Hello Writers! Podcast
What’s Important About Small Goals
When we set out to write a novel, we have one goal, which is to write a novel. But we also know that having the goal of writing a novel is not unlike standing at the foot of a mountain with the plan to climb it. We know it’s going to be amazing at...
What Pixar Can Teach Us About Plot
There is no one “right” way to write a novel. But there are basic types of plot points which every story, no matter how simple or complex, needs to include. Using a strategy like this Pixar storytelling model is one way to make sure you’ve got them...
How to Play With the Plot
Having vague or fuzzy ideas can lead to self-doubt and discouragement, but self-doubt does not need to keep you from writing your book. In this episode, we’re playing with plot ideas by asking the question “what if?” and watching as a story begins...
Meet Your Readers
You can increase the chances that a reader will connect with your story, and understanding your ideal reader is one way to do just that. If you want the point of your story to come across loud and clear, you need to understand what your ideal...
Why Self-Doubt Is Okay
Self-doubt (a.k.a. imposter syndrome, writers’ block and the inner critic) is an experience that all writers have. The question is not how to get rid of it, but how to understand it and work with it. Transcript: Stephanie: (00:03)Hello writers....
What a Book Coach Can Add
Working with a book coach is a lot like working with a personal trainer for exercise. Can you do it without one? Sure! But are there benefits to working with someone who deeply understands the skills and strategies and will support you as you reach...
Help Your Reader Care
Who is your main character? More importantly, why are they making the decisions they’re making in the story? If you want your reader to care about what happens next, the best way is to answer these three essential questions about your protagonist....
What It Takes to Write a Novel
What does it actually take to write a novel? This episode is all about what to expect in terms of effort, time investment and emotional exertion. This is all about transparency. Writing a novel is hard, and it takes a long time. But it’s worth...
The #1 Question to Ask When Writing a Novel
Feeling unmotivated or uncertain about your current work-in-progress? In this episode, we’ll dig into an important question that will unearth reasons you didn't even know were there and give you the confidence you need to move forward!Transcript:...
How to Write a Novel
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of writing a novel? No lie, it’s hard work. But this episode lays out a three-phase process that is structured enough to support you while allowing for your creative inspiration. There is no “right” way to...