Writing Excuses

19.03: Behind The Scenes with our Producer and Recording Engineer

Jan 21, 2024

The podcast discusses the benefits of MFA programs, astrology, and how to continue learning without being overwhelmed. They also explore the notions of success and accomplishment in writing, and recommend the novella 'A Necessary Chaos'. The hosts emphasize the importance of personal investment, handling success, and finding validation from within.

22:38

Creator website

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Obtaining an MFA can offer valuable insights, writing skills, and time to produce exceptional work, even if teaching or becoming an editor is not the desired career path.

When deciding which writing project to focus on, prioritize personal excitement and fulfillment over predictions of commercial success, considering how a project can nourish the mind, stomach, and soul.

Deep dives

The value of a creative writing MFA

During the podcast, a listener asked if there is value in pursuing a creative writing MFA if they don't plan on teaching or becoming an editor. The hosts, including Marshall, the sound engineer, agreed that there is value in obtaining an MFA. While teaching is one career path, there are many other things one can do with an MFA. Marshall shared his personal experience, highlighting the amazing writing and insight he gained from instructors and professors. The MFA program also helped him find time to write and produce exceptional work. As a literary agent, Emma emphasized the value of an MFA indicating a serious commitment to writing and an indicator of dedication and investment.

Introduction

2min

The Value of an MFA Degree and Alternative Options for Writing Time

2min

Prioritizing Projects and Handling Success

4min

Exploring the Notions of Success and Accomplishment in Writing

3min

A Necessary Chaos and Learning from Each Other

12min

A few months ago, we were on a cruise ship in Alaska recording podcast episodes for 2024!

This live recording features a Q&A with cruise attendees, who were given the opportunity to ask questions to Marshall Carr, our audio engineer, and Emma Reynolds, our producer. In this episode, we talked about the benefits of MFA programs, astrology, and how to continue learning without being overwhelmed.

Homework from Emma Reynolds:

What homework would you give yourself as a writer today? What homework would you have given yourself a year ago? Let us know your answers on instagram, tag us @Writing_Excuses and we'll repost you!

Thing of the Week from Marshall Carr:

A Necessary Chaos by Brent Lambert

Sign up for our newsletter:

https://writingexcuses.com

Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.

Join Our Writing Community!

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/exclusive-content

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy