Write Out Loud

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In this special update, Matt and Christina share that Write Out Loud will be taking a short, mid-season pause to recalibrate and focus on personal challenges and commitments. The hosts emphasize their dedication to delivering high-quality storytelling content and their desire to be fully present for every conversation. They also include a rallying cry for creatives who find themselves in similar circumstances.

Key Highlights

The "Spring Break" Pause: The team is taking a temporary break to handle family health issues and general life complexities, ensuring they don't "show up distracted" or rush the creative process.

Commitment to Authors: For authors currently scheduled or in conversation with the show, the hosts assure you that your episodes are still coming; they are simply being reshuffled to a later date.

Grace for Creatives: Christina encourages fellow writers and artists to give themselves the same "grace" to pause when life feels overwhelming, noting that it is okay to step back when you can't get your "head in the game".

Looking Ahead: This is not the end of the season. The show will return soon with more discussions on the craft, culture, and artistry of storytelling.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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This week, Matt and Christina dive into the phenomenon of the "will not read" list. They explore why readers blackball certain authors, noting that these refusals usually transcend simple critiques of writing style and fall into three distinct categories:

• Moral Objections: The duo discusses personal bans based on an author’s real-world actions. They both refuse to read J.K. Rowling due to her public anti-trans activism, and they examine how allegations against Neil Gaiman—even when unadjudicated—can fundamentally shift a reader's willingness to offer support.
• The "Industrial Complex" & Market Fatigue: This category focuses on the exhaustion caused by hyper-prolific "brand" authors. They use James Patterson as a primary example, questioning the ethics of his massive co-authoring machine. They also touch on Nora Roberts, discussing how her relentless output of reprints and pseudonyms can lead to reader burnout.
• The Popularity Backlash: Finally, they analyze "80–20" hate—the visceral rejection of authors like Colleen Hoover, Sarah J. Maas, and Stephenie Meyer simply because of their success. This section breaks down the psychology of "bandwagon resistance" and how being a contrarian often becomes a core part of a reader’s identity. 

They note writers should still read popular authors to learn why the storytelling connects, and conclude that choices reflect values, identity, and which stories shape us.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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Matt and Christina discuss whether spoilers and predictable endings ruin stories, arguing that mystery isn’t dead but often misunderstood. Using examples like Titanic, Pride and Prejudice, superhero and historical films, It Ends With Us, a 60 Minutes Holocaust survivor segment, John Wick, and the musical & Juliet, they emphasize that audiences stay invested because of character journey, growth, emotional impact, and the cost of getting to a known outcome. 

They frame genre and history as useful storytelling frameworks that reduce pressure on the ending and instead highlight what characters want, what they sacrifice, and how writers can shape audience feeling, which they say is key to compelling work and audience connection.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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Matt and Christina discuss Rachel Reid’s romance Heated Rivalry and its HBO adaptation, focusing on the rivals-to-lovers relationship between Ilya and Shane, the slow-burn tension, and the mix of tenderness, humor, and emotional devastation. They talk about how the story’s public “hate” is more about competition and concealment—especially tied to Shane’s uncertainty about his sexuality—while Ilya is more self-assured but constrained by his Russian home life and the risk of losing his family if he comes out. 

They highlight standout acting choices, especially Connor Storie’s micro-expressions and the show’s physical storytelling (small gestures, unspoken moments), citing scenes like Rose’s diner conversation, Shane’s panic attack with Ilya comforting him, and the impact of Scott and Kip going public and showing a supportive father figure. The hosts note the value of LGBTQ representation, including mention of a hockey player coming out after the show aired, and they discuss how the series challenges toxic masculinity without lecturing. 

They speculate about season two, including possible focus on backstory, where the couples go next, whether later books like The Long Game will be adapted, and the question of Shane and Ilya becoming public, while praising the craft that makes the emotional payoff feel earned

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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In this episode of 'Write Out Loud,' Matt and Christina return after a brief hiatus to tackle the complex question of whether writers should be vocal about their personal political beliefs or let their work speak for itself. They discuss the implications and potential consequences for artists who choose to speak out in an age where silence isn't neutral, but speaking up carries its own risks. 

They also explore how audience reactions and societal expectations can influence an artist's decision to voice their opinions. The conversation touches on historical and contemporary examples, including artists' roles in political discussions and the personal stakes involved. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to consider their own stances on whether art should challenge worldviews or simply entertain.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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In this episode of 'Write Out Loud', Matt and Christina delve into the nuance of ambiguous endings in storytelling, inspired by the classic short story 'The Lady or the Tiger' by Frank R. Stockton. They discuss how modern TV shows like 'Stranger Things' are using this narrative technique to engage audiences and challenge them to imagine their own conclusions. The conversation touches on the importance of imaginative engagement, the risks and rewards of ambiguous storytelling, and the impact of divided attention in the age of smartphones. The hosts advocate for compelling storytelling that captivates the audience's full attention and encourages critical thinking.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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It's another Holiday Replay, and this time we're bringing back our episode with author Ruby Dixon!  This episode originally aired back on October 14, 2024, so you'll hear some mentions of a book releasing going live "tomorrow."  That, obviously, was back then.  The book, Bull Moon Rising, is available everywhere now.

In this episode of the Write Out Loud Podcast, hosts Matt Cassem and Christina Trevaskis introduce their guest, Ruby Dixon, a renowned author known for her works in science fiction and fantasy romance or Romantasy, if you will. Ruby discusses her journey into writing, the origins of her popular series Ice Planet Barbarians, and the influences behind her works. She also delves into the creation of her latest standalone novel, Bull Moon Rising, set in a rich fantasy world involving magical artifacts, Minotaurs, and a unique societal structure.

Ruby shares insights into her writing process, the freedom of self-publishing, and how she crafts intricate worlds that captivate her readers. The episode emphasizes Ruby's distinctive storytelling style and highlights the importance of indie bookstores in the literary community. Bull Moon Rising, on shelves and available for e-readers today, promises fans another engaging adventure in Ruby's expansive universe.

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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In this Holiday Replay episode of Write Out Loud, we revisit our unforgettable conversation with Kristen Ashley, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author whose career has helped redefine modern romance publishing.

With more than 90 novels published, over 5 million copies sold, and translations in 14 languages, Kristen shares a candid look at her journey—from years of rejection to massive success—by trusting her voice and writing the stories she wanted to read.

✨ Episode Highlights

📚 Writing Your Own Rules

Kristen discusses why she embraced first-person POV in romance despite industry resistance, how breaking “the rules” helped her find her voice, and why readers can tell when a story is written authentically.

🚪 Rejection, Persistence & Indie Publishing

She opens up about spending over a decade submitting to traditional publishers, writing more than 25 books before publishing, and the pivotal moment she decided to self-publish—leading to a sudden and explosive rise in readership.

🔥 Voice Over Trends

Kristen emphasizes the importance of writing for an “audience of one,” trusting your instincts, and resisting the pressure to chase trends. Her advice: readers can feel when a writer isn’t enjoying their own work.

💔 Imposter Syndrome & Success

Even after selling thousands of books and landing on the New York Times Bestseller List, Kristen shares how success didn’t feel real at first—and what finally helped her believe it.

💘 Romance That Feels Safe

From expansive epilogues to external conflict, Kristen explains how she creates relationships that feel secure, earned, and lasting—giving readers emotional reassurance without sacrificing tension.

🎨 Creative Control & Covers

She talks about avoiding faces on book covers, letting readers imagine characters for themselves, and balancing creative control across indie and traditional publishing.

📖 Books Mentioned:

• Smooth Sailing
• Own the Wind
• Rock Chick Series
• Chaos Series

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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In this episode of 'Write Out Loud,' Matt and Christina explore what makes characters truly unforgettable. The hosts discuss the qualities that endear characters to readers, including depth, motivation, and impactful choices. Through examples like Atticus Finch and Hannibal Lecter, they highlight how well-crafted characters leave lasting impressions. 

Tips are also shared for writers on avoiding common pitfalls and nurturing characters that feel real. Tune in for insightful advice on character development and storytelling that resonates long after the book is closed.

00:45 Introduction to Write Out Loud
01:27 Defining Unforgettable Characters
03:52 Examples of Unforgettable Characters
07:44 Creating Unforgettable Characters
15:36 Pitfalls in Character Development
21:04 Questions to Deepen Character Development
23:48 Final Thoughts and Writing Advice

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

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In this episode of Write Out Loud, Matt and Christina dive into the world of hot takes in storytelling and writing. They debate controversial opinions and craft advice such as the use of prologues, the role of adverbs, plot versus character importance, and the balance of world-building with plot. 

Some of the hot takes even tackle the complexity of 'show, don't tell,' the nature of villains, and the necessity of conflict in romance. Tune in for a lively discussion aimed at demystifying these writing myths and encouraging listeners to find their own path in storytelling.

00:00 Introduction to Write Out Loud
01:14 Diving into Storytelling Hot Takes
02:50 Prologues: Overrated or Essential?
05:45 The Great Adverb Debate
07:42 Characters vs. Plot: What's More Important?
10:55 World Building vs. Plot: Finding the Balance
13:30 Show Don't Tell: Finding the Right Balance
17:24 Villains and Protagonists: A Fine Line
20:23 Romance Writing: Conflict vs. Tension
23:08 Flashbacks: Timing is Everything
23:39 Side Characters: Supporting Roles Only
25:01 Conclusion: Wrapping Up the Hot Takes

 Hey, thanks so much for listening to the podcast. We really hope that you're enjoying every bit of it, but we would love to hear your feedback.  Drop us an email either to [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear your thoughts. What's working, what's not working. And what do you want to hear more of? Thanks so much. We really appreciate it.

Support the show

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