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​​In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman joins authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer to discuss the intricate process of navigating query letters. They delve into the key elements Heather looks for in a query letter, offer valuable advice on personalizing queries without crossing professional boundaries, and underscore the importance of professionalism and correct formatting. Heather also shares insights into her daily routine as an agent, the typical timeline for query responses, and the types of manuscripts that currently excite her. The episode provides an in-depth look at the relationship between agents and authors, highlighting the significance of mutual respect, professionalism, and ongoing communication.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
01:45 Query Letter Essentials
08:19 Common Mistakes and Pet Peeves
11:05 The Agent's Daily Life
16:12 Current Market Trends
19:43 Handling the Query Inbox
26:55 Success Stories and Client Relationships
33:45 The Importance of Kindness and Professionalism
36:25 Filling Your Cup: The Role of the Podcast
39:51 Conclusion and Community

I​f you've listened to this episode and Heather's Query Manager is closed, you can query her at the following link and it will be logged in as a special query from podcast listeners only:

H​eather's Query Inbox: WWW Podcast Listener

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce Vivian Kirkfield, an adventurous author with a unique journey into writing that began with skydiving at the age of 64. Vivian shares her inspiring path from kindergarten teacher to a celebrated children's book author and contest host. She outlines the importance of writing contests in fostering a supportive community for writers, emphasizing her own '50 Precious Words' contest which encourages creativity under tight constraints. Vivian offers valuable advice on preparing and choosing the right contests, and she underscores the significance of passion, practice, and perseverance in achieving writing success. She also highlights the impact of engaging with the writing community through contests and the importance of giving back, sharing her literacy initiative that donates children's books to local schools. This episode is a motivational resource for writers at any stage of their careers.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:32 Introducing Vivian Kirkfield
02:25 Vivian's Writing Journey
06:39 The 50 Precious Words Contest
09:51 The Impact of Writing Contests
19:54 Tips for Entering Writing Contests
24:35 Contest Judging Process
34:08 The Importance of Passion and Perseverance
37:11 Common Mistakes in Writing Contests
44:43 The Role of Community in Writing Contests
46:54 Literacy Initiative and Final Thoughts

V​ivian Kirkfield: 50 Precious Words

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​In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome USA Today bestselling thriller author Simon Wood. Wood shares insights into his whirlwind career shift from race car driver to writer, describing how his diverse experiences influence his gripping thrillers. He discusses the importance of real-life research, character development, and the method of building suspense and plot twists. Wood also reveals his process for immersing himself into crime scenes and integrating first-person interviews into his books, alongside touching on challenges, like cutting down his second book from 140,000 words. He concludes with a sneak peek into his upcoming project, 'Let Me Shoot You.' The episode is a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of thriller writing, enriched with personal anecdotes and professional tips.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:33 Introducing Simon Wood
01:38 Simon's Journey to Writing
02:39 Incorporating Life Experiences into Writing
04:58 The Engineering Mindset in Writing
09:56 Writing Routine and Environment
12:30 Research and Realism in Writing
21:14 Debunking Parole Myths in Media
22:10 OJ Simpson and Jury Duty
23:06 Character Development Through Psychology
24:47 Crafting Compelling Villains
29:39 Balancing Pacing and Tension in Thrillers
33:33 Mastering Plot Twists and Red Herrings
38:17 Advice for Aspiring Thriller Writers
39:40 Challenges and Lessons in Writing
42:27 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

​Simon Wood's Web Hideout

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​​In this engaging episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome USA Today bestselling author Nicole Evelina. Nicole shares her inspiring journey from self-publishing to becoming a hybrid author, detailing her rigorous writing process and the numerous awards she has won, including the North Street Book Prize and Sarton Woman's Book Award. Evelina provides insights on the importance of community, the advantages and challenges of both traditional and self-publishing, and valuable tips on entering literary contests. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring writers keen on navigating their own publishing paths and achieving literary success.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:38 Introducing Nicole Evelina
02:58 Nicole's Writing Journey
12:44 Balancing Writing and Life
16:06 Navigating Awards and Recognition
19:10 Traditional vs. Self Publishing
34:37 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, the hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, engage with Matt Kay, CEO of Bindery Books, and Meg​han Harvey, Co-founder and President. They discuss Bindery Books' revolutionary publishing model that leverages 'tastemaker' influencers to lead imprints and engage with their audiences through exclusive memberships, driving demand and creating sustainable careers for authors and influencers. The episode covers how Bindery Books nurtures marginalized voices, provides better financial returns for authors, and the evolving relationship between creative content and market engagement. Matt and Megan also explain the operational strategy, royalty structures, and the collaborative approach to editing and book promotion. Throughout the episode, the vision of fostering new voices and innovative business models in the publishing industry is emphasized.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:40 Introducing Bindery Books' CEO and President
02:11 Innovative Publishing Models
03:01 Engaging Audiences and Membership Models
05:05 Selecting Influencers and Building Communities
08:11 Collaborating with Authors and Influencers
10:09 Exploring Genres and Trends
14:22 Balancing Creative Integrity and Market Preferences
17:10 Sustaining Long-Term Investment
18:30 Financial Structure and Incentives
19:57 Navigating the Publishing Landscape
20:47 Measuring Success in the Book Industry
21:41 Editorial Oversight and Creative Control
24:00 Trends in Influencer-Driven Content
25:05 Finding and Partnering with Influencers
29:34 The Future of Publishing and Social Media
34:39 Getting Your Work Out There
35:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

B​indery Books

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In this special anniversary episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, author and writing coach Stephanie Bearce, and author and writing coach Nicki Jacobsmeyer celebrate one year of their podcast. They emphasize their mission to support writers in all genres and publishing paths through various platforms. The highlight of this episode is their critique session, where they read and provide feedback on the first pages of several submitted manuscripts. They cover a range of genres including adult historical fiction, young adult fantasy, middle grade magical realism, and picture books. The hosts offer constructive criticism and highlight the importance of elements such as pacing, character introduction, narrative voice, and the balance between text and illustrations in picture books. The episode showcases the talent of their audience and provides valuable insights for all writers.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
01:42 Celebrating One Year of Way-Word Writers
02:24 First Page Reading: Adult Historical Fiction Adventure
04:13 First Page Feedback: Adult Historical Fiction Adventure
10:54 First Page Reading: Young Adult Fantasy
12:08 First Page Feedback: Young Adult Fantasy
18:59 First Page Reading: Middle Grade Magical Realism and Humor
20:49 First Page Feedback: Middle Grade Magical Realism and Humor
26:00 First Page Reading: Kid's Microbe Adventure
26:44 Introduction to Germs and Microbiomes
27:48 Feedback on Nonfiction Picture Book
33:33 Discussion on Iditarod Picture Book
43:48 Review of Farm Life Picture Book
51:17 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by editor Foyinsi Adigbonmire from Feiwel & Friends, an imprint of Macmillan Children's. The discussion delves into the intricacies of creating a distinctive narrative voice, the difference between character and narrative voice, and how to balance authenticity with genre expectations. Foyinsi shares insights on her editing philosophy, the role of perspective and flow in narrative voice, and offers practical advice for writers on experimentation and finding their unique voice. The conversation also touches on current trends in publishing, particularly in young adult and middle grade fiction, and the utilization of multiple points of view. Foyinsi emphasizes the importance of practice, revision, and the art of balancing feedback while staying true to the story's essence.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:34 Meet Editor Foyinsi Adigbonmire
01:33 Crafting and Creativity
03:02 Creating a Distinctive Narrative Voice
05:24 Balancing Voice with Genre Expectations
07:19 Exploring Anthologies and Voice
09:12 Teaching and Developing Unique Voice
16:19 Multiple Points of View and Distinct Voices
20:51 Experimenting with Unconventional Voices
23:10 Overcoming Writing Challenges
24:16 The Role of Editing in Writing
24:38 Finding Your Unique Voice
27:18 Navigating Manuscript Submissions
32:26 Common Mistakes in Writing
35:52 Experimenting with Different Writing Styles
39:57 Encouragement for Writers
41:12 Conclusion and Farewell  

​Mermaids Never Drown Anthology

Faeries Never Lie Anthology

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In this milestone episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer reflect on their journey of creating the podcast, expressing gratitude for the community they have built. The trio discusses personal challenges, growth, and the value of fostering connections within the writing community. They share insights on dealing with social media, offering and receiving critique, and upcoming plans for retreats and new ventures in 2025. This episode is filled with heartfelt conversations, advice for writers at all stages, and a look ahead to future opportunities for listener engagement and learning.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Celebrating 50 Episodes
00:52 The Journey of Starting the Podcast
02:43 Building a Writing Community
04:55 Challenges and Learnings
09:45 Future Plans and Aspirations
10:53 Facing Rejections and Rewrites
17:38 Encouragement and Growth
20:37 Managing Ideas: Notebooks and Digital Tools
22:16 The Perfect Notebook: TUL and Other Favorites
24:46 The Power and Pitfalls of Social Media
28:34 Building a Supportive Writing Community
36:24 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
38:20 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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In this episode of Way​-word ​Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Dr. Cristie Ritz King, an expert in trauma and maternal mental health, to discuss how to write authentically and sensitively about mental health issues. Dr. King shares her journey from a teacher to a trauma therapist, and offers valuable tips for writers on depicting mental health challenges realistically, understanding the interplay of cultural context, and maintaining ethical considerations. The conversation also covers the importance of self-care for therapists and insights into the therapeutic process. Additionally, Dr. King provides practical advice on how characters can discover personal triggers and how to portray therapy sessions and mental health support systems authentically in writing.

00:00 Welcome to Wayward Writers
00:32 Introducing Dr. Cristie Ritz King
02:55 Cristie's Journey into Mental Health
08:36 Writing with Sensitivity and Authenticity
10:18 Exploring Character Development and Mental Health
22:29 Realistic Influences of Mental Health on Characters
25:29 Balancing Personal and Professional Life in Mental Health Work
27:04 Balancing Self-Care as a Therapist
27:32 Finding Personal Escapes
28:16 Importance of Boundaries
30:20 Cultural Nuances in Mental Health
33:54 Ethical Considerations in Writing
37:54 Portraying Realistic Therapy Sessions
43:37 Therapist-Client Dynamics
47:53 Evolving Mental Health Field 

48:48 Connecting with Wonder Ink Wellness

​Cristie Ritz-King Website

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer speak with Naomi Kirsten, a seasoned freelance editor, creative consultant, and former Chronicle Books editor. Naomi shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, discussing the importance of thinking like an editor, the role of compromise in the creative process, and key business considerations for authors and illustrators. The episode aims to empower writers and illustrators to balance their artistic vision with market realities, providing practical advice on navigating the publishing landscape, enhancing marketability, and engaging in effective marketing and promotion.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Meet Naomi Kirsten: A Publishing Industry Leader
03:48 Thinking Like an Editor: Why It Matters
06:36 The Role of Compromise in the Creative Process
12:49 Balancing Creative Freedom and Commercial Realities
16:34 Cultivating an Editorial Mindset
26:27 The Essence of Self-Actualization in Publishing
27:02 Navigating Success Beyond Sales and Awards
29:01 The Power of Compromise in Creative Vision
32:27 Balancing Business and Creativity in Publishing
34:25 Key Business Considerations for Authors and Illustrators
41:40 Effective Marketing and Promotion Strategies
45:17 Embracing the Joy of Sharing Your Work
48:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

​n​aomikirsten.com

You and Me, Me and You by Miguel Tanco