Way-Word Writers Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, co-hosts Heather Cashman and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce Miffie Seideman, a former newborn ICU pharmacist turned author, who combines her extensive knowledge of drugs with her passion for writing. Seideman shares insights from her novel, 'The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril', which helps writers incorporate accurate pharmacological details into their work. She discusses the evolution of her book, the common drug myths in literature and film, and the importance of accuracy for realism in storytelling. Seideman also highlights the potential for pharmacology to enhance narratives in genres like science fiction and fantasy. Tips on researching and consulting professionals for drug-related scenes are provided alongside the impact correct representations can have on public perceptions of drugs. The discussion extends to ethical considerations in writing about drugs and the potential of Seideman's book as a resource for crafting realistic and engaging stories involving pharmacology.00:00 Welcome to Way-word Writers: Introducing Miffy Seideman01:35 The Genesis of 'The Grim Reader': Bridging Pharmacology and Fiction03:00 Debunking Drug Myths in Fiction: A Pharmacist's Insight12:30 Navigating the Ethical Minefield: Writing About Drugs Responsibly22:11 Unlocking the Craft: Writing Realistic Drug Scenes24:41 Future Editions: Expanding the Grim Reader28:01 Advice for Aspiring Authors: Crafting Authentic Scenes29:46 The Impact of Accurate Drug Portrayals in LiteratureThe Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril by Miffie Seideman This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textThis episode features Karen Boss, an editor at Charlesbridge Publishing, as she discusses creating standout, realistic characters in publishing. Karen, holding an MA in children's literature and an MA in higher education administration, shares insights from her extensive publishing and editorial experience, alongside personal anecdotes from her travels. The discussion includes developing deep, flawed, and emotional characters, highlighting examples from upcoming books. Tips for making characters, including non-human ones, feel fully developed are shared, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, character agency, and unique character voices. The episode also addresses common issues with manuscripts, such as solving problems too easily or characters acting unnaturally. Karen suggests various exercises for character and dialogue development, underscoring the importance of practice, revision, and being open to character evolution.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:21 Karen's Travel Adventures02:15 Unusual Characters in Literature06:07 Character Development in Stories07:41 Examples of Well-Developed Characters19:45 Deep Dive into Character Development20:31 Methods for Developing Characters20:37 Off-the-Page Exercises for Character Development22:11 The Importance of Voice in Character Development23:04 The Role of Agency in Character Development23:48 Common Pitfalls in Character Development25:48 The Art of Crafting Authentic Dialogue28:58 The Impact of Dialogue on Character Development33:41 Practical Exercises for Dialogue Development38:16 Final Thoughts on Character and Dialogue DevelopmentBooks Mentioned in This Episode:The Kid by Jeff ShillLa Mala Suerte Is Following Me by Ana Siqueira, Illustrated by Carlos Vélez AguileraWe Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. HigginsWolf Hollow by Lauren WolkTroublemakers in Trousers by Sarah AlbeeFlying Deep: Climb Inside Deep-Sea Submersible Alvin by Michelle Cusolito, Illustrated by Nicole Wong This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn this episode of the Way-Word Writer's Podcast, romance author Mia Brody shares her journey from marketing professional to bestselling author. Mia, known for her Courage County series, often incorporates characters with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or who are neurodivergent, drawing inspiration from her own experiences with muscular dystrophy and anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of pre-marketing strategies, such as analyzing Amazon's top 100 lists for effective cover designs, keywords, and tropes before writing her books. Mia discusses how adopting rapid release strategies and focusing on market demands have contributed significantly to her success. She highlights the importance of being part of genre-specific writing groups and the use of tools like Publisher's Rocket for keyword research. Mia also talks about the benefits of affiliate marketing, maintaining an engaging newsletter, and the relevance of assembling a supportive team to manage the demands of a growing author brand.00:00 Welcome to the Wayward Writer's Podcast with Mia Brody00:59 Discovering a Passion for Writing and the Catalyst for Success02:33 Mastering Marketing Before Writing: A Unique Approach04:02 Deep Dive into Marketing Strategies and Keyword Research07:36 Navigating the World of Ads and Affiliate Marketing08:41 Rapid Release Strategy and Building a Backlist18:09 Building and Leveraging a Newsletter for Engagement19:38 Balancing Writing, Marketing, and Life21:59 The Importance of a Team and Future Plans25:13 Exploring Keywords, Metadata, and Tropes for SuccessWrite to Market: Deliver a Book That Sells by Chris FoxRomancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textDisclaimer: Anything stated in this episode is for educational purposes only and not to be used as legal advice.In this episode of 'Way-Word Writers', hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nikki Jacobsmeyer address the critical scenario of receiving a book deal without having an agent, a topic prompted by discussions observed on Twitter. The episode covers the dilemma authors face between negotiating the deal themselves or using the opportunity to secure an agent. The hosts emphasize the importance of celebrating achievements before diving into decision-making and stress not committing immediately to offers. They discuss the scenarios of proceeding with or without an agent. Recommendations for those choosing to go agentless include seeking legal advice from a publishing-experienced lawyer and consulting trusted peers. Furthermore, they explore how having a deal might make an author more attractive to potential agents, yet caution about selecting the right agent focused on a long-term career rather than a single book. They also delve into how agents can secure better contract terms, support authors emotionally, and assist in career planning. The episode concludes with encouraging authors to have a game plan, query both agents and editors if unagented, and leverage every opportunity for success in the publishing industry.00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode00:18 The Happy Dilemma of Landing a Book Deal Without an Agent01:36 Celebrating Your Wins and Initial Steps02:46 Navigating Offers and Contracts Without an Agent07:09 Seeking Legal Advice and Understanding Contract Terms11:35 The Pros and Cons of Getting an Agent with a Book Deal26:06 The Importance of Having a Game Plan37:52 Final Thoughts and AdviceIf you have further questions or topics you would like to discuss, please send us an email at [email protected]. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts along with guest author Nikki Lenz, explore the intricacies of character development in writing. Nikki Lenz shares her journey from teaching to becoming a published author of middle-grade books, highlighting the role her teaching experience and personal life played in her writing. The discussion delves into the challenges of conveying strong, well-rounded characters and how feedback on her second book led Lenz to utilize the Enneagram personality typing system to enhance her characters' depth. Lenz and the hosts provide an overview of the Enneagram, explaining how its nine personality types can assist writers in creating more complex characters with distinct traits, flaws, growth opportunities, and interactions with other characters. They also discuss practical ways this system can be applied to writing, including reverse-engineering characteristics to fit a theme, and the value of understanding character dynamics for narrative conflict and growth. The conversation concludes with insights into Lenz's current projects and how understanding personality types can enrich character development and storytelling.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers!00:03 Introducing Guest Author Nikki Lenz01:22 Nikki Lenz's Journey to Writing02:24 Balancing Teaching and Writing04:46 Character Development Insights06:39 Exploring the Enneagram for Character Creation09:20 Deep Dive into Enneagram Types15:45 Applying Enneagram to Writing34:56 Nikki's Current Projects and Future Plans37:13 Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textSelf-Care for Writers: Chiropractic Insights and Essential Oil TipsThis episode of Way-Word Writers features Dr. Erica Patton, a chiropractor who discusses the importance of self-care, especially for individuals who spend extended periods sitting and writing. Dr. Patton shares her background, her journey into chiropractic care motivated by personal experiences with migraines, and the joy of balancing work and motherhood. She offers insights into common physical challenges faced by writers, such as upper back tension, headaches, and neck pain, and suggests practical solutions including chiropractic adjustments, specific stretches, and the use of essential oils like frankincense, peppermint, and lavender for their various health benefits. The discussion emphasizes finding balance and listening to one’s body to prevent and address discomfort, with practical tips on posture, incorporating movement into one's routine, and the multifaceted benefits of essential oils in self-care practices.00:00 Introduction to Dr. Erica Patton and Her Journey00:25 Dr. Patton's Personal and Professional Background01:01 Balancing Work and Family Life as a Chiropractor01:44 The Importance of Self-Care for Writers02:19 Common Physical Challenges for Desk Workers02:42 Chiropractic Solutions and Self-Care Tips05:27 Effective Stretches for Neck and Shoulder Relief07:29 Strengthening Exercises for Better Posture10:04 Daily Habits for Preventing Pain and Discomfort13:01 Understanding When to Seek Chiropractic Care15:17 The Role of Essential Oils in Self-Care18:37 Exploring Essential Oils: Favorites and Uses19:06 How to Apply Essential Oils Safely19:53 Internal vs. Topical Use: A Guide to Essential Oils20:39 Creative Ways to Use Essential Oils in Cooking and Self-Care20:48 Essential Oils for Health and Wellness21:23 Self-Care and Relaxation Techniques with Essential Oils24:20 Incorporating Essential Oils into Daily Routines26:02 Adapting Workspaces for Health: Standing Desks and Reading Postures28:09 Finding Personalized Strategies for Movement and Self-Care29:22 Concluding Thoughts on Self-Care and Essential OilsSTRETCHES*Remember we are all different so LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!Neck Stretch:Drop ear to shoulder, try to stretch through the neck. To get a deeper stretch, take onehand and grab the bottom of your chair. You’re going to take the other hand and pull thehead away. Then, look down towards the opposite armpit, and you’ll feel it down theback of your neck.Shoulder Stretch:Go to a doorframe and make a L-shape with your arm. Place the arm up against thedoorframe and lean into it. As you keep the arm parallel to the ground, it’s going to stretch outthe pec muscle and help loosen it up.Strengthening Exercises for Better Posture:Do you ever get a knot between the shoulder blades? You can go up against a wall andmake cactus arm and as you bring the arms down, you want to make sure to keep the shouldersback. You want to imagine you’re pinching a pencil between the shoulder blades. Make slow andcontrolled motions as you do 10-15 reps.Deep Deck Flexor Stretch;Aka the “chicken exercise.” Lay down and bring your chin forward toward the ceilingand then back in as though you’re making a double chin. Go back and forth. This will help withall the computer and writing work.ESSENTIAL OILSFrankincense - (King of Oils because it does everything) a natural anti-inflammatory,antibacterial, anti-parasitic, and antiviral.Peppermint – muscle tension, nausea, upset stomachLavender – soothing, natural sedativeBreathe blend – asthma, breathingChocolate Peppermint Brownie Recipe This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textUnlocking Creativity: The Impact of the Descriptive Thesaurus Collection with Becca PuglisiThis episode of Way-word Writers features Becca Puglisi, co-author of the Descriptive Thesaurus collection and a passionate educator in the writing community. Becca shares her unconventional journey into writing, which began at 30, initially as a means to earn extra income, leading her to explore various genres before co-authoring the Descriptive Thesaurus. She and Angela Ackerman, her co-author, were compelled to create the thesaurus as a solution to their struggles with expressing emotions in their writing. This episode delves into the genesis of their partnership, the development of the Descriptive Thesaurus collection, and how it's become an indispensable resource worldwide. Becca also discusses the decision to self-publish due to content theft and the necessity for timely publication. The discussion also covers the scope of the Descriptive Thesaurus collection, its purpose for brainstorming rather than direct replication, and how it aids writers in creating authentic, multidimensional characters and settings. Becca highlights their digital platform, One Stop for Writers, as an extension of the thesaurus collection, providing comprehensive tools for story mapping and character development. The episode wraps with insights into the emotional amplifiers thesaurus, Becca's personal favorites from the collection, and the future of their publishing endeavors.00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers and Becca Puglisi00:54 Becca Puglisi's Unconventional Journey into Writing02:19 The Birth of a Writing Partnership: Becca and Angela05:15 The Genesis of The Emotion Thesaurus07:37 The Decision to Self-Publish: A Leap of Faith10:40 Exploring the Thesaurus Collection: A Deep Dive14:26 The Comprehensive List of Thesaurus Books18:01 Exploring Creative Uses of Thesauruses in Writing19:12 The Debate: Do Thesauruses Limit Creativity?20:30 The Power of Adding and Tweaking for Authenticity21:36 Diving Deep into the Occupation Thesaurus23:40 Personal Favorites and the Impact of Research27:53 Introducing One Stop for Writers31:22 The Future of Thesaurus Collections and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textUnderstanding Ghosting in the Publishing World: Discourse with Way-word WritersThis script covers an interactive dialogue in which the hosts of 'Way-word Writers' discuss ghosting in the publishing industry. The conversation is triggered by questions about ghosting sent by their fans via Twitter. Emphasis is placed on the numerous factors that contribute to ghosting, such as time limitations, workload, and other industry demands. They also converse about the reasons agents request full manuscripts, the importance of patience and resilience in the publishing process, and the timeline of response in the context of submissions. The conversation addresses aspects of the agent-writer relationship, how to professionally handle rejection, and how to keep personal emotions separate from business decisions.00:00 Introduction to Ghosting in Publishing01:15 Understanding the Agent's Perspective05:49 The Impact of COVID-19 on Publishing06:34 The Role of AI in Publishing07:27 The Challenges of Managing Queries08:20 The Reality of an Agent's Workload11:28 The Importance of Patience in Publishing15:30 Understanding the Query Process17:52 The Impact of Impatience on Queries20:39 The Importance of Professionalism in Communication22:09 Understanding the Reasons for Ghosting in the Publishing Industry22:42 The Impact of Ghosting on Agents and Editors25:02 The Importance of Building Relationships in the Publishing Industry29:04 The Role of Persistence and Desperation in the Publishing Industry37:40 The Business Side of Being an Agent42:05 The Importance of Self-Evaluation and Growth in the Publishing Industry42:59 Closing Remarks and EncouragementIf you would like to email Way-Word Writers about this or other topics, our email is [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textThe script is a comprehensive interview with Susan Chang, a former editor at HarperCollins who then shifted to freelancing. Susan talks about her fascinating journey in the publishing industry. The interview covers a wide range of topics including her experience working with traditional publishing houses and the essential qualities needed for a successful book. Susan also sheds light on her approach to editing, both for clients working towards traditional publishing and for those aiming for self-publishing.00:00 Introduction and Guest Bio01:20 Transition from Traditional Publishing to Freelancing03:20 Common Challenges in Manuscripts03:36 Insights from Freelance Editing Experience04:15 Understanding the Market and Audience04:29 The Importance of Craft and Marketability08:18 The Impact of Technology on Reading Habits09:38 Genres and Editing Preferences17:51 The Editing Process and Client Relationship32:28 Crafting Authentic and Unique Stories36:00 The Role of Point of View in Storytelling39:57 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationYou can find Susan at: ​susanchangeditorial.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn this episode of the Way-word Writers podcast, we welcome Dr. Tasha Golden, the director of research at the International Arts and Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Golden discusses the connection between mental health and the arts, and shares her journey from a professional singer-songwriter to a researcher studying the therapeutic properties of art. During the conversation, she touches upon how writing and music have profound effects on mental wellbeing and can serve as mediums for untold personal narratives. Dr. Golden also discusses the benefits and potential pitfalls of making a career in the arts sector, along with the importance of having a balanced perspective towards professional and personal aspects of life. She mentions her research on the impact of diverse methods of communication on wellbeing and ends with a discussion on questioning the status quo to foster creativity.00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:21 Meet Tasha Golden: Bridging Art and Science01:49 Tasha's Journey: From Singer-Songwriter to Researcher02:31 The Power of Music and Personal Stories03:22 The Intersection of Art and Mental Health04:38 The Impact of Art on Community and Culture06:39 The Role of Art in Individual and Collective Healing11:18 The Balance Between Art and Business25:54 Final Thoughts and ResourcesFree ebook by Tasha Golden: Arts and Health: Four Big Ways to Improve Health through the Arts: http://www.tashagolden.com/ebookFree field guide: Arts on Prescription: A Field Guide For US Communities: https://www.tashagolden.com/fieldguide This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textOn the Way-word Writers podcast, guest Lee Tobin McClain, New York Times best-selling author, discusses her journey as a hybrid author - writing books for traditional publishers and independently publishing her work. She delves into the advantages of being a hybrid author, like multiple sources of income and control over backlist, while highlighting the extensive time commitment and need for business acumen. McClain also provides advice to aspiring authors considering this career path, recommending the adoption of a business mindset, writing quickly, and being aware of constraints such as time and demands of a day job. The conversation also explores the paths of self-publishing and traditional publishing, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities unique to each.00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation00:18 Lee Tobin McClain's Journey to Becoming an Author02:11 Understanding Hybrid Publishing03:21 The Role of an Agent in a Hybrid Author's Career04:04 Balancing Traditional and Indie Publishing10:31 The Business Side of Being a Hybrid Author24:24 The Pros and Cons of Traditional vs. Indie Publishing24:59 Pricing Strategies in Traditional and Indie Publishing27:29 The Power of Backlist in Indie Publishing28:49 The Crossover Benefit of Being a Hybrid Author37:23 The Challenges of Editing in Indie Publishing45:21 Advice for Aspiring Hybrid Authors This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textThe episode includes dynamic Bridget E. Baker as the guest, a highly productive and successful indie author. Beginning with an entertaining look into her personal life, filled with family, farm animals, and kickboxing, Baker then dives into the particulars of her writing journey. She talks about her initial attempts at traditional publishing with agents, her transition to self-publishing and the elements involved therein, like marketing, editing, maintaining a high publication speed, and managing pricing and profit. She discusses her writing process, from outlines to revisions. Also, Baker provides helpful advice on the thought process and the drive required to successfully self-publish. Finally, she explores her future goals in the realm of self-publishing.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:18 Getting to Know Bridget E. Baker00:40 Bridget's Personal Life and Hobbies01:44 Bridget's Writing Journey Begins02:23 The Importance of a Good Bio02:35 Balancing Life and Writing03:42 The Struggles of Traditional Publishing04:58 The Decision to Self-Publish06:55 The Ups and Downs of Self-Publishing08:40 The Turning Point in Bridget's Self-Publishing Journey10:28 The Success of Self-Publishing15:28 Advice for Aspiring Self-Publishers23:20 The Power of Series in Indie Publishing23:41 The Profitability of Book Series24:31 The Unexpected Success of a 'Failed' Series25:15 The Longevity of Indie Published Books26:08 The Importance of Quality in Indie Publishing27:07 The Writing and Editing Process29:52 The Future of Traditional Publishing This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn this episode, acclaimed author Tamara Grantham discusses her journey to success in her path with small (but mighty) publishers, detailing how she started writing, faced rejections, and attended writing classes and conferences before finally publishing her work. Tamara Grantham, author of numerous award-winning fantasy novels, candidly shares her experience with publisher issues and how resilience has helped her in her career, encouraging others not to give up on their passion. Grantham also shares her routines and strategies that keep her writing, and discusses her plans to venture into self-publishing for her upcoming middle-grade fantasy novel.00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation01:20 Tamara's Journey to Publishing01:26 The Process of Writing and Publishing03:37 The Role of Support in Tamara's Writing Journey03:57 Tamara's First Steps into Publishing05:02 Choosing the Right Publisher05:34 Current Projects and Future Plans08:56 The Importance of Marketing and Building an Audience19:44 Balancing Writing and Personal Life24:33 Overcoming Publishing Challenges29:39 Closing Remarks and Future Expectations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn this episode of Way-word Writers, the hosts enthusiastically welcome listeners back and express their gratitude for their audience's response to their first episode. They discuss the traditional path to publishing, acknowledging their potential bias and highlighting the reasons each of them has chosen this path. The hosts underline the importance of understanding why one chooses a certain publishing path, based on its unique benefits. They delve into details about traditional publishing, quoting renowned authors, sharing their experiences, and providing insight into the process. They discuss the different aspects of traditional publishing, including advance on royalties, control over the manuscript, and potential reach of the publisher. The hosts also weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the path, such as potential prestige, editorial help, lack of control, time commitment, likelihood of rejections, and potential financial returns. They conclude with a reflection on the importance of resilience in navigating any publishing path and remaining true to one's writing ambitions.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:19 Discussion on Traditional Publishing00:59 The Importance of Knowing Your Path02:02 The Sexy Side of Writing02:45 The Reality of Traditional Publishing03:03 The Fluidity of Writing06:32 The Importance of Community in Writing09:50 The Advantages and Disadvantages of Traditional Publishing10:03 Expectations in Traditional Publishing10:56 The Role of Patience in Traditional Publishing12:22 The Importance of Connections and Networking13:13 The Role of Timing and Luck in Publishing14:44 The Advantages of Traditional Publishing16:30 The Value of Editorial Help in Traditional Publishing19:00 The Collaborative Experience in Traditional Publishing19:57 The Value of Collaboration in Traditional Publishing21:37 Disadvantages of Traditional Publishing: Time Commitment and Loss of Control28:13 The Reality of Rejection in Traditional Publishing29:12 The Power of Community in Overcoming Rejection30:44 The Potential of Traditional Publishing: Shooting for the Stars32:13 The Freedom to Choose Your Publishing Path This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textIn the first episode of the Way-word Writers Podcast, hosts Heather Cashman, Nicki Jacobsmeyer, and Stephanie Bearce discuss their unique paths to writing, and the joys and challenges they've encountered along the way. They also explore the reasons why they continue to write, emphasizing the therapeutic, communicative, and perspective-giving power of storytelling. Looking forward, the hosts express their excitement about creating a supportive writing community through this podcast, their upcoming retreats, newsletter, and social media. Cinching the episode is their call to the audience to share their writing journeys and the aspects that they need help with in their process.00:00 Introduction to Way-word Writers00:28 Nicki's Writing Journey03:10 Stephanie's Path to Writing05:46 Heather's Unique Writing Path08:56 Why We Write: Unveiling the Motivation16:33 Understanding the Way-word Writers Name22:26 Facing the Unpredictability of Writing26:22 Building a Community for Writers30:06 Closing Remarks and Future Plans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com

Send us a textAnnouncing the launch of the Way-Word Writers Podcast, with cohosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com