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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, along with authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, welcomes author Bethany Hegedus. They discuss Hegedus's journey from New York to Austin, her founding of the Writing Barn, and her approach to fostering a vibrant writing community. Hegedus shares her experiences as a keynote speaker, workshop leader, and mentor, along with the transition to online classes and the importance of adapting to changing circumstances. The group also explores common challenges faced by writers, the significance of external and internal validation, and the essential role of community in a writer's life.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:32 Introducing Bethany Hegedus
01:21 The Journey to The Writing Barn
04:09 Adapting to Change and Growth
06:37 Balancing Projects and Writing
11:19 Common Challenges for Aspiring Writers
14:22 The Importance of Community
17:23 Advice for New Writers
21:12 Dealing with Rejection
30:44 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

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In this episode of 'Way-Word Writers,' hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome USA Today best-selling author Jennifer E. Hilt to discuss her work 'The Trope Thesaurus.' Jennifer shares her insights into why tropes are essential building blocks in storytelling, how they can be effectively utilized and developed, and addresses common misconceptions about them. She explains how her background in linguistics and literature helped her identify common storytelling blocks during the pandemic and led her to write the 'Trope Thesaurus.' The hosts and Jennifer delve into how tropes are structured, the importance of genre expectations, and how tropes can be adapted or subverted to create unique and compelling stories. Jennifer also gives examples, like 'The Witcher' and 'Severance,' that illustrate the effective use of tropes. The episode closes with Jennifer discussing her favorite tropes and how tropes can be identified and utilized across different genres, encouraging writers to view them as powerful storytelling tools.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Jennifer E. Hilt and The Trope Thesaurus
01:31 The Origin of The Trope Thesaurus
03:47 Understanding Tropes in Storytelling
08:16 The Structure and Use of The Trope Thesaurus
11:54 Balancing Familiar Tropes with Originality
12:16 Genre Expectations and Character Complexity
19:22 Practical Tips for Writers
22:47 Upcoming Fantasy Sci-Fi Release
23:19 Exploring the Horror Genre
23:59 Romance and Sci-Fi Subgenres
24:19 Understanding Tropes in Storytelling
26:52 Favorite Mystery Series
28:21 Evergreen and Emerging Tropes
37:15 Subverting Tropes in Different Genres
41:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by editor Kade Dishmon from Holiday House. The discussion delves into what publishers look for in authors, the significance of perseverance in writing, and the advantages and disadvantages of working with small to midsize publishers. Kade shares insights on the role of platform in fiction and nonfiction, the evolving landscape of diversity in publishing, and offers valuable advice for authors on how to create immersive worlds and chaotic characters. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in the industry and provides a deeper understanding of Kade's manuscript wishlist. The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of passion and authenticity in an author's work.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:32 Meet Editor Kade Dishmon
01:47 What Publishers Look for in Authors
03:59 The Role of Author Platform
05:07 Advantages of Smaller Publishers
06:50 Navigating the Publishing Industry
15:46 AI in Publishing
17:48 Diversity in Publishing
22:56 Crafting Immersive Stories
25:51 Creating Chaotic Characters
26:51 What Grabs an Editor's Attention
30:12 Final Thoughts and Advice
34:32 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with author Meredith Tate to discuss her journey as a writer and explore common plotting pitfalls. Meredith shares her methods for plotting and character development, offers insights into balancing plot and character arcs, and discusses the challenges of writing across various genres and age groups. The conversation touches upon the importance of feedback, handling plot twists, and the value of reading widely to improve writing skills. Meredith also highlights her brainstorming process and gives advice to aspiring authors on how to enhance their plotting techniques.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Meredith Tate
01:19 Meredith's Writing Journey
02:08 Writing Across Genres and Age Groups
03:43 Plotting Pitfalls and Challenges
05:39 The Importance of Reading Broadly
08:09 Balancing Plot and Character Development
16:32 The Art of Plot Twists
18:03 Handling Feedback and Revisions
30:45 Final Thoughts and Advice
31:52 Where to Find Meredith's Books
32:36 Closing Remarks

Meredith Tate Website

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In this episode of Way​-W​ord Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie B​e​arce, and Ni​cki Jacobsmeyer discuss strategies to improve time management for writers. They cover various methods such as time blocking, day theming, and the Pomodoro technique, share personal experiences, and highlight the importance of setting goals, creating routines, and maintaining flexibility. The hosts also emphasize the significance of understanding one's strengths and boundaries, offering practical tips for overcoming procrastination and managing distractions to achieve writing goals.

00:00 Welcome to Way​-w​ord Writers
00:31 Discussing Time Management
01:24 Personal Time Management Struggles
01:53 Adapting Time Management Strategies
02:48 Handling Unexpected Events
03:58 Evaluating and Prioritizing Tasks
06:59 Defining Time Management
10:16 Starting with a Time Audit
14:21 Dealing with Distractions
16:43 Using the Pomodoro Method
20:34 Effective Time Blocking Techniques
22:02 Day Theming for Better Focus
23:35 Overcoming Procrastination
26:14 The Importance of Goal Setting
28:15 Managing Negative Emotions
28:55 Setting Priorities and Saying No
31:57 Finding Balance and Flexibility
33:20 Recommended Time Management Resources
35:29 Personalizing Your Time Management
40:44 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

​T​he Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll

​Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen

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In this episode of Way​-​Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie B​e​arce, and Ni​cki Jacobsmeyer introduce Ines Johnson, an indie author specializing in reimagining fairy tales and folklore. The discussion explores Ines’s journey from screenwriting to self-publishing, and her success in contemporary and paranormal romance genres. Ines shares valuable insights on structuring stories, the importance of understanding genre-specific tropes, and creating binge-worthy content. She also emphasizes the significance of market research and interaction with readers to stay ahead in the indie publishing world. The episode is filled with practical tips for authors to enhance their storytelling skills and achieve greater success.

00:00 Welcome to Way​-Word Writers
00:32 Meet Ine​s Johnson: Indie Author Extraordinaire
02:08 Ine​s's Journey to Indie Success
04:25 Teaching the Elements of Storytelling
06:50 The Importance of Structure in Writing
10:20 Pacing Your Story: Fast and Slow
16:21 Understanding Genre Expectations and Tropes
20:02 Exploring Marriage of Convenience in Media
20:15 Universal Fantasies and Heartbeat Moments
20:59 Navigating Tropes and Reader Expectations
22:03 Creativity Within Genre Constraints
25:23 Market Trends and Reader Preferences
27:30 Indie vs. Traditional Publishing
31:01 Writing Tips for Success
34:20 Author's Favorite Works and Inspirations
36:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ines Writes--Author Website

Ines's Workshops

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome acclaimed historical fiction writer Pat Wahler. The discussion delves into Pat's journey from an avid reader and writer of fan fiction to an award-winning author. Pat shares insights on her writing process, the importance of joining writer groups, the pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing, and effective marketing strategies. Highlighting her works such as 'I Am Mrs. Jessie James' and 'The Rose of Washington Square', Pat also gives valuable advice on writing relatable historical women characters while balancing historical accuracy with modern sensibilities.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Historical Fiction Writer Pat Waller
02:16 Pat Wahler's Writing Journey
06:14 The Importance of Writers Groups
07:48 Exploring Publishing Paths: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing
15:56 Marketing Strategies for Authors
21:30 The Painting That Couldn't Be Used
22:36 Measuring Success in Book Publishing
25:49 Newsletter Strategies for Authors
27:28 Exploring Self-Publishing Options
28:20 Historical Fiction Highlights
31:44 Writing Relatable Historical Characters
36:04 Balancing Historical Accuracy and Modern Sensibilities
38:39 Where to Find Pat's Books
40:08 Conclusion and Farewell

Pat Wahler: Writing readable, relatable women

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Amy Collins from Talcott Notch Literary Agency. Amy delves into the essential elements of writing a compelling novel synopsis, sharing her 17-question method and practical tips. The discussion covers the importance of character development, the necessity of including spoilers, and strategies for tackling complex plots. Amy also emphasizes the value of critique groups, professional feedback, and resources like Writers Digest and Jane Friedman. Aspiring authors are encouraged to attend conferences and join writing communities to enhance their craft and publishing journey.

00:00 Introduction to Wayward Writers
00:34 Meet Agent Amy Collins
01:38 Crafting a Novel Synopsis
07:42 Common Synopsis Challenges
15:04 Balancing Detail and Spoilers
18:48 Incorporating Feedback and Success Stories
28:26 Final Thoughts and Resources

https://agentshelpingauthors.com/

https://amysadvice.com/

https://careerauthors.com/

https://www.writersdigest.com/

Seven Drafts by Allison K. Williams

intuitive Editing by Tiffany Yates Martin