The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

T.D. Donnelly, author of the thriller 'The Year of the Rabbit' and a seasoned screenwriter known for hits like 'Sahara' and 'Conan the Barbarian,' shares his insights on the writing journey. He explores the differences between screenwriting and novel writing, tackling industry challenges like ownership and creative control. Donnelly also discusses marketing strategies for screenplays and the allure of special edition books, alongside the transformative role of AI in publishing. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their creative projects and explore the evolving landscape of storytelling.

Kristopher Jansma, an award-winning author known for his insightful work on literary fiction, discusses transforming rough drafts into polished novels. He emphasizes the dangers of comparing initial versions to finished masterpieces and dismantles myths around the concept of genius. The conversation also addresses the emotional toll of publishing and the importance of perseverance in overcoming creative barriers. Jansma shares personal anecdotes, reminding writers that struggles are a path to growth and success.

How can writing help you through difficult times, whether that's a change you didn't anticipate or an experience of grief? How can you differentiate between writing for yourself vs. writing for publication? Karen Wyatt gives her tips. In the intro, Amazon opens up AI narration with Audible Virtual Voice on the KDP Dashboard [KDP Help]; […] The post Writing As A Tool For Grief And Dealing With Change With Karen Wyatt first appeared on The Creative Penn.

Jacob Nordby, an entrepreneur and author of The Creative Cure, shares his insights on unleashing creativity in our lives. He discusses the importance of journaling to overcome mental blocks and how intuition can guide us. Nordby emphasizes embracing failures as stepping stones to growth and the significance of nurturing creative community. Listeners will find practical tips for cultivating creativity amid transitions and ways to re-engage with their artistic selves, making it a transformative discussion for anyone on a creative journey.

In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Luke Richardson shares his experiences transitioning from a teaching career to full-time indie writing, sparked by a transformative trip to India. He explores the essential tropes and reader expectations in action-adventure thrillers, along with how travel can enhance storytelling. Luke also discusses the evolving landscape of book marketing and the role of social media, emphasizing the need for authors to adapt as new platforms emerge.

Oriana Leckert, the head of publishing at Kickstarter and an accomplished author, provides an insightful look into crowdfunding for authors. She discusses various types of Kickstarter campaigns and highlights unique rewards that authors can offer to backers. Oriana reveals common mistakes that lead to failed campaigns and the importance of a pre-launch page. She also emphasizes the need for a visually appealing project page to attract potential funders, ensuring that authors can effectively bring their creative visions to life.

In this engaging conversation, Marissa Meyer, the New York Times bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles and The Happy Writer, shares her insights on maintaining joy in the writing process. She discusses strategies for overcoming writer's block and finishing first drafts. Marissa emphasizes the importance of self-care to prevent burnout and suggests fun research methods. She also explores how to generate new ideas for continued series and the balancing act of writing while managing the business of being an author.

Douglas Smith, a multi-award-winning Canadian author with over 200 short stories published globally, shares invaluable insights on writing and selling short fiction. He emphasizes how honing short stories can elevate your writing in various genres. Smith discusses the importance of understanding different publishing markets, exploring avenues like magazines and anthologies. He also sheds light on rights issues and the nuances of licensing, providing practical strategies for new writers to successfully navigate the evolving landscape of short fiction.

Douglas Vigliotti, an author and poet known for his latest book, *Aristotle for Novelists*, shares fascinating insights on the power of storytelling. He emphasizes that story trumps writing and explores how to craft engaging characters. The conversation touches on the importance of creating compelling complications that keep readers hooked and the intricate balance between creativity and commerce. Vigliotti also discusses authentic marketing strategies that resonate with audiences, shedding light on connecting deeply with readers.

Alicia Wright, an intellectual property lawyer and author under the name Alicia Ellis, dives into the world of AI and copyright. She discusses how generative AI can serve as a brainstorming partner for writers while navigating the complexities of fair use. Alicia highlights the potential for AI to transform audiobook production and emphasizes the importance of smart prompts for quality outputs. She also shares insights on licensing opportunities in the evolving landscape of creative writing, blending technology with artistic expression.