Podcast Feed
Using Interiority to Seduce Readers and Deepen Character Connection with Heather Davis
Heather Davis introduces a Write Anyway Summit class on using interiority to “seduce” readers by creating an authentic connection to a protagonist. She defines interiority as the point-of-view character’s inner processing—thoughts, emotions, memories, opinions, judgments, questions, and predictions—filtered through an inherently subjective, somewhat unreliable perspective that can also convey backstory, relationships, and world-building while avoiding info dumps. Using examples (including Suzanne Collins), she contrasts surface-only action with interiority that deepens tension and empathy, and debunks myths that interiority is “telling,” unnecessary, requires a blank-canvas protagonist, or always slows pacing. She teaches two methods (limited direct thought in italics and primarily embedded interiority), four layers of inner processing from primal reactions to philosophizing, best practices for specificity and emotional word choice, and a rule for placement: pair external events with internal reactions. She closes by inviting writers to join her Many Worlds Drafting Club group coaching program.
00:00 Welcome and Setup
02:37 Why Interiority Seduces
04:39 Defining Interiority
06:33 What to Reveal Inside
10:36 Filter Everything Through POV
15:22 Before and After Example
19:31 Debunking Interiority Myths
24:19 Direct vs Embedded Thoughts
30:08 Four Layers of Interiority
37:55 Best Practices Checklist
38:57 Word Choice With Emotion
40:58 Concrete Specific Details
43:26 Embedding Rhythm and Spice
46:03 Where to Add Interiority
48:46 Suzanne Collins Scene Breakdown
53:21 Program Invitation and Farewell
Five Mindset Shifts to Overcome Stuckness with Gabriela Periera
Sue interviews DIY MFA founder Gabriela Pereira at the Write Anyway Summit about five mindset shifts to help writers overcome stuckness, time constraints, resistance, and self-criticism. Pereira introduces (1) “honor your reality,” reframing writing vs. life responsibilities as an ebb-and-flow balance and suggesting setting a deadline for writing breaks; (2) “resistance is your compass,” interpreting resistance as fear that signals high-stakes work, while noting some projects may need support or a “not now” pause; (3) rejecting “writer’s block” as usually life issues, resistance, or excuses, and encouraging adapting writing advice to what works for you; (4) “don’t compound failure with guilt,” distinguishing pain from suffering and offering an “angst jar” practice to process emotions; and (5) replacing “I can’t” with “how can I” to restore agency and take the next doable step. Pereira shares a freebie at diymfa.com/writeanywaysummit2026 and invites viewers to join the DIY MFA newsletter.
00:00 Welcome and Intro
01:23 Why Mindset Matters
03:02 Honor Your Reality
08:34 Resistance as Compass
13:55 Writers Block Myth
19:17 No Guilt on Failure
26:43 Ask How Not Cant
31:11 Final Takeaways and Freebie
Saying No, Challenging Guilt, and Using the Commitment Clarity Matrix with Erin Radniecki
Erin Radniecki, an Author Accelerator certified book coach in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, explains why compassionate writers often struggle to say no, leading them to overcommit to community needs at the expense of writing. She argues compassion is a double-edged sword: it helps writers create empathetic, resonant stories but also makes them vulnerable to absorbing others’ needs and feeling that writing is selfish or too passive compared to immediate action. Erin identifies “sneaky stories” that drive overgiving—such as believing everything will fall apart without you, minimizing commitments as “just a month,” and comparing yourself to others—and shows how they rely on assumptions, guilt, and falsehoods. She introduces the Commitment Clarity Matrix (time vs. enjoyment) to evaluate commitments, shares a personal choir example, offers reframes to set boundaries, and encourages writers to keep their why front and center, get help when stuck, and build accountability, including coaching and her Writing Permission Slip workbook.
00:00 Why Saying No Matters
00:51 Compassion as Strength
01:24 Empathy and Fiction
04:05 When Yes Becomes Too Much
05:07 Sneaky Stories Trap
06:46 Spot the Patterns
07:59 Permission to Say No
09:23 Commitment Clarity Matrix
11:19 Choir Example Wakeup
12:50 Evaluate and Adjust
13:47 Reframe Your Self Talk
16:42 Three Next Steps
17:51 Coaching and Resources
19:40 Final Encouragement
The Danger of Double Inspiration in Storytelling with Daniel David Wallace
Award-winning writer and teacher Daniel David Wallace explains “double inspiration,” a common revision problem where writers accidentally include two versions of the same story element, which clogs plot and complicates pacing. Using examples like a novel with two mysterious violins (an inherited violin and a cursed violin), unnecessary mid-story location switches, and characters who contain conflicting personas (a ruthless Japanese mafia boss who also behaves implausibly altruistic), he shows how doubling creates confusion and slow starts. Wallace suggests identifying unintentional doubles—often the element that becomes irrelevant later—then merging, cutting, or refocusing to reach the real premise faster, sometimes saving removed material for another project. In Q&A, he discusses writer attachment to drafts, reframing around premise, and how screen adaptations often simplify by combining elements. He also mentions hosting Escape the Plot Forest and offering a free 12-part course, Character First Story.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:38 What Is Double Inspiration
03:23 Isle of Stories Metaphor
06:17 Two Violins Example
09:48 Fixing the Double
11:54 More Doubling Patterns
13:17 Character Doubling Trap
16:54 Practical Tips to Simplify
20:47 Q&A Defending Your Draft
24:29 Adaptations and Professional Cuts
28:33 Where to Learn More
29:09 Final Thanks and Wrap Up
You Can’t Hatch a Novel with a Full-Grown Chicken with Claire Fishback
Horror author and book coach Claire Fishback compares a new story idea to a fragile baby bird and argues that rushing into character sheets, rigid outlining systems, spreadsheets, and even AI feedback can smother early creativity and turn vibrant concepts into bland, cliché stories. Instead of forcing logistics too soon, writers should prioritize connection to the “spark” that made the idea exciting and trust that no one knows the story better than the writer. Claire introduces the simple EGG framework for both new and stalled projects: Explore the spark (reconnect with the original inspiration or the remaining “ember” using prompts in a free workbook), Get away from it (pose a question, step back, and capture subconscious insights), and Go buck wild (playful brainstorming like mind mapping with markers or crayons before any formal structure). The episode also promotes the speaker’s “Story Compass” program and a workbook coupon.
00:00 Cozy Welcome Setup
01:02 Baby Bird Idea Trap
03:49 Why Plans Smother
05:50 Trust Your Vision
07:08 Introducing EGG Framework
07:54 Explore The Spark
10:13 Get Away Incubate
13:07 Go Buck Wild
15:28 Mind Mapping How To
18:36 Why Play Works
20:25 EGG Recap Challenge
21:32 Story Compass Offer
22:35 Final Thanks Goodbye
State of the Writer’s Mind: Survey Results, Mindset Tools, & Alter Egos with Chris Banks
Sue interviews Chris Banks about his forthcoming white paper, “State of the Writer’s Mind,” based on a mindset survey of over 800 writers conducted via ProWritingAid’s audience. Banks says the most surprising finding was how many writers recognize their limiting beliefs yet feel unable to change them, with perfectionism self-identified by nearly 50%, along with procrastination and people-pleasing. They discuss how fear can signal meaningful creative growth, how people-pleasing and perfectionism can be overused strengths, and why mindset blocks stall writing and marketing. Banks reports many respondents hadn’t tried mindset techniques or even heard of them, yet most who did continued using them, revealing an awareness gap. They explore alter egos/self-aspects as a tool for resilience and behavior change. Banks also previews his 2027 book on writer identity featuring “four-minute” mindset exercises and an assessment, and notes the white paper will be available on ProWritingAid and his author website: "The State of the Writer's Mind" (ProWritingAid, published 17 August 2026)
00:00 Survey Reveal Setup
01:25 Mindset Problems Exposed
03:55 Fear as Creative Signal
07:37 People Pleasing Pitfalls
08:19 Mindset Tools Awareness Gap
09:50 Marketing Needs Mindset
12:07 Building Confidence Online
14:31 Purpose Over Self Promotion
18:05 Alter Egos for Writers
21:03 Strengths Turned Saboteurs
23:05 Rituals For Alter Egos
24:35 Shadow Work And Saboteurs
27:04 Imposter Syndrome Reframed
27:46 Default Mode Creativity
30:23 Beyond Anxiety Tools
32:07 Cognitive Distancing Practice
33:27 Four Minute Mind Book
36:16 Links Thanks And Wrap Up
Strategies for Success in an Evolving Publishing World With Brooke Warner
Sue interviews publishing veteran Brooke Warner at the Write Anyway Summit about obstacles writers face and how publishing has shifted toward marketing-driven, risk-averse decision-making. Warner explains why she founded She Writes Press to emphasize a book’s merits and help authors build platform through publication, and she outlines today’s main options: Big Five via agents, traditional publishing by submitting directly to small or university presses, hybrid publishing (with cautions about predatory “hybrids” and the importance of distribution), and self-publishing for entrepreneurial authors with access to audiences. They discuss how marketing is now largely the author’s responsibility, evolving royalty/advance models, and the need to treat publishing as a business. Warner highlights success traits—realistic expectations, courage to promote, proactivity, and addressing personal hangups like technology—while urging writers to avoid industry doom narratives, compare less, stay consistent, and leverage expanded access and autonomy.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:46 Why She Writes Press
03:26 Platform and Mindset Shifts
05:02 Publishing Paths Explained
06:30 Hybrid Publishing Reality
10:02 Royalties and Business Math
12:08 Stop Being Taken Care Of
14:15 Traits of Successful Authors
16:53 Finding Your Real Resistance
18:11 Opportunities in a Noisy Industry
21:43 Consistency and Building Audience
23:08 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect
Procrastination and Fearless Writing with Bill Kenower
Host Anne Hawley interviews author and writing coach Bill Kenower (Everyone Has What It Takes, Fearless Writing, Write Within Yourself), editor-in-chief of Author magazine, and creator of the Fearless Writing Podcast, about why writers procrastinate and how to move past it. Kenower defines procrastination as avoiding anticipated discomfort, contrasts it with “incubation” that feels energizing, and argues that engagement can override tiredness.
He says fear of what “they” will think blocks creativity because “they” don’t exist, and advises writing and editing to please yourself rather than an imagined audience. On feeling unqualified, he frames qualification as sustained curiosity and recommends leaning into personal experience.
He discusses neurodivergence as heightened need for interest, and for pathological demand avoidance urges disciplined, positive thinking about writing when not writing and allowing time to shift from a domestic to a writing mindset.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
01:07 Defining Procrastination
03:41 Incubation vs Avoidance
05:29 Exhaustion and Creative Energy
08:24 Stop Writing for Them
11:45 Writing Risky Truths
14:24 Am I Qualified to Write
21:21 Neurodivergence and Motivation
23:56 Editing Without the Critic
25:54 Demand Avoidance and Should
29:49 Getting Into Writing Mode
32:25 Where to Find Bill
33:19 Final Thanks and Sign Off
When Willpower Isn’t Enough With Anne Janzer
Author and teacher Anne Janzer argues that “butt in chair” advice often relies too heavily on willpower, which research suggests is finite and can lead to shame and identity doubts when it runs out. She offers a five-part toolkit—PAPER—for staying consistent when inspiration lags: Purpose (reframe writing as serving a reader or future self), Accountability (use written commitments, partners, or external incentives, focusing on process goals over aggressive outcomes), Play (add mystery and games to research, drafting, and revision, such as a “writing time treasure hunt” or swapping boring words), Environment (engineer distractions away and make the workspace pleasant), and Rest (protect mental space, say no to other demands, and avoid writing from an empty tank). She notes these ideas appear in her updated book The Writer’s Process, its workbook, and her blog.
00:00 Welcome and Setup
01:07 Why Willpower Fails
03:03 Shame and Writer Identity
04:07 PAPER Toolkit Overview
04:40 Purpose Write for Readers
06:05 Accountability That Works
09:13 Play Make It Fun
14:52 Environment Beat Distractions
16:33 Rest Protect Your Energy
17:56 Putting PAPER Into Practice
20:09 Wrap Up and Resources
Mastering Novel Writing: Achieving Success in Two Years with Tim Grahl
Tim Grahl, author and CEO of Story Grid, outlines a proven process for writing a novel you're proud to publish in just two years. Detailing his personal struggles and eventual triumph through the principles of deliberate practice, Tim emphasizes the importance of expert feedback and skill development in overcoming common writing hurdles. He shares how focusing on the essentials of scene writing and applying structured, goal-oriented practice can dramatically improve one’s writing skills. Tim also introduces the concept of deliberate practice, supported by psychological research, to help writers systematically enhance their performance. The discussion includes real-life success stories from other writers and offers free resources to help attendees embark on their own writing journey. This presentation aims to empower writers to transform their hard-won wisdom and truth into compelling stories that can change the world.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:33 The Importance of Storytelling
01:47 My Writing Journey
02:16 The Struggles of Aspiring Writers
06:57 Discovering the Story Grid
09:56 The Concept of Deliberate Practice
14:52 Applying Deliberate Practice to Writing
21:16 Success Stories and Testimonials
30:37 Final Thoughts and Resources
Balancing Writing and Life with Chronic Health Conditions: Smart Strategies with Ruth Schilling
Ruth Schilling shares her personal and professional insights on balancing writing goals with life while managing chronic health conditions. She introduces key mindset adjustments, practical goal-setting strategies, and the importance of building a solid support system. Ruth discusses overcoming mindset barriers, setting realistic goals, and utilizing support networks to achieve writing ambitions. The session includes actionable steps, questions to evaluate and reframe negative thought patterns, and tips on breaking down large tasks into manageable steps. Ruth also highlights the benefits of gentle self-care, avoiding unhelpful comparisons, and continuously moving forward despite challenges.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
01:22 Understanding Mindset Barriers
01:55 Practical Strategies for Writing Goals
03:56 Mindset Adjustment Exercise
09:49 Gentle Reminders for Chronic Health
11:32 Breaking Down Goals into Micro Goals
15:34 Building a Support System
17:04 Conclusion and Next Steps
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Cultivating a Sustainable Writing Practice with Golden May
Rachel May and Emily Golden discuss the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among writers and explore effective strategies for overcoming it. Imposter syndrome can manifest as self-deprecating and self-critical thoughts that hinder a writer's confidence and progress. They emphasize the importance of building self-trust and self-love through celebrating small, consistent wins. The conversation also highlights how societal and cultural factors contribute to imposter syndrome and how recognizing and contextualizing these influences can aid in addressing them. Additionally, the speakers share insights on the detrimental effects of hustle culture on creativity and introduce their Anti-Hustle Writing Life workshop, along with information about their supportive writing community and coaching services.
00:00 Welcome to the Write Anyway Summit
00:12 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
00:50 Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in Clients
03:53 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
06:17 Societal Influences on Imposter Syndrome
07:17 Reframing Imposter Syndrome as Growth
09:36 Building Self-Trust and Confidence
15:57 Case Studies and Practical Advice
22:09 The Importance of Mindset in Writing
24:43 Anti-Hustle Writing Life
26:48 Conclusion and Resources
Harnessing Constraints: Unlocking Creativity Through Limitations with Matt Madden
Matt Madden, a cartoonist, educator, and coach, explores the concept of constraints in creative work. Madden explains the importance of recognizing everyday constraints in any medium, such as the shape of the canvas or the deadlines for projects, and how these limitations can actually help focus creativity. He also introduces the idea of creative constraints, self-imposed restrictions that can drive innovation. Through personal anecdotes and examples from both his career and pop culture, Madden demonstrates how constraints can become powerful tools to spark creativity and produce unique, impactful work.
00:00 Introduction to Constraints
00:35 Understanding Everyday Constraints
02:35 Material Constraints in Comics
05:31 The Role of Deadlines
07:11 Creative Constraints: A Personal Example
10:20 Creative Constraints in Pop Culture
13:16 Student Success with Constraints
15:48 Conclusion: Embracing Constraints
Empowering Writers: An Interview with Memoir Coach Marion Roach Smith
In this insightful discussion, Sue interviews Marion Roach Smith, a prolific memoirist and memoir coach who runs The Memoir Project. Marion shares her approach to encouraging writers to contribute their voices despite the world's challenges. She emphasizes the importance of every contribution, whether a blog post or a book, and advices on leveraging personal experiences for advocacy. They also discuss how to use privilege responsibly, the impact of book bans, and the significance of creative expression in the face of adversity. Marion's latest book, 'The Memoir Project, A Thoroughly Nonstandard Text on Writing and Life,' is highlighted as a resource.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 The Importance of Writing in Troubled Times
03:39 The Power of Memoir and Advocacy
07:35 Encouraging Diverse Voices and Perspectives
15:07 The Fight Against Book Bans
19:46 Taking Action and Staying Creative
26:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Overcoming Hurdles and Writing Success: LL Kirchner's Journey
LL Kirchner discusses the journey behind her Queen Pin Chronicles series, including the mindset challenges she overcame to switch from memoir writing to novels. Kirchner delves into her inspiration, drawn from a historical photo, and her process of giving herself permission to explore fiction writing. She shares insights on self-publishing, building a supportive team, and remaining flexible amidst life's disruptions, including hurricanes and moving homes. Kirchner also highlights the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, the value of self-awareness, and how she leverages tools like Scrivener to manage her series. The conversation emphasizes the significance of enjoying the creative process and staying committed to long-term goals despite obstacles.
00:00 Welcome Back to the Write Anyway Summit
00:12 Launching the Queen Pin Chronicles
00:46 Overcoming the Hurdles of Writing a Novel
03:06 The Journey to Self-Publishing Success
05:12 The Challenges of Writing a Series
06:13 Navigating Life's Obstacles
07:13 Maintaining a Writing Routine
13:27 The Role of Social Media in an Author's Life
17:15 Trusting Yourself and Your Creative Process
22:23 The Ever-Changing Landscape of Publishing
26:12 Commitment to Writing and Personal Growth
29:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Overcoming Perfectionism in Early-Stage Writing with Leslie Horn
Leslie Horn, also known as XP Love Cat, discusses her experience as a book coach, focusing on perfectionism in early-stage writing. Leslie explains the common manifestations of perfectionism among her clients, such as moving deadlines, resistance to sharing work, and excessive world-building. She shares strategies to combat perfectionism, including redefining success, setting achievable goals, and practicing positive self-talk. Leslie also emphasizes the importance of rest and giving one's inner perfectionist a new role to encourage progress in the writing process.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:17 Identifying Perfectionism in Writers
04:13 Combating Perfectionism: Strategies and Mindset
10:45 Setting Realistic Goals and Self-Talk
17:48 Creative Techniques to Manage Perfectionism
20:14 Conclusion and Where to Find Leslie
The Craft of Compelling Writing: Insights from Laura Munson
returning guest Laura Munson shares her valuable insights on the craft of writing. Laura emphasizes the importance of scenes and the use of thoughts within them to elevate the storytelling experience. She explains the concept of 'show and tell' over the traditional 'show, don’t tell,' highlighting the critical role of the narrator in both memoir and fiction writing. Laura also discusses her Haven writing retreats and online community, The Nest, aimed at supporting writers. Throughout the discussion, she stresses the significance of connecting with the reader by inviting them into the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. This episode is packed with practical advice for writers of all levels, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to enhance their craft.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:32 The Importance of Craft in Writing
02:14 The Power of the Scene
06:40 Using Thoughts in Writing
13:53 Direct vs. Indirect Thoughts
22:33 Memoir Writing Tips
23:59 Conclusion and Resources
Embracing Your Narrative: Overcoming Ageism in the Writing World with Joey Garcia
Author and platform coach Joey Garcia encourages writers to embrace their unique stories and overcome limiting beliefs about age. Through compelling anecdotes and professional insights, Joey addresses the question, 'Am I too old to write?' emphasizing that age should be viewed as an asset rather than a hindrance. Drawing from personal coaching experiences and the inspiring example of Dr. Ruth, Joey discusses the importance of self-belief, open-mindedness, and adaptability in pursuing a writing career. She also stresses the significance of building a supportive, diverse network and staying current with industry trends. The session concludes with practical advice for aspiring authors of all ages, emphasizing that success is driven by attitude, not age.
00:00 Introduction to the Write Anyway Summit
00:51 The Perfect Topic: Am I Too Old to Write?
02:07 Turning Age into an Asset
04:26 Overcoming Ageism and Self-Doubt
07:51 Embracing Vulnerability and Lifelong Learning
10:23 Building a Supportive Network
12:19 Adapting to Modern Publishing
18:00 The Importance of Feedback and Modern Writing Styles
21:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Writer with Jennifer Larkin
Jennifer Larkin, a certified fiction book coach, discusses the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among writers. She explains what imposter syndrome is, why writers are particularly susceptible, and various strategies to manage it. The discussion includes identifying common imposter thoughts, understanding the five imposter archetypes, and how to reframe negative thoughts into positive affirmations. Jennifer shares actionable tips for writers to overcome self-doubt, boost confidence, and succeed in their writing endeavors.
00:00 Introduction and Speaker Background
00:47 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
01:07 Common Imposter Thoughts
03:06 Why Writers Are Susceptible
08:42 Impact of Imposter Syndrome
12:18 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
13:17 Imposter Archetypes
22:13 Practical Steps to Combat Imposter Syndrome
23:38 Conclusion and Resources
Facing Madame X: Tools for Women to Overcome Self-Sabotage
Jamie Rose, a memoirist and coach, shares invaluable tools to silence the inner critic, also known as Part X, which discourages writers and blocks creativity. Jamie talks about her new book, 'Facing Madame X,' which explores feminine power and the struggles specific to women writers. She discusses the concept of Part X, how it manifests as self-doubt and procrastination, and offers practical tools such as the 'Plane of Will' and 'Cosmic Rage' techniques to overcome these obstacles. Jamie also emphasizes the importance of inner motivation and the challenges all writers face, regardless of their success or experience level. The episode highlights Jamie's personal journey, including her experiences with her mother and the emotional challenges while writing her book. Jamie encourages writers to stay committed to their craft and find fulfillment in their creative processes.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:58 Understanding Part X
02:41 Facing Madame X
04:20 Challenges and Triumphs in Writing
07:27 Inner vs. Outer Motivation
11:20 Balancing Writing and Life
18:55 The Temptation of AI in Writing
19:34 The True Motivation Behind Writing
20:33 The Pleasure of Crafting Words
22:45 Overcoming Procrastination with Tools
23:07 The Plane of Will: Building Writing Habits
26:32 Confronting the Inner Critic: The X Voice
28:32 The Cosmic Rage Tool: Defeating Self-Doubt
33:13 The Reality of Writing: Challenges and Rewards
34:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts