Writing on Caffeine

It's editing season on Writing on Caffeine! In this episode, Jonathan and Ragan share their experience rereading their first drafts and diving into the reverse outline process—complete with character revelations, structural surprises, and a healthy dose of Post-it note chaos. They reflect on February’s progress and look ahead to the real work of March: character revisions, thematic clarity, and staying motivated through the mess. Whether you're mid-revision or gearing up to start, this episode is your cozy companion on the editing journey.

In this episode, we’re breaking down our month-by-month plan for editing our novels, from big-picture structural changes to final proofreading. We’ll walk through each phase of the process, including macro edits, character development, worldbuilding tweaks, and polishing prose. Plus, we’ll share our strategies for staying on track, managing feedback, and avoiding burnout. Whether you're deep in revisions or just preparing for your first big rewrite, this episode will give you a clear roadmap to take your novel from messy draft to polished manuscript.

In this episode, Jonathan and Ragan talk about the previous year of writing (2024) and how they did at finishing (or not finishing) their rough drafts. They discuss metrics from Spotify Podcasting and then discuss what topics they have in store for the year ahead.

Looking to craft fight scenes that grip your readers from the first punch? In this episode, we dive deep into the art of writing fast-paced, fluid, and fierce action sequences that leap off the page. Learn how to master cause and effect, engage all five senses, and structure dynamic fight scenes that keep your audience on the edge of their seat. Whether you're writing hand-to-hand combat or epic battles, these tips will ensure your action scenes pack a punch!

Join us as we explore how trauma in fiction shapes characters and drives compelling narratives. We’ll discuss how these intense experiences influence motivations and actions, adding depth to any story. Whether you're writing or reading, this episode offers key insights into the power of trauma in storytelling.

Join us as we delve into the chilling world of dystopian fiction. Discover the defining features of totalitarian regimes, surveillance societies, and the fight for individuality through classic and contemporary novels and films. Perfect for fans of dark, thought-provoking tales!

Dive into the heart of suspense with us as we explore how the thrill of the unknown captivates and moves readers. Discover the pivotal role of tension in storytelling, and learn how to masterfully weave anxiety, fear, and anticipation into your narrative to keep readers emotionally invested and turning pages.

Embark on a journey with the Writing On Caffeine Express as we delve into the vital station of "Health and Writing" in our quest for literary excellence. Join Jonathan Franzone as he explores how tuning your physical and mental health can sharpen your creative instrument to its finest. Discover ergonomic tips, mental resilience strategies, and the unsung heroes of nutrition and sleep that fuel your writing journey. Tune in to transform not just your health but your writing itself, and learn how to keep your creativity thriving.

Step into the Writing on Caffeine express and let Ragan Franzone guide you through the enchanting world of "Writing Rituals and Warm-ups." Discover how simple practices can transform your writing from a task into a treasured habit, unlocking the doors to creativity with each session. Tune in to learn the secrets behind turning pre-writing routines into a source of endless inspiration and see your writing flourish. Join us on this journey to make every word an adventure and every blank page a canvas waiting for your touch.

In this episode, we dive deep into how the battles within a character's soul and the turmoil they face in their world are crucial for gripping narratives. Discover with us how these conflicts drive the plot and foster profound character development and engagement. Together, we'll explore strategies for weaving these dynamic tensions into your fiction, creating stories that resonate deeply with readers.