Way-Word Writers Podcast

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

In this episode of Way-WordWriters, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges writers face when life disrupts their plans. They explore strategies to keep writing amidst such disruptions, including adjusting goals, shifting creative outlets, and leveraging technology. The episode underscores the importance of taking things one step at a time, reevaluating priorities, and seeking support from the writing community to stay motivated and productive. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:33 The Reality of Writing Plans 01:28 Adapting to Life Changes 03:07 The Importance of Pausing and Reevaluating 04:46 Finding Balance and Prioritizing 07:33 Maintaining Creativity and Motivation 10:32 Overcoming Creative Blocks 13:58 Leveraging Technology and Community Support 18:24 Ideas and Encouragement 32:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFor worksheets that will help you navigate life changes and how to keep writing, see this EPISODE 93 DEEP DIVE post here!This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support the Way-Word Writers mission consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Trailblazer offers worksheets and deep dive posts, and our Summit Club features ongoing workshops. 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

For a deeper dive into creating a win-win scenario for you and your beta readers, see the EPISODE 92 DEEP DIVE article here!In this episode of ‘Way-Word Writers,’ hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome guest Cherie Postill to discuss training beta readers and selling more books. Cherie, author of How to Train a Beta Reader and Sell More Books, shares her insights on the importance of beta readers, the process of creating and using a beta reader toolkit, and how to collect valuable feedback. She also explains how to recruit the right beta readers, the significance of their feedback, how to address conflicting feedback, and her unique approach to nurturing a community of knowledgeable and engaged beta readers. Cherie’s practical advice aims to help writers refine their manuscripts based on actionable insights and ensure that their books resonate with their target audience. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:59 Meet Cherie Postill: Author and Speaker 03:08 Cherie’s Writing Journey 04:14 The Importance of Beta Readers 13:06 Training Your Beta Readers 13:45 Building Your Beta Reader Toolkit 14:33 Gathering and Utilizing Feedback 18:53 Incentives for Beta Readers 20:12 Finding Your First Beta Readers 22:53 Setting Beta Reader Expectations 24:02 Critique Partners vs. Beta Readers 25:28 Handling Conflicting Feedback 27:48 Stages of Beta Reading 29:47 The Importance of Genre-Specific Feedback 33:33 Finding and Qualifying Beta Readers 35:48 The Role of Beta Readers in Crafting a Story 38:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement​Find out more about Cherie Postill HERE!O​rder your copy of How To Train A Beta Reader and Sell More Books by Cherie Postill 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 sit down with Sara Schonfeld, a senior editor at Harper Collins, to discuss the parallels between publishing and dating. Sara delves into her process of finding ‘the one’ manuscript, what she looks for in submissions, and how she balances personal taste with market demands. She shares her proudest moments, handling rejection, and offers insight and advice for both aspiring and established authors. This engaging conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical tips for navigating the publishing world. 00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers 00:31 Introducing Sara Schonfeld from Harper Collins 01:07 The Publishing Meet Cute 03:12 What Editors Look For in Submissions 08:32 Handling Rejections and Ghosting 10:58 The Editing Process and Author Calls 18:46 Dealing with Breakups and Cancellations 20:04 Silver Medalist Syndrome 21:01 Rejection in the Publishing Industry 21:18 Breakup Rituals and Sad Playlists 22:13 Dating and Book Comparisons 22:53 Balancing Personal Taste and Market Pressures 28:37 Proudest Author Relationships 31:00 Lightning Dating Round 33:08 Advice for Authors and the Future of Publishing 34:41 Conclusion and FarewellF​ind out more about Sara Schonfeld here!For a deeper dive into first pages and how to make an editor or agent fall in love, see our Episode 91 Deep Dive post 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, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, delve into the intricacies of the acquisitions process in book publishing. They discuss the steps involved, the role of editors, and the potential outcomes when a manuscript goes to acquisitions. The hosts share their personal experiences, tips on how to manage the waiting period, and provide practical advice on what authors should and shouldn’t do during this critical phase of their publishing journey. 00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers 00:32 Celebrating Acquisitions 01:29 Understanding the Acquisitions Process 06:59 The Role of Editors in Acquisitions 12:47 Handling Rejections and Moving Forward 19:46 The Importance of R&R in Manuscripts 20:35 Handling Revisions and Rejections Professionally 22:30 The Waiting Game in Acquisitions 25:57 Navigating the Acquisitions Process 32:33 Market Trends and Timing 34:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 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 New York Times bestselling author Marc J Gregson. They discuss Marc's journey from an aspiring writer to a successful author, offering insights on balancing a creative passion with the demands of a published career, managing day jobs, and coping with the pressures of success. Highlights include Marc's experiences with book releases, achieving bestseller status, adapting his work into a major motion picture, and practical advice for other writers facing similar journeys. 00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers 00:31 Introducing Marc J Gregson 02:25 Marc's Writing Journey 04:59 Hitting the New York Times Bestseller List 15:29 Balancing Teaching and Writing 19:34 Movie Adaptation Excitement 22:30 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome 26:45 Lightning Round and Final ThoughtsFind out more about Marc J Gregson HERE!Preorder Downfall HERE!For workshops and deeper dives into our podcast topics, subscribe to our Trailblazer tier. And for discounts on events and workshops every-other month, become a Summit Club member. And there’s always the free posts too! 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, literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author and indie bookstore owner Mandi Fugate Sheffel. Discussing her journey from discovering her passion for writing at the Appalachian Writer's Workshop to publishing her debut memoir 'The Nature of Pain' with the University Press of Kentucky, Mandi shares her unique experiences and challenges. She highlights the importance of community support, the struggles of writing about sensitive topics, and navigating the publishing world. The conversation also dives into the inception of her indie bookstore, Read Spotted Newt, and the profound inspiration she draws from her Appalachian upbringing. 00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers 00:37 Meet Mandi Fugate Sheffel 02:00 The Story Behind Read Spotted Newt 04:53 Balancing Multiple Roles 09:26 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 12:58 The Influence of Gurney Norman 18:22 Deciding on University Presses 18:36 Virtual Writer's Workshop Journey 20:02 Unexpected Book Deal Offer 22:28 Challenges in Writing and Representation 23:43 Balancing Authenticity and Stereotypes 26:58 Editorial Process and Trust 30:33 Marketing with University Press 33:08 Advice for Aspiring Authors 34:10 Future Projects and Inspirations 36:18 Conclusion and FarewellFind Mandi and pre-order her memoir, The Nature of Pain, at The Read Spotted Newt!And for a deeper dive into the topic of publishing with a university press, see this post:EPISODE 88 DEEP DIVE: Publishing with A University Press: Opportunity, Challenge, and CommunityThank you for listening to Way-Word Writers! If you’d like to receive new episodes in your inbox, subscribe to our free podcast here. And if you’d like deeper dives into topics and helpful workshops, check out our Trailblazer subscription, and for discounts on events and every-other month workshops, become a founding member in the Summit Club! 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, the hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Michelle I. Mason, author of Your Life Has Been Delayed, to discuss writing young adult (YA) fiction. The conversation explores Michelle's background in public relations, her transition to writing, and the evolution of her thematic interests. Listeners gain insight into Michelle's approach to character development, the importance of authenticity, and the value of perseverance in the writing journey. Additionally, the discussion tackles the nuances of the YA category, the distinction between middle grade and YA fiction, and practical advice for aspiring writers. The episode wraps up with Michelle sharing her process of balancing entertainment with meaningful themes in her novels. 00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers 00:31 Meet Michelle Mason: Author of 'Your Life Has Been Delayed' 01:46 Michelle's Writing Journey 03:32 Finding Her Voice in Young Adult Fiction 05:55 Differences Between Teen and Adult Voices 07:45 Navigating Middle Grade and Young Adult Categories 12:50 Writing Process: Plotter, Pantser, or Plantser? 14:54 Handling Complex Issues in YA Writing 19:08 Balancing Busy Lives and Storytelling 19:45 Exploring Speculative Fiction 20:07 Character Development and Personal Connections 23:43 Research and Authenticity in Writing 26:30 Inspiration Behind the Stories 28:20 YA Tropes and Creative Twists 33:12 The Journey of Writing and Publishing 36:37 Advice for Aspiring Writers 37:30 Conclusion and FarewellFind out more about Michelle I. Mason HERE!Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it. 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 Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges and solutions for tackling the 'murky middle' of a manuscript. They cover the importance of maintaining momentum, avoiding plot distractions, and ensuring character development remains engaging. Practical advice on utilizing beta readers, brainstorming sessions, and specific writing techniques are shared to help authors improve the pacing and excitement of their story's middle sections. 00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers 00:49 Understanding the Murky Middle 03:00 Strategies to Overcome the Sagging Middle 04:16 Character Arcs and Plot Points 08:25 Examples and Practical Tips 14:24 Challenges and Solutions for Murky Middles 18:20 The Importance of Skilled Readers 20:24 Tackling the Middle of Your Story 20:50 The Role of Beta Readers 24:15 Practical Solutions for Fixing the Middle 33:54 Tools and Resources for Writers 37:10 Brainstorming and Community Support 38:11 Final Thoughts and EncouragementFor a deeper dive into this topic, see the post:EPISODE 86 DEEP DIVE: Conquering the Murky MiddleThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, 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

In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Emily Settle, an editor from Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan), to discuss the nuances of point of view in writing. They explore whether third-person POV is disappearing, the challenges and advantages of different POVs, and specific examples of works that excel in using multiple perspectives. They also delve into the intricacies of character interiority, historical accuracy in contemporary writing, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Emily provides valuable advice for authors on making POV choices and experimental writing approaches, while also highlighting some of the common mistakes writers make. The discussion concludes with encouragement for writers to pursue unique and experimental styles to stand out in a competitive market. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:34 Meet Editor Emily Settle 02:08 The Debate on Point of View 05:02 Trends in First and Third Person Narratives 10:10 Challenges and Mistakes in POV Writing 12:05 Effective Use of Multiple POVs 18:35 The Importance of Voice in First Person Narratives 19:47 When to Change the Point of View 20:27 The Importance of POV in Storytelling 20:50 Case Study: Crane Among Wolves 22:37 Writing Distinct Character Voices 24:30 Character Development Exercises 27:40 Balancing Plot and Character Depth 34:11 Challenges of Writing for Young Audiences 37:34 Encouragement for Experimental Writers 39:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 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 engage in a compelling conversation with author Michelle Collins Anderson about her journey through an MFA program. The discussion covers Michelle's background, the influence of her roots on her writing, her career in advertising and public relations, and her eventual pursuit of an MFA in creative writing. Michelle shares her experiences with low residency programs, the challenges and benefits of pursuing an MFA later in life, the importance of discipline and commitment to one's craft, and the role of community and support systems in a writer's journey. The episode wraps up with practical advice for writers who may not be able to pursue formal education but want to advance their skills. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:31 Meet Michelle Collins Anderson 01:43 Michelle's Early Writing Journey 04:32 Pursuing an MFA: Challenges and Encouragement 05:35 The Low Residency MFA Experience 08:44 First Workshop Experience 13:24 Balancing Family and MFA 18:15 The Value of an MFA 20:17 The Benefits of a Writing Community 21:06 Impact of an MFA on Teaching and Publishing 23:20 Drawbacks and Costs of an MFA Program 27:06 Alternative Paths to Improving Your Writing 29:00 The Importance of Writing Groups and Consistent Practice 32:01 Leveraging Online Communities and Resources 34:03 Reflecting on the MFA Experience 35:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 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