Most writers are told to pick one lane. Dominique Paul proves the smartest move is learning how to make your story travel anywhere. If you’re trying to turn a novel into a screenplay, or a screenplay into a book, this conversation gives you the map and hopefully the inspiration!

Literary Agent Ami McConnell sits down with Dominique Paul to unpack the very real path from aspiring actor to working author, screenwriter, and true crime producer. Dominique shares how a book that sat in a drawer became a screenplay, how that screenplay was optioned before the book was sold, and what happened when working with Hollywood.

Dominique gives great advice for those wanting to break in to the film and book industry and shares the importance of structure when crafting your story!

Tickets for WriterFest: https://www.writerfestnashville.com

tags: writing, how to write a screenplay, how to write a book, true crime, documentary, how to break into the entertainment industry, author, authortok, authortube, literary agent, query letter, dominique paul, writers, full time writer, writerfest, nashville, writerfest, podcast

Shannon Miller joins the Writer Fest Podcast to talk book proposals, querying, beta readers, and how writers can balance creative vision with the publishing marketplace. She also shares advice for crafting a strong hook, using feedback well, and preparing to pitch a book.Want to hear her at WriterFest? Buy tickets now: https://www.writerfestnashville.com/

Join Marianne Richmond and Ami McConnell through a conversation on the power of writing children's books, Marianne's newest memoir, writing workshops, and Dolly Parton's impact on children's literacy...

Marianne Richmond has written picture books that speak to both children and the adults, from Be Brave Little One to If I Could Keep You Little and The World Is Awaiting You and so many more. Her roster of children's stories are now accompanied with her new memoir "IF YOU WERE MY DAUGHTER", which shares her journey of healing and is the biggest why behind her creations.

WriterFest 2026 tickets: https://www.writerfestnashville.com/

Dolly Good Time: https://www.amimcconnell.com/dolly-good-time2026

Today, the WriterFest podcast welcomes Ami McConnell: She's a seasoned editor and founder of Ami McConnell Literary, with extensive experience working with bestselling authors, ghostwriters, and publishing houses. Her insider perspective bridges the gap between authors and publishers, making her your go-to guide for navigating the literary world.

Ami talks about how to stand out during query submissions, the importance of being a good literary citizen, and how to build meaningful relationships to help start publishing opportunities. Plus, she shares advice for writers who are eager to grow their craft, and debunks common misconceptions about the publishing process.

If you're a writer, aspiring agent, and/or anyone passionate about the craft of storytelling come tune in and to Ami's story and get inspired to elevate your own writing journey!

WriterFest Tickets: https://www.writerfestnashville.com/

Join Ami McConnell and best-selling author Ruta Sepetys as they discuss moving across media, the Paris of the Midwest, and her new book, Fortune of Sand.

Sepetys is an international best-selling author who has received the of the Carnegie Medal, and has been honored by the American Academy of Arts and Letters. She has spoken in front of European Parliament and has received the Knight's Cross of the Order of the Cross of Vytis for her efforts to share the history of totalitarianism in the Baltics.

She is a kind guest and a dear friend, and speaks highly of her time at writing conferences. Enjoy!

In this episode, host Amy welcomes two incredible best-selling authors, Colleen Coble and Denise Hunter. Together, they explore their unique writing journeys, the power of collaboration, and the secrets behind their enduring critique partnership of 25 years. Learn about their latest books—Colleen’s I Think I Was Murdered and Denise’s Before We Were Us—and get inspired by their insights on storytelling, character development, and finding your voice as a writer. Plus, discover why writer conferences are transformative for creative growth.

Don’t miss this heartwarming and insightful conversation with two literary powerhouses! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow creatives. Your support helps us continue bringing you the best in storytelling inspiration!

We're doing a giveaway! Send us a DM on Instagram that you want to win a copy of Colleen Coble's I Think I Was Murdered or Denise Hunter's Before We Were Us and you'll be entered to win!

Learn more about WriterFest Nashville: www.writerfestnashville.com

In this episode, we sit down with bestselling thriller author Kiersten Modglin to uncover the secrets behind her prolific writing career and her journey as an independent author. From the relentless drive that keeps her writing every day to the unique mental hacks she uses to immerse herself in her story worlds, Kiersten shares her insights on what it takes to succeed in publishing. She talks candidly about her DIY approach to everything from book covers to marketing, her inspirations in the thriller genre, and how she draws motivation from authors like Colleen Hoover and Glennon Doyle.

As we look forward to Kiersten’s appearance at WriterFest, she offers invaluable advice for writers aiming to make a living from their art, touching on her influences, her favorite books and podcasts, and her go-to playlist that keeps her focused. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a fan of psychological thrillers, this episode offers inspiration, practical tips, and a glimpse into the mindset of an author committed to both her craft and her readers.

Contagious Enthusiasm:

Authors

Colleen Hoover

Candy Steiner

Megan Brandy

Emerald O'Brien

Glennon Doyle

Adele Parks

Mark Edwards

Taylor Jenkins Reid

Jodi Picoult

V.E. Schwab

Podcasts

Nate Land Podcast

We Can Do Hard Things

Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper

Books

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

Learn more about WriterFest Nashville, happening Novemeber 22-23, 2024 at www.writerfestnashville.com

We want to see you at WriterFest Nashville! In this FUN episode, Ami, Sara, and Risha chat about ALL THINGS WriterFest Nashville, happening November 22-23 at Belmont University. Listen as we discuss panels, workshops, and A Dolly Good Time, our fundraising event happening on November 21 at Acme Feed & Seed on Broadway. Whether you're a writer of books, songs, or screenplays, Writer Fest has something for everyone.

Get $50 off your ticket at checkout with the code: PODCAST

Buy tickets to WriterFest Nashville

Buy tickets to A Dolly Good Time

Learn more about WriterFest Nashville: www.writerfestnashville.com

In this episode of the Writerfest Podcast, we welcome Marjorie Wentworth, poet, educator, and former poet laureate of South Carolina. Marjorie joins us to discuss her latest book, One River, One Boat, a captivating blend of poetry and memoir that reflects on her personal journey and pivotal events in her communities. From her recent move to Springfield, Ohio, and advocacy with the local Haitian immigrant community to her reflections on the joys and challenges of being a poet laureate, Marjorie shares insights on the power of poetry to capture collective experience.

We delve into the art of occasional poetry—poems crafted for specific public events—and hear how Marjorie has navigated emotional readings in challenging settings, such as her poem for the Mother Emanuel Church tragedy and a controversial inauguration piece. Marjorie also previews her Journey Storytelling Project, which fosters empathy through immigrant stories, and shares her current literary inspirations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on writing, resilience, and the transformative role of poetry in connecting communities.

Marjory will be at WriterFest Nashville! Join us there: www.writerfestnashville.com

Also, join her at The Porch's Literary Conversations Happy Hour on November 22.

Contagious Enthusiasm:

Learn more about Writerfest Nashville here!

In this episode of the WriterFest Podcast, host Amy McConnell welcomes Cheryl Davis, General Counsel of the Authors Guild, for a fascinating conversation about the legal landscape for writers. With over 30 years of experience in intellectual property and advocacy, Cheryl shares her insights on topics such as book contracts, copyright protection, and the Authors Guild’s ongoing fight to defend authors’ rights. They delve into timely issues like book banning, ghostwriting, and the ever-evolving challenges of artificial intelligence in the creative space. Writers and creatives won’t want to miss this episode packed with valuable resources and advocacy tips.

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