

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips
Savannah Gilbo
Fiction Writing Made Easy is your go-to podcast for practical, no-fluff tips on how to write, edit, and publish a novel—from first draft to finished book. Hosted by developmental editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo, this show breaks down the fiction writing process into clear, actionable steps so you can finally make progress on your manuscript.Whether you're a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to sharpen your skills, each episode offers insights on novel writing, story structure, character development, world-building, editing, and publishing. Savannah also shares mindset tips, writing routines, and revision strategies to help you stay motivated and finish your novel with confidence.If you're asking these questions, you're in the right place:How do I write a novel without experience?What’s the best way to structure a story that works?How do I develop strong characters and build immersive worlds?How do I edit or revise my first draft?When is my book ready to publish?What are my self-publishing and traditional publishing options?New episodes drop weekly to help you write a novel you're proud of—and get it into readers’ hands.
Episodes
Mentioned books

25 snips
Dec 7, 2021 • 13min
#51: 3 Tips for Writing Unforgettable Secondary Characters
Crafting unforgettable secondary characters in fiction writing involves developing them fully, letting them represent story aspects, and giving them hooks. Tips and examples are provided to help writers create dynamic supporting characters that enhance the main storyline and contribute to protagonist development.

Sep 8, 2021 • 22min
#50: Save the Cat! The Ending Beats
Discover the essential beats needed for the end of your story, including resolving raised issues and showcasing protagonist growth. From gathering the team to executing the plan, explore the five-part finale structure. Dive into crafting a seamless narrative flow and explore the final image beat depicting the protagonist's change. Get inspired to develop your plotting style and create a fulfilling conclusion for your novel.

Aug 24, 2021 • 25min
#49: Save the Cat! The Middle Beats (Part 2)
Explore the essential beats of Blake Snyder's Save the Cat! method for outlining your novel, including the Bad Guys Close in beat, All is Lost beat, Dark Night of the Soul beat, and Break Into Three beat. Understand the significance of protagonist hitting rock bottom, facing internal obstacles, making pivotal decisions, and transitioning into a new self in act three.

Jul 13, 2021 • 28min
#48: Save the Cat! The Middle Beats (Part 1)
Exploring the protagonist's evolution in act two, focusing on internal obstacles and key relationships. Delving into fun and games beat and midpoint for escalated stakes. Analyzing how escalating stakes drive change and complex relationships in fiction. Highlighting the importance of the midpoint beat in intensifying challenges for the protagonist.

Jun 22, 2021 • 26min
#47: Save the Cat! The Beginning Beats
This podcast delves into the Save the Cat! beat sheet method for outlining novels, highlighting key beats like the opening image, theme stated, and setup. It explores the catalyst moment that propels the protagonist into a new world and the subsequent debate about what to do next. The importance of crafting a powerful opening scene and theme in storytelling is emphasized, along with recommended books for novel plotting.

20 snips
Jun 1, 2021 • 16min
#46: The 6 Scenes Every Worldview Novel Needs
Discussing the key scenes every worldview novel should have, focusing on character growth, relatability, and emotional experience. Covering scenes challenging protagonist's beliefs, committing to wrong choices, and facing truth to drive personal growth

May 25, 2021 • 18min
#45: How to Deal With Imposter Syndrome
Learn how to combat imposter syndrome in writing by embracing your unique voice, taking action no matter how small, and staying focused on your writing projects. Discover strategies to overcome self-doubt and fear, connect with readers on a deeper level, and share your unique message with the world.

May 18, 2021 • 18min
#44: Performance Genre Conventions
Explore the conventions of the performance genre in fiction writing. Learn about the underdog protagonist, the specific goal or MacGuffin, the flawed mentor, and the supportive team of people. Discover the role of trials and training sequences, social problems, and a worthy opponent. Delve into the importance of the protagonist's internal change and the impact of bittersweet endings. Incorporate these genre conventions creatively in your own writing for compelling stories.

23 snips
Apr 20, 2021 • 16min
#43: 10 Tips for Writing Better Scenes
Learn 10 tips for writing better scenes in your novel, including sticking to one POV character, establishing time & place, giving characters goals, creating mini-arcs of change, showing emotions, advancing subplots, triggering backstory, using relevant dialogue, and making each scene contribute to the global story arc.

31 snips
Mar 30, 2021 • 19min
#42: 10 Reasons Why Novels Get Rejected
Discover the top 10 reasons why novels get rejected by publishers, from genre mismatch to weak characters and predictable plots. Learn how to identify your target audience, craft captivating story worlds, and develop unique characters with depth. Avoid common pitfalls and enhance your writing with actionable strategies for success.