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Welcome to another episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show!

My podcast editor is in sick leave this week, so thanks for your understanding with this unedited episode. 🥰

The stretch from Thanksgiving through New Year's can feel like a creative black hole for writers. Between holiday preparations, family gatherings, and end-of-year obligations, that precious writing time often disappears completely. In this episode, I offer a powerful mindset shift to help you protect your writing practice during the busiest season of the year.

The reality many writers face is stark: you enter the holidays hoping to finish a chapter, complete a draft, or prepare your manuscript for querying in the new year. Instead, six weeks vanish, and by early January you wake up exhausted, guilty about not writing, and disconnected from your project. When you've been away from your manuscript that long, the characters feel distant, the plot grows hazy, and climbing back into a consistent writing rhythm becomes another mountain to scale.

The goal isn't to write a novel in December—it's to stay connected to your creative identity and maintain momentum. 

Whether you choose to take a guilt-free break or carve out intentional writing time, the choice should be yours, made consciously rather than surrendered by default to holiday overwhelm.

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If you’ve ever felt like your novel is taking far too long—or wondered whether you can keep writing through big life challenges—this conversation with novelist Melanie Schnell will speak straight to your writer heart.

Melanie is the author of While the Sun is Above Us, which won both the Saskatchewan First Book Award and the City of Regina Award and has been part of the ELA A30 curriculum in Saskatchewan schools. 

Her new novel, The Chorus Beneath Our Feet, began with a single, vivid image: two women standing on a tree branch in the middle of a violent storm. That image stayed with her for 15 years, slowly growing into a story about siblings, war, grief, and everything that lies hidden beneath our feet—and beneath our lives.

In this episode, Melanie shares how that first image evolved into the fictional city of Ravenswood, a Regina-inspired setting anchored by a central tree. She talks about how research into unmarked graves at the Regina Indian Industrial School, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, mass graves in Ireland, and the history of the British Home Children all fed into the novel’s themes of buried histories, family bonds, and unseen networks—like fungi and tree roots—running under the surface.

We also dig into her unforgettable characters. Jes, a grief-stricken soldier returning from Afghanistan with his best friend’s body, and Mary, his ethereal, elusive sister, form the emotional core of the book. 

Melanie describes the challenge of getting Jes’s voice right, balancing his trauma and anger with real vulnerability, and how early reader feedback helped her deepen both siblings until they felt fully alive on the page.

Melanie is candid about what it took to finish this novel over 15 years while raising her son as a single mother, navigating a demanding academic career, and living with chronic illness. 

She talks about losing the ability to read and write for stretches of time, the frustration of feeling like the book was always moving ahead without her, and the moment an editor helped her finally “see” what the story needed structurally—especially around Mary’s voice and the ending.

If you’re a writer living with chronic illness or other big life constraints, Melanie offers gentle, hard-won encouragement: you are not your illness, and your story is coming from a central, lit-up place inside you that doesn’t disappear, even when you can’t reach it every day.

If you’ve been wondering whether it “still counts” if your book is taking years to finish, I think this conversation with Melanie will remind you that deep work takes the time it takes—and that the story is still there, waiting, even when you have to step away.

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In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, we break down the complete roadmap for finishing your book—because contrary to what movies show us, it's not just "type, spell check, publish." 

Finishing a book requires a systematic, step-by-step approach that prevents overwhelm and helps you track real progress.

Why You Need a Step-by-Step Process

Our culture perpetuates myths about book writing—think Jo March in Little Women or countless Christmas movies where characters magically go from manuscript to bestselling author tour. The reality? Finishing a book takes everything you've got and requires becoming the writer you need to be to complete your unique project.

Breaking the process into clear phases gives you momentum, prevents paralysis, and allows you to celebrate milestones along the way. Instead of facing an overwhelming 300-400 page project, you work through manageable steps, always knowing exactly where you are in the process.

The 11-Step Process to Finishing Your Book

Step 1: Prepare Your Project Plan Treat your book like any other major project in your life. Calculate how many words you need, determine your weekly writing capacity, and create a realistic timeline. For example: if you need 50,000 more words and typically write 3,000 words per week, you're looking at approximately 16 weeks to complete your draft.

Step 2: Complete the Essential Book Outline Create a basic outline that tracks your protagonist's journey from beginning to end, including their desires, obstacles, and transformation. This serves as your roadmap for brainstorming scenes.

Step 3: Fast Draft Using "Rules for the Draft" Focus on getting the story down without perfectionism. The goal is completion, not perfection.

Step 4: Optional Manuscript Evaluation Consider getting professional feedback on your messy first draft to understand what's working and what needs development before diving into revision.

Step 5: Story Clarity Revision Shape your draft by determining what story you really want to tell and ensuring that vision translates clearly onto the page.

Step 6: Submit to Beta Readers Send your revised manuscript to 3-4 genre readers who can provide supportive critique. Ask specific questions about pacing, character development, and any sections where they found themselves skimming.

Step 7: Integrate Beta Reader Feedback Carefully evaluate feedback and decide what serves your book's vision. This may require additional revision passes.

Step 8: Line Edit Perfect your language, sharpen verbs, and ensure every sentence serves your story. Only do this after incorporating beta feedback to avoid attachment to scenes that might need cutting.

Step 9: Copy Edit Focus on spelling, grammar, and catching typos—especially important if you use dictation software.

Step 10: Prepare to Publish Choose your publishing path (traditional or indie) and complete the specific requirements for that route.

Step 11: Build Your Author Platform Develop a minimalist marketing approach that builds your presence without taking over your life—whether for pitching agents or self-publishing success.

The Power of Process

This step-by-step approach transforms an intimidating project into manageable milestones. You can see your progress, celebrate achievements, and maintain momentum knowing exactly what comes next. Each completed step moves you closer to your goal and proves you're further along than ever before.

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Book Finishers Bootcamp, September 11-17
First Book Finish

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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!

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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!

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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!)

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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. 

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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!

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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. 

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“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. 

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In this episode of the Resilient Writers Radio Show, we dive deep into one of the most common struggles writers face: the feeling that their book is taking forever to complete. If you've ever caught yourself thinking "I'm too slow" or "this book will never be finished," this episode is for you.

The Story We Tell Ourselves

About 80% of the time, the feeling that our writing is "too slow" is simply a story we tell ourselves. This unhelpful narrative often stems from comparing ourselves to other writers, particularly indie romance or cozy mystery authors who publish multiple books per year. 

But here's the truth: it's not about the most words—it's about the right words for your project.

Why Books Take Time

Writing a book is fundamentally about becoming the writer you need to be to finish that particular book. Sometimes this transformation requires more time for deep thinking and problem-solving. 

As Alice Munro famously said, some of her best writing happened while staring out her kitchen window—the thinking process is just as valuable as the actual typing.

The Perfectionism Trap

Many writers slow themselves down by trying to perfect each scene before moving on. This approach ignores a fundamental truth: revision is a necessary part of the creative process. 

Your brain literally cannot hold all the elements needed for a perfect scene simultaneously—there are simply too many craft elements to juggle at once.

Attempting to write perfect first drafts is not only impossible but counterproductive. You cannot create work that makes you immune to criticism or judgment. 

Art is subjective—just look at the one-star reviews for Ernest Hemingway on Amazon. The goal isn't perfection; it's creating the best work you can right now.

The Two-Brain Problem

Your creative brain (which gets the draft down) and your editorial brain (which scans for mistakes) work differently. Trying to use both simultaneously is the slowest possible way to write a book. 

As Sir Terry Pratchett (RIP) said, "The first draft is just you telling yourself the story."

Practical Solutions

When progress genuinely feels slow, the only practical solution is more consistent time with your book. Books are built through consistency—20 minutes here, an hour there, paragraph by paragraph, scene by scene.

Consider these strategies:

• Increase your writing frequency from twice to three or four times per week
• Schedule writing retreats or long weekend sessions
• Use small pockets of time throughout your day
• Take temporary breaks from volunteering commitments
• Write during lunch breaks or before the household wakes up

Embracing Your Writing Pace

Every writer is different. Some produce 1,200 words in 45 minutes, others write 250 words in the same time—and both are perfectly valid. The key is learning to accept the writer you are rather than suffering because you think you should be different.

Remember: you are an artist whose medium is words, and art takes time. That's not just okay—it's necessary.

Resources mentioned: DIY Writing Retreat Guide 

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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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Welcome back to The Resilient Writers Radio Show! In this solo episode, Rhonda tackles a sneaky form of procrastination that plagues so many writers—what she calls “procraftination.”

You know the feeling. You sit down to write that tricky third scene in Act Two… and suddenly you need to read just one more writing craft book. 

Or register for a new workshop. Or spend two hours researching the Victorian medical tools your character might use—even though that detail doesn’t show up for three more chapters.

Sound familiar?

Rhonda dives into why this kind of procrastination feels productive (because hey, it’s writing-adjacent!), but actually gets in the way of finishing your draft. 

She shares her love for craft books, research rabbit holes, and workshops—but also offers a crucial mindset shift: these tools are powerful when used in the right phase of the writing process.

Inside the episode, you'll learn:

• Why we often turn to writing education instead of writing the next scene
  
  
• How to recognize when you're avoiding your draft in disguise
  
  
• The best times to read craft books or take workshops (hint: not mid-draft!)
  
  
• Rhonda’s “square bracket method” for handling research without interrupting your creative flow
  
  
• Why fast-drafting your book—without trying to perfect every line—is so essential to long-term success

Rhonda also unpacks how fear, self-doubt, and “this book might be mediocre” thinking can trick us into busywork that feels safe. 

She shares how becoming a conscious observer of your own creative process can help you spot the difference between genuine growth and sneaky procrastination.

💬 One key truth from the episode:
 All good books aren’t written—they’re rewritten.

This liberating mindset shift can help you finally give yourself permission to write a messy first draft and save the polish for later. Because you can’t revise what you haven’t finished.

Whether you’re tempted to re-read Save the Cat one more time or you’re lost in 19th-century historical medical texts (true story), this episode is your gentle but firm reminder:
📣 It’s time to finish the damn draft.

🎧 Listen now and get clear on how to make progress that actually moves your book forward:

Resources Mentioned:

• Rhonda’s Book Finishers Bootcamp (returning in September!)
  
  
• Rhonda’s 12-Step Revision Process (taught inside First Book Finish)
  
  
• Craft books and workshops: when to use them, and when to pause
  
  
  

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

In this solo episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, Rhonda dives into one of the most common struggles writers face—imposter syndrome. 

If you’ve ever heard that insidious voice whisper, “Who do you think you are?” or “Your writing isn’t good enough,” this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone—and that voice is lying.

Drawing on thousands of weekly check-ins from writers inside her First Book Finish program, Rhonda unpacks why imposter syndrome shows up (especially for those working on their first book), and how to move through it without letting it derail your progress.

Rhonda shares personal stories and writing truths, including:

• Why even published and award-winning writers still struggle with imposter syndrome
  
  
• How our brains look for “proof” that we can’t do something when we’re learning new skills
  
  
• The dangerous myth of a “magical moment” when you’ll finally feel good enough to write

She also explores how our culture reinforces the idea that you’re not a “real writer” until you’ve published something big, and how that messaging gets internalized—especially if you haven’t yet finished your first book.

But here’s the heart of the message: Writing is a skill you can learn. 

Just like you once learned to cook, lift weights, or drive a car, you can also learn how to write compelling dialogue, structure scenes, or move your story across timelines.

Rhonda encourages writers to trade perfectionism for progress, and comparison for compassion. She offers a powerful mantra that has helped her and many of her students silence that inner critic:

📝 “I’m always learning and growing as a writer.”

It’s a reminder that we don’t become great writers overnight—and even our future selves will look back and see how much we’ve grown. This kind of growth is not only normal, it’s necessary. It's also deeply human.

She shares how even after publishing books and winning awards, she still edits and improves her past work when she reads from it. Why? Because growth is ongoing. And that's a beautiful part of the creative process.

Whether you’re just starting your first draft or revising your fifth, this episode will reassure you that you're not an imposter—you’re a writer in progress, and that’s exactly where you're supposed to be.

🎧 Tune in now to reframe your mindset and take your next step with more confidence.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Rhonda’s upcoming Book Finishers Bootcamp (11-17 September)
  
  
• Workshops from Jane Friedman and Writer’s Digest
  
  
• The mantra: “I’m always learning and growing as a writer.”
  
  
  

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

Welcome back to The Resilient Writers Radio Show! In this solo episode, Rhonda dives into two of the most common struggles writers face: finding the time and the focus to write consistently—especially during emotionally and politically challenging times.

She shares how global events and personal overwhelm can lead to creative paralysis, making it feel almost impossible to stay on track with writing goals. 

But rather than waiting for the perfect time or long, uninterrupted hours, Rhonda encourages a more compassionate and strategic approach to fitting writing into your life as it is right now.

Drawing from her own experience and her work with writers inside her First Book Finish program, Rhonda introduces the concept of scheduling both “long time” (30–45 minute sessions) and “short time” (those unexpected 10–20 minute pockets throughout your day) to make real progress on your book. 

She also explains why binge-writing on weekends often leads to long stretches of inactivity—and how consistency, not intensity, is the key to getting your draft done.

You'll learn how to shift your mindset by planning your week as a writer first—before all the other roles and responsibilities take over. 

Rhonda walks through her Sunday planning ritual and encourages listeners to do the same using her free resource, The Writer’s Weekly Planner, which helps you carve out writing time with intention.

She also shares how having a “mobile writing kit” (la tote bag stocked with notebooks, prompts, and pens) allows you to take advantage of unexpected downtime. Even just 15–20 minutes can be enough to outline a scene, sketch character backstory, or brainstorm story ideas.

The episode wraps with a powerful reminder: no one is going to hand you leftover time to write—you have to claim it. 

Rhonda emphasizes that writing just 2–3 times a week can be enough to finish a book, and that when you put your creative life first, everything else tends to flow more easily.

If you’re struggling to focus, Rhonda also recommends checking out her Focused Writer Workshop, which breaks down the science of focus and helps you create a writing ritual that actually works with your brain, not against it.

📌 Resources Mentioned:

• Writer’s Weekly Planner – FREE Resource
• The Focused Writer Workshop

DM Rhonda on Instagram: @resilientwriters

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If you’ve been toying with the idea of writing a memoir — or you’re knee-deep in draft pages wondering what now? — you’re going to love this conversation with memoir coach and author Wendy Dale.

Wendy’s the author of Avoiding Prison and Other Noble Vacation Goals and the creator of The Memoir Engineering System, a structured seven-step process for turning your life stories into page-turning memoirs. 

She’s also been a memoir coach for 17 years and has read more than a thousand memoirs along the way — so when she says she’s seen it all, she means it.

We kicked off our chat with the age-old memoir question: what stays in and what gets cut? Wendy shares that the biggest mistake new memoirists make is treating their book like an autobiography — including everything — rather than crafting a story with a clear premise. 

Whether you’re writing about a time in your life, a specific relationship, or a transformational journey, you need to know what your memoir is about before you start writing.

And then comes the kicker: structure. Wendy opens up about how her first memoir attempt got a big fat “no” from agents because — as one of them told her — she had no idea how structure worked. That rejection became the catalyst for developing her Memoir Engineering System. 

According to Wendy, structure is the foundation of a memoir — just like a well-built house. Readers might not notice it when it’s working, but if your structure’s missing? No one’s sticking around to admire your prose.

We also talked about plot, and how “what actually happened” isn’t the same as a compelling story. Memoirists need to shape their real-life events into a sequence that builds tension and invites readers to turn the page. 

That includes identifying the conflict at the heart of your book — what Wendy calls the “narrative want” — and writing scenes where something happens, even if it’s just an emotional realization.

Wendy also offers some brilliant insight into the power of subjective writing — how your thoughts, reflections, and unique perspective are what breathe emotion into your scenes and allow readers to truly feel your story.

We even tackled the tricky question of whether you can write part of a memoir in third person. Wendy’s take? It’s risky and rarely works well — unless you’re a phenomenal writer and handle it with nuance and restraint.

If you’re working on a memoir — or have a dusty manuscript sitting in a drawer — you’ll want to check out Wendy’s free video series at freememoirclass.com, and of course, grab a copy of The Memoir Engineering System.

This episode is full of insight, warmth, and practical tools to help you move from messy draft to compelling memoir. Don’t miss it!

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Hey there, Writer—welcome back to The Resilient Writers Radio Show!

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of short fiction with the wonderful Pamela Gwyn Kripke. If you’ve ever been curious about writing short stories, how to build a collection, or what publishing with a small press actually looks like—this conversation is for you.

Pamela is an award-winning writer with bylines in The New York Times, Elle, Seventeen, Newsweek and more. Her debut novel At The Seams was published by Open Books in 2023 and her brand-new short story collection And Then You Apply Ice is also out now. (Yes, you can find links to both in the show notes!)

She joined me to chat about how she moved from journalism and essays into short fiction—something she only began exploring about four years ago. She found that many of her essays had a narrative quality to them, and that natural storytelling instinct drew her into writing fiction. She leaned into the short form during the pandemic and quickly found a rhythm that worked for her. 

Pamela shares how she pulled together her stories by focusing on recurring themes—especially around the idea of transgression—and how some of the characters appear across stories at different points in their lives.

We also talked about her decision to publish with a small press and what that process actually looked like. (Spoiler: she sent queries to about 25 publishers!) Her approach was smart and strategic—targeting presses that aligned with her voice and genre. 

Pamela also pitched both her novel and story collection at the same time and found a supportive home with Open Books. She opens up about the differences between traditional publishing and her long-time experience freelancing for magazines, and the pros and cons of working with a smaller press—including the realities of doing your own book publicity.

You’ll love Pamela’s grounded and generous wisdom about the writing life. She talks about her daily writing routine (dog walks included!), how she transitions between essays, journalism, and fiction, and how being a working writer has taught her not to wait for the muse—but to get in the chair and do the work.

And of course, I had to ask her what it means to be a resilient writer. Her answer was beautiful—it's about maintaining emotional equilibrium and trusting that you’ve done your best, no matter the outcome.

This episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and encouragement—especially if you’re navigating the ups and downs of publishing or wondering where short stories might fit into your own creative path.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

Hey there, Writer—this week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, we’re diving into something so many of us wrestle with: how to get that first draft down… faster. And more importantly—without all the agony.

I’m joined by Daphne Gray-Grant, who brings a lifetime of experience to the writing process. She grew up in her family’s newspaper business, later worked as a senior editor at The Vancouver Sun, and somewhere in the middle of all that, gave birth to triplets! If anyone understands writing under pressure, it’s Daphne.

In this episode, Daphne shares how she went from struggling with writer’s block to developing powerful tools to help writers draft more quickly and confidently. One of the biggest shifts she teaches? Start small. Like, five-minutes-a-day small. 

We also talk about the deep psychology behind why writing feels so hard sometimes—especially for those of us who love editing more than drafting (hi, I see you!). Daphne explains why school doesn’t prepare us for the emotional challenges of writing and offers simple, mindset-shifting strategies to help you work with your brain, not against it.

One of her favorite tricks is ending your writing session with a few quick notes for tomorrow—so when you return to the page, you’re not wasting time wondering what comes next. That little shift can make a huge difference.

We also had a great chat about mind mapping, which Daphne has adapted into an incredible tool for writers. Instead of just putting a topic in the center of the page, she suggests starting with a question. This sparks creativity and helps you move past the blocks that outlining often creates. I’ve used this myself in my poetry, and let me tell you—it works wonders.

This conversation is packed with practical advice that’s gentle, doable, and grounded in real-life writing experience. If you’re someone who wants to finish that draft but keeps getting stuck, I think you’ll find a lot of relief—and inspiration—here.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

Well hey there, Writer—and welcome to another cozy conversation on The Resilient Writers Radio Show! 

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with speculative fiction author M.T. Solomon, and let me tell you—this one’s for you if you’ve ever wondered how to balance real life with writing big, bold stories.

M.T. grew up in Alaska, and the vast, rugged wilderness she called home now infuses the lyrical, emotionally resonant stories she writes. She’s been creating stories since she was six (including hand-stitched books at age 11—how adorable is that?) but it wasn’t until after college and becoming a mom that she fully embraced her dream of publishing novels. 

We talk about her journey from self-publishing her first novel, All the Fragile Hearts, to continuing the duology with Whispers in the Dark, and how she ultimately found her way to traditional publishing with Liar Queen—a lush, politically charged fantasy series released through Golden Scales Publishing. 

M.T. shares how empowering it was to have a team behind her this time, supporting everything from editing to cover design. But she’s also refreshingly honest about what it took to self-publish—yes, including marketing her own books and even flying out of Alaska to sell them in-person at events.

We also dig into her approach to world-building—hint: it involves lots of people-watching, note-taking, and a fully developed story bible. If you’re writing speculative fiction and struggling with how to build a believable world, you’ll love M.T.’s practical and creative insights.

Of course, we couldn’t let the conversation go by without talking about how she gets the writing done—because M.T. is a mom, a partner, and a coach. From early-morning writing sessions to squeezing in time in the school pickup line, she shares how she carves out time and energy for her work. She’s refreshingly real about what it takes to prioritize writing without losing yourself in the process.

Whether you’re working on your first novel, wondering about the self-pub vs. traditional debate, or trying to write your book in the chaos of daily life—this episode is full of heart, encouragement, and grounded advice.

Grab your tea (or coffee!) and come join us. You’ll leave inspired to keep going, one messy, magical page at a time.

P.S. Here's some great news! The Resilient Writers Radio Show is featured as one of the Top 90 Book Podcasts on the web. You can find the list here.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

Hey there, Writer—welcome back to another episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show! Today, I’m chatting with author Terra Luft, a speculative fiction writer whose imagination leans toward the dark, twisty, and psychologically thrilling. 

Terra’s been writing since 2008 and just released her first solo short story collection, Nightmares of My Own. If you’ve ever wrestled with perfectionism, felt like your writing life doesn’t look “ideal,” or wondered if your small pockets of time could actually move your book forward—this episode is for you.

Terra opens up about her journey from isolated kitchen writing sessions to finding her footing in the writing community—and why that community was the game-changer that kept her going. 

For over a decade, she’s published short stories in various anthologies, always dreaming of someday putting together a collection of her own. That dream became real in December 2024, and in this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of how it happened.

We talk about why short stories became her chosen form—spoiler: instant gratification plays a big role! Terra shares how writing short fiction allowed her to sharpen her craft in the midst of a demanding life, including full-time work in healthcare IT, going back to school, and raising a family. 

One of my favorite parts of this conversation is when Terra shares how attending my Book Finishers Bootcamp shifted everything for her. She let go of the idea that she needed perfect conditions to write and leaned into consistent, realistic goals. She started writing on weekends while camping with her family—yes, literally around the campfire in a folding chair—and that’s how her book got finished.

Terra also walks us through her first foray into self-publishing, with all its surprises, challenges, and lessons learned. From choosing the perfect cover design to figuring out proofreading order (hint: it’s trickier than it seems!), Terra’s honest insights will resonate with anyone considering self-publishing. 

She shares how she curated the stories in her collection—crafting a reading journey from sci-fi to psychological horror to paranormal—and how discovering the unifying theme of “nightmares” helped her land on the perfect title.

We also talk about what she’s working on now: revising her favorite novel, with a goal of two writing sessions a week and 3,000 words. I loved hearing how the skills and confidence she built through short fiction and bootcamp are now fueling her longer work.

So if you’re wondering whether it’s “too late,” or if you have “enough time,” or if your first book needs to be perfect...this episode will remind you that the real magic is in starting anyway.

You can grab Nightmares of My Own wherever books are sold, and trust me—it’s a wild and wonderful ride.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

If you’ve ever wondered whether self-publishing is “worth it,” or felt overwhelmed by all the moving parts—editing, design, distribution, marketing—this episode is for you. 

I’m joined by Leanne Janzen of FriesenPress, the author-services arm of Friesens Corporation, a century-old Canadian printer trusted by traditional publishers and indie authors alike. 

Leanne has worn multiple hats—from publishing specialist to leading a sales team—and she’s passionate about demystifying today’s publishing landscape so writers can make informed, confident choices.

We start by clearing up an old term—“vanity publishing.” In 2025, it’s out of date. Leanne breaks the indie space into two practical paths: DIY self-publishing and service-provider self-publishing. 

With DIY, you’re the project manager: you learn what you can, hire freelancers (editor, formatter, cover designer), and quarterback the whole timeline. It can be empowering—but also time-intensive and overwhelming, especially for first-timers. With a reputable service provider, you still retain creative control (yes, you can reject a cover or choose your price!), but you also get a dedicated project manager, pre-vetted editors and designers, and quality checks at each stage so you don’t miss critical steps.

We dig into costs and transparency. Expect a range: a basic path without editing at FriesenPress sits around $2,200, while a premium, all-in “masterpiece” path (specialty cover, three rounds of editing, promo coaching, social planning, promos) can reach $15,000. 

Industry-wide, a commonly cited average to produce a quality book is $5–6K—and if you’re spending in that zone with a service provider, Leanne says at least one round of editing should be included. 

👉 The big lesson: clear pricing pages, plain-English agreements, and upfront explanations of scope matter. If a company won’t share a contract before you pay—red flag.

Leanne also flags common author pitfalls: designing files before checking trim sizes and distributor specs; assuming one print file fits all platforms; and underestimating the time cost when you try to save cash. Her advice: if you’ll eventually want help with distribution, talk to potential partners early and get their external design specs before you commission files.

We also touch on resources and funding. FriesenPress offers free guides (author’s publishing guide, crowdfunding, writing templates). Crowdfunding (think Kickstarter) can bridge the budget gap, and in Canada, arts councils and provincial/federal grants may help—worth exploring. 

Finally, we clarify service provider vs. hybrid presses: they differ in distribution channels, royalty formulas, and sometimes rights. Read agreements carefully, especially around content ownership. And if your dream requires strong creative control (like a specific cover), indie publishing is often the better fit than traditional.

If you're looking for more information on self-publishing, grab one of these free guides from FriesenPress:

Author's Guide

Writing Guide

Crowdfunding Guide

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In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with the thoughtful and talented Canadian author, Rebecca Morris. 

Rebecca’s debut novel, Other Maps, was published in 2024 with Linda Leith Publishing, and it’s a powerful exploration of friendship, trauma, healing—and the quiet resilience that carries us through. 

In this conversation, we dive into her creative process, the emotional weight of writing about difficult topics, and how she supports other writers through their own journeys.

Rebecca began her writing life with the big dream of crafting a novel, but quickly found herself leaning into short fiction to learn the craft and get those satisfying wins of finishing and publishing smaller pieces. That experience gave her the structure and confidence she needed to return to the long-form project that became Other Maps. 

Originally told from the perspective of one character, the story evolved into a dual point-of-view narrative when Rebecca realized the emotional depth and importance of her second character’s voice. The final novel alternates chapters between two women navigating past trauma and present reconnection—a structure she carefully mapped out with color-coded Post-It notes!

We also explored the challenges of writing trauma with care. Other Maps is a “Me Too” novel, and Rebecca spoke with such grace and honesty about the responsibility of holding emotional truth in fiction. 

She emphasized the importance of taking breaks, checking in with yourself, and doing research to ensure that you’re treating sensitive material with both realism and deep respect. Even in fiction, readers bring their real-life experiences to the page—and that connection is powerful.

One of my favorite parts of this chat? Talking about writing routines and how to stay focused in a noisy world. Rebecca is a big fan of analog tools (me too!), like egg timers and sand hourglasses, to carve out intentional writing time without the distraction of her phone. She starts her days with freewriting to clear her head, and aims to protect her most creative hours in the early morning—something so many of us can relate to.

I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

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In this heartwarming and insightful episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Matty Dalrymple—thriller author, podcaster, speaker, and indie publishing pro. 

Matty’s not only the writer behind the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels and Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, but also a passionate advocate for the power of short fiction—and trust me, she has so much wisdom to share.

We kick things off with Matty’s love of all things nautical (yes, even boat-watching on vacation!), and quickly dive into how she first began writing short fiction. What started as a way to keep her readers engaged between novels quickly turned into a cornerstone of her writing life. 

Matty’s “snippets” from the Ann Kinnear universe are fan favorites—and she now has a growing collection of suspenseful short reads that offer bite-sized thrills and deep character moments.

Matty walks us through the practical side of indie publishing short fiction, sharing tips on affordable cover design, working with beta readers, and even bringing her stories to life through audio narration. 

Her approach is smart, approachable, and encouraging—perfect for writers who want to do more without burning out or breaking the bank.

One of my favorite parts of our conversation? Hearing how short fiction can act as a creative refresh. Whether she’s exploring a quirky character like Garak Mazur (Ann’s ghostly, curmudgeonly mentor) or experimenting with settings and ideas that don’t quite fit a full novel, Matty embraces short stories as a playful way to stay inspired—and sometimes, they even lead to new books she hadn’t planned on writing!

And if you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a real market for short fiction? Matty’s answer is a resounding yes. Her short stories continue to sell (even with minimal promotion!), and they’ve become an unexpected income stream as well as a way to keep her readers excited and engaged.

We wrap up with encouragement for any writer who’s curious about short fiction but unsure where to start. Matty’s advice? Don’t overthink it—just try it out. A short story can be a creative experiment, a reader gift, or even a new path forward in your writing career.

Tune in and fall in love with the possibilities of short fiction, all over again

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In this week's episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ana del Valle Distasio, author, book coach, and host of The Novelist Studio podcast. 

Ana brings a fascinating mix of creative writing chops and tech-savvy brilliance to the table — and she’s on a mission to help writers harness the power of AI without compromising their voice or creative control.

We talked about everything from her early love of storytelling (her first story was a love story… written in Spanish at age six!) to her journey through Silicon Valley and why she made the bold leap from fantasy YA under her pen name S.N. Blue to her upcoming humorous women’s fiction novel, Valley of the Dudes.

But where things really got juicy? When we dove into how Ana is using tools like ChatGPT to support novelists — not to replace their creativity, but to amplify it.

Ana’s take is refreshingly grounded. She reminds us that AI isn’t some evil robot out to steal your manuscript. Instead, she likens ChatGPT to a super-smart assistant — like a “robot librarian” that can help you brainstorm, organize, and refine your work… if you know how to guide it properly.

We got into the common fears writers have around AI — like privacy, copyright, and whether the output is even any good (spoiler: it can be, but only if you know how to prompt it well). Ana explained how she’s built a thoughtful framework for using ChatGPT to outline, edit, and develop character backstories — all while ensuring that the writer remains in full control of the story.

We also didn’t shy away from the big-picture stuff: bias in AI, its environmental impact, and whether we risk losing skills like summarizing or editing when we rely on tools like this. Ana had such a thoughtful and honest perspective — especially on how to train ChatGPT to work in a way that actually supports your process.

If you're curious about using AI as a co-creative ally — especially for outlining or developmental edits — this episode is a must-listen.

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In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Canadian author Alexis von Konigslow—and what a fascinating conversation it was.

Alexis is the author of The Capacity for Infinite Happiness, and her latest novel The Exclusion Zone is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve put it down. 

Set in the haunting and still-radioactive landscape surrounding Chernobyl, it follows a scientist grappling with fear—both personal and collective—and offers an atmospheric, anxiety-tinged exploration of what it means to confront the unknown.

We dug into the origin of Alexis’s obsession with the Exclusion Zone (spoiler: it started with a commute and a news article) and how her deep dives into science and nature sparked the seed of this novel. 

Alexis brings a unique perspective as someone with a background in mathematical physics and a day job as a technical writer—she’s fluent in both the scientific and creative languages, and she uses that skill to craft stories that bridge the two.

I loved hearing about her writing process, which, as she humbly shared, involved a lot of “stolen moments”—from writing in the Notes app on her phone while standing in line at the grocery store, to letting scenes unfold in her mind during a daily commute. 

This book took ten years from first draft to publication, and Alexis doesn’t shy away from how real life—work, parenting, and all the everyday details—complicated that process. But she kept going, one minute at a time.

We also talked about writing fear and tension into your setting and how emotional honesty—pulling off the band-aid, as Alexis put it—can help create that lived-in, visceral feeling for the reader. She shared some beautiful insights about being open to observation and about writing the kind of book only you can write, even if it takes longer, and even if it’s different from what the market “wants.”

If you’re someone who’s balancing writing with a busy life, wondering how to stay true to your creative voice, or just love a good science-meets-story moment, this episode is for you.

The Exclusion Zone is out in May 2025 from the always-fabulous Canadian indie press Wolsak & Wynn. Go grab your copy—and get ready to be unsettled in the best possible way.

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What happens when your personal journey of healing and transformation inspires a novel? 

That’s exactly what happened to this week’s podcast guest, award-winning author SL Clarke (Sherrie Lynn Clarke), whose debut novel, When He Returns, explores resilience, trauma, and redemption.

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, Sherrie Lynn shares the fascinating backstory behind her novel’s evolution—from its first publication as True Strength to its rebranding and relaunch as When He Returns.

We discuss the deep emotional roots of the story, how martial arts played a crucial role in her personal growth, and why she ultimately decided to change the book’s title and cover to better fit the women’s domestic suspense genre.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

✨ How Sherrie Lynn channeled her own emotional transformation into her protagonist’s journey 

✨ The challenges of self-publishing and why she decided to rebrand her book 

✨ How she tackled cover design, book marketing, and genre alignment 

✨ What it’s like to write about deeply personal experiences while keeping fiction fictional 

✨ Her current memoir-in-progress about grief, faith, and self-discovery

If you’ve ever struggled with finding the right title, cover, or marketing approach for your book, this episode is packed with insights! Plus, you’ll love hearing about Sherrie Lynn’s creative journey—from marching band and martial arts to indie publishing and beyond.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I sat down with the wonderful Kat Caldwell — and let me tell you, it was such an energizing, heartfelt conversation that I just know you’re going to love.

Kat is the host of the Pencils&Lipstick podcast, a multi-genre indie author, and someone who’s passionate about helping writers like us stay creative and resilient. 

She’s been on this writing journey for over a decade, and together, we dove into the realities of what that path actually looks like — spoiler alert: it doesn’t magically get easier after you publish your first (or third!) book.

Kat opened up about how she first fell in love with stories as a kid, rewriting endings and imagining new adventures. But like so many of us, she struggled to figure out how to “make writing a real thing” when it came to careers and degrees. 

One thing that really stuck with me was how honest Kat was about the mental hurdles we face. She described the fear of finishing one project and worrying there might not be another idea after it. I could completely relate — I’ve been there too! 

But Kat reminded me (and all of us) that even when you switch genres or work on a new type of project, it’s always a fresh beast to tackle. Each book, each story, demands its own unique approach, and that’s part of what keeps this work exciting (and yes, sometimes maddening!).

We talked about the importance of joy in the writing process — how crucial it is to write what you love, without judgment. Kat encouraged writers to let go of the idea that every word or every story has to be “literary” or world-changing. 

Whether you’re passionate about romance, sci-fi, or even writing short flash fiction pieces just for fun, it’s all valuable. Not every word needs to be published — sometimes writing just for yourself is what keeps the spark alive.

Kat also shared some smart advice about learning to toss out what isn’t working (including, in her case, tossing a whopping 60,000-word draft!) and recognizing that not every review or piece of feedback matters. What truly matters is creating work you’re proud of.

She even gave us a sneak peek into her resource: 10 Ways to Bring Joy Back Into Your Writing Life — which you can grab at the link. 

If you’re feeling stuck or disconnected from your writing right now, this is the episode for you.

I walked away from this conversation feeling re-energized and reminded that we are resilient writers — we keep going, not because it’s easy, but because we love the process and the stories we’re here to tell. I hope you tune in and feel the same spark of inspiration I did!

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

In today’s episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I’m absolutely thrilled to sit down with the incredible Canadian author Catherine Bush. 

Catherine has written five novels—including Blaze Island and The Rules of Engagement—and has racked up an impressive list of accolades along the way. But today, we're diving into something a little different: her very first collection of short stories, Skin.

I loved hearing Catherine talk about why she turned to short fiction after years of working in long-form novels. Like many of us, she found herself exhausted during the pandemic and needed a new creative challenge—something playful, something pleasurable. Short stories, flash fiction, and even novella-length pieces became her way back into joy.

Skin isn’t just a collection of new work either; it brings together pieces from across her writing life, reimagined and revisited with the wisdom she’s gained over the years. I loved hearing her describe it as a "fractured writer’s autobiography."

We also explore how Catherine’s work continues to weave in themes of climate change and environmental intimacy, from a man obsessed with extreme windstorms to a woman’s strangely moving encounter with a glacier. 

Catherine shares how she tries to reframe the typical “doom and gloom” narrative around climate change by writing about it in ways that are fresh, intimate, and full of wonder. Her reflections on finding new, non-cliché language to capture the natural world were so inspiring.

One of the things I found especially fascinating was how Catherine thinks about revision. Whether working on a novel or a short story, she approaches the process slowly, deeply, and with a fierce dedication to re-seeing the work each time she sits down. 

Revision isn’t just about tweaking words—it’s about returning to the heart of the story, again and again, to bring it closer to its fullest, most alive version. Hearing how she balances specificity with liveliness was a real reminder to be patient with our own messy drafts.

We also talked about tenderness—how important it is to bring a loving, attentive gaze to both our characters and our readers. Catherine’s thoughts on writing as a reciprocal act, a gift exchange between writer and reader, really stayed with me. It's not about judgment; it's about listening and offering something meaningful.

Catherine’s new collection Skin is published by Goose Lane Editions, and she shares a bit about what it was like working with them (hint: she’s thrilled with the stunning cover!). Plus, she talks about the gift of working with fellow writer André Alexis as an editor for this project—how his intense, detailed feedback pushed her stories to an even deeper level.

Whether you’re working on a novel, experimenting with short stories, or simply needing a boost of creative inspiration, this conversation is full of encouragement, wisdom, and heart.

Thanks for tuning in, Writer—I'm so glad you're here!

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I've got some news...this week I am going back to producing the show on a WEEKLY basis, instead of doing Seasons of 12 episodes. Expect more writerly goodness to come!

I’m so excited to introduce you to the wonderful Sarah Selecky — award-winning author, beloved teacher, and founder of the Sarah Selecky Writing School. In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah and I dive into the rich and beautiful connection between creativity, mindfulness, and the writing life.

Sarah shares how she’s come to see writing not just as an art form, but as a contemplative practice — a way of being present, tuning into curiosity, and connecting with wonder. 

We talk about her brand-new book, Story is a State of Mind: Writing and the Art of Creative Curiosity, where she distills decades of her teaching and personal writing practice into a thoughtful, encouraging guide for writers who want to nurture both their intellect and intuition.

During our conversation, Sarah and I explore something I know many writers struggle with — the balance between structure and creative freedom. She shares how her early writing grew from intuition rather than structured plotting, and what it looked like for her to learn how to bring structure into her storytelling without losing the sense of mystery and discovery that makes writing feel so alive.

Sarah even offered a simple, beautiful exercise you can try — using pen and paper to list words starting with a single letter — to help ease into creativity without judgment. It’s such a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the smallest rituals can gently open the door to deeper creative work.

We also talked about the power of community — and how important it is for us, as writers, not to try and do this alone. Sarah shared her journey from solitary writer to community builder, and how her online space, Centered, grew out of a desire to support writers in a way that feels nourishing, intuitive, and sustainable. 

I love how Centered invites writers into a creative life rooted in wonder, rest, and shared joy — not hustle or competition. I've been part of this community and can highly recommend it!

You can join in a workshop Sarah is offering through Centred on May 14th, with Amy T. Won, entitled Creative Contemplation Through Wonder, for just $20 as a drop-in fee.

Throughout our conversation, what touched me most was Sarah’s emphasis on giving ourselves grace. Writing creatively isn’t easy — it asks us to bridge the worlds of structure and imagination in a way that’s neurologically complex and deeply human. 

If you’ve ever struggled to trust your own creative instincts or felt overwhelmed by the pressure to “get it right,” this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. I hope you’ll find inspiration here to be gentler with yourself, reconnect with your love of words, and savor the deep, sustaining beauty of the writing life.

Welcome back to the podcast -- I'm so glad you're here!

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Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of building your author platform? Not sure where to start or how to connect with your readers? You’re not alone! 

In this week’s episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I sit down with author and certified book coach Nicole Meier to break it all down into simple, actionable steps.

Nicole is the author of The House of Bradbury, The Girl Made of Clay, and The Second Chance Supper Club, and her latest book, City of Books, is out now! She’s also a developmental editor and co-founder of Bookworks, where she helps writers create an engaging author platform that aligns with their goals.

In our conversation, Nicole shares why so many writers feel stuck when it comes to marketing themselves—and how to move past the overwhelm. If you’ve ever thought, Do I have to be on every social media platform? Do I need a newsletter? What kind of content should I even be sharing?—this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways:

✅ Start with Your “Why” – Before diving into social media or email marketing, take a moment to reflect on what you want from your platform. Do you want to connect with readers? Build credibility? Attract an agent? Understanding your purpose will help you make smarter choices.

✅ Go Where Your Readers Are – Not every platform is right for every author. Romance writers might thrive on Instagram, while nonfiction writers may find their audience on LinkedIn. Nicole shares how to identify the best place to focus your energy.

✅ Less is More – The biggest mistake writers make is trying to be everywhere at once. Nicole recommends choosing one platform and showing up consistently rather than spreading yourself too thin. Quality and consistency matter more than quantity!

✅ Be Authentic – You don’t have to dance on TikTok or create elaborate content if it doesn’t feel right for you. Share your writing journey, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights into your creative process—authenticity is what truly connects readers to authors.

✅ Newsletters Are Gold – Social media is great for visibility, but email lists convert better when it comes to book sales. Nicole explains why a newsletter (via Substack or another platform) can be a game-changer for your author career.

✅ Avoid Common Mistakes – Nicole highlights the top three mistakes authors make: not knowing their purpose, overcommitting to too many platforms, and feeling like they’re not “worthy” of having a platform. She reassures us that small, consistent efforts are what really matter.

If you want a step-by-step plan to grow your audience, this episode could be exactly what you need!

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

This week on The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I had an absolute blast chatting with sci-fi suspense author JC Spark about her thrilling debut novel, Dire Contact: No Brainer Book 1. 

JC is a recent graduate of my First Book Finish program, so it was a real delight to catch up!

If you love books that keep you up at night turning pages, this one’s for you! JC describes Dire Contact as “if Good Omens and Doctor Who had a baby.” (I mean, come on—how fun does that sound?) 

But beyond the book itself, we dive deep into her incredible journey from idea to published novel, including the challenges of outlining a complex, multi-POV sci-fi series and navigating the world of self-publishing.

Some highlights from our conversation:

📌 From Spreadsheet to Page-Turner: JC shares how she meticulously plotted her book using a detailed spreadsheet (yes, she’s a planner!) and how early on, she realized she had not one but three books in the making.

📌 Crowdfunding for Authors: Instead of taking the traditional publishing route, JC launched her book via a crowdfunding campaign on BackerKit’s Booktopia. She opens up about why she chose this path, the highs and lows of the campaign, and the joy of building a community around her book.

📌 Illustrated Special Editions: JC went the extra mile with her book by incorporating stunning character artwork inside her special editions. She shares how she worked with an illustrator and how she’s using these visuals across social media to build her book world.

📌 Publishing in Two Languages: Did you know Dire Contact was released in both English and German? JC walks us through the challenges of managing two versions of her book, from translation to marketing (and even a little spine-labeling mishap she learned the hard way!).

📌 Lessons from Self-Publishing: From finding the right printer to getting the perfect cover (after a few failed attempts), JC offers some hard-earned wisdom for anyone thinking about going indie with their book.

And exciting news—JC’s next book, Space Time: No Brainer Book 2, launches via crowdfunding on March 25th, alongside the wide release of Dire Contact on Amazon, Kobo, Apple, and more. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your book from an idea to a reality, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and real talk about what it takes to make it happen.

👉 Grab your copy of Dire Contact here!

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

If you’ve ever wondered how a writer turns the messiness of lived experience into a story readers can’t put down, this conversation with Shani Mootoo will light you up. 

Shani—novelist, poet, and visual artist—joins me to talk about her newest book, Starry Starry Night, a work that took root more than 35 years ago and slowly transformed from raw, private pages into a fiercely crafted novel.

Shani shares how, in her early years, she was primarily a visual artist and video maker with zero intention of writing. Still, she found herself “brooding,” jotting things down that troubled her. Those notes eventually turned into about 65 pages—never meant for public eyes—until a mentor quietly slipped them to a publisher. 

What followed was a career of nine books (including one of my all-time favorites Cereus Blooms at Night!), poetry, awards, and the long apprenticeship required to write this book the way it needed to be written.

We talk about the slippery line people call “auto-fiction” and why that label can be too reductive. Shani describes the deliberate choice to keep the narrator’s point of view rooted in childhood—from ages four to twelve—without letting her adult intelligence step in to explain. 

That decision demanded astonishing restraint: a child doesn’t analyze; she perceives, and those perceptions must carry the weight of the story. Shani also reflects on the power (and difficulty) of “becoming every character,” including the abuser in Cereus Blooms at Night, to portray complex human beings rather than one-note villains.

You’ll hear how attention to language—word choice, sentence placement, even a single comma—reshaped Shani’s understanding of the story over time. We touch on family, secrecy, memory, and the tender urge to honor the child we once were. 

There’s a beautiful moment about her father’s final encouragement—“Don’t censor yourself”—and what that permission unlocked. We also talk about epigraphs, photographs (yes, there are real family photos in the book), and how visual art and writing cross-pollinate in her creative life.

If you care about voice, point of view, and truth-telling on the page, this episode is for you.

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Do you ever find yourself wondering, “Am I really a writer?” or “Is my work even good enough?” If so, you’re not alone! 

Confidence is something so many writers struggle with, which is why I’m thrilled to bring you this week’s episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show featuring confidence coach and book editor, Kirsten McNeill.

Kirsten is the founder of Worthy Writers Editing and the host of the Worthy Writers Podcast. She helps writers break through self-doubt, embrace their creative journey, and build a writing life filled with passion and confidence. 

If you’ve ever hesitated to share your work or doubted your ability to finish a book, this episode is packed with insights just for you!

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

✅ The real reason self-doubt keeps holding you back—and how to break free from it.
✅ Why embracing imperfection is a game-changer for your writing.
✅ How your why can fuel your confidence and motivation.
✅ The connection between craft and confidence—and why you don’t need to be an expert to start.
✅ Simple, practical strategies to boost your belief in yourself as a writer.

Kirsten also introduces her Feed Your Horses Confidence Thought Exercise, a fun and insightful workbook designed to help you reframe negative thoughts and build a more confident writing mindset. You can grab your free copy here!

If you’re tired of second-guessing yourself and want to feel more confident about your writing, don’t miss this episode.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

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 your passions, embracing change, and navigating the self-publishing world. She’s a true example of resilience and reinvention, proving that it’s never too late to chase a new dream.

Enjoy the episode!

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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!

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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.

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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If you’ve ever wondered how your personal history and lived experiences might shape the stories you write, this conversation with novelist and poet Bruce Hunter will move and inspire you.

Bruce joins Rhonda to talk about the re-release of his award-winning novel In the Bear’s House (Frontenac House, 2024)—a powerful story set in 1950s and ’60s Alberta about a young mother raising her deaf son, told through two unforgettable points of view.

Born in Calgary on Treaty Seven lands, Bruce was deafened as an infant and has lived with low vision most of his life. His path to becoming a writer was anything but ordinary: he worked as a laborer, equipment operator, and Zamboni driver before earning a poetry scholarship to the Banff School of Fine Arts, where he studied with W.O. Mitchell and Irving Layton.

In this heartfelt discussion, Bruce shares how his lived experience shaped both the mother and son in In the Bear’s House—and why empathy, patience, and craftsmanship matter more to him than speed. 

He also opens up about the deep research that went into the novel, including his discovery of family connections with the Stoney Nakoda people and the true story of a friendship pipe that became a symbol of reconciliation.

Rhonda and Bruce talk about:

• Writing from multiple points of view and why he nearly abandoned the novel halfway through.
• How In the Bear’s House was translated into Italian before the English edition came out.
• The importance of place, memory, and sensory detail when writing about the Kootenay Plains.
• Balancing historical accuracy with emotional truth.
• The resilience it takes to stay creative across decades.

Bruce’s reflections on deafness, isolation, and finding one’s voice—both literally and artistically—make this a moving and unforgettable conversation.

Whether you’re deep in your first draft or revisiting work from years ago, this episode reminds us that storytelling is an act of endurance, curiosity, and care.

Links mentioned:

• In the Bear’s House by Bruce Hunter — Frontenac House (2024 edition)
• Bruce’s website.

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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

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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! 

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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.

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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.