If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your progress (or lack of progress), it’s probably time to take a step back from your writing and consider your mindset.

To help you do just that, I’m sharing a conversation in today’s podcast episode with April Dávila, an award-winning author, speaker, and writing coach who specializes in teaching writers to integrate mediation into their writing practice.

Tune into this episode to hear us talk about how integrating mindfulness in her writing practice helped April push past writer’s block, write fewer drafts, craft more compelling characters, and so much more.

In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:

• [03:18] How April’s mindfulness practice helped her go from struggling to write her novel to getting an agent, selling her book, and winning awards
• [07:20] What you can do in just 5-10 minutes per day to develop your own mindfulness practice—and how this can help you be a more focused writer
• [10:20] How to identify the root cause of your writer’s block (and why this is so important in terms of your ability to banish writer’s block for good)
• [12:54] Why understanding your emotions (and sitting with them even if they’re uncomfortable) is the key to writing characters that are rich and engaging
• [20:19] April’s favorite tip for editing your own work more effectively (and how it’s not just about “taking time and space away from your draft”)
• [29:35] Why it’s important to be kind and compassionate to yourself so that you don’t get burned out or end up feeling so discouraged that you quit writing

This is a super fun episode with my guest, April Dávila, and I can’t wait for you to hear her top 6 ways mindfulness can make you a happier and more productive writer.

Click here to listen!

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"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too!

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• April Dávila on Instagram
• April Dávila Website
• Ep. 88 - Perfectionism vs. Procrastination: What's REALLY Going On?

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

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👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

Crafting compelling backstories for your fictional characters is critical to developing a cohesive story, but it’s sometimes easier said than done.

There are endless options when it comes to which details you can include in your character’s backstory, and what you do include will influence everything that happens in your story—from the plot events to your character’s motivations to your own ability to manage the thematic subtext of your story on a scene-by-scene-basis.

In this episode, I’m going to walk you through how to develop your character’s backstory in three steps, including things like:

• [04:12] How to uncover your character’s wounding event that gives rise to a specific fear (or inner obstacle) that haunts them in the present-day
• [06:57] A framework to help you crystalize your character’s inner obstacle—and why doing this work helps you establish where their character arc starts
• [09:31] How your character’s backstory can help inform your plot (and help you create meaningful conflict to help them grow and change)
• [12:55] An exploration of Simon Basset’s backstory and character arc (from the first Bridgerton book, The Duke & I)
• [17:42] Episode recap and final thoughts

Developing your character’s backstory before you start writing can help you develop your theme, craft your plot, build your story world, and so much more. That being said, there’s no “right” or “wrong” time to flesh out your character’s backstory. Do whatever works best for you and your process!

Click here to listen!

⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ep. 14 - How to Handle Character Backstory in Your Novel
• The Emotional Wound Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Psychological Trauma by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

Have you ever heard someone say that the only difference between a published author and an unpublished author is that the published author never gave up?

I wholeheartedly believe this, and my guest today proves it’s true.

Savannah Carlisle writes heartwarming romance novels that transport readers to fun and quirky small towns where friends feel like family. And her debut novel, The Library of Second Chances, is officially available for purchase as of May 2024. 

Tune into this episode to hear us talk about her path to publication—from writing the first draft of this story to breaking up with her agent to working with a developmental editor and #kisspitch mentor to ultimately finding a home at her dream publisher.

In the episode, we talk about things like:

[09:47] How Savannah pulled inspiration from her real-life, You’ve Got Mail, and her dream publisher’s wishlist to write The Library of Second Chances 

[11:37] Why Savannah broke up with her agent (and how, in hindsight, this was one of the best decisions Savannah’s made in terms of her writing) 

[14:10] The biggest takeaway Savannah had from working with a developmental editor (me!)—and how this still informs her writing today 

[16:10] What it was like to work with Jessica Lepe, a #kisspitch mentor and author, who just finished querying a similar story based on You’ve Got Mail 

[22:35] How Savannah found her dream publisher as an un-agented author at Harpeth Road (and why she went this route versus self-publishing) 

[25:50] What it was like to find her current agent—and why she believes having an agent is important (even though she’s a lawyer herself)

⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Savannah Carlisle’s Website
• Savannah Carlisle on Instagram
• The Library of Second Chances by Savannah Carlisle
• Jessica Lepe’s Website
• The Manuscript Academy
• Ep. 40 - How to Write a Well-Structured Scene

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“Human beings want to hear the stories of other human beings. And that's exactly what podcasts do.” - Michelle Glogovac

You have a finished book, now what? Learn how to pitch yourself to podcasts (and create your own podcast book tour!) in this episode.  Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[04:47] What is a podcast book tour? And what are the benefits of doing one?

[12:20] How to pitch yourself, even if you don’t have a finished book.

[31:32] How to repurpose content from your interviews so you get the biggest ROI from your effort.

[36:58] Michelle encourages authors of all experience levels to share their own unique story—and to find value in sharing that story, even if you don't have a finished book just yet.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Michelle's Website
• Book: How to Get on Podcasts
• Follow Michelle on Instagram
• Episode #85: Student Spotlight: How She Overcame Her Fear of the Blank Page (and Indie Published Her Novel) with Jennifer Lauer
• Read this episode's blog post here!

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“I recommend working on your query letter as soon as you feel good enough about the overall shape of your story.” - Savannah Gilbo

Agents and editors must sort through hundreds of query letters to find an outstanding story. So, how do you write a query letter that catches their attention and makes them want to read more? Tune into this episode to learn how to write a query letter that works! Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[01:31] What are query letters, and why are they important?

[03:46] How to write a query letter.

[14:49] How to troubleshoot your query letter if it’s too long or not working.

[18:02] Final thoughts and episode recap

Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

• Episode #58: 10 Querying Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
• QueryShark
• QueryTracker
• Read this episode's blog post here!

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“The object itself didn't cause the conflict. The person who made the choice with the object caused the conflict.” - Randy Ellefson

In today’s episode, we’re going to cover something really fun—how to create believable monsters. And I have a special guest joining me today—someone that knows way more about creating monsters than I do. His name is Randy Ellefson, and he is the author of The Art of World Building.  Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[03:48] Randy gives us his definition of a monster, what physical or physiological deformities they may have, and whether they are sentient beings.

[16:05] Randy breaks down the three types of monsters: accidental monsters, monsters by design, and monsters by evolution.

[28:42] Is it more effective to compel readers to keep reading despite knowing the outcome, or to cultivate curiosity that propels the audience to move forward?

[29:15] Randy shares common monster motivations, including a popular one that may lack credibility.

[50:47] The idea of exploring diverse topics and genres can expose writers to new ideas and provide fresh perspectives, even for writers not typically inclined towards fantasy, sci-fi, or historical fiction.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Click here to register for the free Sci-Fi & Fantasy Author's Summit hosted by Paula Judith Johnson and Randy Ellefson! 
• Randy's Website
• Randy's Books
• Randy's Worldbuilding Classes
• Ep. 111 - Student Spotlight: From Messy First Draft to Publishing His Debut Novel With Edward J. Cembal
• Read this episode's blog post here!

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“We need to advance the plot and we need to develop the character. When you can marry the two, you have a strong scene.” - Abigail K. Perry

We’re taking a deep dive into Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins to see how and why it works. Join me and Abigail K. Perry as we break down this first chapter of the third book of The Hunger Games trilogy to see how it hooks our interest and pulls us into the story! Here's a preview of what's included: 

[04:03] Chapter summary: This opening chapter sets up themes of resistance, manipulation, and personal agency against a backdrop of political turmoil and survival

[07:41] Macro analysis, using Paula Munier’s 7 Key Questions: Suzanne Collins masterfully sets up the expectations by addressing the tone, themes, and stakes of "Mockingjay", ensuring readers are engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead

[26:17] Microanalysis, using Story Grid’s 5 Commandments: In the opening scene, Katniss Everdeen deals with the pressure to become the Mockingjay. Her internal conflict regarding her future role intensifies, setting the stage for subsequent events in the story.

[53:13] Final thoughts: The opening scene balances macro and microelements, ensuring readers are engaged and invested from the start. Evaluating your opening chapter through this comprehensive lens is invaluable for effectively delivering the big picture and the intricate details to your audience. 

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Check out the LitMatch Podcast with Abigail Perry here! You can also get in touch with Abigail through her website or on Instagram @abigailkperry.
• Episode #132 - First Chapter Analysis: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
• Episode #136 - First Chapter Analysis: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
• Read this episode's blog post here! 

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

Telling a story through multiple viewpoints can be a great way to create a more expansive (and objective) look at your characters, world, plot, and/or theme. But with each additional viewpoint character you add to your story, the more room there is for mistakes. In this episode, I'm sharing the 5 most common multi POV mistakes writers make and how to avoid them in your draft.

Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[2:10] Mistake #1: Including too many POV characters without an intentional reason for including each one.

[6:10] Mistake #2: Not developing each POV character as if they were the protagonist of their own story—they lack their own goal, motivation, and conflict.

[9:01] Mistake #3: Not tying the characters' storylines together via a common plot problem, a central relationship, or binding their fates together.

[11:47] Mistake #4: Head hopping between different POV characters without making the switch clear to the reader.

[14:56] Mistake #5: Rehashing the same scene from different POVs without offering the reader new and potent  information.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

• Ep. #7 - 5 Questions to Help You Write Better Characters

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“Writing is a creative project. It's not an earthquake, but the thoughts and the worries can feel similar. If I can have a positive association or feel prepared for an earthquake, surely I can do that for writing.” - Rhonda Douglas

Ever found yourself staring at the blank page, trying to write but unable to find the right words? You’re not alone! Tune in to hear Rhonda Douglas share strategies for managing creative anxiety and writer’s block.  Here’s a preview of what’s included

[01:29] What is creative anxiety and how does it commonly show up?

[12:13] The difference between preventive vs. curative measures for dealing with creative anxiety and some examples of each that you can implement in your routine

[32:21] Dividing the writing process into smaller segments, such as outlining part one of your book or focusing on just one paragraph, can help you overcome creative anxiety

[38:24] I adored Rhonda's insight in this episode about proactively addressing creative anxiety before it even kicks in during your writing sessions. It's such a brilliant notion! Plus, the beauty lies in how personalized this approach can be for each writer. Whether it's a quick meditation session, setting up a cozy ambiance with a flickering candle, or simply brewing a comforting cup of tea while rounding up your favorite snacks, the options are endless!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Rhonda's website
• Instagram
• Podcast: The Resilient Writers Radio Show

Read this episode's blog post here! 

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

“Focus your pre-writing and drafting and revising efforts on the present moment of your story.” - Daniel David Wallace

I asked five of my peers to share one of their favorite writing tips, and boy, did they deliver! Tune in to hear 5 editors and coaches talk about their favorite tip and why it’s so helpful. Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[01:40] Tip #1: Fully embrace scene structure in your storytelling process because the narrative will flow seamlessly from beginning to end.

[06:12] Tip #2: Keep your focus on the forward momentum of your story by avoiding excessive backstory or exposition that might slow down the pacing.

[11:05] Tip #3: Dedicate equal attention to crafting your protagonist's internal journey as you do to advancing the external plot of your story.

[14:48] Tip #4: Make the most of your story's midpoint to steer clear of the often chaotic middle of the second act.

[21:52] Tip #5: If you hit a creative roadblock, assess which perspective you're currently in and try shifting to another viewpoint.

[27:26] It's so easy to overlook the three distinct perspectives—be it that of the author, character, or reader—which only adds unnecessary complexity. I find immense joy in discovering what resonates with others and moves the needle for them, particularly within the writing community. After all, different techniques suit different individuals, and exploring various perspectives from writers, coaches, and editors is invaluable.

Connect with Guests:

Emily Golden Website
Story Magic Podcast
Instagram

Daniel David Wallace Website
Instagram

Nicole Meier Website
Steps to Story Podcast
Instagram

Abigail K. Perry Website
LitMatch Podcast
Instagram

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

• Episode #40: How to Write a Well-Structured Scene
• Episode #99: 5 Mindset Tips to Help You Unlock Your Writing Potential
• Read this episode's blog post here!

Ready to make 2026 the year you finally finish your novel? Notes to Novel is my signature program that walks you through brainstorming, outlining, and writing a first draft that works—so you always know what to do next. Click here to get on the waitlist →

Support the show

👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.