The Whole Writer

What if you could publish your memoir or novel directly to readers as you write it? Writer Jessy Easton shares how she's serializing her memoir "The One Who Leaves" on Substack, building a dedicated readership while crafting her story in real-time.

We discuss the creative freedom of serial publishing, how it changes the writing process, and why connecting directly with readers can be both terrifying and transformative...

If you’re a novelist or fiction writer keeping your work tucked away, convinced you’re “not ready” to share it, this episode is for you. We’re talking about what it really means to gatekeep your writing—and how doing so might be holding your creative growth hostage.

I’ll unpack the mindset behind working in a silo and the fears that keep writers protecting their stories a little too tightly. I'll share what gatekeeping your wor...

I'm thrilled to welcome Jane Friedman to the show! Jane has spent her entire career in the publishing industry, and I've been following her work for close to a decade. In this conversation, I ask Jane about the major shifts she's witnessed in publishing over the past ten years. 

We explore:

• the explosive growth of audiobooks
• the new tools and platforms available to writers today 
• the rise of the creator economy and i...

Join me for a conversation with author and writing mentor Kathryn Craft as she reveals insights from her new craft book for writers.

In this episode, Kathryn Craft shares transformative techniques for novel writers and fiction writers ready to elevate their storytelling. Discover how to master the invisible spaces between words where author meets reader, and learn why revising your novel requires bringing your whole self to the page...

Are you getting feedback from the wrong critique group? In this episode, I share why surrounding yourself with the right writing community is essential for novel writers. I'll show you how to find critique partners who actually read your genre, build a supportive writing community that accelerates your craft, and know when it's time to work with a developmental editor or book coach.

Whether you're drafting your first ...

Go behind the scenes of a thriving book festival with Amanda Bullock from podcast sponsor, Literary Arts. She reveals what it takes to create an unforgettable experience for book lovers, novel writers, and readers alike. This episode explores how a major regional literary festival celebrates Pacific Northwest writers while building a vibrant author community.

Discover the unique programming that makes a book festival come alive, fro...

In this episode, we explore how  writers can elevate their creative process by intentionally designing their writing space. Join us as I interview Dorena Kohrs, The Space Doula, who shares her expertise on creating creative spaces that fuel inspiration and productivity.

Discover how your creative space directly impacts your writing practice and learn practical strategies for transforming any area into a dedicated writing sanctuary. ...

Join me in this conversation with Anne Boyd, author of the viral Substack newsletter "Audacious Women Creative Lives" and former literature professor who made a dramatic life transformation at 52.

In this powerful episode, Anne shares her journey from academic burnout to creative freedom, revealing how autoimmune disease, divorce, empty nest syndrome, and grief catalyzed her decision to "burn her whole life to the gro...

In this solo episode, I’m talking directly to novelists about a mindset shift that can change how you see yourself and your manuscript: you don’t need to be fixed. Your writing voice is already inside you—it doesn’t need to be installed or made more “writerly.” It needs to be nurtured, strengthened, and given space to take shape.

What we’re exploring:

✨ Why the language of “fixing” your manuscript (or yourself) is so damaging.
 ✨...

In this conversation episode, I sit down with Jill Beissel, debut novelist and author of Glitter and Gold, to talk about what it really takes to stay resilient on the path to publication. We’re speaking to writers who are deep in the query trenches, facing rejection, or holding onto the dream of signing with a literary agent and landing a traditional book deal.

What we’re exploring:

✨ How Jill faced over 100 rejections before finding...

In this conversation episode, I sit down with Dr. Candice Stanfield Wiswell, a writer, psychologist, and ADHD writing coach, to talk about what it means to build a joyful and sustainable writing life with ADHD. We’re speaking to writers who feel scattered, stuck in perfectionist loops, or frustrated by inconsistent progress.

What we’re exploring:

✨ ADHD isn’t a flaw in your writing life—it’s a different way of thinking that can fuel ...

In this solo episode, I explore the delicate balance between external writing resources (craft books, courses, workshops) and your internal creative intuition. I'm talking to writers who feel overwhelmed by all the advice out there while trying to maintain their authentic voice.

What I'm sharing:

Resources and intuition aren't opposites—they're dance partners that should work together. I want you to think of craft...

In this episode, I sit down with my literary agent Abby Saul for a deep dive into the querying process, the realities of an agent’s role, and what makes a submission stand out. 

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of querying, you won’t want to miss her top advice for catching an agent’s eye in a crowded inbox.

We also debunk common myths about what agents actually do, break down what grabs their attention in a query lette...

I'm pulling back the curtain in today's episode and talking about what it's really like to be an author in today's market. With me, are two of my author friends to help with a healthy and honest discussion around the business of being an author. Tracey Lange and Kerry Chaput join me to discuss:

• Balancing writing time and publishing responsibilities
• Working on a deadline
• The benefits of writing groups
• Feedback an...

Today, I want to talk about one of the hardest parts of writing: embracing the imperfection of that first draft. I know it can feel like you’re slogging through a swamp of clunky dialogue, meandering plots, and sentences that don’t quite shine. You might even wonder if you’re wasting your time.

But here’s what I want you to know: Your so-called flawed first draft is actually a gift. It’s a sign that you’re showing up to the page wit...

In this episode I explore what happens when writers feel creatively restless—when the work that once excited us begins to feel too safe or familiar. 

I dive into the intimate process of following new themes and subject matter that truly call to you, even when they feel risky or don't fit expectations. I also share my own vulnerable journey of stepping outside my comfort zone, offer practical 15-minute exercises for gentle creat...