The Writing Community Chat Show

From Social Media Guru to Supernatural Storyteller: An Exclusive Chat with Steven P. Aitchison.

The WCCS Season 15, Episode 05.
















What do witches, Bitcoin, lucid dreams, and a six-figure writing tip have in common? Steven P. Aitchison. In our latest episode of The Writing Community Chat Show, we sat down with this incredible author, entrepreneur, and creative powerhouse to uncover the journey that brought him from social media expert to bestselling supernatural storyteller.And let us tell you—this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and a few jaw-dropping revelations.




Here’s what you’ll discover in this must-watch episode:1. Selling a Business for Bitcoin


Steven shares the remarkable story of how he sold his business for 4 Bitcoin. From building a successful venture to navigating the ups and downs of cryptocurrency, he opens up about the risks, rewards, and lessons he’s learned along the way.2. Mastering Lucid Dreams


Imagine being able to control your dreams and use them as a tool for creativity and self-discovery. Steven reveals how he mastered lucid dreaming and how this skill has transformed his writing process, bringing new depth and vibrancy to his storytelling.3. The Ultimate Hack for Author Marketing


Want to know the marketing tip that made Steven over £100,000? This isn’t your typical "how-to" advice. It’s a game-changing approach that any author can adapt to build their brand, connect with readers, and take their career to the next level.4. Inside The Witches of Scotland Series


Dive into the enchanting world of The Witches of Scotland, Steven’s gripping serial fiction saga that combines the supernatural with the rich cultural backdrop of Scotland. He shares the inspiration behind the series, the challenges of writing epic serial fiction, and what fans can expect next.5. Steven’s Writing Tip for Aspiring Authors


As if all that wasn’t enough, Steven also shares his daily writing practices, his views on creativity and discipline, and the advice he wishes he’d known when he started his journey.




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Connect With The Community

🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.

• 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
• ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
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Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

How to Defeat the Blank Page: A Writer’s Greatest EnemyAh, the blank page. That cold, unfeeling void staring back at you, silently judging your every hesitation. It’s the sworn enemy of every writer—from seasoned novelists to first-time scribblers—and yet, it’s where every masterpiece begins. How cruel.If you’ve ever stared at an empty page and felt a mix of dread and frustration, you’re not alone. Every writer, no matter how experienced, has faced the suffocating silence of the blank page. But here’s the good news: the blank page isn’t invincible. In fact, it’s just waiting for you to take the first step. And that’s what we’re here to talk about today.Recently, we released something very different: a mini-episode video called “The Blank Page: Enemy of the Creative Soul.” It’s a funny, relatable take on the eternal battle between writers and their greatest nemesis. If you haven’t seen it yet, we’ve brought it to life with humor, a touch of drama, and some surprisingly practical advice. (Check it out and let us know what you think!)But for those of you who prefer the written word, let’s dive deeper into how you can tackle the blank page and start turning your ideas into words.1. Why Is the Blank Page So Scary?The blank page can feel like a mirror for all our fears as writers:* What if my idea isn’t good enough?* What if I’m not good enough?* What if I write 3,000 words only to realize it’s utter rubbish?It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the weight of expectation, but here’s the truth: the blank page doesn’t care about perfection. In fact, its job is to be filled—with anything. Your job is to give it something to hold, no matter how messy, silly, or imperfect.2. The Secret to Conquering the Blank PageThere’s no single magic formula to overcome the fear of starting, but here are some tried-and-true strategies that work for us:Start Small and SillyNot every word you write has to be gold. In fact, most first drafts are pure chaos—and that’s okay. Write something ridiculous if you need to. For example:The avocado king declared war on the banana republic. It was a battle no one saw coming.See? It’s silly, but it’s writing! Sometimes the act of putting any words on the page is enough to break through the fear.Lower the StakesStop thinking about writing as “creating a masterpiece.” Think of it as an experiment, a doodle, a rough sketch. Give yourself permission to write badly. It’s easier to edit a terrible sentence than to edit nothing at all.Set a TimerUse the Pomodoro Technique or set a timer for 10 minutes. Tell yourself, “I only have to write for this long.” Often, you’ll find that starting is the hardest part, and once you’re rolling, the words come more easily.Ask QuestionsWhen you’re stuck, start by asking questions about your story. What does your character want? What’s the worst thing that could happen to them today? If you’re not writing fiction, ask yourself what problem you’re trying to solve for your reader.3. A Writer’s Pep TalkIf you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this: Every writer you admire has felt exactly how you feel right now. Even the greats have stared at the blank page and thought, I have no idea what I’m doing.But they pushed through. They started with one messy sentence, then another, and another. That’s all writing is—a series of imperfect sentences that somehow come together to make something meaningful.You don’t have to write a masterpiece today. You don’t even have to write well. You just have to write.4. What Did You Think?This mini-episode was a bit of an experiment for us, blending humor with advice to tackle one of the most universal struggles writers face. Did it resonate with you? Did it make you laugh? Did it help you stare down your blank page with a little more courage?We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Should we create more of these mini-episodes? What other writing challenges would you like us to tackle (with a bit of humor, of course)?As always, thank you for being part of our writing community. Now go forth and fill that blank page—even if it’s just with your grocery list. It’s a start.Happy writing!Subscribe for More Fun and Advice:

This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribe

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Connect With The Community

🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.

• 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
• ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
• 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me

Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

Unlock the Secrets of Success with Steven P. Aitchison: A Writing Community Chat Show ExclusiveWhat do witches, Bitcoin, lucid dreams, and a six-figure writing tip have in common? Steven P. Aitchison. In our latest episode of The Writing Community Chat Show, we sat down with this incredible author, entrepreneur, and creative powerhouse to uncover the journey that brought him from social media expert to bestselling supernatural storyteller.And let us tell you—this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and a few jaw-dropping revelations.Here’s what you’ll discover in this must-watch episode:1. Selling a Business for BitcoinSteven shares the remarkable story of how he sold his business for 4 Bitcoin. From building a successful venture to navigating the ups and downs of cryptocurrency, he opens up about the risks, rewards, and lessons he’s learned along the way.2. Mastering Lucid DreamsImagine being able to control your dreams and use them as a tool for creativity and self-discovery. Steven reveals how he mastered lucid dreaming and how this skill has transformed his writing process, bringing new depth and vibrancy to his storytelling.3. The Ultimate Hack for Author MarketingWant to know the marketing tip that made Steven over £100,000? This isn’t your typical "how-to" advice. It’s a game-changing approach that any author can adapt to build their brand, connect with readers, and take their career to the next level.4. Inside The Witches of Scotland SeriesDive into the enchanting world of The Witches of Scotland, Steven’s gripping serial fiction saga that combines the supernatural with the rich cultural backdrop of Scotland. He shares the inspiration behind the series, the challenges of writing epic serial fiction, and what fans can expect next.5. Steven’s Writing Tip for Aspiring AuthorsAs if all that wasn’t enough, Steven also shares his daily writing practices, his views on creativity and discipline, and the advice he wishes he’d known when he started his journey.For Substack Members Only This exclusive episode is available right now for our Substack members. Watch or listen before anyone else and get the inside scoop on Steven’s fascinating journey and invaluable advice for authors.Not a member yet? Don’t miss out—subscribe today to unlock early access and other exclusive content.For Everyone Else The episode will be available on our YouTube channel and podcast in two weeks. But why wait? Join our Substack community and get access to this and so much more.Ready to be inspired and take your writing journey to the next level? Click below to watch now and discover why Steven P. Aitchison is the author you need to know.

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We’re excited to share the highlights of a memorable event that took place last Friday: The Writing Community Chat Show featured an exclusive live interview with acclaimed author Cathy Hayward, streamed live for our Substack subscribers.

In this engaging three-part conversation, we explored Cathy’s fascinating journey as a writer, discussed her gripping release, The Girl in the Midnight Maze, and connected with our audience through an interactive Q&A session. Cathy’s career is a testament to reinvention and resilience.

Beginning as a journalist for niche trade magazines, she brought stories to life on topics ranging from accounting to port logistics. But it was the birth of her third child and a life-changing decision to leave London for Brighton that marked the first major shift in her path. As a freelance PR and founder of Magenta Associates, Cathy thrived, but her creativity truly blossomed when she embarked on a two-year creative writing course in 2016. In her own words, this course transformed “random thoughts and scribbles” into what would eventually become her debut novel, The Girl in the Maze. Spurred on by the 2020 lockdown, Cathy finished the novel, submitted it to the Agora Books Lost the Plot Work in Progress prize—and won.

Now, with a reissued version titled The Girl in the Midnight Maze and multiple new works underway, Cathy has fully embraced a life immersed in books and storytelling.

The Interview: What We Covered

Part 1 - The Road to Writing Cathy shared her path from journalist to PR agency owner, and ultimately, to author. She recounted how personal loss, a creative writing course, and a global pandemic sparked her evolution into a novelist. 

Part 2 - What’s the Story? We delved into Cathy’s latest book, The Girl in the Midnight Maze. This deeply moving tale explores three generations of women entangled in family trauma and the struggle to connect across time and tragedy. Cathy shared the inspirations behind the book and the challenges she faced in bringing Emma Bowen’s story to life.

Part 3 - Community Questions As always, we brought our community into the conversation. Alongside our staple questions, Cathy answered burning queries submitted during the live show.  

A Glimpse Into The Girl in the Midnight Maze Here’s a preview of Cathy’s newest release: Emma Bowen has never had a close relationship with her mother. After her mother’s death, a series of letters reveals secrets spanning generations—secrets that may explain the emotional distance between them. Emma’s journey to uncover her family’s past is as haunting as it is enlightening. Traversing time and tragedy, The Girl in the Midnight Maze is a story of motherhood, legacy, and the search for understanding.

The interview was a heartfelt and inspiring event, filled with insights from an author whose career is a masterclass in perseverance and creativity. Not a Subscriber Yet? Join now to unlock access to exclusive content like this interview and many more perks.

Join our Substack to get exclusive access to live shows here: https://substack.com/@thewccs?utm_source=user-menu

Watch the interview on our YouTube channel here: https://youtube.com/live/70kLE1pupHE

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Connect With The Community

🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.

• 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
• ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
• 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me

Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

The Writing Community Chat Show has always been about celebrating authors, sharing their stories, and inspiring writers everywhere. Our recent interview with J.D. Barker was nothing short of spectacular, a rollercoaster ride of storytelling, career breakthroughs, and invaluable advice. Today, we’re giving you a sneak peek into some of the unforgettable moments from this one-of-a-kind conversation. Want the full experience? Become a member now and watch it today.A Tale of Determination: From Stephen King to StardomJ.D. Barker shared an unbelievable story about how his career skyrocketed after what started as a failed attempt to connect with Stephen King. Barker had reached out to King with the hope of receiving permission to use a character from Needful Things in his debut novel, Forsaken. Though King didn’t initially respond, fate intervened: King’s assistant eventually passed the manuscript along, and to Barker’s astonishment, King gave his blessing. The rest is history. This incredible moment not only legitimized Barker’s work but also opened doors to a world of opportunity.“It’s one of those surreal moments that still feels like a dream,” Barker told us, laughing as he recalled the experience. “One minute, I was trying to track down King; the next, my book sales exploded overnight.”The James Patterson EffectAs if that wasn’t enough, Barker also talked about his game-changing collaboration with James Patterson, one of the most successful authors of all time. Patterson’s approach to storytelling and his disciplined process left a profound impact on Barker.“James has this incredible ability to simplify storytelling without losing depth,” Barker shared. “Working with him forced me to become a more efficient writer. I used to labor over every sentence, but now I’ve learned to trust my instincts.”This partnership not only honed Barker’s craft but also expanded his reach to an even larger global audience. The camaraderie between these two literary giants is inspiring, and the lessons Barker gleaned are gold for any aspiring writer.Dracul: The Legacy of Bram Stoker Lives OnOne of the most jaw-dropping moments of the interview was when Barker recounted how the Bram Stoker family approached him to co-write a prequel to Dracula. Armed with Bram Stoker’s original notes and journals—many of which had never been made public—Barker embarked on the daunting task of bringing Dracul to life. The novel was an instant hit, earning praise from critics and fans alike, while being optioned for film by Paramount.“I’ll never forget that phone call,” Barker said, his eyes lighting up. “To have the Stoker family trust me with something so personal and iconic—it was both humbling and terrifying. But that’s the kind of challenge you dream of as a writer.”Why You Should Watch NowFrom perseverance to partnerships, J.D. Barker’s story is a masterclass in grit, creativity, and seizing opportunities. And the best part? This is just the tip of the iceberg. The full interview dives deeper into his creative process, the ups and downs of his journey, and his invaluable advice for writers at every stage of their careers.You can wait two weeks to watch it when we release it publicly, but why delay the inspiration? As a member of The WCCS, you’ll gain immediate access to this amazing conversation and support our mission to connect authors and readers. Together as one, we get it done.Become a Member TodayDon’t miss out on the insights and stories that will leave you inspired and motivated. J.D. Barker’s journey is proof that with determination, collaboration, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible. Become a member now to watch this incredible interview and join a community that’s passionate about storytelling.Watch the full interview in video format below this pay line.

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Get ready for an inspiring and entertaining conversation as the Writing Community Chat Show welcomes the incredible Abiola Bello to the stage! Born and raised in Stoke Newington, North London, Abiola is a Nigerian-British author who has been captivating readers since she started writing at just 12 years old. From her acclaimed middle-grade Emily Knight series to her chart-topping YA novels, Abiola’s journey is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and passion for storytelling.

🔥 Highlights of the Episode:
Abiola's Writing Journey: Discover how she turned her childhood dream into an award-winning literary career.
Writing Tips & Advice: Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced writer, Abiola’s insights will inspire you.
Latest Projects & Sneak Peeks: Hear about the much-anticipated Emily Knight Book 4 (coming 2025) and her recent YA successes.
Live Q&A.

📚 About Abiola Bello
Abiola’s career took off with the Emily Knight series, written under the name A. Bello. Her debut book, Emily Knight I Am, received rave reviews, and its sequel, Emily Knight I Am... Awakened, earned nominations for prestigious awards like the Carnegie Medal 2019 and won London’s Big Read 2019. The third installment, Emily Knight I Am... Becoming, solidified its place as a must-read for young readers, and fans eagerly await the series’ final book in 2025.
Abiola’s success extends to bestselling anthologies like The Very Merry Murder Club and The Super Sunny Murder Club, which were lauded by The Guardian, The Bookseller, and Waterstones. Her YA novels, including Love in Winter Wonderland and Only for the Holidays, have achieved bestseller status and critical acclaim, cementing her reputation as a powerhouse in children’s and teen literature.

🌟 Why You Should Tune In
Abiola’s story isn’t just about books—it’s about breaking barriers, pushing creative limits, and finding joy in storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or simply curious about the world of publishing, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

We will be discussing her latest book, The Love Dare:
Can a dare made at Notting Hill Carnival turn into true love? He’s All That meets How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days in this trope-filled sizzling summer romance, perfect for fans of Joya Goffney and Lynn Painter.
 
Popular girl Eva Òjó is used to boys falling for her without her even trying. So when her friend dares her to dance with a random guy at Notting Hill Carnival, she meets Saint.
Comic obsessed Saint Rowe-Falade thinks Eva is cute, but he's not interested in her in that way. He’d rather get lost in stories than look for romance.

When Eva’s birthday party gets out of control and causes damage to her dad’s beloved car, her friends set the ultimate dare: get Saint to take her on one date and they’ll help her pay to fix her dad’s car. Operation fall-in-love-with-Eva is set in motion and Eva makes it her mission to make Saint fall head over heels. But just as Saint starts to warm to Eva, and her own feelings towards him grow, Saint finds out about the dare. Can Eva convince Saint she’s truly into him, or has she lost him for good?

PRAISE FOR ABIOLA BELLO'S LOVE IN WINTER WONDERLAND:
‘A screen-worthy holiday romance.’ Joya Goffney, author of Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry.

‘Gorgeous writing, witty dialogue, a magical setting and two characters you'll fall head over heels for.’ Jennifer Niven, author of All the Bright Places.

Watch this episode on our Youtube channel here: https://youtube.com/live/1YJLg7JIjds


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Connect With The Community

🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.

• 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
• ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
• 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me

Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

Season 15 of The Writing Community Chat Show kicks off with an extraordinary guest: crime novelist and writing mentor Anna Britton. Known for her captivating storytelling and candid insights into the writing life, Anna shares her journey from aspiring writer to published author, delving into the art of crafting compelling crime fiction and her dual experiences with traditional and self-publishing.

This premiere episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice for writers and readers alike. Whether you're a budding author or a fan of gripping mysteries, Anna's story will leave you inspired and ready to dive into your next creative pursuit.

Anna Britton: A Multifaceted Creator
Anna Britton is a true creative force, balancing her work as a novelist, podcast host, and mentor. Her podcast, The Rejected Writers Club, offers practical advice and candid reflections on the writing journey, making it a must-listen for writers navigating the ups and downs of the craft.

Her debut crime novel has been met with critical and commercial success, earning her a devoted fanbase and paving the way for a much-anticipated sequel. As a mentor, Anna is equally committed to helping aspiring writers find their voice and achieve their publishing goals.

In this exclusive interview, Anna opens up about her creative process, the lessons she’s learned, and her vision for the future of her stories—both on the page and potentially on screen.

Episode Highlights: Anna’s Path to Crime Fiction Excellence
🎙️ Podcasting Wisdom
Anna shares insights from hosting The Rejected Writers Club, where she provides writers with actionable tips and a supportive space to explore their craft.
📚 Debut Success
Her first foray into crime fiction has been nothing short of stellar. Anna’s approach to writing mysteries—discovering the murderer as she writes—ensures her plots remain suspenseful and unpredictable.
📝 Mentorship Matters
A firm believer in the power of community, Anna dedicates time to mentoring new writers. She shares how collaborating with others not only helps them grow but enriches her own creative journey.
🔍 Mastering the Writing Process
From building authentic character motivations to crafting believable lies, Anna reveals the tools she uses to create stories that resonate emotionally and keep readers guessing.
💔 Emotional Resonance
Drawing from her own mental health experiences, Anna emphasizes the therapeutic power of writing. Her honesty in tackling personal topics adds depth and relatability to her stories.
🎬 Screen Dreams
Anna expresses her hopes of seeing her novels adapted for television, sharing the excitement and challenges of translating her work to the screen.
🚶‍♀️ Self-Care for Writers

Anna’s dedication to mental wellness, from taking regular breaks to structuring her day around creative routines, serves as a reminder that self-care fuels productivity.

Key Takeaways from Anna’s Creative Philosophy
Suspense Comes Naturally: By not knowing the ending herself, Anna’s organic approach to writing mysteries keeps both her and her readers engaged.
Character is Key: Relatable motivations and emotional authenticity elevate her characters, making them unforgettable.

Creativity Across Genres: Anna’s exploration of different styles and themes keeps her stories fresh and innovative.

Publishing Freedom: Her experience in self-publishing highlights the autonomy and creative control it offers, compared to traditional routes.

The Power of Routine: Incorporating walks with her dog into her daily routine is a testament to how balance and boundaries can enhance creativity.

Mentorship and Community: Supporting fellow writers creates a ripple effect of growth and inspiration.

Watch the Full Episode Now!
https://youtu.be/NqF41fWtCwU

Our exclusive live event with Anna Britton is available to paid Substack members. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these one-of-a-kind interactive conversations.
Not a member yet? Join today to unlock early access and connect with fellow members of the writing community.

👉 Watch and read about the episode here, join our Substack to get exclusive access and tune in live to ask your very own questions to us, and our guests: https://open.substack.com/pub/thewccs/p/inside-the-crime-exclusive-interview?r=20fopa&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true



Connect with Us
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Whether you’re a crime fiction fanatic, a budding author, or just love hearing about the creative process, this episode is a must-watch. Dive into the world of writing with Anna Britton and get inspired to tell your own story!

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Connect With The Community

🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.

• 📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.
• ✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack
• 🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.Me

Together as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit thewccs.substack.com

This week on The Writing Community Chat Show, we had the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Cathy Hayward—a woman whose life and career are a testament to embracing change and adapting to pursue your passions.Cathy’s journey has taken her from the bustling world of journalism to the quiet, reflective art of novel writing. Along the way, she’s worn many hats: PR professional, award-winning author, bookshop owner, and now director of the Creative Writing Program in Brighton. Her story is one of reinvention and resilience, and we were honored to have her share her insights with us.For those who tuned in live on Substack—thank you for being part of the conversation! You made the event dynamic and engaging, and your support means the world to us.If you missed the live show, don’t worry. A free podcast clip and video snippet are now available, and the full interview will be released in two weeks on our YouTube channel and our Spreaker Prime podcast. But trust us, subscribing to Substack is the best way to access these inspiring discussions as they happen.WATCH OUR THOUGHTS ON THE INTERVIEW AND A CLIP HERE. A Journey of TransformationCathy’s career began in journalism, where she wrote for niche trade magazines—covering everything from supply chains to soccer analytics. This early career honed her ability to tell compelling stories, even about the most unexpected topics. But after the birth of her third child, she felt the need for a change.Her leap into freelance PR and the founding of Magenta Associates marked the next phase of her journey. However, it was a creative writing course in 2016 that opened the door to her true passion. Over the next few years, Cathy transformed her random scribbles into a gripping manuscript that would become The Girl in the Maze.The 2020 lockdown provided the perfect opportunity to finish her novel. Winning the Agora Books Lost the Plot Work in Progress prize was a turning point, cementing her status as a rising star in the literary world. Fast forward to today, and Cathy’s debut has been reissued as The Girl in the Midnight Maze, a haunting exploration of motherhood, trauma, and family secrets.But Cathy’s story doesn’t stop there. In 2022, she became the owner of Kemptown Bookshop in Brighton, championing local authors and fostering a love of reading in her community. Her work as director of the Creative Writing Program allows her to give back to aspiring writers, helping them find their voices just as she found hers.Behind-the-Scenes Industry InsightsIn our interview, Cathy shared a wealth of advice and tips for writers at all stages of their journey. Whether you’re balancing family life, a demanding career, or struggling to finish that first draft, Cathy’s insights will resonate.Highlights from the interview include:* The Importance of Adaptation: Cathy’s career is a masterclass in pivoting toward your passions without fear of starting over.* Writing Advice: From developing a daily writing routine to navigating the highs and lows of the creative process, Cathy offered practical, actionable tips.* Industry Knowledge: As both an author and a bookshop owner, Cathy provided a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in publishing today.Her stories about winning writing awards, managing creative burnout, and transitioning between careers were as inspiring as they were informative.Not a Subscriber Yet?If you enjoyed this interview or found value in Cathy’s journey, consider joining our Substack community. Subscribers not only get live access to interviews like this but also help us continue to grow the show and support authors. Your subscription makes it possible for us to bring you in-depth conversations with amazing guests like Cathy.For those who aren’t ready to subscribe yet, you can enjoy a free podcast clip and video snippet to get a taste of what you missed. And in just two weeks, the full interview will be available on our YouTube channel and Spreaker Prime podcast.YouTube: Q&As, Guest Chats, and More! Catch Our Live Writing Community Chat Show on YouTube! 🎉Spreaker: The Writing Community Chat ShowFinal ThoughtsCathy Hayward’s story reminds us that change, while daunting, is often the first step toward fulfilling our dreams. Her transition from journalist to author, bookshop owner, and mentor is an inspiration for anyone striving to follow their passions.Thank you again to everyone who joined us live on Substack. Your support fuels this community and keeps us connected to the world of writing. For those yet to subscribe, now’s the perfect time to join us—you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!Happy reading, writing, and storytelling,THE WCCS.Watch the full interview below this pay line:

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Watch the trailer for this show here. We share our thoughts on the episode and that is then followed by a clip of Abiola from the show.In our latest episode of the Writing Community Chat Show, we had the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Abiola Bello—an author whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. For those of you who are paid subscribers, the full episode is available right here for you to watch and listen. If you’re not yet a paid member, don’t worry! The full episode will be released to the public in two weeks.Abiola’s story is one of resilience, grit, and undeniable talent. From writing her first novel at just eight years old to creating the groundbreaking Emily Knight series as a teenager, she has always been a trailblazer. But her success didn’t come without its challenges.In our conversation, Abiola shared how she faced countless rejections, battled self-doubt, and navigated an industry that wasn’t always open to her voice. As a Nigerian-British author writing stories that celebrate diverse characters and narratives, she was told repeatedly that publishers weren’t ready for her vision.But instead of giving up, Abiola took matters into her own hands. She self-published the first Emily Knight book, built a fanbase, and eventually co-founded Hashtag Press to champion diverse stories. Her determination paid off in a big way—when her YA rom-com Love in Winter Wonderland went to auction, it sparked a bidding war between two major publishers. Abiola ultimately landed a six-figure deal with Simon & Schuster, cementing her place as a leading voice in contemporary YA fiction.During the episode, Abiola opened up about:* Overcoming rejection and the self-belief it takes to keep going.* The importance of creating diverse, inclusive stories where everyone can see themselves.* Her process of writing across multiple genres, from middle-grade fantasy to YA romance.* The highs and lows of her publishing journey—from self-publishing to winning major awards.* Her advice for aspiring authors and anyone facing setbacks in their creative journey.We also got a sneak peek into her latest release, The Love Dare—a summer romance filled with humor, heart, and the vibrant energy of Notting Hill Carnival. Abiola’s ability to create unforgettable characters and emotionally rich stories is on full display in this book, and we can’t wait for you to hear what she has to say about it.Abiola’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is rarely a straight line. It’s filled with obstacles, rejections, and moments of doubt. But as Abiola proves, if you stay true to your vision, keep working hard, and refuse to give up, the rewards can be life-changing.Watch the Full Episode NowPaid subscribers can enjoy the full episode right here. If you’re not a paid member yet, consider subscribing to get early access to this and all our episodes, plus exclusive content. Otherwise, the episode will be available to all in two weeks.Thank you for supporting the Writing Community Chat Show! Let Abiola’s story inspire you to keep chasing your creative dreams, no matter how many roadblocks you face.Paid members can see and watch the full video below this paid line.

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What an incredible interview we had with the amazing Annie Fox! Annie shared everything from her early writing days to the inspiration behind her latest YA novel The Little Things That Kill.

What We Covered:


Round 1: The Road to Writing
Annie spoke about how her journey began with a childhood diary and how that sparked a lifelong love for storytelling. She shared insights on writing People Are Like Lollipops while still in college and how it shaped her as an author of more than thirteen books for young readers.

Round 2: What’s the Story?
We explored The Little Things That Kill, her emotionally rich novel about friendship, forgiveness, and self-discovery, along with a sneak peek into her upcoming book Leeta Simtar: A Life on Two Planets, set for release in February 2025.

Round 3: Community Q&A
Annie answered your fantastic questions, from her writing routine and creative process to how her hobbies—art, photography, and baking—fuel her creativity. She also offered invaluable advice to aspiring writers about perseverance and finding their voice.


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The Writing Community Chat Show Team

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