What's the difference between a character-driven story and a plot-driven story? And how do you know which one you're writing? In this episode, I explain what these terms actually mean, how to identify where your manuscript falls on the spectrum, and—most importantly—how to strengthen whichever element needs more support. You'll learn the two most common problems writers face and get one simple exercise to help you revise with intention. There's no "right" answer here—just intentional choices. 

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Got a story idea but don't know where to begin? You're not alone. Many writers either freeze at "Chapter One" or spend months planning without ever drafting. In this episode, I walk you through the essential things you need to know before you write your first scene. So you can stop overthinking and start writing today.

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Suspense isn't just for thrillers—it's what makes readers unable to put down any story, from memoir to fantasy to romance. In this episode, you'll learn three proven techniques to create page-turning tension in any genre. No car chases or explosions required.

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Writing a story with multiple POVs? In this episode, we’ll unpack how to keep your narrative focused, decide which characters need full arcs, and make sure every point-of-view earns its place in your story.

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Memoir is true, fiction is made up - but how does that change your actual storytelling? In this episode, I break down the key differences between memoir and fiction: what you can and can't do in memoir, how much creative license you have, and when to choose one form over the other. Plus: the surprising ways memoir and fiction use the exact same narrative techniques.

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If you’ve been wrestling with story structure, this episode will help you see it differently. Learn what’s really keeping you stuck and how to finally bring your draft to the finish line.

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If you’ve ever hit that point in your draft where the words feel heavy, the story starts to wander, and your momentum disappears—you’ve landed in the messy middle.

Every writer faces it. The difference is, some know how to push through.

In today’s episode, I’m breaking down why the middle of a draft feels so hard—and how to revive your story so you can actually finish it.

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If your novel or memoir keeps stalling out, it’s not about talent or discipline. Chances are, something else is getting in your way. This episode uncovers what it is—and how to move past it.

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Your protagonist’s first appearance can make or break your story. That opening impression tells your reader whether they should lean in, or move on.

Too often, writers get stuck in backstory, mundane routines, or quirky details that don’t really matter yet. The result? A flat introduction that fails to spark curiosity or connection.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• Why your protagonist’s introduction carries so much weight.
• The 4 most common mistakes writers make in opening scenes.
• 3 strategies to ensure your main character’s first appearance is memorable, relatable, and compelling.

By the end, you’ll know how to craft an introduction that makes readers care, and keeps them turning pages.

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Every writer hits that moment mid-draft where the story feels too big, too messy, too unclear. But getting lost in the middle of a draft doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re deep in the work. 

And the good news? There’s a way through.

In this episode, I’ll help you zoom out, find the heart of your story again, and get back on track. So you can turn that overwhelming pile of pages into a novel or memoir that actually works.

If you’re overwhelmed by the volume of your story material and tempted to give up, this conversation will help you find clarity, focus, and the confidence to keep going.

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