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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

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie ​B​earce, and Ni​cki Jacobsmeyer introduce children's book author and indie publisher Darcy Pattison. Darcy, who has written over 70 award-winning books​,​ with some translated into 10 languages, shares her journey from traditional publishing to becoming a successful indie publisher. Discussing her strategies, Darcy emphasizes marketing to schools, the importance of good writing, and working with illustrators and editors. She explains how she manages her business operations including finances, distribution through IngramSpark, and leveraging various platforms for maximum reach. Highlighting the importance of persistence and creativity in both writing and business, Darcy also provides insights into balancing her work-life and expanding her business model while continually evolving in her career.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:29 Introducing Darcy Pattison
01:53 Darcy's Journey to Becoming an Author
02:49 Transition to Independent Publishing
06:08 The Art of Finding Niches
08:30 Illustration and Fact-Checking
13:00 Becoming an Entrepreneur
18:06 Balancing Creativity and Business
21:40 Grassroots Marketing Strategies
24:18 Navigating Distribution Challenges
28:11 Maximizing Sales Channels
31:04 The Importance of Writing Standards
33:24 Future of Indie Publishing
39:13 Upcoming Book Launch
40:33 Conclusion and Farewell

F​ind Darcy's website here!

B​ehance.net (the illustrator platform Darcy mentions)

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer dive into the topic of imposter syndrome. They define what imposter syndrome is, discuss the various types identified by Dr. Valerie Young, and explore how it affects writers. The hosts share personal experiences and offer advice on how to recognize and combat these feelings. Key points include the importance of community support, the role of social media, and the notion that you are a writer as long as you write—not just when you're published. They emphasize the value of your unique voice and stress the importance of moving forward positively despite doubts.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:35 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
02:01 Types of Imposter Syndrome
03:34 Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome
04:17 Imposter Syndrome in the Publishing Industry
07:41 The Role of Social Media
15:53 Combating Imposter Syndrome
19:02 The Value of Writing
29:47 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer chat with Anna Orenstein-Cardona, a children's author and financial educator. They discuss the financial realities of the publishing industry, from advances to royalties, and offer valuable advice on diversifying income streams through the concept of creatorpreneurship. Anna shares her own strategies and insights on balancing creativity with financial health, and the importance of recognizing one's worth as a creator. Learn how to navigate the economic aspects of being a writer, from negotiating contracts to leveraging extra skills for additional income.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Anna Orenstein Cardona
02:55 Anna's Creative Journey
06:29 Financial Realities in Publishing
09:30 Statistics and Industry Disparities
23:16 Challenges and Strategies for Authors
31:12 Embracing Creative Entrepreneurship
33:19 Leveraging Digital Platforms for Marketing
33:47 Financial Well-being for Creatives
34:15 Diversifying Revenue Streams
36:26 The Reality of Full-time Creative Work
38:55 Creative Income Sources and Future Goals
47:47 Examples of Successful Creatives
55:41 Valuing Your Work and Overcoming Guilt
59:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Anna created a brief guide for you!

The Writers & Illustrators Guide to Creatorpreneurship

Find Anna on her website here!

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer chat with Kathleen Sweeney, COO of Book Brush, about the essential tools and strategies for authors to boost their book marketing efforts. Kathleen provides insights into how authors can use Book Brush’s platform to create visually appealing and effective marketing graphics, the importance of branding, and engaging with readers on social media. They also cover useful tips for using hashtags, managing social media presence, and integrating personal and professional lives online. Key recommendations include trying out trope graphics, staying consistent with branding elements such as fonts and colors, and the benefits of utilizing resources like Book Brush for DIY and full-service marketing needs.

00:00 Introduction to Way-word Writers
00:31 Meet Kathleen Sweeney from BookBrush
01:44 What is BookBrush?
03:15 Free and Paid Plans on BookBrush
05:21 Amazon A+ Content for Authors
08:38 Social Media Strategies for Authors
10:09 The Power of Hashtags
16:04 Using QR Codes Effectively
22:20 Branding Yourself as an Author
26:02 Exploring Fonts for Different Genres
26:34 Balancing Book Promotion and Content
28:23 Engaging with Your Audience
31:19 Effective Use of Social Media Platforms
43:24 Managing Multiple Author Brands
46:06 Current Trends and Common Mistakes
48:04 Building a Strong Social Media Presence
49:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Genre Font Pairings For Graphics and Book Covers

​Typography Tips for Graphics and Book Covers

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, discuss their favorite craft books. They explore a range of topics from the importance of foundational language skills to techniques for structuring and enhancing storytelling. Each host shares personal insights and recommendations, speaking on the utility and impact these books have had on their writing journeys. They cover books such as 'The Elements of Style,' 'Save the Cat Writes a Novel,' 'The Courage to Write,' and 'Steering the Craft,' among others. This episode offers invaluable advice for writers of all levels, whether seeking to improve their craft or looking for thoughtful gift ideas for fellow writers.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:34 Discussing Favorite Craft Books
01:12 Diverse Opinions on Craft Books
05:52 Heather's First Craft Book Pick
08:18 Stephanie's First Craft Book Pick
11:33 Nikki's First Craft Book Pick
14:22 Heather's Second Craft Book Pick
16:49 Stephanie's Second Craft Book Pick
20:49 Nikki's Second Craft Book Pick
23:13 Heather's Third Craft Book Pick
25:38 Stephanie's Third Craft Book Pick
27:48 Nikki's Third Craft Book Pick
30:22 Heather's Final Craft Book Pick
33:50 Wrapping Up and Gift Ideas

• The Elements of Style by Strunk & White
• Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book On Novel Writing You'll Ever Need by Jessica Brody
• The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It For Life by Twyla Tharp
• The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
• Story Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel by Lisa Cron

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome ghostwriter Loren Stevens. Loren shares her journey into ghostwriting, which started with her writing her mother's biography. Her impressive resume includes over 40 books, with clients spanning diverse backgrounds and stories. Loren discusses the challenges and rewards of ghostwriting, her process for capturing a client's voice, and the importance of thorough research. She also offers insights and advice for those looking to hire a ghostwriter or become one. This episode provides an in-depth look at the ghostwriting process and the delicate balance of bringing someone else's story to life authentically.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Ghostwriter Loren Stevens
02:06 Loren's Journey into Ghostwriting
06:24 Capturing the Client's Voice
07:56 Challenges and Rewards of Ghostwriting
11:59 Research and Authenticity in Writing
16:07 Navigating Family Dynamics and Secrets
22:03 Diving into Research
24:19 Balancing Client Expectations
25:27 Staying Motivated on Long Projects
27:11 The Art of Ghostwriting
28:38 The Importance of Setting
32:08 Handling Recognition and Contracts
34:53 Advice for Aspiring Ghostwriters
39:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer talk with Leyla Erkan, Acquiring Editor at Christy Ottaviano Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group. Leyla shares insights into her journey from an editorial assistant to acquiring editor, her passion for various genres, and her thoughts on the role of literary merit versus commercial viability. The discussion delves into the intricacies of the acquisitions process, including the importance of manuscript pitches, market research, and the impact of political climate and book bans. Leyla also provides valuable advice for authors on how to make their manuscripts appealing and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and authenticity in writing. The episode concludes with reflections on the collaborative nature of publishing and the significance of celebrating small victories.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Meet Acquiring Editor Leyla Erkan
00:48 Leyla's Background and Interests
05:13 The Acquisition Process
14:30 Evaluating Manuscripts
21:05 Author Platform and Social Media
23:22 The Importance of Self-Promotion in the Digital Age
25:06 The Role of Comparison Titles in Manuscript Submissions
26:31 Navigating Market Trends and Reader Expectations
36:43 The Impact of Political Climate and Book Bans on Publishing
43:10 Advice for Aspiring Authors and the Acquisitions Process
44:51 Celebrating Success and Final Thoughts