Write Now with Scrivener cover image

Write Now with Scrivener

Episode 47: April Davila, Novelist and Mindfulness Instructor

Feb 5, 2025
April Davila, a novelist and mindfulness instructor, talks about her journey from science to storytelling, drawing inspiration from an ostrich farm for her novel '142 Ostriches.' She discusses how mindfulness practices enhance the writing process, helping authors balance family and creativity. April introduces her upcoming book, 'Scribbling Buddha,' and shares strategies for maintaining writing habits. The importance of writing communities and tools like Scrivener is highlighted, offering insights into effective organization and motivation in the creative journey.
28:36

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • April Davila's novel '142 Ostriches' intricately explores familial dysfunction and generational burdens through the life of its main character, Tallulah.
  • Incorporating mindfulness into writing practices, Davila emphasizes how meditation enhances creativity and focus, helping authors confront difficult topics.

Deep dives

Origin of the Novel's Concept

The inspiration for the novel '142 Ostriches' stems from April Davila's journey from a science major to a writer. Initially, she was drawn to the desert landscape of Southern California during her studies in ecology. The concept for her book was ignited when she discovered a nearby ostrich farm, which served as a compelling setting for exploring familial complexities. Davila intertwines her mother's experiences with her own, utilizing the ostrich as a symbol of the intricate dynamics within families.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode