Writers Circle

What if the questions you ask readers have a greater impact than your statements? In this episode with my leadership coach, J.R. Briggs, we unpack the power of asking better questions. Asking questions is more than curiosity; it's an act of love. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's platform workshop J.R.'s book: The Art of Asking Better Questions Resources mentioned by Will: The Mom Test Write Useful Books Otter.ai Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Ever feel like you're writing for God but not with Him? In this episode, I sit down with author and pastor Rich Villodas to talk about how writing can become an act of worship—a way to slow down, listen, and experience God's presence in the creative process. We also discuss our upcoming Advent devotional and how writing can shape us into the image of Christ. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Email Will: hello@writerscircle.co Rich's new book: Waiting for Jesus Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

The first sentence is usually the hardest, but if you don't immediately pull readers in, they'll ditch you. Today I sit down with my former journalism professor, Dr. Michael Longinow, who unpacks the secrets of crafting a winning lead line. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Do you ever worry your stories aren't landing with readers? Too many nonfiction writers share great content but miss the chance to make readers feel. It's like flying over the Grand Canyon without ever stepping out to take in the view. That's why I invited Nathan Baugh, founder of Worldbuilders, to join me on the show. Nathan has studied hundreds of stories and distilled what makes them unforgettable into 4 key tenets every writer can use. If you want to transform your storytelling, this episode will show you how. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

AI is everywhere—and for writers, it's confusing. Is it a genius creativity hack or the end of creativity as we know it? In part two of my conversation with executive editor Stephanie Duncan Smith, we wrestle with the real questions writers face: What's gained when AI speeds up the process? And what's lost when we outsource creativity to machines? Stephanie shares why inefficiency is actually vital to the writing life and how protecting your creative core is more urgent than ever. If you've felt overwhelmed or unsure about AI, this episode will help you think clearly. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Sign up for my workshop: https://writers-s-site-7336.thinkific.com/products/courses/copy-of-how-to-write-stuff-people-actually-read Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Many writers feel compelled to share their story—but here's the hard truth: while everyone wants to tell their story, most readers don't actually want to read it. In this episode, senior editor Stephanie Duncan Smith of HarperOne joins me to unpack why memoirs so often struggle in publishing, and more importantly, how you can write your story in a way that makes room for readers. You'll come away with practical insights on how to transform a personal narrative into a universal one that truly resonates. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

It's easy to say the same things in the same way over and over—to get stuck in a communication rut. Today's guest, Rachel Buller, shares a framework she uses with authors as an editor at W Publishing, called the '4 C's of Communication.' These four metrics will help you distinguish your unique voice as a writer, so you can effectively cut through the noise and reach more readers. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join my monthly workshops: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/subscribe Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

In this Real-Time, Real-Talk episode, Doug Wekenman explains why it's worth taking the time to distill your ideas into their catchiest form, and how if you don't, your words will be forgotten. "Feeling behind in your writing—or wondering if it's even worth finishing? Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join my monthly workshops: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/subscribe Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson"

Feeling like your words go unheard? You're not alone. That's why I'm hosting a live workshop—*How to Write a Substack Post People Actually Read*—on Thursday, August 28, 5–6pm PT. You'll learn a proven 5-part framework, see it in action, and get your questions answered. Access is just \$15/month as a Writers Circle member. Don't miss out—tap the link in the show notes and join us! Subscribe to Writers Circle

Feeling behind in your writing—or wondering if it's even worth finishing?   In Part 2 of my conversation with literary agent Mike Salisbury, we dig deeper into the emotional and practical realities of the writing life. Mike challenges our obsession with speed and reminds us that quality storytelling takes time. He talks about the beauty of being unknown, how to face book reviews, and why finishing your draft matters more than perfecting it. You'll walk away with a fresh appreciation for the quiet, focused work it takes to write something worth reading. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Literary agent Mike Salisbury shares his unique journey into Christian publishing, starting from his unexpected role as a mascot to becoming a literary agent. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in both fiction and nonfiction, the value of revision, and the need for authors to find joy in their writing process. Mike also discusses the challenges of time management for writers and the significance of building a strong platform. Throughout the discussion, he offers practical advice and insights into the publishing industry, making it clear that while the journey can be tough, the rewards of storytelling and creativity are worth the effort. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Start watching Will's proposal course here: https://will-anderson-fde4.mykajabi.com/proposalsmadesimple Want to publish your book but don't know where to start? In this episode, Will Parker Anderson sits down with former coaching client Vanessa Reyner to share the behind-the-scenes story of how she went from self-publishing to landing a literary agent. Together, they unpack the process of building a compelling book proposal—one that clarified Vanessa's concept and ultimately opened the door to traditional publishing. If you've got a message to share but feel lost on how to pitch it, this conversation offers practical insight, encouragement, and a glimpse into the Proposals Made Simple process that helped Vanessa take the next big step in her writing journey. Will's proposal course: https://will-anderson-fde4.mykajabi.com/proposalsmadesimple Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Struggling to get publishers to pay attention to your book idea? In this episode, the mic flips—host Will Parker Anderson becomes the guest as leadership coach J.R. Briggs interviews him about Proposals Made Simple, a new course designed to help nonfiction writers land a book deal. Will explains why writing a strong book proposal is the fastest, most strategic way to pitch your book and yourself to publishers. You'll learn how proposals act like movie trailers, why time and attention are your biggest obstacles, and how a few small improvements can give you a major edge in today's crowded publishing world. If you're serious about getting published, don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at what editors are actually looking for. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Last week, we started asking the question: Am I really called to write? In this follow-up episode, Andy Patton (content director at The Rabbit Room) returns to walk us through the final four questions every writer should consider when discerning their calling. If you've ever felt unsure about your next step or wondered whether you're truly meant to pursue writing, this conversation will help you wrestle with that tension—and walk away with more clarity. Hi! I'm Will and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson