Does the thought of dictating your novel bring up images of expensive microphones, digital recorders, and pricey software?
That’s exactly what kept me from dictating my fiction for years. Back when the Dragon Dictation software cost hundreds of dollars (and came on CD-ROMs!), I thought I’d need at least $1,000 worth of gear before I could even get started.
But here’s the secret: you don’t need fancy gear to dictate your fiction.
In this week’s episode of The Confident Fiction Author podcast, I share how I started dictating with nothing more than my smartphone—and why that’s still all I use today, after 14 dictated books.
Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:
If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’ll start dictating once I have the right setup,” this episode will show you why that’s the wrong approach, and what to do instead.
And remember, my upcoming Dictation Bootcamp kicks off October 14th. Inside, I’ll walk you through how to start dictating step by step—using just your phone or computer—so you can finally capture your stories without tech overwhelm.
Dictation doesn’t start with gear. It starts with you.
Register for free: https://fictioncourses.thrivecart.com/earn-readers-trust/
In this live masterclass, Choctaw author and writing instructor Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer equips fiction writers to include Native American characters in their stories with accuracy, respect, and confidence. Through clear examples and practical strategies, she shows how to avoid common missteps, replace fear with understanding, and build trust with readers.
***
Free resources for you:
The Confident Fiction Author Toolkit: fictioncourses.com/toolkit
Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo Mini Course: fictioncourses.com/dictation
Dictation for Authors: Tools and Tips of the Trade: fictioncourses.com/dictationguide
5 Stereotypes to Avoid When Writing about Native Americans: fictioncourses.com/stereotypes
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!