To read more about voice, see our DEEP DIVE: Expanding on the Essence of Voice post HERE!

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and author and writing coach Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the nuances of ‘voice’ in writing with special guest Kortney Nash, an assistant editor at Godwin Books. Kortney shares insights from her experience in the publishing industry, highlighting the importance of a unique voice in author submissions, pitfalls writers often fall into, and actionable tips for developing strong narrative and character voices. Additionally, the conversation covers industry trends and the evolving expectations of young readers in a post-pandemic world.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:32 Meet Kortney Nash: Assistant Editor at Godwin Books02:30 The Importance of Voice in Acquisitions04:38 Evaluating Authenticity in Voice06:11 Finding Your Unique Voice11:45 Authorial Voice vs. Character Voice19:08 Recommended Reads for Unique Voices22:59 The Power of an Engaging Narrative23:28 Building a Strong Narrative Voice25:42 Developing Character Voices28:53 Voice in Different Formats and Genres38:42 Trends and Shifts in Kid Lit40:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find out more about Kortney Nash HERE!

Check out her picture book Tell Me About Juneteenth HERE!

This episode has a post that shares an interview with Donna Mork Reed as well as the resources that we mention on the podcast. You can find that here:

EPISODE 94: Unlocking the Power of Libraries for Writers with Author & Librarian Donna Mork Reed

​In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman and Stephanie Bearce delve into the multitude of resources that libraries offer to writers. They discuss how libraries are invaluable for research, borrowing books, and utilizing various online platforms like Libby and Hoopla. They also highlight lesser-known resources such as professional databases, WorldCat, and various subscriptions available for free through the library. The episode emphasizes the importance of leveraging the expertise of librarians and accessing a variety of educational classes, workshops, and unique lending items that libraries offer.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers

00:38 The Power of Libraries for Writers

01:30 Exploring Library Resources

02:50 Digital and Audiobook Platforms

04:36 Research Databases and Tools

12:42 Unique Library Offerings

17:19 Classes and Workshops at Libraries

19:31 The Value of Librarians

24:46 Conclusion and Call to Action

Find out more about Author and Librarian Donna Mork Reed HERE!

In this episode of Way-WordWriters, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges writers face when life disrupts their plans. They explore strategies to keep writing amidst such disruptions, including adjusting goals, shifting creative outlets, and leveraging technology. The episode underscores the importance of taking things one step at a time, reevaluating priorities, and seeking support from the writing community to stay motivated and productive.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers

00:33 The Reality of Writing Plans

01:28 Adapting to Life Changes

03:07 The Importance of Pausing and Reevaluating

04:46 Finding Balance and Prioritizing

07:33 Maintaining Creativity and Motivation

10:32 Overcoming Creative Blocks

13:58 Leveraging Technology and Community Support

18:24 Ideas and Encouragement

32:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For worksheets that will help you navigate life changes and how to keep writing, see this EPISODE 93 DEEP DIVE post here!

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support the Way-Word Writers mission consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Trailblazer offers worksheets and deep dive posts, and our Summit Club features ongoing workshops.

For a deeper dive into creating a win-win scenario for you and your beta readers, see the EPISODE 92 DEEP DIVE article here!

In this episode of ‘Way-Word Writers,’ hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome guest Cherie Postill to discuss training beta readers and selling more books. Cherie, author of How to Train a Beta Reader and Sell More Books, shares her insights on the importance of beta readers, the process of creating and using a beta reader toolkit, and how to collect valuable feedback. She also explains how to recruit the right beta readers, the significance of their feedback, how to address conflicting feedback, and her unique approach to nurturing a community of knowledgeable and engaged beta readers. Cherie’s practical advice aims to help writers refine their manuscripts based on actionable insights and ensure that their books resonate with their target audience.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers

00:59 Meet Cherie Postill: Author and Speaker

03:08 Cherie’s Writing Journey

04:14 The Importance of Beta Readers

13:06 Training Your Beta Readers

13:45 Building Your Beta Reader Toolkit

14:33 Gathering and Utilizing Feedback

18:53 Incentives for Beta Readers

20:12 Finding Your First Beta Readers

22:53 Setting Beta Reader Expectations

24:02 Critique Partners vs. Beta Readers

25:28 Handling Conflicting Feedback

27:48 Stages of Beta Reading

29:47 The Importance of Genre-Specific Feedback

33:33 Finding and Qualifying Beta Readers

35:48 The Role of Beta Readers in Crafting a Story

38:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

​Find out more about Cherie Postill HERE!

O​rder your copy of How To Train A Beta Reader and Sell More Books by Cherie Postill HERE!

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Sara Schonfeld, a senior editor at Harper Collins, to discuss the parallels between publishing and dating. Sara delves into her process of finding ‘the one’ manuscript, what she looks for in submissions, and how she balances personal taste with market demands. She shares her proudest moments, handling rejection, and offers insight and advice for both aspiring and established authors. This engaging conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical tips for navigating the publishing world.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers

00:31 Introducing Sara Schonfeld from Harper Collins

01:07 The Publishing Meet Cute

03:12 What Editors Look For in Submissions

08:32 Handling Rejections and Ghosting

10:58 The Editing Process and Author Calls

18:46 Dealing with Breakups and Cancellations

20:04 Silver Medalist Syndrome

21:01 Rejection in the Publishing Industry

21:18 Breakup Rituals and Sad Playlists

22:13 Dating and Book Comparisons

22:53 Balancing Personal Taste and Market Pressures

28:37 Proudest Author Relationships

31:00 Lightning Dating Round

33:08 Advice for Authors and the Future of Publishing

34:41 Conclusion and Farewell

F​ind out more about Sara Schonfeld here!

For a deeper dive into first pages and how to make an editor or agent fall in love, see our Episode 91 Deep Dive post here!

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, delve into the intricacies of the acquisitions process in book publishing. They discuss the steps involved, the role of editors, and the potential outcomes when a manuscript goes to acquisitions. The hosts share their personal experiences, tips on how to manage the waiting period, and provide practical advice on what authors should and shouldn’t do during this critical phase of their publishing journey.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers

00:32 Celebrating Acquisitions

01:29 Understanding the Acquisitions Process

06:59 The Role of Editors in Acquisitions

12:47 Handling Rejections and Moving Forward

19:46 The Importance of R&R in Manuscripts

20:35 Handling Revisions and Rejections Professionally

22:30 The Waiting Game in Acquisitions

25:57 Navigating the Acquisitions Process

32:33 Market Trends and Timing

34:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome New York Times bestselling author Marc J Gregson. They discuss Marc's journey from an aspiring writer to a successful author, offering insights on balancing a creative passion with the demands of a published career, managing day jobs, and coping with the pressures of success. Highlights include Marc's experiences with book releases, achieving bestseller status, adapting his work into a major motion picture, and practical advice for other writers facing similar journeys.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers

00:31 Introducing Marc J Gregson

02:25 Marc's Writing Journey

04:59 Hitting the New York Times Bestseller List

15:29 Balancing Teaching and Writing

19:34 Movie Adaptation Excitement

22:30 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome

26:45 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Find out more about Marc J Gregson HERE!

Preorder Downfall HERE!

For workshops and deeper dives into our podcast topics, subscribe to our Trailblazer tier. And for discounts on events and workshops every-other month, become a Summit Club member. And there’s always the free posts too!

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

Thank you for listening to Way-Word Writers! If you’d like to receive new episodes in your inbox, subscribe to our free podcast here. And if you’d like deeper dives into topics and helpful workshops, check out our Trailblazer subscription, and for discounts on events and every-other month workshops, become a founding member in the Summit Club!

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

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.