The Whole Writer

In this episode, I'm talking about ONE crucial strategy for novel writers: the idea of leaning into your wins. I believe this practice can be a key tool for overcoming obstacles and achieving your  goals. Especially when it comes to your writing and publishing journey. Tune in to find out how you can start incorporating this one thing into your writing practice in order to turn things around...

Today is my book's birthday! CITY OF BOOKS is now out in the world. And in celebration, I want to do something a little different today. I'm going to pull back the curtain and share parts of my author journey with you.  Inside this episode, I'm sharing the Top Ten Things I've Learned in my author career. Tune in to hear about my thoughts on: Writing life Editors Publishers Auth...

I'm having an inspired conversation with two of my sisters in publishing for our books releasing this spring and summer. And there's a giveaway! 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 Together with authors Jeanne Blasberg and Susie Orman Schnall, we're breaking it down and talking about the real, real behind:  The writing process The publishing industry What it took to get our books out into the world THERE&...

In today's episode, I'm taking a deep dive into the BIG shifts in publishing with my publisher, Brooke Warner. We're having an open conversation about: Publishing paths The world of hybrid The changing landscape Realities of book distribution Expectations of a new generation Opportunities and tips for authors And so much more! This episode is packed with insight that you don't...

Welcome to a special month of podcast episodes! Because this is my book launch month (CITY OF BOOKS releases May 28th📚), I’m taking my podcast from solo episodes to interviews.⁠ ⁠ Today, I'm talking with Jennie Nash. ⁠ Inside this episode, we're talking about why mentors matter. We're uncovering what happens when someone shines a light on our creative path, to reveal what's po...

Crafting a strong opening scene is crucial for grabbing the reader's attention and setting the tone for the entire novel.  As writers, we know this on some level, and yet when it comes to crafting that important opening chapter, we sometimes forget which elements to include. So, in today’s episode, I'm discussing key elements that writers need to know when creating the opening to their n...

Today’s episode is meant to be a gentle reminder for anyone who is feeling perplexed or frustrated with certain elements of the writing and publishing journey.  While some elements of the publishing world may be out of a writer's control, there are SO many things that aren't.⁠ ⁠   My number one recommendation is to take time to focus on the craft. Because in this, there are five wonderfu...

In this episode, we'll be delving into the art of restraint in novel writing. Specifically, we'll discuss why it's crucial for writers to resist the temptation to throw in everything but the kitchen sink into their novel manuscript. Otherwise known as kitchen sink syndrome. It’s something I see often in my book coaching and developmental editing business – writers find themselves st...

If you've been second-guessing yourself and letting doubt hold you back from your writing goals, this episode is for you! As a book coach, I have writers come to me and admit they have a nice story outline with all kinds of good research and prep work complete…yet they just can’t find a way to get words onto the page. So, today I want to talk about something that comes up in different phases...

Inside this episode of Steps to Story, we discuss why knowing your protagonist on a deeper level allows you to create a more engaging and relatable story. When you understand your character's hopes, dreams, fears, and flaws, you can craft a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level. Tune in to discover an exercise to help you identify the "why" behind your...

In this episode of Steps to Story, I'm talking about practices that can fuel our writing process and propel us forward. I’m sharing my top ten list of things that can elevate your writing habits. This includes: 1. Consistency & productivity 2. Mental & emotional well-being 3. Goal achievement 4. Quality of writing work 5. Overcoming challenges 6. Writing community & support 7. Lon...

Today we're tackling a crucial aspect of storytelling: the top three story questions you should be asking yourself as a writer. This includes taking a deeper look at: Your story's unique message Your intention for how your want your reader to feel Better understanding the arc of change that occurs And I'm sharing resources! Need some help with crafting your story arc? Good news! I’v...

In today's episode of Steps to Story, we're looking into the crucial aspect of accountability in novel writing.  Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, staying accountable can make all the difference in reaching your writing goals.  I first encourage you to acknowledge that the business of life has a natural ebb and flow, so in this regard none of us are per...

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the key elements of crafting a novel. Whether you're just starting out on your novel writing journey or on manuscript draft number three, understanding these elements is essential for crafting a compelling and unforgettable story. This includes taking a look at: Creating memorable characters Imaginative world-building The importance of plot...

Welcome back to this very special episode of Steps to Story. I'm so excited about this episode because I had an opportunity to do a roundtable discussion with five of my small group writing clients. You'll be hearing from them today about: 1)  How they went from idea to action with their novel manuscripts 2) What's working in their writing process and what's not 3) The powerful...

Today I'm talking about the difficult question of whether or not your work is worthy. As a book coach whose worked with so many different types of writers over the years, I get asked this question all the time. And as an author, I’ve been there too. So I get it!  The number one thing writers come to me wanting to know is whether or not their story idea is unique enough, whether their writing...

There’s a kind of internal struggle authors face when deciding to share their writing endeavors with others. As writers, we at some point find ourselves in the honeymoon phase of crafting a book, one where we’re excited, motivated and inspired about being a storyteller. It’s also one where we find ourselves in the creative flow and, that euphoria, makes us want to shout from the rooftops! In today...

Every book begins with an idea, a spark of inspiration. I always say if you go to bed thinking about your story each night, and can’t stop thinking about your plot, character, or setting, you’re ready to write you story. ⁠ But how do you take that initial spark and turn it into a fully-fledged concept for a novel?⁠ In this episode, we're diving into the essential steps to go from a mere story...

Welcome! I started this podcast because while I believe there’s never been a better time to be a writer… I also know that taking the steps to getting the story out of your head and onto the page is one that requires support. ⁠ ⁠ As an author and certified book coach, I want to deliver an approachable sense of craft, community, and coaching, so  fiction writers like YOU can make good progress on yo...