The Whole Writer

What does it mean to be a whole writer? For me and for so many of the writers I work with, it means expanding our definition of success. It means creating a writing life that includes, yes, the craft of storytelling, but also a creative rhythm that honors your energy and life season. A community of other writers who get it and who share your values. A curiosity about your ideal reader, not from a...

In this heartfelt episode, we chat with debut novelist Jennifer O'Brien, whose publishing journey took a surprising and inspiring turn. After a real-life dream of buying a fixer-upper didn’t pan out, she turned the experience into fiction—crafting a novel rich with themes of love, self-discovery, and the true meaning of home. We explore how real-life experiences influence story development, t...

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the write...

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the write...

For the next three episodes, I'm doing something special. Recently I had the Joy of gathering with 15 of my book coaching friends, an inspiring group of thoughtful, compassionate coaches and editors who are all deeply invested in helping writers like you bring their stories to life. We spent time setting intentions supporting one another and talking about the many ways we can uplift the write...

Today I'm discussing one of the most crucial parts of your novel: the first pages. You've heard it a million times, your opening pages need to quote hook readers, but why is that so important? Well, these first pages are your novels, handshake. They set up expectations, pose story questions, establish tone. And if you're aiming for traditional publishing, they might just be your one...

Today, I want to talk about one of the hardest parts of writing: embracing the imperfection of that first draft. I know it can feel like you’re slogging through a swamp of clunky dialogue, meandering plots, and sentences that don’t quite shine. You might even wonder if you’re wasting your time. But here’s what I want you to know: Your so-called flawed first draft is actually a gift . It’s a sign t...

Today we're talking about that one thing: the mysterious, nagging problem in your novel that you just can't seem to fix. Every writer hits this wall, and today I'm going to help you find a way through. Join me as I discuss four effective methods for overcoming story writing struggles. Website | VIP Day Coaching | Substack

In this episode, I sit down with my literary agent Abby Saul for a deep dive into the querying process, the realities of an agent’s role, and what makes a submission stand out.  If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of querying, you won’t want to miss her top advice for catching an agent’s eye in a crowded inbox. We also debunk common myths about what agents actually do, break down what g...

I'm pulling back the curtain in today's episode and talking about what it's really like to be an author in today's market. With me, are two of my author friends to help with a healthy and honest discussion around the business of being an author. Tracey Lange and Kerry Chaput join me to discuss: Balancing writing time and publishing responsibilities Working on a deadline The ben...

Today we’re diving into a topic that every novelist encounters sooner or later: how to handle feedback without losing your voice. Inside this episode, I'll cover the different types of feedback you might receive, how to process it with grace and clarity, and how to make changes while staying true to the story only you can tell. To find more on Nicole: Website | Substack

Today on the pod we're covering an important topic, the writer mindset. For anyone who has found themselves facing creative anxiety or procrastination, this episode is for you.  My guest today is Rhonda Douglas, an award winning poet and fiction author. She is the host of the Resilient Writers radio show and a longtime creativity coach and writing mentor. Together, we're discussing: How...

In this week's episode, I'm having an honest and inspired roundtable discussion with four of my writing clients. We dive into the nerves, surprises, and triumphs of attending their first writers' conference. We share:⁠ ✨ Why they took the plunge into their first conference—and how to prepare like a pro.⁠ ✨ The most unexpected moments that left them stunned (in the best way!).⁠ ✨...

What comes first when writing a novel? The dreaming or the drafting? The plotting or the planning? ⁠It seems simple—until it doesn’t. First-time novelists often hit a moment where they wonder: Am I doing this all wrong?⁠ ⁠In this episode, we’re breaking down the order of operations for novel writing, helping you find clarity and confidence in your process. Because spoiler: There’s no “wrong” way,...

If you're here, it’s because you’ve got a story on your heart that’s yearning to be written—and published.⁠ But let’s get real for a second: Are you just daydreaming about being an author, or are you actually building the roadmap to make it happen? ⁠ In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the tough love truths about what it really takes to write, finish, and publish your novel. No fluff. No ge...

Inside this (replay) episode I'm sharing an unfiltered look at my author journey over the last decade. After four published novels, I'm sharing the Top 10 things I've learned - everything from working with gatekeepers, understanding market trends, building community, and identifying meaningful author goals. This episode also marks the end of Season 1 of the Steps to Story podcast. I...

Ever wish you could go behind-the-scenes and ask an author how they went from idea to finished manuscript, how they overcame writing challenges, and how they went about the business of self-publishing their first book? Good news, I'm doing that today with author Saleema Ishq. Please join me as we dive into Saleema's journey from short story writer to debut novelist! You can find more abo...

Feeling stuck in your writing? There’s a difference between forcing a story and letting it flow. ⁠With the New Year approaching, it’s easy to feel the pressure to “just get it done.” But sometimes, the best progress happens when we lean into flow.⁠ In today’s episode, I’m sharing three ways to know when to push and when to let go: ⁠ 1️⃣ Write from intention, not tension. ⁠ 2️⃣ Build habits that in...

Listeners, you’re in for a treat today. I’m chatting with friend and author coach, Camille Pagan. We’re diving into the topics of...  author mindset career decisions  roadblocks  market trends ...and so much more. You can learn more about her work at www.camillepagan.com and www.evenbetter.co For more on Nicole: Website | Instagram | Free Guide ✨

Today is another Ask Me Anything! Inside this episode I'm answering these five questions: 1) How to tell if you're over-revising your novel manuscript. 2) What to do if you've hit a wall and can't move forward. 3) How to consider social media and your author platform. 4) What to do when you're feeling sick of reading your own work. 5) How to tackle self-doubt. Tune in to h...

In today's episode, I'm diving into a crucial question for novel writers. Are you relying on tactics or strategies to move your work and progress forward?  This is a subtle but essential distinction, and getting clear on it can make all the difference in your writing process.  Today, I'll walk you through three key questions to ask yourself when it comes to your work in progress. Pl...

Today I'm diving into one of my all time favorite topics: writing retreats. What makes them such a transformative experience for authors and how can they benefit our writing? I'm talking about solo retreats, group retreats, and everything in between. If you've been feeling stuck, uninspired, or just overwhelmed by the day to day hustle, tune in because this episode will help you see...

In today's episode of Steps to Story, we're diving into one of the most crucial aspects of storytelling, your story's structure.  For those of you who follow me, you'll know that my mission is to help you blend story structure with the story that's on your heart. Because as many of us know, it's not typically the actual story idea that needs work. It's the struct...

Suspense, mysteries and thrillers, oh my! Welcome to spooky season! Inside this episode of Steps to Story I'm talking with book coaches Samantha Skal and Kerry Savage about: The ideation of twists Knowing your villain Character POV The power of creativity community Managing your WIP And so much more! You can Samantha Skal here . You can find Kerry Savage here . You can find Shadows & Secr...

Today I'm exploring how you can strategically allow yourself to be distracted and how those moments can open up new avenues in your novel writing.  I'm uncovering six strategies that will not only give your brain a creative break, but allow you to bring fresh insights into your work in progress. Tune in to find out how. Website | Instagram | Free Guide ✨