Join me for a conversation with author and writing mentor Kathryn Craft as she reveals insights from her new craft book for writers. In this episode, Kathryn Craft shares transformative techniques for novel writers and fiction writers ready to elevate their storytelling. Discover how to master the invisible spaces between words where author meets reader, and learn why revising your novel requires bringing your whole self to the page. Whether you're an aspiring novelist struggling with story m...

Are you getting feedback from the wrong critique group? In this episode, I share why surrounding yourself with the right writing community is essential for novel writers. I'll show you how to find critique partners who actually read your genre, build a supportive writing community that accelerates your craft, and know when it's time to work with a developmental editor or book coach. Whether you're drafting your first manuscript or seeking feedback on your latest chapters, I'll help you intent...

Go behind the scenes of a thriving book festival with Amanda Bullock from podcast sponsor, Literary Arts. She reveals what it takes to create an unforgettable experience for book lovers, novel writers, and readers alike. This episode explores how a major regional literary festival celebrates Pacific Northwest writers while building a vibrant author community. Discover the unique programming that makes a book festival come alive, from intimate popup readings where local authors and emerging wr...

In this episode, we explore how writers can elevate their creative process by intentionally designing their writing space. Join us as I interview Dorena Kohrs, The Space Doula, who shares her expertise on creating creative spaces that fuel inspiration and productivity. Discover how your creative space directly impacts your writing practice and learn practical strategies for transforming any area into a dedicated writing sanctuary. We dive deep into the powerful act of decluttering your ...

Join me in this conversation with Anne Boyd, author of the viral Substack newsletter "Audacious Women Creative Lives" and former literature professor who made a dramatic life transformation at 52. In this powerful episode, Anne shares her journey from academic burnout to creative freedom, revealing how autoimmune disease, divorce, empty nest syndrome, and grief catalyzed her decision to "burn her whole life to the ground" and start over. Topics Covered: Midlife career transitions and reinvent...

In this solo episode, I’m talking directly to novelists about a mindset shift that can change how you see yourself and your manuscript: you don’t need to be fixed. Your writing voice is already inside you—it doesn’t need to be installed or made more “writerly.” It needs to be nurtured, strengthened, and given space to take shape. What we’re exploring: ✨ Why the language of “fixing” your manuscript (or yourself) is so damaging. ✨ The difference between strengthening a draft and treating ...

In this conversation episode, I sit down with Jill Beissel, debut novelist and author of Glitter and Gold, to talk about what it really takes to stay resilient on the path to publication. We’re speaking to writers who are deep in the query trenches, facing rejection, or holding onto the dream of signing with a literary agent and landing a traditional book deal. What we’re exploring: ✨ How Jill faced over 100 rejections before finding the right agent and publisher. ✨ Why joy in the writi...

In this conversation episode, I sit down with Dr. Candice Stanfield Wiswell, a writer, psychologist, and ADHD writing coach, to talk about what it means to build a joyful and sustainable writing life with ADHD. We’re speaking to writers who feel scattered, stuck in perfectionist loops, or frustrated by inconsistent progress. What we’re exploring: ✨ ADHD isn’t a flaw in your writing life—it’s a different way of thinking that can fuel creativity and depth. ✨ Why typical writing routines d...

In this solo episode, I explore the delicate balance between external writing resources (craft books, courses, workshops) and your internal creative intuition. I'm talking to writers who feel overwhelmed by all the advice out there while trying to maintain their authentic voice. What I'm sharing: Resources and intuition aren't opposites—they're dance partners that should work together. I want you to think of craft books and courses as offerings from other writers' journeys, not commandments y...

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 grabs their attention in a query letter, and explore current market trends—plus, how to balan...

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 responsibilitiesWorking on a deadlineThe benefits of writing groupsFeedback and revisionsThe journey of draft to publicationThe ever-changing marketYou can find mo...

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, 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 that you’re showing up to the page with courage and letting the story unfold, no matter how messy. ...

In this episode I explore what happens when writers feel creatively restless—when the work that once excited us begins to feel too safe or familiar. I dive into the intimate process of following new themes and subject matter that truly call to you, even when they feel risky or don't fit expectations. I also share my own vulnerable journey of stepping outside my comfort zone, offer practical 15-minute exercises for gentle creative exploration, and address the fear that comes with being a...

Join me for an illuminating conversation with literary agent and doctoral researcher Erin Niumata about the past, present, and future of women's fiction as a genre. With nearly 20 years at Folio Literary Management and ongoing PhD research into women's publishing history, Erin shares her unique perspective on how the genre has evolved over time to today's market challenges. She discusses the fluid nature of women's fiction, the rise of cross-genre storytelling, and how her academic rese...

In this episode, I sit down with author Amanda Vano. After receiving a workplace grant for her creative goals, Amanda shares how having dedicated time and accountability accelerated her writing journey from someone with no formal creative training to a writer who secured literary representation. Our conversation explores how shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of creative freedom allowed Amanda to take risks, immerse herself in the writing community, and focus on craft development rather ...

Join me for an intimate living room chat with author Kelly Kearsley, who shares her remarkable journey from seasoned nonfiction writer to debut novelist with a Big Five book deal. In this candid conversation, Kelly reveals the realities of the query process, the importance of building literary community, and how her journalism background both helped and hindered her fiction writing. She offers practical wisdom on treating your writing like a job and understanding that the journey of bec...

In this transformative episode, I sit down with Gabriela Blandy—writer, life coach, breathwork facilitator, and shamanic practitioner—to explore the deeper reasons behind creative resistance and procrastination. Gabriela reveals that most of us weren't taught that our dreams are our most precious possession, leading to automatic patterns of looking away from our creative urges. She explains how childhood conditioning creates physical tension in our bodies that literally blocks creative ...

I've been noticing some common themes in the conversations I'm having with writers. So today, instead of answering specific questions you've sent me, I want to address five patterns I keep seeing in my work with novel writers. Patterns that go beyond craft and into how we sustain ourselves as creative people. These aren't just technical writing problems. They're the deeper challenges that can make or break our writing career. They're about mindset, sustainability and what it really takes to s...

In this inspiring episode, bestselling author J.T. Ellison shares what it really takes to build a creative life that stands the test of time. From honoring the seasons of your writing career to navigating burnout and rediscovering joy, J.T. offers candid insights into the mindset shifts, boundaries, and community connections that keep creativity sustainable. Whether you're in the trenches of a first draft or navigating the ups and downs of publishing, her wisdom is a reminder that longe...