Way-Word Writers Podcast

In this episode of Wayward Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author Jennifer Gennari to discuss the intricacies of line editing and its importance in the writing process. Jennifer talks about her journey as a writer and editor, shares her approach to character-driven dialogue, and offers practical advice for strengthening sentences. The conversation also delves into common issues faced by writers and teaching strategies to improve one’s manuscript. Guest recommendations for craft books and personal anecdotes round out this educational and inspirational episode.If you’d like to read Heather’s deep dive article on this episode, you can find it here:EPISODE 104 DEEP DIVE: The Art of Line Editing, A Guide to Polishing Your Prose00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers00:32 Meet Jennifer Gennari01:33 Jennifer’s Writing Journey02:48 Books Jennifer Recommends04:23 The Importance of Line Editing06:27 Line Editing Techniques08:18 Character Development Through Line Editing12:35 Character-Driven Analogies17:17 Avoiding Over-Polishing in Writing18:06 The Power of Reading Aloud19:31 Using Beta Readers Effectively21:20 Common Issues in Student Manuscripts23:04 Recognizing Generic Sentences25:11 Polishing Dialogue for Emotional Resonance27:23 Advice for Middle Grade Authors28:54 Recommended Craft Books30:20 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFind Out MORE:Jennifer Gennari’s Website and Links to Muffled and Stifled.​​​​The Art of Description: World Into Word​ by Mark Doty​The Last Mapmaker by Christina SoontornvatKekla Magoon, AuthorRefuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts by Matt BellSelf-Editing for Fiction Writers, Second Edition: How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Renni Browne & Dave King This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author Julie Berman to discuss her journey of writing later-in-life romances. They delve into Julie's transition from speech-language pathology to author, her latest book 'Elsie's New Season,' and the importance of portraying love and life experiences of older adults authentically. Julie shares insights into the challenges and joys of writing for this demographic, the stereotypes she aims to debunk, and how her personal experiences have influenced her work. The hosts also explore broader themes of resilience, grief, and love, offering valuable advice for both writers and readers.Check out our EPISODE 104 DEEP DIVE: Writing Beyond Midlife: Crafting Compelling Stories with Older Protagonists00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:32 Meet Julie Berman02:31 Julie’s Writing Journey03:43 Elsie’s New Season: A Later in Life Romance05:30 Themes in Julie’s Writing08:07 Balancing Realism and Romance13:09 Genre Blending and Audience15:46 Character Backgrounds and Relationships17:54 Personal Touches in Grief19:10 Challenging Age Stereotypes20:37 Embracing Character Quirks22:38 The Evolution of Romance Genres24:01 Advice for Aspiring Writers25:09 The Importance of Beta Readers27:20 Navigating Indie Publishing29:35 Marketing and Promotion Strategies32:08 Heartwarming Lessons from Writing33:42 Conclusion and Future Projects​Elsie’s New Season: A Later In Life Romance by Julie Berman This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the significance of networking in the writing and publishing industry. They outline what networking is, why it's essential, and offer practical tips for writers at all stages of their journey. The conversation covers how to approach networking with authenticity, balance professionalism, and maintain meaningful connections. They also share personal anecdotes, common mistakes, and advice for introverted writers. The episode closes with a reminder that while mistakes can happen, the benefits of networking are invaluable for both career growth and personal enrichment. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

Hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome nationally recognized grammar expert Patty McGee, author of “Feedback That Moves Writers Forward” and “Not Your Granny’s Grammar,” to discuss grammar as a tool for clarity, intention, and voice rather than rigid rules. McGee explains why grammar feels scary due to shame-based schooling and “grammar police” culture, and emphasizes learning key sentence structures (simple, compound, complex, compound-complex) to shape rhythm and meaning. She advises that grammar focus during drafting depends on a writer’s fluency, highlights comma splices as a common issue, downplays strict comma-before-conjunction rules, and encourages intentional rule-breaking—especially in dialogue—based on audience and purpose. The group discusses distractions like repetitive punctuation errors, AI’s conflicting guidance, knowing oneself before critique, and trusting candid readers and copy editors, then closes with a lightning round on Oxford commas, fragments, adverbs, and starting sentences with conjunctions.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word00:32 Meet Patty McGee01:38 Why Grammar Feels Scary03:58 Rules vs Voice06:22 Four Sentence Types08:30 Drafting or Revising09:48 Comma Splices and Commas15:00 Grammar as Paintbrush16:38 Authors vs Copy Editors18:41 Grammar Distractions in Queries21:50 Where Rules Came From23:52 AI Grammar Anxiety25:00 Know the Basics26:00 Writing Voice Choices26:57 Audience and Genre Rules29:01 When to Let Go31:04 Lightning Round Grammar36:08 Professional vs Personal36:55 Where to Find Patty37:22 Final Thanks and Outro​Go to Patty McGee’s website here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce Way-Word Writers’ new Substack offerings to support writers across genres and career stages with actionable resources. They describe two paid tiers: the $50/year Trailblazer Tier featuring craft, marketing, and business worksheets, and the $150/year Summit Club providing deep-dive, on-demand workshops that can be paused and revisited, building an ongoing library. They highlight current workshops including a promotional planning overview focused on building a street team and launch timeline, Heather’s “From First Draft to Final Synopsis” revision and synopsis method using highlighting and outlines, and upcoming sessions such as Nicki’s time management and goal-setting class and Stephanie’s character-building workshop using the Enneagram. They encourage community interaction via comments, email requests, and continued connection through their website and social platforms.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word00:36 Why We Chose Substack01:26 Trailblazer Tier Worksheets02:20 Summit Club Deep Dives03:25 Learn Anytime Benefits05:40 Class Street Team Promo07:29 Class Revision Synopsis10:07 Monthly Workshop Schedule11:27 Class Time Management14:34 Class Enneagram Characters17:55 Actionable Workshop Promise18:42 Request Topics Connect19:50 Final Sign Off This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

Feel like you don’t have enough hours in the day? Writing goals not being met like you hoped? Nicki Jacobsmeyer, author and business professional, explores different time management strategies and goal setting that work for your life and make you more intentional. Determine where you’re currently spending time, what pesky distractions get in your way, and how to tackle the ticking clock by prioritizing writing and what’s most important to you.Summit Club Workshop includes:* Time Audit template * Time Examiner template* Goals-Chunks-Segments Planning Strategies template This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer talk with longtime collaborators Christina Boufis (fiction/nonfiction author and author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Nonfiction) and Victoria Olson (author of biography, fiction, and nonfiction; former university writing instructor) about how their co-writing partnership works and what it was like to use Kickstarter in their publishing journey.They outline major hurdles and what they would do differently, share outcomes, and note Kickstarter is better suited to genre, niche, and quirky projects than many memoirs or standard domestic thrillers. The episode closes with where to find them (somdarkforest.com, christinaboufis.com, Penny Dreadful Media on TikTok) and what’s next: completing the sequel by spring and planning additional collaborative books (including titles Dark Circles and Dark Science) alongside their solo projects.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers (Meet the Hosts & Mission)00:36 Today’s Guests: Long-Term Co-Authors + Kickstarter Publishing02:03 How Their Writing Partnership Began (Dickens Camp to First Project)03:27 Drafting Together in One Google Doc (Discovery Writing + NaNoWriMo Sprint)05:20 Editing, Roles, and the ‘Jazz Improv’ Collaboration Style06:50 Pros, Cons, and Keeping a Unified Voice as Co-Authors10:30 Staying Motivated Through Life & Rejection (Why Partnership Helps)12:01 Why They Chose Kickstarter (After a Small-Press Offer)15:16 Kickstarter Reality Check: Visual Assets, Video, Swag, and New Skills18:17 Running the Campaign: Backer Swaps, Reward Tiers, Stretch Goals & Fulfillment19:21 Backer Demands & Going Physical: Paperback, Hardcover, Collector Mindset21:14 When It Stops Feeling Overwhelming: Mastermind Support & Campaign Vetting22:44 Kickstarter’s Built-In Community Engine: Updates, Requests & Reader Connection24:12 Results & Aftermath: Low Goal Strategy, 400% Funded, Early Reviewers25:23 Social Media Spillover: Promoting Beyond Kickstarter + Why TikTok27:09 Kickstarter First Steps: Finish the Book, Find Community, Study Other Campaigns29:49 Design, Video & Reward Strategy: Outsourcing, Swag, Special Editions, Signed eBooks32:16 Would They Do It Again? Time, Energy, and the Real Learning Curve33:42 Is Kickstarter a Fit? Genre vs Memoir, Niche/Quirky Books & Physicality36:15 What’s Next + Where to Find Them: Sequels, Solo Projects, Websites & Farewell​Find more about Christina Boufis at christinaboufis.com!​Find more about Victoria Olsen at victoriaolsen.com!​Some Dark Force, a Victorian thriller, by Christina Boufis and Victoria Olsen. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer interview Chloe Ito Ward, a Japanese American children’s author with a background in education. They discuss Chloe’s new and upcoming books, the thematic elements in her writing, and the inspiration and process behind her stories. Chloe shares how her personal and professional experiences influence her work and provides insights into the challenges of writing for a young audience. The conversation also touches on the importance of diversity, cultural representation, and authenticity in children’s literature.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:31 Introducing Chloe Ito Ward00:45 Chloe’s Teaching Background and Inspiration02:06 All the Ways We Learn08:49 Made For More: The Story Behind the Book11:39 Writing for Young Readers16:40 Author’s Note and Reader Engagement19:52 Reflecting on Parental Influence20:07 Introducing Chopsticks Are.... 20:37 Cultural Touchpoints in Chopsticks Are.... 21:05 Expanding the Scope of Chopsticks Are....23:51 Research and Writing Process25:11 Conversations Around Chopsticks28:04 Balancing Authenticity and Accessibility29:33 Creative Writing Process31:09 Themes and Identity in Writing34:10 Avoiding Didacticism in Picture Books36:45 Lightning Round Q&A37:55 Conclusion and FarewellFind out more about Chloe Ito Ward on her website here!On Tuesday February 17, see our companion deep dive article about adding hooks and layers to your book to increase depth, universal resonance, and commercial viability:EPISODE 105 DEEP DIVE: Layering Hooks and Themes Into Your Manuscript This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

​In this episode of the Way-Word Writers Podcast, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer share updates on their current writing projects and discuss the exciting changes in their creative journeys as they step into 2026. They open up about their writing seasons, upcoming goals, and how they are planning to sustain their creative passion while balancing various aspects of their lives. The episode also introduces changes in the podcast's release schedule and the addition of new, in-depth content on their Substack to better support their writing community.​PLEASE NOTE: Our schedule will change to a podcast every other Tuesday and a DEEP DIVE companion article on the Tuesdays in between.​Workshops for our Substack Summit Club level will be released periodically, at least every other month.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:31 Introduction to the Podcast01:34 Hosts Share Their Current Writing Projects02:53 Stephanie's Exciting New Ventures04:45 Nicki's Writing Journey and Goals12:42 Heather's Writing and Life in Costa Rica17:48 Balancing Writing and Promotion19:43 Changes to the Podcast Schedule25:45 Workshops and Community Engagement28:11 Final Thoughts and Farewell This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the unique challenges of balancing writing with caregiving responsibilities. Each shares personal experiences as caregivers and writers, offering valuable insights and practical advice on managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding creative solutions to maintain their passion for writing. They emphasize the importance of self-care, realistic goal-setting, and the value of community support during difficult times.This week our EPISODE 103 DEEP DIVE: Writing While Caregiving (Or Being Super Busy!) has some great tips and ways to keep your relationship with writing and creating healthy.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:43 The Challenges of Writing as a Caregiver01:16 Different Types of Caregiving01:52 Personal Caregiving Experiences06:04 Balancing Writing and Caregiving06:49 Strategies for Managing Time09:35 The Importance of Community Support11:12 Setting Boundaries and Self-Care18:34 Creative Solutions for Writing Time21:01 Dealing with Creative Burnout23:05 The Writing Process: Observations and Experiences23:33 Creative Solutions for Writing on the Go24:14 The Importance of Reading and Consuming Stories25:47 Incorporating Life Experiences into Writing27:26 Balancing Family, Resilience, and Writing31:46 Finding Creativity Amidst Caregiving35:13 Managing Guilt and Asking for Help42:17 Defining Success During Caregiving44:38 Final Thoughts and Advice for Caregivers and Writers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of ​Way​-​W​ord Writers, Kaitlyn Sanchez, an agent at Bradford Literary, joins to discuss her journey with writing contests, community building, her roles as an editorial agent, and the impact of her contests on writers’ careers.And if you’d like a bit more of Heather’s thoughts on this topic…EPISODE 102 DEEP DIVE: The Hidden Architecture of a Thriving Writing Community00:00 Introduction to ​Way​-​W​ord Writers 00:02 Meet Kaitlyn Sanchez: Agent and Contest Creator01:24 The Birth of Writing Contests03:54 Community and Collaboration in Contests10:08 Behind the Scenes of Contest Management16:58 The Impact of Contests on Writers20:09 Advice for Contest Participants26:30 Future of Writing Contests29:27 Conclusion and FarewellF​ind out more about Kaitlyn Sanchez, her contests, writing, agenting, and more on her website!Thank you for listening! To get access to our worksheets and deep dive articles, add your email below! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Harold Underdown, a seasoned editor and consultant, to discuss effective submission strategies for writers. Harold shares insights on common submission missteps, how to test editor and agent fit, and crafting the perfect query letter. He also delves into the impact of digital workflows and AI on the publishing industry, and offers useful revision tools for authors. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the balance between trade and educational markets for nonfiction works, and practical tips for finding comparable titles.EPISODE 101 DEEP DIVE: Where Heather Talks About Publishing Trends and Assessing Manuscripts For Submission00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:34 Guest Introduction: Harold Underdown02:11 Common Submission Missteps05:22 Testing Editor and Agent Fit07:43 Submission Checklist Essentials11:03 Handling Soft Passes and Rejections15:28 Using Industry Intel Smartly18:33 Big Changes in Publishing23:32 The Impact of AI on Publishing Staff25:09 Editorial Assistants and Efficiency26:14 Challenges for Authors with Orphaned Books28:00 Revision Tools for Authors31:45 Positioning Nonfiction for Multiple Markets34:40 The Role of Comparable Titles in Queries39:17 Submission Strategies Across Genres41:22 Lightning Round: Trends, Myths, and Resources45:57 Conclusion and FarewellThe Purple CrayonChildren’s Book Agents and Artist’s Representatives: a Guide This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Wayward Writers Podcast, Stephanie Bearce and co-hosts Nicki and Heather reflect on the milestones and personal victories of 2025. They discuss their memorable 100th episode, successful retreats, heartwarming interactions with podcast guests, and individual creative achievements. They also offer insights into their plans for 2026, including exciting new projects, personal growth in writing, and upcoming events for the Wayward Writers community. The hosts express gratitude for their journey and the supportive community that surrounds them, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own year and look forward to new opportunities.00:00 Welcome to the Grand Finale of 202500:33 Celebrating Milestones and Retreats04:01 Personal Victories and Achievements07:38 Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead12:48 Finding Joy and Passion in Writing15:14 Current Projects and Future Plans15:37 Exploring the Joy of Writing Essays16:37 Deep Dives and Craft-Based Advice17:22 Exciting Plans for 202617:45 Nicki's Debut Thriller Novel19:30 Navigating the Publishing Jungle21:37 Agent Ascente and Opportunities23:46 Upcoming Retreats and Community Building26:06 Gratitude and Reflections28:30 Looking Forward to 2026 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Melissa Helton, a literary arts director and published author. Melissa shares her writing journey, discusses her approach to essay writing, and offers insights into maintaining authenticity while working with editors. The conversation covers the nuances of writing publishable essays, blending personal experiences with universal themes, and navigating the ethical considerations of sharing personal stories. Melissa also provides practical advice for writers on staying motivated and organized. This informative and heartfelt discussion is sure to inspire both emerging and established writers.For a more in depth look at essay writing, the purpose and how-to, see EPISODE 100 DEEP DIVE: The Art of the Essay: Why We Write, How It Works, and What Makes It Matter.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:32 Guest Introduction: Melissa Hilton01:58 Melissa Helton’s Writing Journey03:54 The Emotional Impact of Editing07:06 Defining a Publishable Essay11:05 Finding the Hook and Structure in Essays14:30 Balancing Personal and Universal Themes23:08 Maintaining Authenticity with Editors24:07 Navigating Editorial Feedback26:12 Balancing Artistic Integrity and Publication26:42 Alternative Publishing Methods28:58 The Revision Process31:03 Organizing Creative Ideas33:03 Understanding Editorial Rejections36:56 Staying Motivated and Creative41:08 Ethical Considerations in Personal Essays43:14 Lightning Round: Quick Insights44:15 Conclusion and FarewellThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support Way-Word Writers, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

You can find more about this topic and the risks and rewards of genre hopping in our article EPISODE 99 DEEP DIVE: Genre Hopping Risks and GainsIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by special guest Eric Smith, an award-winning literary agent and young adult author. The discussion delves into the concept of genre-hopping and age category shifting among authors. Eric Smith emphasizes that an author’s unique voice can transcend genres and categories, encouraging writers to explore different writing styles. The episode also covers important aspects like the risks and rewards of genre-hopping, the importance of passion in writing, and how to prepare for transitioning into new literary spaces. Special highlights include Eric’s personal experiences with genre transitions and comprehensive advice for authors considering a shift in their writing career.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:30 Introducing Eric Smith02:02 Genre Hopping and Career Impact04:05 Why Writers Switch Genres06:38 Challenges and Misconceptions11:40 Voice and Genre Crossover17:29 Navigating Genre Jumping as an Author17:49 Reassurance for Authors Exploring New Genres18:20 Risks and Rewards of Genre Hopping19:31 Publisher Expectations and Author Branding21:35 The Role of Pen Names in Genre Hopping25:13 Lessons Learned from Genre Hopping28:18 Advice for Aspiring Genre Hoppers31:50 Eric Smith’s Contact Information and Closing RemarksFind Eric at EricSmithRocks.com or NeighborhoodLiterary.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the critical steps and considerations for authors who receive a book offer. They emphasize the importance of celebrating the offer, taking time to review the contract, and asking the right questions. The hosts share personal experiences with book contracts and highlight key issues such as negotiation timelines, advances, subsidiary rights, and the impact of AI on publishing. They provide actionable advice for both agented and un-agented authors, stressing the necessity of seeking legal assistance when reviewing contracts to ensure a fair and beneficial agreement.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:45 Celebrating Your Book Offer01:26 Questions to Ask When You Get an Offer02:45 Negotiating Your Contract09:22 Understanding Advances14:28 Royalty Rates and Payments19:35 Rights and Contract Clauses22:09 Understanding Subsidiary Rights23:26 Negotiating Contract Terms27:15 Marketing and Production Considerations30:04 Cover Design and Illustrations34:24 AI Clauses and Legal Considerations36:48 Final Thoughts and AdviceTo see the DEEP DIVE article on this episode, go here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by Jenna Satterthwaite, a literary agent and author. The discussion revolves around Jenna’s journey in publishing, her experiences writing in multiple genres, and her insights on market trends. Jenna shares practical tips for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of understanding genre expectations and staying true to one’s voice. Key topics include balancing thriller and romance elements, the impact of market trends, and the creative process behind developing compelling stories.00:00 Introduction to Way-word Writers00:32 Meet Jenna Satterthwaite01:52 Jenna’s Writing Journey03:56 Balancing Genres: Thrillers and Romance04:55 The Creative Process and Market Constraints08:03 Themes and Common Threads in Jenna’s Work11:25 Challenges of Writing Romance and Thrillers22:59 Commercial vs. Literary Fiction26:01 Understanding Literary Prose and Market Trends26:39 Staying Aware of Market Trends Without Losing Your Voice27:48 The Secret Money Code in Publishing28:49 Gathering Information Without Breaking the Bank30:46 Navigating Genre Trends and Market Challenges35:37 The Creative Process: From Concept to Execution45:00 Balancing Multiple Genres and Reader Expectations49:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFor more info on Jenna Satterthwaite, you can find out more about her on her website at JennaSatterthwaite.com.To read the deep dive article that corresponds with this week’s podcast, find it here:EPISODE 97 DEEP DIVE: The Architecture of Genre-BlendingFor a coordinating worksheet, go here: Genre Blending Worksheet This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie B​e​arce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with acclaimed author and editor Debra Halverson to discuss the nuances of revising a manuscript from the first draft to the final product. They explore the often overlooked layers of revision, the default settings writers fall into, and how to inject new life into characters and settings. Halverson shares practical tips on maintaining the heart of the story, dealing with conflicting feedback, and adapting to the ever-changing market trends. The conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice for both novice and seasoned writers.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:34 Meet Debra Halverson02:01 The Hidden Layers of Revision05:15 Transformative Revision Techniques12:46 Common Writing Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them20:12 Maintaining the Heart of Your Story22:00 Humanizing Historical Characters24:24 Balancing Emotional Distance in Revisions27:28 Navigating Feedback and Critique32:34 Adapting to Market Trends40:04 Overcoming Overwhelm in Revisions41:49 Final Thoughts and EncouragementF​ind out more about Deborah Halverson HERE!To read a deeper dive article about editing, go to the EPISODE 96 DEEP DIVE: Beyond Surface Revision: The Architecture of Transformative Editing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

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 ThoughtsFind out more about Kortney Nash HERE!Check out her picture book Tell Me About Juneteenth HERE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe

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 Writers00:38 The Power of Libraries for Writers01:30 Exploring Library Resources02:50 Digital and Audiobook Platforms04:36 Research Databases and Tools12:42 Unique Library Offerings17:19 Classes and Workshops at Libraries19:31 The Value of Librarians24:46 Conclusion and Call to ActionFind out more about Author and Librarian Donna Mork Reed HERE! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com/subscribe