The Creative Writing Life

Author/poet Lauren Seal discusses the therapeutic value of writing about personal trauma, the challenge of writing a story in verse, and incorporating your experiences into your work.

Author/podcaster Alexandra Salmon discusses when to let the character dictate how the story goes, and how a writer needs discipline and consistency to get the writing done.

Author Dr Bruce Farmer talks about a character’s free will and their fatal flaw, overwriting and then needing to kill one’s darlings, and asking “What grips you and compels you as a writer?”

Rick Lite of Stress Free Book Marketing talks about helping writers develop plans and strategies for navigating the challenges of publishing, marketing, and promoting their materials

Author Lee Upton discusses how real life can influence storytelling, being protective of your characters, developing a trust in yourself, and “listening for breathing in the labyrinth”

Author Preeti Chhibber talks about the appeal of coming-of-age stories, when characters experience identity anxiety, writing when you don’t feel like it, and why everybody likes Spider-Man

Author Aislinn Brophy discusses the challenges of writing contemporary YA fiction, how to deal with two main characters and their individual worlds, and writing a character who is absolutely nothing like you

Screenwriter Jonathon Stewart discusses writing for animation, writing with a partner, screenwriting Twitter, how a screenplay is never truly finished, and why you need to WORK THAT SAMPLE

Author CJ Spataro discusses writing speculative fiction, working through the creative process, the importance of persistence and resiliency, and using the setting of your story as a character.

Author Sean McLachlan discusses writing historical fiction, the benefits of research, and some great tips on being a more prolific writer!

Actor-writer-filmmaker Gabe Diani talks about being versatile when it comes to writing, writing material you plan to make yourself, and why the work of Mark Twain is still relevant

Screenwriter Andrew Zinnes talks about his new book Screenwriters Advice: From Popular and Award-winning Film, TV and Streaming Shows, and we discuss the multiple benefits & resources it provides to writers

Author Cindy Benezra discusses the story behind her memoir UNDER THE ORANGE BLOSSOMS, how writing about personal trauma is a personal choice, and the importance of self-help.

Author-storyteller Elisabeth Sharp McKetta discusses how fairy tales and legends can apply to how you tell your story, and an explanation and the benefits of “life-editing”

Writer Brad Staggs talks about the development and production of his new play I LOVE MY ZOMBIE, why a writer should be open to changes, and focusing on characters over formula

Author-screenwriter Brian Fitzpatrick dispenses advice about networking, creating your brand, and the importance of “the hang factor”

Cartoonist Khalid Birdsong talks about intent and making choices when it comes to characters, writing and storytelling in a visual medium, and how it’s vital for creatives of any kind to KEEP GOING!

WGA Writer & Writing Life Coach Brooks Elms talks about how screenwriters can help themselves make inroads when it comes to industry access, including finding common ground, writing when you must, and getting into the mix. http://brookselms-coaching.com

In this week's episode, author Steve Hockensmith talks about his mystery-western series HOLMES ON THE RANGE, why it's important for writers to keep writing "bad stuff", and the value of writing short stories. http://stevehockensmith.com

In this week’s episode, writer-comedian Alison Zeidman talks about writing comedy, developing material for stand-up, and the hectic world of writing for TV http://alisonzeidman.com

In this week’s episode, author Afarin Bellisario discusses the importance of focusing on story and characters, and making your story accessible to all. http://afarin.net

In this week’s episode, author Lina Hart discusses the challenge of crafting multi-POV stories, letting the characters decide what happens, and the importance of NOT GIVING UP http://linahart.com

Author-Publisher Amber Byers of Tadpole Press talks about reawakening your creativity, tuning into your creative vision, and the importance of the writing community. http://www.tadpolepress.com

Author Babette Hughes discusses the origins of her mantra “Proceed Intelligently”, the importance of enjoying the creative process, and the need to be creative - even at the age of 101 (and a half). http://babettehughesbooks.com

Writer-director-producer Jamie Nash talks about DIY filmmaking, wearing all the hats, and exploring the world of audio drama https://www.jamienash.net