The Creative Writing Life

FIRST LOVE LANGUAGE Author Stefany Valentine talks about the unique insight as an adoptee writing an adoptee protagonist, the pattern of action-consequence, and the importance of writing for you and not the marketplace.

Today’s very short episode does a quick wrap-up for 2024 and discusses what’s planned for 2025

Screenwriter/author/brand strategist Brian Fitzpatrick discusses strategies & approaches for accomplishing your writing goals in 2025, and remember: the key word is patience.

Author James Moorer talks about why you need to give your main characters a moment, using realism in a supernatural story, and the value/importance of creating your own IP

Author Krystal Marquis talks about writing historical fiction (and the research involved), the challenges of crafting a story with multiple protagonists, and how a teacher influenced the way she writes.

Author Rachael Kelly talks about being a neurodivergent author, her love of world-building for dystopian fiction, using setting as a character, and finding the process that works best for you.

Author Beth Revis talks about what it’s like to write for the Star Wars franchise, why writers should always go for the new adventure, and the benefits of having a story be fueled/inspired by spite.

Dr. Ron Dwinnells, an author and physician, discusses his award-winning book, "Don't Pick Up All the Dog Hairs," alongside his novel, "30 Days Half September." He shares insights on starting stories from the end and emphasizes the mantra "Show, don’t tell" in writing. Ron highlights the importance of writing with freedom and creativity, reflecting on his unique balance between medicine and storytelling. He also explores character depth and narrative structures, revealing how personal experiences shape his approach to writing.

Author Laura Samotin talks about what you want a reader to feel, the importance of eliciting emotion, and to not worry about making it perfect

Author A.S. King talks about finding art from trauma, why you should write with unflinching honesty, and the benefits of volunteering and getting out into the world.