The Resilient Writers Radio Show
Welcome to the Resilient Writers Radio Show! This is the podcast for writers who want to create and sustain a writing life they love. It's for writers who love books, and everything that goes into the making of them. For writers who wanna learn and grow in their craft, and improve their writing skills. Writers who want to finish their books, and get them out into the world so their ideal readers can enjoy them, writers who wanna spend more time in that flow state, writers who want to connect with other writers to celebrate and be in community in...
S6 E9 · Thu, March 06, 2025
From Geologist to Memoirist, with Laura Jevtich
Hey there, Writer! Welcome back to another episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. This week, I had an inspiring conversation with Laura Jevtich —a writer, author, and social media creator with a fascinating journey that took her from geology to writing memoirs and beyond. Laura’s story is anything but conventional. Originally trained as a geologist, she spent over a decade in the field before jumping ship during the Y2K era to become a computer trainer. This shift led her to start her own business in 2003, helping realtors with website content and blog posts. Little did she know that this early experience in writing would pave the way for her future as an author. In 2005, Laura and her husband Sasha made a bold decision that would change their lives forever—they bought a truck camper and hit the road, embracing a nomadic lifestyle that was nearly unheard of in their Northern Virginia community. As they traveled, Laura began documenting their journey, which led to the creation of her memoir, Unusual Adventures Traveling Through Life: A Memoir of Frugalness to Financial Freedom. Their journey wasn’t just about travel; it was about reclaiming their time and energy. The couple realized that homeownership was holding them back from the adventurous life they craved. So, in 2006, after a six-week sabbatical, they sold their house and nearly all their possessions, choosing instead to live full-time in their RV. Their travels took them to national parks across the U.S., where Laura worked as a park ranger in places like the Grand Canyon and Canyonlands. Along the way, she continued writing, capturing their experiences in long-form articles and blog posts. By 2018, Laura decided to take a break from the road, settling in Pahrump, Nevada, where she and her husband built a home. But the writing never stopped. Encouraged by her father, she pivoted from writing about organization and minimalism to focusing on her memoir. We talked about how she dived into the writing world, reading memoirs, joining online communities, and learning the craft of storytelling. In 2022, she committed to finishing her memoir, winning NaNoWriMo by typing up her handwritten manuscript and completing the draft. After a rigorous self-editing process, she published the book in July 2023. Laura didn't stop there. She returned to her unfinished book on organizing, completing and publishing it in early 2024. She has since been deeply involved in the writing community, attending conferences like 20 Books to Vegas (now Author Nation) and embracing direct sales and marketing strategies. Now, Laura has once again jumped ship—this time from nonfiction to fiction. She’s currently writing a historical romance, sharing her journey on Ream Stories, and was even featured on their homepage for historical romance. Throughout the episode, Laura shares valuable insights on following y
S6 E8 · Thu, February 27, 2025
How to Unlock the Power of Tropes, with Jennifer Hilt
If you’ve ever worried about using tropes in your writing—wondering if they make your story predictable or overdone—this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show is here to change your mind. I’m joined by Jennifer Hilt , USA Today bestselling author, story consultant, and the brilliant mind behind The Trope Thesaurus series. She’s an expert in crafting compelling plots and characters using tropes in fresh, exciting ways. We often hear about “tired tropes” or “overused storylines,” but Jennifer breaks down why tropes are actually the essential building blocks of storytelling. She explains how they create familiarity and connection with readers while still allowing for creativity and originality. But tropes are at play everywhere -- the trick is knowing how to twist them in unexpected ways so they feel new. Jennifer shares how she first became fascinated by tropes during the pandemic, diving deep into books, movies, and TV shows to analyze what makes stories work. She also clarifies the difference between tropes and stereotypes—tropes are neutral storytelling tools, while stereotypes often come with negative connotations. By understanding this distinction, writers can use tropes effectively without falling into lazy or problematic storytelling. Understanding how tropes function can be a game-changer, especially if you’re feeling stuck in the middle of your book. Jennifer shares practical ways to use tropes to guide your story forward. Instead of staring at a blank page, ask yourself: What tropes am I already using? Can I flip one on its head? Can I combine multiple tropes to create something fresh? This can help you revitalize your plot and character arcs, keeping both you and your readers engaged. Jennifer also has a free trope list to help spark new ideas in your writing! You can find it in the show notes, along with links to her books, including The Trope Thesaurus , The Horror Trope Thesaurus , and The Trope Thesaurus: Romance . So grab your notebook, tune in, and get ready to embrace the power of tropes in your storytelling!
S6 E7 · Thu, February 20, 2025
How to Overcome Writing Resistance, with Monica Hay
Have you ever sat down to write only to suddenly need to do the dishes, scroll TikTok, or reorganize your bookshelf? You’re not alone! Writing resistance is real, and it can show up as procrastination, perfectionism, self-doubt, or just an overwhelming sense of stuckness . In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show , I talk with Monica Hay , a writer, coach, and mentor who has spent years studying the brain science of writing resistance. She shares why resistance happens, how it’s completely normal , and—most importantly—how to work with your brain, not against it, to build a sustainable writing practice. For many of us, writing was easy as kids. We wrote stories just for fun, without that nagging inner critic. But as we got older, perfectionism crept in. We started worrying about whether our writing was good enough , if we were real writers , or if our stories would ever get published. Monica shares that resistance isn’t about laziness or lack of talent—it’s just how our brains are wired. It all comes down to a battle between: 🧠 The Prefrontal Cortex – The part of the brain that wants to write and accomplish long-term goals. ⚡ The Amygdala – The “dramatic little biatch” (as Monica calls it!) that constantly scans for danger and tries to conserve energy. So, if resistance is always going to show up, how do we move past it? Monica shares practical, brain-friendly strategies that make writing easier and more enjoyable.
S6 E6 · Thu, February 13, 2025
How to Craft Strong Characters, with Megan Fuentes
In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show , we’re diving deep into the world of character development with the amazing Megan Fuentes! Megan is a writer of flash fiction and historical fiction, specializing in strong female leads and captivating narratives set against the backdrop of real-world events—especially the fascinating history of World’s Fairs. In our conversation, Megan shares her journey as a writer, from her earliest days of storytelling to the moment she realized she had no idea how to create a proper character arc. (Yes, even published authors hit those moments of doubt!) She talks about working with a former Penguin Random House editor who gave her the eye-opening feedback that changed everything, and how she then dove headfirst into mastering character development. If you’ve ever struggled with crafting compelling character arcs, you won’t want to miss this episode! Megan breaks down her process for building deep, meaningful character transformations using a modified version of Dan Harmon’s Plot Embryo and Eva Deverell’s One-Page Novel method. She walks us through an 8-step framework that helps writers ensure their characters grow in believable, emotionally satisfying ways. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to write characters that truly resonate with readers. Whether you’re writing historical fiction, romance, or any other genre, Megan’s insights will help you craft deeper, more compelling protagonists who keep readers hooked.
S6 E5 · Thu, February 06, 2025
The Challenge of Historical Fiction, with Mary Dezember
This week, we're diving deep into the art of crafting heroic characters—the ones who overcome obstacles, stand for something greater, and keep readers turning the page. Joining us is Mary Dezember , award-winning author of Wild Conviction and a seasoned writer of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Mary’s novel, Wild Conviction , is a historical, socially conscious epic adventure with a touch of magic. Set in 1858—a tumultuous period just before the U.S. Civil War—the story follows Twilight, a young woman who discovers life-altering secrets on her 16th birthday. Raised in the North by an abolitionist grandmother, Twilight is forced to return to her parents in Memphis, Tennessee—the largest inland trading port for cotton and enslaved people. As she grapples with the burden of truth, she embarks on a dangerous journey, trying to reconcile the world as it is with the world she wants to help create. Mary shares her process of writing heroic characters, exploring what makes them compelling. Heroism, she explains, isn’t just about grand, world-changing acts. Sometimes, it’s about inner transformation, fighting personal battles, and standing by one’s values despite opposition. Whether you’re writing fiction, memoir, or poetry, a heroic character gives your story urgency, emotional depth, and a sense of purpose. We also discuss the challenges of writing historical fiction. Mary shares her meticulous research process to ensure historical accuracy, while also making creative decisions to avoid reinforcing outdated narratives. For example, she chose not to use certain historically accurate but harmful language, opting instead for inventive, respectful alternatives. Mary shares her framework for believing in your story, which includes: Character connection – making characters human through universal emotions and struggles. Power of urgency – crafting a compelling story that demands to be heard. Magic of the muse – embracing the creative flow and trusting your instincts. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt about your writing or felt unsure if your story is worth telling, this episode is for you. Your voice, your perspective, and your characters matter.
S6 E4 · Thu, January 30, 2025
How to Edit Your Book, with Stacy Juba
Hey there, and welcome back to another episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show! This time, we’re diving into all things editing with the wonderful Stacy Juba, founder of Shortcuts for Writers . Stacy has been crafting stories since her school days, and her passion for writing has led her to publish everything from mystery novels featuring determined women sleuths to sweet and sassy chick-lit, plus books for children and young adults. In other words, Stacy really knows her stuff—and she’s here to share her editing know-how so we can all polish up our manuscripts and become better writers. In this chat, Stacy breaks down the different types of edits your manuscript might need. We cover developmental editing, which looks at the big-picture elements like plot, structure, characterization, and pacing. Get those foundations right, and the rest of your editing becomes so much easier. Next, she explains line editing, the stage where you tighten your prose, eliminate redundant words, and make your sentences sing. Think of it as the polishing phase for your unique writing voice. Finally, there’s copy editing, which handles all those nitty-gritty grammar, punctuation, and spelling details. One of the coolest resources Stacy shared is her Looks and Gazes Quick Start Guide, a handy list of fresh ways to describe how characters look at each other—so you’re not stuck writing “He looked at her” or “She gazed at him” for the thousandth time! It’s completely free and a perfect example of Stacy’s knack for simplifying the editing process. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the idea of polishing your manuscript or you’re ready to level up your writing skills, you won’t want to miss Stacy’s insights. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident about tackling your own edits—plus, you’ll discover new tools to make the process smoother and more fun. Listen in, take notes, and get ready to embrace the power of editing! Your future, fully polished novel will thank you.
S6 E3 · Thu, January 23, 2025
How to Overcome Writer's Block
In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show , Rhonda speaks with bestselling author and TEDx speaker Marcy Pusey -- diving into the often-feared challenge of writer’s block, exploring its deeper causes and offering insights on how writers can overcome it. Marcy, who is also a therapist, shares her unique perspective on how writing can be a deeply therapeutic process, connecting the act of storytelling to emotional healing. She explains that writer’s block is not always about a lack of creativity but may be linked to unprocessed emotions or trauma, stored in the brainstem, which can affect one’s ability to find the right words. The episode breaks down the various types of creative blocks that writers experience, such as mental, emotional, and scarcity blocks. She emphasizes that these blocks are often rooted in deeply held beliefs or fears, such as the idea that there’s not enough time, money, or talent to succeed. Understanding these psychological hurdles can help writers address the root causes of their resistance and find ways to move past them. In addition to offering tools for overcoming writer’s block, Marcy also addresses the debilitating issue of imposter syndrome, which often holds writers back, especially those just starting out. She encourages writers to challenge their limiting beliefs and embrace the idea that they are on a journey of growth. By focusing on learning and evolving, writers can shift away from the perfectionism that keeps them stuck. This episode is a must-listen for any writer struggling with creative blocks or self-doubt, as Marcy offers both practical advice and emotional support to help you move forward with your writing projects.
S6 E2 · Thu, January 16, 2025
How to Overcome Procrastination
In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show , host Rhonda Douglas sits down with Mia Botha , a seasoned writing coach and creator of popular writing challenges like "12 Stories in 12 Months" and "30 Days of Flash Fiction." The conversation dives into the common struggles writers face, particularly the ever-present hurdle of procrastination. Mia shares her unique journey from grappling with unfinished manuscripts to creating community-driven deadlines that transformed her productivity. She explains how procrastination can sneakily disguise itself as "productive" activities—like cleaning grout or taking yet another writing class. Recognizing this, Mia emphasizes the importance of balancing indulgence in these distractions with discipline and accountability. For her, outsourcing discipline through public deadlines and collaborative challenges has been a game-changer. The episode also explores the concept of "procraftination," where writers spend more time learning about writing than actually writing. While craft development is essential, Mia advises being mindful of when it shifts from helpful to avoidant behavior. For her, it’s crucial to focus on writing more than procrastinating, even if the writing feels imperfect or experimental. In fact, she believes that magic often lies in the brave, "wonky" stories. This episode is packed with practical advice and a warm reminder that writing is a journey best traveled with intention, community, and a bit of self-compassion. Whether you’re struggling with procrastination or looking for ways to reignite your creative spark, this discussion offers encouragement and actionable takeaways to help you build a resilient and joyful writing life.
S6 E1 · Thu, January 09, 2025
How to Write and Sell Your Nonfiction Book
In this first episode of Season 6 of The Resilient Writers Radio Show , host Rhonda Douglas dives into the world of nonfiction writing with expert Meghan Stevenson . Meghan, a seasoned professional in crafting nonfiction book proposals, shares her wealth of experience, having helped her clients secure over $5 million in publishing advances and contributing to the success of 16 New York Times bestsellers. The conversation explores the distinct differences between nonfiction and fiction markets, emphasizing how nonfiction is driven by purpose—whether to educate, solve a problem, or inspire change. Meghan highlights the importance of recognizing books as products, a mindset shift essential for authors looking to navigate the publishing world successfully. The discussion also demystifies the nonfiction book proposal—a pivotal tool for securing an agent or publisher. Meghan likens it to a “mullet of publishing,” combining business-driven content in the front with creative writing in the back. Proposals typically include an overview, chapter summaries, a sample chapter, and business sections detailing marketing strategies, comparative titles, and a compelling author bio. Meghan strongly advises against writing the full book before selling it, as the publishing process often involves refining and reshaping the idea. The episode is packed with valuable advice for writers aiming to break into the nonfiction space. Meghan’s blend of candid humor and actionable insights provides a clear roadmap for authors to navigate the challenging but rewarding world of publishing. From recognizing the business side of writing to understanding the importance of collaboration and patience, listeners walk away with a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed as a nonfiction author. Whether you're an entrepreneur, expert, or simply someone with a great idea, this episode serves as an encouraging guide to bringing your nonfiction book dreams to life. Rhonda and Meghan's warm and engaging conversation reminds writers that with the right tools and mindset, they can overcome the hurdles of publishing and create lasting impact with their work.
S5 E13 · Thu, November 21, 2024
How to Supercharge Your Writing Time
In this last episode of Season 5 of the podcast, I am doing a solo show talking about a step-by-step guide on how to create your own DIY writing retreats. These DIY retreats, which I’ve organized for myself for over 20 years and now include in my First Book Finish program, have helped me reconnect with my projects and make significant progress on my manuscripts. Here's a link to where you can find the DIY Writing Retreats resource I mention in the show. That is it for Season 5 of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. We are going to be kicking off Season 6 in about four weeks time. See you soon! --Rhonda xo
S5 E12 · Thu, November 14, 2024
Re-imagining the Old Stories, with Jeanne Blasberg
In this week’s episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I interview Jeanne Blasberg . Jeanne is a bestselling author known for her novels Eden and The Nine . Her latest novel, Daughter of a Promise , came out in April 2024. This latest novel is a contemporary retelling of the Biblical story of David and Bathsheba, set in modern-day New York. Jeanne explains that while she kept the essence of the original plot, she made significant changes to reflect contemporary themes, including giving her heroine more agency than Bathsheba had in the Bible. Our conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of reimagining classic stories in a modern context. Jeanne was inspired to explore the timelessness of themes like consent, attraction, and power dynamics, especially during the #MeToo movement. By writing from the perspective of Betsy (her modern Bathsheba), Jeanne gives a voice to a character who, in the original story, is largely voiceless. Towards the end of the interview, we also get into indie publishing vs. traditional publishing – a topic I know a lot of think about!
S5 E11 · Thu, November 07, 2024
Do You Need a Developmental Edit? With Sue Brown-Moore
This week's episode from The Resilient Writers Radio Show features an interview with Sue Brown-Moore , a book coach and developmental editor. We go deep into the intricacies of developmental editing, particularly for fiction and romance authors. The conversation dives into the purpose, timing, and benefits of developmental editing. When it comes to self-editing, Sue encourages writers to conduct their own developmental edits by stepping back from their manuscripts before revisiting them with fresh eyes. She offers a free 30-minute webinar teaching authors to pre-edit their manuscripts to ensure foundational storytelling issues are addressed before a formal edit.
S5 E10 · Thu, October 17, 2024
4 Pillars of a Successful Writing Practice, with Emma Dhesi
In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I host my friend, author and book coach Emma Dhesi , to explore the psychological and practical challenges that writers face, especially when completing a novel. Emma shares her personal journey of overcoming sporadic writing, highlighting how a realistic understanding of the difficulty of writing is crucial. She notes that aspiring authors often underestimate the work involved, partly due to idealized portrayals of writers in media. The conversation also covers Emma’s "four pillars" for a successful writing practice. This episode serves as a reminder of why writers started, encouraging enjoyment of small achievements and creative freedom.
S5 E9 · Thu, October 17, 2024
The Art of Screenwriting, with Brooks Elms
Something a little different this week! In this episode, I am speaking with Brooks Elms , a professional screenwriter and coach who shares his insights into screenwriting. Our conversation covers both the technical and creative aspects of the craft, as well as tips for those who are new to screenwriting or looking to transition from other writing forms, such as novel writing. Brooks offers advice for beginners, emphasizing the importance of just starting and having fun with the process. He suggests beginning with short scripts and experimenting with the unique structure of screenwriting, which relies heavily on what is seen and heard rather than interior thoughts. He breaks down the basics of screenplay formatting, including the use of slug lines and action lines, and encourages writers to focus on the subtext, which conveys a character's emotions and motivations through actions rather than explicit dialogue. One of the key topics discussed is how screenwriting differs from other forms of writing, particularly novels. While novelists often rely on interiority to express characters' thoughts and feelings, screenwriters must find ways to show this visually. Brooks explains that a character's emotions can be revealed through subtle actions, gestures, or dialogue that suggests deeper meaning. For example, how a character enters a room can indicate their emotional state without them needing to state it outright. Listen to the full episode to see if screenwriting is for you!
S5 E8 · Thu, October 10, 2024
How to Plan Your Story, with Kevin T. Johns
This week I have an interview with Kevin T. Johns , a writing coach and author who is also based in Ottawa, Canada, where I live. Our conversation revolves around the challenges aspiring authors face, particularly in completing their first draft, and how writers can better approach storytelling and the writing process. Kevin emphasizes that many writers spend too much time perfecting their first few scenes, not realizing that once the manuscript is complete, those scenes often need rewriting or cutting. His key advice is to write the first draft quickly to have something to work with, as the real work begins during the revision process. Kevin also points out that the education system contributes to the misconception that writing is a one-and-done process, as students often submit essays without ever revising them. Kevin’s approach to helping writers focuses on commercial genres, such as horror, romance, sci-fi, and fantasy, where there are clear expectations for plot structure and genre conventions. He runs a program called "Story Plan," which helps writers plan the fundamental aspects of their story, from genre and structure to character arcs and theme. He encourages writers to know their genre and the expectations readers have, as this forms a contract between the writer and the reader. Planning helps create a coherent story and gives the writer confidence as they move through the drafting process.
S5 E7 · Thu, October 03, 2024
Bring Your Body to the Story, with Janelle Hardy
This week's episode features an interview with Janelle Hardy , a multifaceted creative with expertise in dance, somatic experiences, and memoir writing. We explore how body awareness influences creativity and our writing. Janelle shares her journey from feeling disembodied to becoming more connected through somatic practices and nervous system regulation. She emphasizes the importance of using the body as a resource in creative processes, such as memoir writing, to avoid mental burnout and re-traumatization. Our discussion concludes with thoughts on how memoirs can be a healing process and a means of making meaning from life experiences, with Janelle advocating for working slowly and intentionally with both mind and body.
S5 E6 · Thu, September 26, 2024
How to Write a Faster & More Authentic Draft, with Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer
This week, I interview Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, an author, speaker, and Choctaw storyteller from Texas who has published 19 books. Sarah writes historical fiction, primarily focusing on American Indian characters, particularly from her own Choctaw heritage. Her *Choctaw Tribune* series, for example, highlights the Choctaw people, although she also includes characters from other tribes like the Chickasaw and Cherokee. Sarah shares the importance of writing about American Indian characters authentically. We discuss her frustrations with historical fiction's common stereotypes and how Native characters were often depicted inaccurately. And then we talk about the use of dictation in writing, a technique she has mastered to write more efficiently and comfortably. Dictation has doubled her writing speed, allowing her to produce up to 4,000 words an hour, making it easier on her body and reducing the exhaustion associated with typing.
S5 E5 · Thu, September 19, 2024
How to Coach Yourself As a Writer, with Riley Lindhardt
In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm chatting with author and life coach Riley Lindhardt . We dive into Riley's journey as a writer, her experience as a life coach, and how she helps other writers overcome mental blocks to finish their novels. Throughout the episode, Riley offers practical advice for writers, such as how to set daily writing goals, develop detailed plot outlines, and use life coaching techniques to maintain momentum. She encourages writers to focus on becoming the type of person who can write great books, rather than fixating on publication from the start.
S5 E4 · Thu, September 12, 2024
Writing with Patience and Deep Inquiry, with Traci Skuce
This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm interviewing my friend Traci Skuce. We get into her philosophy on embodied writing, which integrates body awareness and mindfulness into the creative process. Embodied writing involves tapping into the physical, emotional, and sensory experiences of both the writer and the characters, creating richer, more nuanced narratives. Traci encourages writers to slow down, fully inhabit scenes, and write from a place of presence rather than rushing to finish or relying solely on their intellect. She emphasizes the importance of patience, deep inquiry, and allowing stories to unfold organically, without adhering strictly to templates or formulas. Join us for this episode and use what you learn to go deeper with your own writing! Sign up for Traci's new workshop here: You're Not Doing It Wrong!
S5 E3 · Thu, September 05, 2024
How to Edit Your Book, with Gemini Writers Studio
Editing your book can be fraught. There are so many different types of editing: developmental, line, copy, proofreading. Which ones do you need most? How do you prioritize? And what should you expect from each kind of editor? In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm talking to the editing experts at Gemini Writers Studio to get answers to these questions and more!
S5 E2 · Thu, August 29, 2024
How to Outline Your Book
Wondering how to outline a book that works without spending hours and hours detailing every beat in a spreadsheet? My guest Lewis Jorstad of The Novel Smithy teaches a new method called Intuitive Outlining. Listen to the episode to hear us talk about this (and so much more!) and then be sure to sign up for his free class on Intuitive Outlining happening on September 12th!
S5 E1 · Thu, August 22, 2024
7 Pillars to Amazon Bestseller Status, with Meg Calvin
This episode features an interview with Meggie Lee Calvin, an Amazon bestselling author, coach, and speaker, who specializes in helping spiritually attuned writers market and sell their books. The conversation delves into Meg’s journey from writing plays as a child to becoming a published author and coach for writers. In addition to her spiritual approach, Meg discusses the practical aspects of becoming an Amazon bestselling author. She outlines 7 pillars for achieving bestseller status, which include creating a compelling book cover, developing a strong personal brand, and utilizing organic social media marketing. Meg emphasizes the importance of building a promotional team and doing thorough research on Amazon's algorithms to maximize a book's visibility and sales. You can find out more about Meg at megcalvin.com .
S4 E14 · Thu, July 25, 2024
How to Choose a Writing Project and Stick With It
In this last episode of Season 4 of the podcast, I am doing a solo show talking about how to choose a writing project, as well as the mindset shifts we need to make in order to stick with the project we've chosen. Let's banish Shiny New Idea Syndrome once and for all! Here's a link to where you can find the Essential Book Outline resource I mention in the show. I'm taking a few weeks off now to record new episodes. See you soon for Season 5 of the show! --Rhonda xo
S4 E13 · Thu, July 18, 2024
Your Heart Knows the Way, with Meredith Heller
This week on the podcast, I'm speaking with a poet and that always means opening our heart, doesn't it? Join us as we explore the heart-centred, authentic and more vulnerable sides of this art of writing -- and enjoy a little poetry break as well! Meredith Heller is the author of Writing by Heart, Write a Poem, Save Your Life, and several poetry collections. A poet, singer-songwriter, avid nature lover, and educator with degrees inwriting and education, she leads writing workshops online and in-person at schools, juvenile detention centers, women’s prisons, and wellness retreats. Visit her online at MeredithHeller.com.
S4 E12 · Thu, July 11, 2024
Sell Your Book Without Selling Your Soul, with Emily Enger
Writing the book is one thing, but many authors cringe when it comes to put ourselves "out there" and ask people to buy the book. Today I'm speaking with book marketing expert Emily Enger, who advocates for "good enough" book marketing so that you don't have to sell your soul while selling your book. Listen in as we dive into how to do just that! You can learn more about Emily at: emilyenger.com
S4 E11 · Thu, July 04, 2024
Let It Go: Creating a Sustainable Writing Life, with Chelene Knight
In this episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show, I’m speaking with Chelene Knight, an acclaimed author known for her novel "Junie" and memoir "Dear Current Occupant." Chelene is also the founder of Breathing Space Creative , a literary studio focused on creative sustainability and coaching for writers. In this episode, we’re talking about Chelene's latest book, "Let It Go: Free Yourself from Old Beliefs and Find a New Path to Joy." The book explores themes of self-love and joy, topics she had only touched upon in her previous works. The process of writing the book helped Chelene uncover new aspects of herself and expanded her professionally and emotionally. The book is organized by seasons, a structure that Chelene finds both practical and symbolic. Seasons act as pillars of stability, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and creativity. Chelene reveals that she adapts her personal and creative routines to different seasons, recognizing that each brings out different facets of her personality and work. One unique feature of "Let It Go" is the inclusion of community call questions, designed to prompt introspection and clarity. Questions like " What do I need or want to make space for right now? " encourage readers to slow down and reflect on their inner lives. We also talk about the importance of setting boundaries to protect our writing time, especially given our busy schedules serving other writers.
S4 E10 · Thu, June 20, 2024
How to Format Books for Self-Publishing, with Monique from Atticus.io
This is a special episode because I am sharing a replay from my First Book Finish program when we had Monique from Atticus.io come into to speak with us about how to use their easy software to format your books for self-publishing. During the episode, Monique offers a special deal for listeners of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. Sign up for Atticus before the end of June and get access to their special online course on publishing for Indie authors! Go to: https://www.atticus.io/resilient to get the course.
S4 E9 · Thu, June 13, 2024
Maintaining Control Over Your Story, with Lynne Golodner
This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm speaking with author and publisher Lynne Golodner. Lynne is the author of nine books, as well as many articles, and host of the Make Meaning podcast. Our discussion focuses on Lynne's writing journey, her latest novel "Woman of Valor," and her experiences within and outside the Orthodox Jewish community. We also talk about maintaining control over your story via self-publishing and dive into Lynne's experience creating a hybrid publishing company: Scotia Road Books .
S4 E8 · Thu, June 06, 2024
Staying True to the Story, with Sara Power
This week on the podcast, I am delighted to be speaking with my friend Sara Power. We're talking about short stories! Sara has just published her first collection of stories, to much acclaim. We talk about the story as an offering and staying true to the story. If you're a lover of short stories, you don't want to miss this episode! Sara Power’s stories have appeared in journals across Canada, the US, and the UK, and most recently in Best Canadian Stories 2024. Sara was a finalist for the RBC/PEN Canada New Voices Award and received a nomination for a National Magazine Award in the fiction category. Her stories have been recognized with fiction awards from The Malahat Review, Riddle Fence, The Toronto Star, Prairie Fire Magazine , and The New Quarterly . Sara completed a Bachelor of Science from the Royal Military College of Canada and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of British Columbia. Originally from Labrador, Sara currently lives in Ottawa with her husband, three children, and coonhound. Her debut work is a collection of short stories: ART OF CAMOUFLAGE , just out with Freehand Books.
S4 E7 · Thu, May 30, 2024
From Notes to Novel -- 5 Key Steps, with Savannah Gilbo
This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I'm chatting with Savannah Gilbo . Savannah Gilbo is a certified developmental editor and book coach who helps fiction authors write, edit, and publish stories that work. She’s also the host of the top-rated Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast , where she delivers weekly episodes full of simple, actionable, and step-by-step strategies that you can implement in your writing right away. When she’s not busy crafting her own stories, you can find Savannah curled up with a good book, a cozy blanket, and her three dogs. In this episode, we get into how to start writing a novel, covering five key areas that authors should consider before drafting: theme, genre, protagonist, setting, and plot. Savannah emphasizes the importance of addressing these areas to create a solid foundation, which helps prevent common pitfalls like writing without a clear direction or having a protagonist without a clear goal. She also discusses the value of community for writers, sharing experiences, and overcoming self-doubt.
S4 E6 · Thu, May 23, 2024
Writing a Romance Readers Love, with Danika Bloom
This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I’m chatting with my friend Danika Bloom. Danika is a USA Today bestselling romance author and the lead cheerleader at AuthorEverAfter.com where she mentors and supports pre-published romance writers to finish and indie publish their first books. Her most recent book is The Billionaire's Shrubbery . We talk about writing romance novels, how to write sex scenes, as well as self-publishing, book promo and what makes for a great book cover...among other things!
S4 E5 · Thu, May 16, 2024
Finding the Shape for Memoir, with Beth Kaplan
This week, I'm speaking with Beth Kaplan -- a fellow Canadian author -- about writing non-fiction. We get into finding the right shape for memoir, finding the thematic "hot moments" for your story, and the true nature of drafts. Beth is a former actrress and the author of a biography and two memoirs -- All My Loving and Loose Woman . The latter was a finalist for the Whistler Independent Book Award. She also the author of True to Life , a textbook guide to creative writing. She has taught nonfiction writing at two Toronto universities for thirty years and is the winner of the University of Toronto’s Excellence in Teaching award. Her new memoir-in-essays, Midlife Solo: Writing through Chaos to Find my Way in the World , was described in a newspaper review as “an extraordinary life, written with tremendous heart, insight, and humour.” It’s currently available from the publisher, Mosaic Press, https://mosaicpress.ca/products/midlife-solo More information about Beth, her teaching, books, articles, and blog, on her website https://bethkaplan.ca/
S4 E4 · Thu, May 09, 2024
Story Structure, Play and Experiments
This week on the podcast I'm speaking with Beth Barany, and we get into story structure, play and experimenting -- especially for Science Fiction and Fantasy. Beth is an award-winning novelist, master neurolinguistic programming practitioner, and certified creativity coach for writers. She's also an experienced international speaker and podcaster. When she's not helping writers, Beth writes magical tales of romance, mystery, and adventure that empower women and girls to be the heroes of their own lives. And she makes short films and TV shows. You can learn more about Beth and sign up for her newsletter here . She also has a great podcast for Science Fiction and Fantasy writers, called How to Write the Future .
S4 E3 · Thu, May 02, 2024
Writing with a Strong Sense of Place
This week, I'm chatting with Karen Lea Armstrong, about her novel DROWNPROOFING , which is set in Northern Ontario. We talk about what it means to write a so-called "regional novel" -- one with such a strong sense of place. And we talk about Karen's publishing journey. Karen was in my First Book Finish program, so it's such a delight to see this book out in the world.
S4 E2 · Thu, April 25, 2024
How to Finish a Book...Even When Life Gets Hard
In this week’s episode, I’m speaking with Elizabeth Chatsworth, who is the author of the steampunk fantasy series, The Brass Queen. She’s also been in my First Book Finish program. We talk about how she wrote the sequel to The Brass Queen – Grand Tour: Brass Queen II – while facing some challenging life circumstances, and the roller coaster ride of publishing that followed.
S4 E1 · Thu, April 18, 2024
How Rest Supports Your Creative Process
Writing can be challenging at times, even more so when we’re tired. The problem nowadays is that it seems like we’re all always tired. Doesn't it feel that way to you? If we want to write for the rest of our lives and finish our books, we need to make sure we’re getting enough rest so we have the energy to write. But don’t fret—there are lots of little steps we can take to make a big impact on how we generate new energy as part of our creative process.
S3 E16 · Thu, February 15, 2024
What It Means to be a Resilient Writer
In this final episode of Season 3, I'm going back to interviews with writers who answered my final question: "What does it mean to you to be a resilient writer?" Listen to see if their answers match up with your understanding of what it means.
S3 E15 · Thu, January 18, 2024
8 Lessons I've Learned from Helping Almost 200 Writers Finish their Books
In this final episode of this Finishers mini-series, I am sharing some of the lessons I've learned in the past four years from helping nearly 200 writers to finish their books -- finish drafts, revise, edit and get their books out into the world
S3 E11 · Mon, January 08, 2024
Finishers Series: Why Your Book Matters
There are times when we wonder if it's all worth it, if our intention to finish a book and get it out into the world really matters. Join me for the first episode in a series dedicated to all the writers intending to finish their books in 2024.
S3 E12 · Thu, January 04, 2024
Finishers Series: The 6 Phases of Finishing a Book
In today’s episode, I’ll walk you through the six phases of writing a book, which will not only make the overall book-writing process easier, but will help you defeat your self-doubt and get your book out into the world.
S3 E14 · Thu, January 04, 2024
Finishers Series: How to Fit Finishing Into Your Busy Life
Here's a truth: no one really has time to write a book, especially a first book. Yet we can still manage to get them written and out into the world. In today's episode I'll walk through how you can fit finishing your book into an already busy life. And here's a free resource for you as well -- my guide called 30 New Ways to Find More Time to Write .
S3 E13 · Thu, January 04, 2024
Finishers Series: How to Manage a Book-Length Project
As we start work on our book and the idea starts to take shape, the amount of work a book-length project takes can feel overwhelming. You’re left paralyzed and with a half-done draft—so now what? You have to change the way you view your book so you can turn it into a manageable project. Don’t let fear hold you back. It’s time for you to finish! Today's episode will show you how.
S3 E10 · Thu, January 04, 2024
The Hidden Life of Ellen Baker
Writing a book and getting it published is a wonderful, fulfilling process… and it’s also very intimidating, especially for first-time authors and beginning writers. But don’t worry, writer - there’s a lot you can learn to make these processes easier, and Ellen Baker knows all about them. As she’ll tell you, some things take a lot of trial and error, but in the long run, they’ll help make your book the best it can be.
S3 E9 · Thu, December 28, 2023
How to Approach Research
Doing research may be the highlight of the writing process for you, or it might be the part you put off as long as possible. Either way, research is critical—but it doesn't have to involve sitting at the computer for hours. Instead, author Mary Carroll Moore used the people around her as resources. Their insight helped make Mary’s writing accurate and engaging enough for her audiobook to remain on the Amazon bestseller list to this day.
S3 E8 · Thu, December 21, 2023
The Courage to Share
Writer, have you ever been afraid of sharing your work? Finding the courage to do so can set you down a new path in your writing life, perhaps one you never thought was possible. Author Esther Schultz has been writing her whole life, but she never shared her work with anybody until her mother-in-law moved in. But after receiving encouragement from her, Esther took the leap into writing books and becoming independently published.
S3 E7 · Thu, December 14, 2023
Strategies to Get to the Page
Life has a wonderful habit of getting in the way of our writing time. But if we want to finish our books, we can't stand by and let it happen. We need strategies to make time to get to the page. Author Debra Martens developed her own while constantly moving between countries and dealing with recurring illness, and even uses a lesson from time spent in recovery to this day to bolster her writing life.
S3 E6 · Thu, December 07, 2023
Three Writing Myths and How to Spot Them
As writers, we may sometimes write myths - but we can also be affected by them. I’m not talking about fantastical stories in this case, though. I’m talking about myths about writing, which harm us and can keep us from making progress, or keep us from writing, period. This week, we'll explore three myths that impact writers and how, once we know how to identify them, we can work through the issues they may cause in our writing lives.
S3 E5 · Thu, November 30, 2023
Facing the Discomfort of Memoir
As writers, we can be avoidant when it comes to sharing our writing. It can be an uncomfortable experience, especially with something as intimate and close to our lives as a memoir. Author Stephanie Kain faced this dilemma when writing her memoir, and it left her wondering how she could get past her discomfort, especially when living in a small town. But eventually she had to choose what was more important - her comfort, or sharing her story.
S3 E4 · Thu, November 23, 2023
Keeping a Book Afloat Over Several Years
Kimberly Ward knew she wanted to write a book about her experience taking her family sailing around the Caribbean. She came to my Book Finishers Bootcamp and took what she learned there to finally FINISH the book that had been years in the making. In this episode, Kimberly shares her experience as a new Indie writer. Listen for tips on finishing a book started a long time ago and for tips on Indie publishing.
S3 E3 · Thu, November 16, 2023
How to Get Into Flow
Achieving a state of flow in your writing life may sound difficult, or even like an impossible dream. But there are concrete ways that you can cultivate more flow in your life, and you don’t need anything special to get started. Insights from the field of positive psychology can have a huge impact on us as writers, and by learning a little more about it, you can get closer to living a writing life that you love.
S3 E1 · Thu, November 02, 2023
A Long and Satisfying Journey to Publication
I'm so pleased to welcome my friend Mari Ruddy to the show today. Mari is an alumna of my First Book Finish program, and her new book is just being released. Mari leaves nothing out in sharing her long and satisfying book completion journey with us, including lessons about self-publishing a quality book and how she raised the necessary funds to get her book out in the world. Get Mari's new book here: Extreme Healing: Reclaim Your Life + Learn To Love Your Body.
Trailer · Thu, November 02, 2023
Season 3 is here for you!
Welcome Resilient Writer! We're here for you with another Season of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. Inspired by your feedback and the thousands of downloads so far, here's what you can expect from Season 3.
S3 E2 · Wed, November 01, 2023
Simple Rules for Writing, with Gary Barwin
Our identities, experiences, and connections all play into our writing. They’re convenient sources of inspiration, and they allow us to write confidently. But does writing our own experience let us connect with others? Author Gary Barwin says yes, as he believes that if we analyze how our own lives are interesting and why we write from them, we can form a connection by sharing the experience of what it is to be in the world. We get into the role of the writer in today's world and more in today's episode.
Bonus · Thu, September 28, 2023
Keep Coming Back! Thoughts on Persistence
This is it, writer: we’ve reached the end of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, Season 2. Tune in to this episode for a brief recap of what’s been covered in this Season, as well as a quick look into what you can expect in Season 3. We’ll also talk about persistence, which is key for us as resilient writers, and the upcoming Book Finishers Bootcamp . Thanks so much for listening to the show!
S2 E12 · Thu, September 21, 2023
Getting Ready to FINISH Your Book
As writers, we have a lot of feelings about finishing our books. But whether we feel excited or apprehensive at the idea, we can’t finish our books unless we’re ready. Now, being ready doesn’t mean having a completed draft. It certainly helps, but getting to the point of being ready to finish can come much, much earlier in the process than that. In fact, if you’ve ever dreamt of finishing a book, you’re already part-way there. In this episode, we'll look at what a readiness to finish really looks like.
S2 E11 · Thu, September 14, 2023
The Path Through Biography, with Merilyn Simonds
When Merilyn Simonds was asked by a friend to be the author of her biography, Merilyn agreed. The problem Merilyn then ran into was that she didn’t like or read biographies, but couldn’t abandon her promise. It wasn’t until Merilyn made an observation, one deeply connected to her friend’s life story, that the biography began to flow. And from the beginning, Merilyn’s ideas allowed her to follow her usual, and unusual path of breaking with writing convention.
S2 E10 · Thu, September 07, 2023
But what about Second Book? With Jane Baird Warren
Part of the writing process is learning, though that may mean learning things besides new skills. This was the case for author Jane Baird Warren when she was in her MFA program and discovered the perfect genre for her was one she originally didn’t want to write in. Along the way, Jane also learned that writing one book doesn’t necessarily mean you know how to write the next. Now, as a published children’s literature author with Scholastic, Jane is working towards writing YA novels that break the mould. After all, who says adults can’t enjoy Kid Lit, too?
S2 E9 · Thu, August 31, 2023
How to Find More Time to Write
A long writing session may sound tantalising, like the “perfect” time for writing. But there is no perfect time to write, and the very idea keeps us from making progress. In fact, it can even send us down the rabbit hole of creative anxiety. But Short Time writing sessions are our friend—they allow us to stay consistent and connected to our work. All we have to do is find the time, which is easier than you might think!
S2 E8 · Thu, August 24, 2023
Writing a Memoir in Essays, with Rona Maynard
When we’re looking for a new writing project, it might crop up in an unexpected place. At least, that’s what Rona Maynard discovered. She needed a new writing project after leaving behind her role as an editor with a major women's magazine, and she found her inspiration through fresh eyes after adopting her dog, Casey. But Rona didn’t realize she'd found her new project, or even that it was a memoir in essays, until much, much later. After all, who would start writing a memoir through Facebook posts?
S2 E7 · Thu, August 17, 2023
MFA Pros & Cons, with Gabriela Pereira
You might want an MFA, but is attending an MFA program right for you? They aren’t for everyone, and for some, programs aren’t even accessible with barriers like location, cost, and regular life responsibilities getting in the way. But Gabriela Pereira has the solution. She’s the founder of DIY MFA—born from her love of attending an MFA program herself and recognizing these barriers—the MFA for those who aren’t served by the traditional MFA system.
S2 E6 · Thu, August 10, 2023
The Writer as Collaborator, with Anita Lahey
Inspiration can come from many places, but what really matters is how we writers choose to use it. Take Anita Lahey, poet and nonfiction writer, who let her inspiration drive her poetry to new heights. And this led her to co-create a new project, FIRE MONSTER , one unlike anything she’d previously done: a graphic novel in verse, created in collaboration with an artist/illustrator. Remember, there is so much more to writing than just what words we are able to put on the page.
S2 E5 · Thu, August 03, 2023
Writing Historical Fiction
Some stories come along and take us over. It feels like we're compelled to write them, almost as if we had no choice. Historical fiction can have that sense of urgency for some writers, and because the historical reality comes with such high stakes -- as in the case of the Second World War, for example -- these stories also make for fabulous novels. This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, award-winning author Natalie Morrill takes us behind the scenes in writing historical fiction. We talk research, knowing when it's your story to write, sensitivity readers and more!
S2 E4 · Thu, July 27, 2023
How to Get Useful Feedback on Your Writing
Feedback is a great writing tool—if you get it at the right time. Writers have a bad habit of asking for feedback way too early in the first draft process, when often they’re not really looking for feedback, but something else entirely... But this is something we can avoid, as Rhonda Douglas tells us in this Episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. All it takes is knowing when you’re actually ready for feedback, and what kind of feedback you might actually find most useful.
S2 E3 · Thu, July 20, 2023
Book Marketing Secrets, with Shelby Leigh
Self-publishing gives us a lot of freedom, but it also means we have a lot of learning to do. Especially when it comes to marketing our own books. In today’s internet age, we can reach countless people. But how do we reach the ones who want to buy our books? Shelby Leigh , book marketing strategist, has the answer, and all the tips you need to use TikTok (BookTok) to get your story the attention it deserves. Shelby is a bestselling poet, so she definitely knows whereof she speaks! (For those in The Writer's Flow Studio, Shelby's also our Visiting Writer for August 2023!)
S2 E2 · Thu, July 13, 2023
Your Writing Routine and Your Personality
If you knew your writing personality, it would make developing a writing routine a lot easier. And thanks to Brooke Adams Law of We Are Writing Brave , you can learn your writing personality through a simple quiz. Besides writing routine know-how, Brooke also has a wealth of knowledge on hybrid publishing. As a book coach, Brooke was introduced to the world of hybrid publishing thanks to a question posed by a client—which led her to become a publisher herself. She shares her journey with us in this episode.
S2 E1 · Thu, July 06, 2023
How to Write a Book that Works: Revisiting the Classic 3-Act Structure
Tempted as you may be to break the mould, sometimes sticking with the classics is the way to go. Specifically in today’s episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, we’re talking about a classic story structure—the essential three act structure. In this first episode of Season 2, Rhonda Douglas explains in some detail how the three act structure works, and how it helps with everything from plots to scenes to helping us avoid a passive protagonist. Readers love a story that wraps up neatly, and we can use the structure to ensure we don’t leave important threads hanging.
Bonus · Thu, June 01, 2023
Looking forward to Season 2!
Thanks for being with us for Season 1 of The Resilient Writers Radio Show! We've loved being on this journey with you and hope you have enjoyed it too. We're now preparing Season 2 for you which will air in early July 2023. So stay tuned! And if you haven't yet written a review, would you take a second and do that now? Thank you! And we'll talk again soon.
S1 E12 · Thu, May 25, 2023
How to Manage Creative Anxiety
For writers, creative anxiety is almost unavoidable. It can make us doubt ourselves, our work, and whether we should continue—which makes it critical that we learn how to manage it. There are plenty of different techniques out there, and in this week's episode, host Rhonda Douglas share techniques she finds make a big difference, and walks us through implementing them in our own writing lives.
S1 E11 · Fri, May 19, 2023
Playing, Plotting, and Pantsing with Gail Anderson-Dargatz
Writers, do you make sure you take time to play? No? Well today’s guest, Gail Anderson-Dargatz, is here to tell us why we should. In fact, she’ll tell us about four Ps that are very important—play (of course), passive protags, planning, and pantsing. With the right know-how, we can make our stories stronger, and shorten our writing time. As Gail says, a clear map can take us from nine years writing a draft to one.
S1 E10 · Thu, May 11, 2023
He Doesn't Know Anything: Interview with Michael Blouin
Don’t let the title mislead you—author Michael Blouin knows a lot. Specifically, he knows a lot about persistence, and how it can impact your writing life forever. Michael’s learned firsthand how almost giving up could have cost him big, and how we can’t let rejection bog us down. After all, sometimes all it takes to change everything is one acceptance letter, and the next thing you know, your writing is going to the moon!
S1 E9 · Thu, May 04, 2023
Behind the Scenes of a Small Literary Press
In the world of publishing, small and independent presses don’t get nearly enough love. Large publishing houses may have all the metaphorical glitz and glamour, but working with an independent press has its own advantages. Aimée Parent Dunn, owner of Palimpsest Press, tells us what working with an independent press is like, from manuscript selection to the book’s release. Take some notes—you might learn that getting published by a small press is exactly right for you!
S1 E8 · Thu, April 27, 2023
On Grace & Self-Compassion
As writers, we have tons of tools at our disposal. Strategies, motivation, beloved writing utensils or software… But many writers are missing an incredibly valuable tool—self-compassion. In this solo episode, host Rhonda Douglas shares how we as writers can use just a little bit of grace and self-compassion to create a writing life we love. We need to make writing enjoyable if we want to love our craft. What better way to do that than showing ourselves some kindness when we write?
S1 E7 · Thu, April 20, 2023
Loving Independence: On Self-Publishing, with Emma Dhesi
Indie publishing. Does that send shivers up your spine, or leave you buzzing with excitement? For author Emma Dhesi, it’s definitely excitement. Becoming a self-published (also known as Indie) author is a fascinating process, and one that requires a lot of learning. But as Emma’s published books show, it’s one we can learn, and it gives us plenty of options and benefits that traditional publishing doesn’t. In fact, Indie publishing might be YOUR perfect publishing path.
S1 E6 · Fri, April 14, 2023
How to Find the Focus to Write
Focus is both a great boon and a great curse to writers. We need it, but finding it can be difficult… and that was before we lived in a world built to distract us! Luckily, there are specific techniques we can use to improve our focus. All we have to do is commit to being focused, and learn the techniques that work for us—taught this week by our podcast host, Rhonda Douglas.
S1 E5 · Thu, April 06, 2023
On Writing and Failure: Interview with Stephen Marche
In his new book, On Writing and Failure: Or, On the Peculiar Perseverance Required to Endure the Life of a Writer, author Stephen Marche argues that writing is, and always will be, an act defined by failure. The best plan is to just get used to it. Join me for this interview as we talk about facing rejection, artistic failure and continuing to write anyway. (And we go on a little tangent about AI there at the end!)
S1 E4 · Thu, March 30, 2023
Inspiration from the Compost Heap: Interview with Frances Boyle
The writing process has many critical aspects, but a very important one often falls to the wayside: writing community. Today’s episode features poet and short fiction author Frances Boyle, who tells us the ins and outs of her experience with the writing community. We’ll learn about the value of writing groups, connections in the community, how to approach rejections and how Frances finds inspiration in the compost heap. Being a writer can feel lonely and difficult, but it doesn’t have to. There’s always ways for us to find and connect with community.
S1 E3 · Thu, March 23, 2023
Tent Poles: Structuring Writing and Life with Elisabeth de Mariaffi
For writers, it’s not just a work-life balance—it’s a work-life-writing balance. And we have advice for finding yours! In this interview, we learn about Elisabeth de Mariaffi’s journey of finding time to write while working, being a mom, and rolling with life’s punches. And of course, we get tips for writing literary thrillers, ones Elisabeth herself discovered while writing The Devil You Know . Maybe organizing your writing life can be thrilling too!
S1 E2 · Thu, March 16, 2023
A Different Shape: Interview with Barbara Joan Scott
Novel writing involves brainstorming, research, drafting, and editing. Barbara Joan Scott has inside tips on it all. In this interview, we discuss Barbara’s journey while writing The Taste of Hunger . No stone is left unturned—we learn about the writing process from concept all the way to the reviews that come after publication. Remember: even the authors of our favourite book didn’t write the perfect first draft. They always turn out in a different shape.
S1 E1 · Fri, February 10, 2023
All Trains Arrive: on Writing Success with Kate Heartfield
“I’ve been published!” is a phrase authors dream of saying. Of course, authors know being published is no small feat. One who knows this particularly well is Kate Heartfield, who had to wait years to get published. Now a bestselling author, Kate has plenty of tips on persisting with your writing even when you’re discouraged. She also reminds us that being published isn’t the end-all be-all of being an author—continuing to write matters, too.
Trailer · Fri, February 10, 2023
Trailer: Introducing the Resilient Writers Radio Show
Welcome to this first episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show. This is a short episode, also known as a Trailer, just like in the movies, to introduce you to myself as your host and the show—so that you can know what to expect as you follow and listen to the show.
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