

Write Now with Scrivener
Literature & Latte
Join journalist Kirk McElhearn, author of Take Control of Scrivener, as he interviews writers of all kinds about their processes, routines, and how they use Scrivener, the app dedicated to long-form writing. Writers share their experiences, their different approaches to getting words down on the page, and how they use Scrivener. Whether you’re a Scrivener user or just interested in writing, this podcast has something for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 3, 2025 • 29min
Episode 54: Tim Queeney, Author of a History of Rope
Tim Queeney is an experienced sailor, and his latest book is a Rope: How a Bundle of Twisted Fibers Became the Backbone of Civilization.
Show notes:
Tim Queeney
Rope
Knot (unit) - Wikipedia
Sarah Wynn-Williams: Careless People
Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener.
If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

Aug 6, 2025 • 29min
Episode 53: Isabella Valeri, Author of Letters from the Dead
Isabella Valeri, author of Letters from the Dead, discusses her gothic family drama steeped in Alpine mystery. She shares insights on using the Snowflake Method for novel writing and how her personal experiences influence her storytelling. The conversation dives into character development, the allure of lengthy narratives, and how expansive novels compare to immersive video games. Valeri also reflects on historical inspirations like Napoleon, showcasing how they shape her creative process.

Jul 2, 2025 • 30min
Episode 52: Jane Friedman, Publishing Industry Specialist
Jane Friedman has been analyzing and reporting on the publishing business for more than 25 years. Her latest book is the second edition of The Business of Being a Writer.
Show notes:
Jane Friedman
The Business of Being a Writer
The School of Life: How to Reform Capitalism
Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener.
If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

Jun 4, 2025 • 29min
Episode 51: Lisa Yee, Author of Books for Children and Young Adults
Lisa Yee is a prolific author of books for children and young adults. Her latest series is The Misfits.
Show notes:
Lisa Yee
The Misfits
Miranda July: On All Fours
Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener.
If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

May 7, 2025 • 26min
Episode 50: Michael Jamin, TV and Comedy Writer
Michael Jamin has been writing for TV for decades, and just published his first book of humorous short stories, A Paper Orchestra.
Show notes:
Michael Jamin
A Paper Orchestra
Learn more about Scrivener, and check out the ebook Take Control of Scrivener.
If you like the podcast, please follow it on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Leave a rating or review, and tell your friends. And check out past episodes of Write Now with Scrivener.

23 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 29min
Episode 49: Nicolas Binge, Science Fiction Author
Nicolas Binge, an acclaimed science fiction author known for his latest work, "Dissolution," shares insights into his multicultural upbringing across Singapore, Switzerland, and Hong Kong. He discusses the complexities of literary translation, particularly regarding memory and identity in storytelling. The conversation dives into the writing process and the benefits of using Scrivener for managing intricate projects. Binge also talks about the excitement of adapting his novels to film and offers recommendations for captivating reads, blending literature with cinematic aspirations.

Mar 5, 2025 • 33min
Episode 48: Mimi Kwa, Author of a Memoir about Four Generations of a Chinese Family
Mimi Kwa, an Australian television personality and author, shares her journey through her memoir, "House of Kwa," which uncovers the rich legacy of her Chinese family across four generations. She discusses her father's immigration story from Hong Kong to Australia and the impact of the White Australia Policy on their lives. The conversation dives into navigating cultural identity, familial expectations, and the cathartic experience of writing about personal trauma. Mimi also reveals how Scrivener has been instrumental in organizing her writing process and research.

31 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 29min
Episode 47: April Davila, Novelist and Mindfulness Instructor
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.

21 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 34min
Episode 46: David Goodman, Spy Fiction Author
David Goodman, a novelist and short fiction writer, discusses his debut novel, A Reluctant Spy, which follows an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary espionage. He delves into the emotional turbulence faced by spies and the ethical dilemmas of their secret lives. Goodman also shares insights on navigating the publishing world, emphasizing the importance of 'list fit' for authors. Finally, he reflects on how tools like Scrivener assist in mastering focus and creativity, transforming the writing process in today's fast-paced literary landscape.

22 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 31min
Episode 45: Jean Kwok, Author of The Leftover Woman
In this engaging conversation, best-selling author Jean Kwok shares her inspiring journey from Hong Kong to Brooklyn as a child. She discusses overcoming linguistic hurdles and her evolution as a writer, ultimately finding success through education. Kwok dives into her novel, 'The Leftover Woman,' exploring themes like motherhood and societal expectations. The talk also highlights the hurdles of book censorship and the impact of celebrity endorsements. Lastly, she reveals exciting developments about film adaptations of her work and recommends a captivating new read set in Japan.