In this episode of Way-Word Writers, literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author and indie bookstore owner Mandi Fugate Sheffel. Discussing her journey from discovering her passion for writing at the Appalachian Writer's Workshop to publishing her debut memoir 'The Nature of Pain' with the University Press of Kentucky, Mandi shares her unique experiences and challenges. She highlights the importance of community support, the struggles of writing about sensitive topics, and navigating the publishing world. The conversation also dives into the inception of her indie bookstore, Read Spotted Newt, and the profound inspiration she draws from her Appalachian upbringing.

00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers

00:37 Meet Mandi Fugate Sheffel

02:00 The Story Behind Read Spotted Newt

04:53 Balancing Multiple Roles

09:26 The Journey to Becoming a Writer

12:58 The Influence of Gurney Norman

18:22 Deciding on University Presses

18:36 Virtual Writer's Workshop Journey

20:02 Unexpected Book Deal Offer

22:28 Challenges in Writing and Representation

23:43 Balancing Authenticity and Stereotypes

26:58 Editorial Process and Trust

30:33 Marketing with University Press

33:08 Advice for Aspiring Authors

34:10 Future Projects and Inspirations

36:18 Conclusion and Farewell

Find Mandi and pre-order her memoir, The Nature of Pain, at The Read Spotted Newt!

And for a deeper dive into the topic of publishing with a university press, see this post:

EPISODE 88 DEEP DIVE: Publishing with A University Press: Opportunity, Challenge, and Community

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, the hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Michelle I. Mason, author of Your Life Has Been Delayed, to discuss writing young adult (YA) fiction. The conversation explores Michelle's background in public relations, her transition to writing, and the evolution of her thematic interests. Listeners gain insight into Michelle's approach to character development, the importance of authenticity, and the value of perseverance in the writing journey. Additionally, the discussion tackles the nuances of the YA category, the distinction between middle grade and YA fiction, and practical advice for aspiring writers. The episode wraps up with Michelle sharing her process of balancing entertainment with meaningful themes in her novels.

00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers

00:31 Meet Michelle Mason: Author of 'Your Life Has Been Delayed'

01:46 Michelle's Writing Journey

03:32 Finding Her Voice in Young Adult Fiction

05:55 Differences Between Teen and Adult Voices

07:45 Navigating Middle Grade and Young Adult Categories

12:50 Writing Process: Plotter, Pantser, or Plantser?

14:54 Handling Complex Issues in YA Writing

19:08 Balancing Busy Lives and Storytelling

19:45 Exploring Speculative Fiction

20:07 Character Development and Personal Connections

23:43 Research and Authenticity in Writing

26:30 Inspiration Behind the Stories

28:20 YA Tropes and Creative Twists

33:12 The Journey of Writing and Publishing

36:37 Advice for Aspiring Writers

37:30 Conclusion and Farewell

Find out more about Michelle I. Mason HERE!

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges and solutions for tackling the 'murky middle' of a manuscript. They cover the importance of maintaining momentum, avoiding plot distractions, and ensuring character development remains engaging. Practical advice on utilizing beta readers, brainstorming sessions, and specific writing techniques are shared to help authors improve the pacing and excitement of their story's middle sections.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers

00:49 Understanding the Murky Middle

03:00 Strategies to Overcome the Sagging Middle

04:16 Character Arcs and Plot Points

08:25 Examples and Practical Tips

14:24 Challenges and Solutions for Murky Middles

18:20 The Importance of Skilled Readers

20:24 Tackling the Middle of Your Story

20:50 The Role of Beta Readers

24:15 Practical Solutions for Fixing the Middle

33:54 Tools and Resources for Writers

37:10 Brainstorming and Community Support

38:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

For a deeper dive into this topic, see the post:

EPISODE 86 DEEP DIVE: Conquering the Murky Middle

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Emily Settle, an editor from Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan), to discuss the nuances of point of view in writing. They explore whether third-person POV is disappearing, the challenges and advantages of different POVs, and specific examples of works that excel in using multiple perspectives. They also delve into the intricacies of character interiority, historical accuracy in contemporary writing, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Emily provides valuable advice for authors on making POV choices and experimental writing approaches, while also highlighting some of the common mistakes writers make. The discussion concludes with encouragement for writers to pursue unique and experimental styles to stand out in a competitive market.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers

00:34 Meet Editor Emily Settle

02:08 The Debate on Point of View

05:02 Trends in First and Third Person Narratives

10:10 Challenges and Mistakes in POV Writing

12:05 Effective Use of Multiple POVs

18:35 The Importance of Voice in First Person Narratives

19:47 When to Change the Point of View

20:27 The Importance of POV in Storytelling

20:50 Case Study: Crane Among Wolves

22:37 Writing Distinct Character Voices

24:30 Character Development Exercises

27:40 Balancing Plot and Character Depth

34:11 Challenges of Writing for Young Audiences

37:34 Encouragement for Experimental Writers

39:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer engage in a compelling conversation with author Michelle Collins Anderson about her journey through an MFA program. The discussion covers Michelle's background, the influence of her roots on her writing, her career in advertising and public relations, and her eventual pursuit of an MFA in creative writing. Michelle shares her experiences with low residency programs, the challenges and benefits of pursuing an MFA later in life, the importance of discipline and commitment to one's craft, and the role of community and support systems in a writer's journey. The episode wraps up with practical advice for writers who may not be able to pursue formal education but want to advance their skills.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers

00:31 Meet Michelle Collins Anderson

01:43 Michelle's Early Writing Journey

04:32 Pursuing an MFA: Challenges and Encouragement

05:35 The Low Residency MFA Experience

08:44 First Workshop Experience

13:24 Balancing Family and MFA

18:15 The Value of an MFA

20:17 The Benefits of a Writing Community

21:06 Impact of an MFA on Teaching and Publishing

23:20 Drawbacks and Costs of an MFA Program

27:06 Alternative Paths to Improving Your Writing

29:00 The Importance of Writing Groups and Consistent Practice

32:01 Leveraging Online Communities and Resources

34:03 Reflecting on the MFA Experience

35:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, authors Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome western author Doug Osgood to discuss the art of writing Westerns. Doug, a lover of Western storytelling, talks about his journey from reading to writing, the inspiration behind his works, and his meticulous research process. They delve into themes, tropes, and the state of the Western genre today. Doug offers valuable insights on balancing historical accuracy with storytelling and shares his advice for creating compelling characters. Tune in for a rich, detailed conversation about Westerns and storytelling.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers

00:30 Introducing Doug Osgood

01:55 Doug Osgood's Writing Journey

03:42 The Allure of Westerns

07:42 Themes and Tropes in Westerns

14:10 Researching for Authenticity

17:03 Balancing Fictional and Real Towns in Writing

19:19 Accessing Historical Resources for Writing

21:06 Navigating Dark Themes in Westerns

25:24 The State of the Western Genre Today

29:20 Making Westerns Fresh and Relevant

32:06 Final Writing Tips and Farewell

Douglas Osgood

also writing as D. N. Sample

Newspapers.com

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the significance of networking in the writing and publishing industry. They outline what networking is, why it's essential, and offer practical tips for writers at all stages of their journey. The conversation covers how to approach networking with authenticity, balance professionalism, and maintain meaningful connections. They also share personal anecdotes, common mistakes, and advice for introverted writers. The episode closes with a reminder that while mistakes can happen, the benefits of networking are invaluable for both career growth and personal enrichment.

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In this Way-Word Writers episode, Senior Literary Agent Heather Cashman engages in an insightful conversation with Aje Roberts, a Senior Commissioning Editor at TOR Bramble, about the genre of Romantasy. They delve into her career journey, the emerging trends in Romantasy, the impact of TikTok on book popularity, the essential elements of viral book success, and the importance of intersectional diversity in publishing. The episode also explores the challenges faced by underrepresented authors and provides valuable advice for writers looking to grow their platform on TikTok.

00:00 Introduction to Aje Roberts
01:30 Defining Romantasy
03:50 The Impact of TikTok on Romantasy
06:09 Challenges in the Romantasy Market
07:29 Editing Romantasy: Insights and Favorites
09:03 Popular Tropes in Romantasy
11:11 Pros and Cons of BookTok
16:58 Tips for Writers on BookTok
24:20 Navigating TikTok Trends: UK vs. US
26:22 Understanding Intersectional Diversity in Publishing
28:24 Barriers Faced by Underrepresented Authors
32:01 Championing Diverse Voices in Publishing
43:20 Exciting Upcoming Books and Authors
45:59 Finding Your Editorial Niche
47:18 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, literary agent and authors Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the six Ps of wellbeing in the publishing journey with special guest author and trauma therapist, Danielle Render Turmaud. They delve into topics such as the importance of pausing, patience, persistence, and building a supportive writer community. Danielle shares her insights on how listening to one's body and emotions can guide better responses to stress and trauma, especially within the high-pressure world of publishing. The discussion also highlights the significance of balancing writing for passion and publication while maintaining mental and emotional health.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:28 Meet Danielle Render Turmaud
01:14 Understanding the 'Why' in Our Reactions
02:05 Personal Experiences with Grief and Work
04:40 The Importance of Pausing
07:32 Signs You Need a Pause
11:55 Navigating Patience in Publishing
18:06 Balancing the Why of Writing and Publishing
19:14 Exploring the Passion Behind Writing
21:07 The Importance of Writing Community
21:55 Finding Supportive Critique Partners
23:50 Rebuilding After Negative Experiences
24:40 Gradual Exposure and Community Engagement
26:23 Retreats and Connecting with Fellow Writers
27:24 Persistence and Perseverance in Writing
30:19 Celebrating Small Wins and Staying Motivated
32:42 Anchoring to Your 'Why' and Final Thoughts

Find out more about Danielle here!

You, Me & The Writing Journey podcast

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This episode of Wayward Writers features senior literary agent Heather Cashman, authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, and special guest Danielle Render Termeaud. The discussion focuses on the intersection between mental health and the writing journey. Danielle, a trauma therapist and author, introduces her six Ps framework, which aims to help writers maintain mental wellbeing amidst the pressures of the publishing industry. The conversation delves into personal experiences with anxiety and criticism, the importance of maintaining a balanced life, and practical strategies for managing stress and burnout.

00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers
00:30 Guest Introduction: Danielle Render Termeaud
02:07 The Intersection of Mental Health and Writing
09:14 The Six Ps Framework: Perspective
17:45 The Six Ps Framework: Presence
29:39 Conclusion and Next Steps

Find out more about Danielle here!

You, Me & The Writing Journey podcast