“The work of creation is slow, laborious, and dull.” – Roger Scruton

Why does the creative life feel like such a struggle sometimes? And how can you keep going when the work feels slow and discouraging?

In this episode, S. D. Smith and Brett Harris talk about why all meaningful accomplishments require effort — and why that’s actually good news for writers.

You’ll hear:

- Why God designed the creative act to be challenging

- What the word passion really means (and why it matters)

- How resistance is part of every great story — including yours

- Why determination beats inspiration every time

If you’ve ever felt like giving up on your writing, this episode will remind you that the hard road is the one worth walking — and that you really can do hard things.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

“Good artists borrow, great artists steal.” — Pablo Picasso

Is copying bad? What about fanfiction? 

In this episode, S. D. Smith and Brett Harris explore why young writers should absolutely imitate their favorite authors — and how doing so leads to originality in the long run.

You’ll hear:

• Why copying is actually a powerful learning tool
• How fanfiction can build real writing skills
• What C. S. Lewis and Shakespeare teach us about originality
• And why you don’t need to stress about having a “completely unique” idea

If you love writing, this episode will set you free to grow, create, and enjoy the journey.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

What if talent is overrated?

In this episode of The Green Writer Show, bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (Do Hard Things, The Young Writer’s Workshop) explore why consistent habits beat raw talent every time.

With wisdom from ancient generals, Aristotle, and even the tortoise and the hare, they make the case that discipline is destiny — especially for young writers.

You’ll discover:

- Why relying on inspiration is a trap

- How to build sustainable writing routines

- What the “100 for 100 Challenge” can do for your writing life

- The surprising power of rest as part of your discipline

- And why excellence isn’t magic — it’s a habit

This is your permission to stop waiting for the perfect moment—and start building the habits that will carry you farther than talent ever could.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

What if talent is overrated?

In this episode of The Green Writer Show, bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (Do Hard Things, The Young Writer’s Workshop) explore why consistent habits beat raw talent every time.

With wisdom from ancient generals, Aristotle, and even the tortoise and the hare, they make the case that discipline is destiny — especially for young writers.

You’ll discover:

- Why relying on inspiration is a trap

- How to build sustainable writing routines

- What the “100 for 100 Challenge” can do for your writing life

- The surprising power of rest as part of your discipline

- And why excellence isn’t magic — it’s a habit

This is your permission to stop waiting for the perfect moment—and start building the habits that will carry you farther than talent ever could.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

“Great hearts can only be made by great troubles.” — Charles Spurgeon

In this emotional episode of The Green Writer, bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (The Young Writer’s Workshop) go deep.

They open up about:

- The pain behind their most powerful writing 💔

- Why your hardest seasons might shape your best work

- How comparison kills creativity — and what to do instead

- Why your heartbreak might be preparing you to write something that matters

This episode isn’t just for writers — it’s for anyone walking through hardship, wondering if it disqualifies them from making meaningful art.

Spoiler: it doesn’t.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

Season 1: Episode 3

Making your readers cry. 😭

That’s the dream, right?

In this episode of The Green Writer Show, bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (The Young Writer’s Workshop) unpack a powerful Frank Capra quote that will change the way you think about storytelling.

You’ll learn:

- Why “show, don’t tell” is the gateway to emotional impact

- How practice—yes, practice—shapes great storytellers

- Why great writers are made—not born

- And how playing as a kid counts more than you think

If you’ve ever dreamed of making readers laugh, cry, or stay up way too late with your book, this one’s for you.

Subscribe now and share this episode with a young writer who needs it.

Season 1: Episode 2

Welcome to the very first episode of The Green Writer Show! 🎉

Bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (The Young Writer’s Workshop) team up to launch a podcast for young writers with big dreams. 

In this kickoff episode, the duo:

🧠  Drop a dope quote from C. S. Lewis
📚  Talk about when Brett ran out of books to read (he was only 14)
🔥  Debate whether we need the next C. S. Lewis — or someone entirely new
💡  Encourage young writers to aim high and embrace their own voice

With plenty of laughs, some light roasting, and a whole lot of heart, The Green Writer Show is here to cheer you on.

Subscribe, share, and stay tuned — this is just the beginning.

Season 1: Episode 1

Meet your new favorite writing podcast.

In this trailer episode of The Green Writer Show, bestselling authors S. D. Smith (The Green Ember) and Brett Harris (Do Hard Things, The Young Writer’s Workshop) share:

- Why they started this podcast for young writers
- What kinds of topics they'll cover
- How YOU can shape future episodes with your questions and comments
- And... some fun banter about wigs

If you’re a young person who loves writing stories, this is for you. It’s fun, it’s encouraging, and it’s full of practical help to fuel your writing journey.

Hit subscribe, and share with a writer friend!