Novel: A 10 Step Guide for First-Time Authors 35:32

منذ 8 weeks35:32

35:32

Congratulations! You've finished writing your novel, and you've set your sights on self-publishing. But now you're staring at your manuscript, wondering, "Where do I start?" If you're feeling overwhelmed by the self-publishing process, you're not alone. Most first-time authors don't realize just how many decisions the self-publishing process involves. From choosing file formats and pricing strategies to designing covers and optimizing metadata—every choice you make directly impacts your book's success in the marketplace. This is exactly why having a roadmap to follow before diving into self-publishing is so crucial. Just as you wouldn't build a house without blueprints, you shouldn't publish your novel without a clear plan of action. That's exactly what I'm providing in this episode— a comprehensive 10-step guide that will transform your manuscript into a professionally published book readers will discover and enjoy. You’ll hear me talk about things like: [02:42] The critical mindset shift most first-time authors fail to make—and why adopting a publisher’s mindset is key to your self-publishing success [06:04] How to build out your publishing team (including why skimping on professional editing is the costliest mistake you can make) [11:51] Why you should start building your author platform and growing your email list now—even if your book isn’t entirely ready to publish just yet [21:19] How to decide which distribution channel is best for you and your book (and why this choice impacts everything from your marketing to sales) [25:49] How to develop a flexible pricing strategy that positions your novel correctly in the market while maximizing your revenue and/or reach Whether you’ve already set your sights on self-publishing or if you’ve been researching self-publishing only to feel more confused than ever, this episode will give you the clear, strategic roadmap you need to confidently self-publish your novel like a pro! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Your Self-Publishing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Self-Publishing a Novel (Free Guide) Ep. #83 - What Kind of Editor Do You Need For Your Book? Ep. #106 - 5 Steps To Building Your Author Platform Ep. #107 - Email List Building Essentials For Authors Ep. 163 - How To Find & Work With A Book Cover Designer ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#193. How Dictation Can Help You Write Faster With Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer 38:05

منذ 9 weeks38:05

38:05

Learn how dictation is your secret weapon for capturing story ideas, supporting overall health, and writing up to 3,000 words per hour. Are you curious about how dictation can improve your health and mobility, enhance your natural storytelling flow , and revolutionize your time management —even if you've tried and failed at it before? Well, then, you'll love this episode with Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer. Sarah is an author who's published 19 books—11 of which she wrote entirely through dictation. She now teaches other writers how to do the same so that they can write faster, spend less time sitting at their computers, and overcome perfectionism that stops them from getting words on the page. Be sure to tune in. You'll hear us talk about things like: [03:33] Why Sarah failed at dictation for years and the surprising mindset shift that made everything click into place. [06:40] The 3 unexpected benefits of dictation that have nothing to do with writing speed but will change how you think about it. [09:14] How Sarah captured 1,200 words in just 20 minutes while washing dishes (the scene that would've been lost forever). [15:48] Why your brain freezes when you try to dictate your fiction and exactly how to create those missing neural pathways. [25:43] The dead-simple "open bracket" trick for adding quick notes mid-sentence without breaking your creative flow. [31:40] The surprisingly simple text message exercise that retrains your brain for dictation even if you had trouble with it before. Whether battling perfectionism, dealing with chronic pain, or just curious about dictation for writers , this episode gives you the practical steps to get started without expensive dictation software or complicated equipment. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Check out Sarah’s Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo Mini-Course and use code FWME to get $50 off your purchase. Dictation For Authors Quickstart Guide (Free) FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#192. 5 Big-Picture First Draft Mistakes (& How To Fix Them) 21:26

منذ 10 weeks21:26

21:26

Discover the five most common big-picture mistakes writers make in their first drafts—and learn exactly what you can do to fix them. Congratulations, you finished your first draft! …But now what? If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed as you dive into editing your messy first draft, you're so not alone. As a developmental editor, I've reviewed hundreds of first drafts, and I've noticed that most new writers struggle with the same core issues —problems that have nothing to do with your writing talent, but everything to do with fundamental story principles. In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 most common big-picture mistakes I see writers make in their first drafts (and exactly what you can do to fix them). You'll hear me talk about things like: [00:00] How to figure out if your story starts in the right place (and the one simple question that can help you find the perfect spot to begin your first chapter) [00:00] The difference between meaningful conflict vs. random plot events —and why your protagonist’s transformation depends on this key storytelling element [00:00] How to fix weak narrative drive (aka the dreaded "so what?" problem that causes readers to abandon books), and how to create seamless scene-to-scene connections [00:00] Character development strategies for increasing emotional stakes in your novel without resorting to melodramatic plot twists or artificial tension [00:00] The one mistake that might make readers feel cheated at the end of your novel (even if they can't explain why), and how to fix it If you've finished your first draft but feel something's not quite working, or if you're struggling to revise a manuscript that just doesn't seem to come together, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to transform your story! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Novel Editing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Editing Your First Draft (Free Guide) Ep. #13 - 5 Things That Kill Narrative Drive (& How To Fix It) Ep. #18 - 5 Mistakes Writers Make In Their Opening Pages Ep. #118 - How To Find The Major Dramatic Question Of Your Story Ep. #145 - How To Develop Your Character’s Backstory Ep. #149 - 5 Questions To Develop Better Antagonists Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#191. Fiction Genres Made Easy: Understanding the 5 Dimensions of Genre 26:53

منذ 11 weeks26:53

26:53

Discover the five ways to talk about your story’s genre so you can write, edit, and publish your novel with clarity and confidence. Ever found yourself staring at a blinking cursor, excited about your story idea but utterly confused about how to describe its genre? 😩 This kind of uncertainty isn't just frustrating. It can have serious consequences for your writing, editing, and publishing journey. Here’s what you need to know: There are actually five different layers of genre that work together to describe your unique story. Think of this as your story's "genre DNA"—a description that gives readers a comprehensive picture of your work. Tune into this episode to learn: [02:22] How to determine if your novel is commercial, literary, or upmarket fiction —and why this positioning matters when writing, editing, and publishing [05:21] Why your story's time period affects everything from research requirements to character development (and what this means for fantasy authors whose stories often take place in their own temporal contexts) [07:32] How to select the appropriate age category for your target readers and why this critical decision shapes your word count, content, and marketing options [11:30] The different reality settings available for your story world and practical ways to manage worldbuilding without getting overwhelmed [18:15] How your story’s content genre can serve as your writing roadmap by defining the emotional experience readers expect from a story like yours Whether you're drafting your first novel or preparing to query agents , this episode will help you define your story's genre so you can write with direction, revise with purpose, and market your book with confidence. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. #2 - How To Choose The Right Genre For Your Story Free Worksheet: Discover Your Story’s Unique Genre DNA FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

1
#190. Novel Editing: 10 Steps to Editing Your First Draft 28:42

منذ 12 weeks28:42

28:42

Congratulations! You've finished writing your first draft—an achievement that puts you ahead of countless aspiring writers who never make it past the dreaming stage. But now you're staring at your manuscript, wondering, "What next?" Maybe you've tried jumping straight into revisions only to find yourself overwhelmed, confused, or just plain stuck. Or maybe you’re just avoiding it altogether. If your excitement about finishing your draft has given way to editing anxiety, you're not alone. Every author—even the most seasoned professionals—reaches this crossroads, where the path forward seems foggy at best. Tune in to learn the exact novel editing framework that has helped my clients and students transform their messy drafts into completed manuscripts. You’ll hear me talk about things like: [06:21] The game-changing approach to organizing your editing notes that’ll prevent months of wasted time and getting stuck in "revision loops" [07:17] How mapping what you actually wrote (not what you intended to write) can expose the hidden strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript [10:05] The #1 mistake first-time novelists make when editing their messy first drafts (and how to avoid falling into this all too common trap) [16:05] The four-category sorting system that helps you prioritize feedback and make confident decisions about which changes to implement [23:22] How your publishing path impacts your editing to-do list (and which steps to take if you’re self-publishing or traditional publishing) If you've finally finished your first draft but find yourself paralyzed by the editing process, or if you've been revising the same chapters for months without making real progress, this episode gives you the clear, structured approach you need. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Novel Editing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Editing Your First Draft (Free Guide) Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program. ⭐ Follow & Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week! FREE GUIDE: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck (& How To Break Through) Support the show 👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.…

مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!

يقوم برنامج مشغل أف أم بمسح الويب للحصول على بودكاست عالية الجودة لتستمتع بها الآن. إنه أفضل تطبيق بودكاست ويعمل على أجهزة اندرويد والأيفون والويب. قم بالتسجيل لمزامنة الاشتراكات عبر الأجهزة.

الاستماع إلى +500 موضوع

87 subscribers

مشابه لـFiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 42mm case] Smartwatch with Rose Gold Aluminium Case with Light Blush Sport Band - S/M. Fitness Tracker, ECG App, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant

Amazon eGift Card - Bright Balloons (Animated)

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks Washable 7 Grams 30 Count

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!

The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About

The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About

Minecraft

Mini Mic Pro Wireless Microphone for iPhone, iPad, Android, Lavalier Microphone for Video Recording - 2 Pack iPhone Mic Crystal Clear Recording with USB-C for Podcast, ASMR

The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About

مشابه لـFiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

دليل مرجعي سريع