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Innhold levert av Stacy Frazer. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av Stacy Frazer eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.
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This Is Woman's Work with Nicole Kalil


1 The Icelandic Art of Intuition with Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir | 307 40:34
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We’ve turned intuition into a buzzword—flattened it into a slogan, a gut feeling, or a vague whisper we don’t always know how to hear. But what if intuition is so much more? What if it's one of the most powerful tools we have—and we’ve just forgotten how to use it? In this episode, I’m joined by Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir , Icelandic thought leader, filmmaker, and author of InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times . Hrund has spent over 20 years studying and teaching the science and art of intuition through her TED Talk, Netflix documentary (InnSæi: The Power of Intuition), and global work on leadership, innovation, and inner knowing. Together, we explore what intuition really is (hint: not woo-woo), how to cultivate it in a culture obsessed with logic and overthinking, and why your ability to listen to yourself might be the most essential skill you can develop. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ Why we’ve misunderstood intuition—and how to reclaim it ✅ Practical ways to strengthen your intuitive muscle ✅ What Icelandic wisdom teaches us about inner knowing ✅ How to use intuition during uncertainty and decision-making ✅ Why trusting yourself is an act of rebellion (and power) Intuition isn’t magic—it’s a deep, internal guidance system that already exists inside you. The question is: are you listening? Connect with Hrund: Website: www.hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com TedTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/hrund_gunnsteinsdottir_listen_to_your_intuition_it_can_help_you_navigate_the_future?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare Newsletter: https://hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com/blog/ LI: www.linkedin.com/in/hrundgunnsteinsdottir IG: https://www.instagram.com/hrundgunnsteinsdottir/ Book: InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times Related Podcast Episodes: How To Breathe: Breathwork, Intuition and Flow State with Francesca Sipma | 267 VI4P - Know Who You Are (Chapter 4) Gentleness: Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others with Courtney Carver | 282 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
The Write It Scared Podcast explicit
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Innhold levert av Stacy Frazer. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av Stacy Frazer eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.
A podcast to help fiction writers work through self-doubt and learn the craft of writing a novel.
60 episoder
Merk alt (u)spilt...
Manage series 3564884
Innhold levert av Stacy Frazer. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av Stacy Frazer eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.
A podcast to help fiction writers work through self-doubt and learn the craft of writing a novel.
60 episoder
Alle episoder
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 How to Use Genre to Structure Your Novel 13:29
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Grab Your Free Ticket to The 2025 Spark To Story Summit (MAY 27-29) Struggling to figure out where your story is going? In this episode, we break down how understanding your content genre can give you a built-in structure for your novel, shaping your plot, character arc, and emotional payoff. We’ll explore the difference between marketing and content genres, explain why genre is more than just a shelf label, and dive into how frameworks like Save the Cat Writes a Novel and The Story Grid can help you choose your content genre and write with more intention. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction to Genre and Storytelling 00:22 – Welcome to The Write It Scared Podcast 01:31 – Understanding Your Story Genre 02:27 – Marketing vs. Content Genre 05:39 – Frameworks for Identifying Content Genre 06:50 – External vs. Internal Content Genres 08:33 – Blending Genres and Finding Your Story’s Spine 10:12 – Conclusion and Next Steps 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: [Episode 50: How to Plan and Outline Your Novel] [Episode 42: Understanding Story Structure and Character Arcs] Companion blog post with examples and resources 2025 Spark to Story Summit–FREE TICKET! (Please note, this is an affiliate link. If you upgrade to a paid all-access SPARK pass, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you.) Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Learning to Dance with Self-Doubt as a Writer with Amy L. Bernstein 38:49
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Have you ever felt like self-doubt was holding your writing dreams hostage? Oh friend, you’re definitely not alone. In this episode of The Write It Scared Podcast , I had an incredible chat with the wonderful Amy Bernstein, author of Wrangling the Doubt Monster: Fighting Fears and Finding Inspiration . We got real about the ways self-doubt creeps into our creative lives, and how—even though it's uncomfortable—it's also totally normal. Amy opened up about her own journey with doubt, what inspired her to write her book, and shared practical (and gentle!) strategies to navigate that nagging voice inside your head. Here's what you'll find in our conversation: Why doubt isn't always the enemy (spoiler: sometimes it's a powerful creative ally) How to use the improv-inspired mindset of "Yes, and..." to navigate creative uncertainty and fear Real talk about handling rejection, building persistence, and finding your creative path despite doubt Personal insights and relatable experiences from Amy’s own writing journey (and a few from mine, too!) If you're wrestling with doubt—and let's be honest, who isn't?—you'll walk away from this episode feeling seen, inspired, and ready to embrace your creative path, self-doubt included. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Facing doubt head-on (you've got this!) 00:28 – Welcome back to Write It Scared! 01:33 – Diving deep: self-doubt and creativity 01:55 – Meet the amazing Amy Bernstein 03:52 – Amy’s personal journey with writing and doubt 07:09 – Why doubt can be powerful (yes, really!) 20:32 – How to navigate creative risks when doubt creeps in 22:17 – Using the “Yes, and…” approach to keep going 23:19 – Embracing rejection, persistence, and growth 25:46 – Understanding doubt’s role in the creative process 27:59 – Personal stories of battling doubt (we've all been there!) 30:15 – Finding your true creative path 35:41 – Building your inner resources for writing 37:45 – Wrapping up with encouragement and final thoughts Keep going, keep writing, and keep believing in yourself. You've absolutely got this. Amy L. Bernstein is the author, most recently, of Wrangling the Doubt Monster: Fighting Fears, Finding Inspiration , an inspirational book for self-doubting creatives. She is an award-winning novelist, a former journalist, and a certified nonfiction book coach helping authors find their best path to Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 One Year Anniversary + Writing, Perimenopause, Procrastination, and Giving Yourself Grace 17:24
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ENTER THE 1 YEAR Anniversary Celebration to WIN a FREE 90-MIN PLOT STRATEGY SESSION! DOWNLOAD "THE WRITE MINDSET" FREE WORKBOOK from Write It Scared! Writing is challenging enough without beating ourselves up along the way, right? In this episode of The Write It Scared Podcast , I’m getting personal—celebrating the podcast’s one-year milestone (woohoo!) and opening up about a topic that deserves more honest conversation: being a perimenopausal writer. If you’ve experienced brain fog, trouble concentrating, or felt like your creativity took an unexpected vacation, trust me—you’re not alone. I share a bit of my own journey navigating perimenopause, offering encouragement and practical strategies for dealing with these temporary (but very real!) cognitive struggles. Then, we tackle another sneaky writing struggle—procrastination vs. percolation. Not every pause or hesitation is avoidance, and I'll break down how to recognize the difference between genuinely procrastinating and when you're actually percolating (aka your brain needs processing time). Plus, I introduce a special free resource, “The WRITE Mindset” workbook, designed specifically to help you shift those unhelpful inner critic thoughts into positive actions. Above all, this episode is about reminding you to be gentle with yourself. Writing isn't always linear or easy—but with patience, self-compassion, and the right support, you’ve absolutely got this. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Let's stop beating ourselves up (please!) 00:23 – Welcome back to Write It Scared ! (One year already? Yay!) 01:31 – The truth about being a perimenopausal writer (because someone has to say it) 06:54 – Procrastination vs. Percolation: what's really holding you back? 13:35 – Final thoughts and what’s coming next Final Thoughts If there’s one takeaway from this episode, I hope it’s this: your struggles—whether hormonal, creative, or somewhere in between—are temporary, normal, and manageable. Keep engaging with your story, lean into support when you need it, and give yourself the kindness and grace you’d offer a friend. Happy writing, friends—you’re doing great, even when it feels messy! Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Building Your Author Platform Without the Overwhelm with Nicole Meier & Gretchen Schaffer of Bookworks.co 26:56
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Download Your Free Novel Planning Guide Let’s talk about author platforms—and before you groan, I promise this isn’t scary or overwhelming! In this episode of The Write It Scared Podcast , I’m chatting with two industry experts, Nicole Meier (multi-published author and book coach) and Gretchen Schaffer (marketing and PR strategist), the brilliant team behind Bookworks.co Nicole and Gretchen break down exactly what an author platform is (hint: it’s simpler than you think), why it's important (but not something to stress about), and how you can confidently start building yours right now—no matter where you are in your writing journey. Here’s a peek at what we cover: What exactly is an author platform, anyway? (Spoiler alert: it’s just your online/offline presence that connects you authentically with readers) When’s the best time to start building your platform? (Hint: you might be surprised!) Practical, realistic steps you can take immediately to grow your platform without feeling overwhelmed How to clearly define your author brand, find your readers, and feel good about pitching your work The resources and tools Nicole and Gretchen recommend to make your platform-building easier (and even fun) Whether you’re brand-new to the idea of an author platform or looking to boost your current efforts, this episode is packed with down-to-earth advice, real strategies, and encouragement to help you succeed, minus the stress. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Let’s talk platforms without the panic! 01:16 – Meet Nicole Meyer & Gretchen Schaefer of Bookwork 04:11 – What an author platform really is (and isn’t) 11:53 – Practical tips you can use right away to build your author platform confidently 25:01 – How Bookwork can help you (plus final thoughts) Final Thoughts Building your author platform doesn’t need to feel like another full-time job. Nicole and Gretchen reminded me that the key is authenticity and simplicity. So take a deep breath—your readers want to know the real you, and building connections can actually be enjoyable. Ready to dive in? You’ve got this! Happy writing (and platform-building!), friends! To learn more about Bookworks, Nicole Meier and Gretchen Schaffer, please visit their website bookworks.co Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 3 Revision Mistakes You're Probably Making (And How to Avoid Them!) 14:21
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Download your step-by-step self-editing guide with checklist here! Revision can feel like staring into an abyss. Where do you even start? What if you mess up your story? I get it—the revision stage can feel pretty overwhelming. But in this solo episode of Write It Scared , I'm here to help you tackle it head-on. I'll walk you through three big revision mistakes I've personally made (more than once!) and how you can steer clear of them: Mistake #1: Jumping right into revisions without resting your manuscript. Trust me—stepping away after your first draft makes a huge difference. Mistake #2: Skipping the cold read. This simple step will give you clarity and perspective (no red pen allowed!). Mistake #3: Editing from start to finish, page by page. There’s a better, less overwhelming way—I promise. We’ll also chat about how approaching revisions systematically—celebrating milestones, analyzing structure, and focusing on specific story elements—can make the whole process feel more manageable and even enjoyable. If you're in the revision trenches or gearing up to dive in, this episode will give you the practical tips, encouragement, and confidence boost you need. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Revision doesn't have to be terrifying (I promise!) 01:21 – The top three revision mistakes writers make (myself included) 04:13 – Why your manuscript needs a nap after the first draft 06:05 – The magic of a cold read (seriously, put that red pen down!) 08:34 – Stop editing linearly—there’s a better way! 09:50 – How to take a step-by-step, systematic approach to revision 13:14 – Wrapping up + resources to help you revise smarter 13:54 – Final thoughts and encouragement for your revision journey Revision doesn't have to feel like punishment. Done right, it's actually a rewarding, creative part of the writing process. So take a deep breath, grab a fresh coffee (or tea!), and let's tackle revisions together—step by step. You've got this, friend. Happy revising! Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Dual POV’s and Writing Despite Rejection with Author Alexandria Faulkenbury 32:19
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Writing your first novel is a rollercoaster—exciting, overwhelming, and, let's be honest, a little terrifying. But when you finally reach that finish line? It’s incredible. In this episode of Write It Scared , I’m joined by debut author Alexandria Faulkenbury. Her debut novel, Somewhere Past the End, will be released in May 2025. Alexandria generously shares the highs, the lows, and all the messy moments in between on her journey from childhood storytelling dreams to becoming a published author. We dive into: Alexandria’s personal path—from early passion, to academic detours, to rediscovering writing amidst life's busy chaos. Her experience navigating the notoriously challenging query trenches (the struggle is real!). What it’s like working with a small press—and why that path can be rewarding. How she handled the complexity (and occasional panic!) of writing dual POVs. Practical advice on balancing writing with real-life responsibilities (spoiler alert: it’s tough, but doable!). Why it’s crucial to celebrate every small win along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, deep in the query trenches, or just dreaming about writing someday, Alexandria’s story will inspire you and remind you that every step matters. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – A quick personal epiphany (because those happen!) 00:25 – Welcome back to Write It Scared ! 01:28 – Meet Alexandria Faulkenbury 02:53 – Alexandria’s writing journey: twists, turns, and surprises 05:01 – Inside the story of Somewhere Past the End 09:38 – Real talk: navigating the query process 15:10 – What it’s really like to work with a small press 17:40 – The very real struggles of writing (it’s okay—we all have them!) 26:16 – Balancing writing with the chaos of everyday life 30:30 – Alexandria’s final words of wisdom and encouragement Guest info: Alexandria Faulkenbury holds an M.A. in multicultural and transnational literature and lives in South Carolina with her family. She is a part of the 2025 debutante ball, a collective that celebrates the journey of women writers as they publish their first book. Her work has been featured in The Maine Review and MER Literary, among others. Find her at alexandriafaulkenbury.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amfaulkenbury/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/LexiBury Bluesky: Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Understanding the Flat Character Arc: A Case Study with Katniss Everdeen 23:15
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Not every compelling character needs a massive transformation. Sometimes the most powerful stories come from characters who don’t change—but instead, they change the world around them. That’s what we call a flat character arc, and on this episode of The Write It Scared Podcast , I’m breaking down exactly what that means. I know—a “flat” arc might sound boring, right? But trust me, flat arcs can be incredibly dynamic and emotionally engaging. Think of characters like Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games . Katniss doesn’t fundamentally change who she is, but her unwavering strength, determination, and beliefs begin to transform everything around her. Here’s what we’re diving into in this episode: What a flat (also called “steadfast” or “static”) arc really is—and why it’s misunderstood The key difference between flat arcs and positive or negative arcs How to craft a flat character who feels vibrant, real, and deeply relatable Using Katniss Everdeen as a practical case study to explore how flat arcs work within traditional story structures Practical, actionable tips for creating compelling flat arc characters readers will love If you’ve ever struggled with characters who resist change or wondered if every protagonist truly needs to transform, this episode is exactly what you need. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – What exactly is a flat character arc? 01:30 – Quick refresher: Positive vs. Negative vs. Flat arcs 01:52 – Defining flat character arcs clearly (and busting myths!) 05:09 – How to craft dynamic, compelling flat arc characters 07:17 – Examples of iconic flat arc characters 07:42 – Deep dive: Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games 08:10 – Story structure and the flat arc: how it fits in 10:39 – Breaking down Katniss’s journey step-by-step 20:29 – Key takeaways and tips for your own flat arcs 22:07 – Wrap-up + what’s coming next! Other Episodes mentioned Episode 52: Crafting a Corruption Arc Episode 48: Crafting a Falling Arc Episode 46: Crafting a Disillusionment Arc Episode 42: Crafting Positive Arcs of Change Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 How Writing Short Stories Can Make You a Stronger Novelist with Demi Michelle Schwartz 41:35
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If you're a novelist, you might think short stories aren’t “your thing,” but let me tell you—they can be an incredible tool. In this conversation, Demi Michelle Schwartz—author, editor, podcaster, and all-around creative powerhouse— and I dive into how writing short stories can help you: Stay creatively engaged between big projects Sharpen your storytelling and character work Play with structure, POV, and genre in low-stakes ways And even reignite your joy when you feel stuck If you’ve been feeling creatively blocked or craving something new, this conversation might be the nudge you need to try something shorter, messier, and wildly fun. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Why having a strong story vision matters 01:18 – Meet Demi Michelle Schwartz 03:38 – Demi’s journey to becoming an author and editor 06:50 – The unexpected benefits of short stories for novelists 13:20 – How to approach writing short stories with purpose 21:31 – Making your short stories character-driven 22:15 – We chat about A Pinch of Cinnamon and Lore 22:32 – Flat arcs in short fiction: when characters don’t change 25:39 – POV choices in short stories 27:57 – Demi’s advice for first-time short story writers 29:41 – Facing writing struggles (and getting through them) 32:44 – Navigating self-doubt as a writer 35:11 – Why writing community makes all the difference 39:25 – Demi’s current projects and where to find her Demi Michelle Schwartz is an author, editor, publicist, and the host of Literary Blend: A Publishing Podcast , based in Pittsburgh, PA. Links Website: http://demimschwartz.com Twitter: http://twitter.com/demimschwartz Instagram: http://instagram.com/demimschwartz Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/demimschwartz.bsky.social Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 How to Craft a Compelling Corruption Arc with Case Study: Walter White From Breaking Bad 17:06
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Not every character arc leads to redemption—some lead to ruin. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode. This week we’re talking about the corruption arc—the dark, compelling journey where a character doesn’t just make mistakes... they choose the wrong path and double down on it. These arcs are all about moral compromise, self-deception, and slow-burning transformation, and when done right, they’re unforgettable . In this episode, I break down: What sets a corruption arc apart from other negative arcs The false beliefs that fuel the fall How to structure a story that shows the slow unraveling of a character’s integrity And of course, I use one of the most iconic examples—Walter White from Breaking Bad —to illustrate how a seemingly good person can become something much darker Whether you're working on a villain origin story, an anti-hero arc, or just love exploring the more complex, shadowy corners of character development, this episode will help you craft a corruption arc that sticks with your reader. And don’t miss next week’s episode—I’ll be joined by author and editor Demi Michelle Schwartz, who’s sharing how writing short stories can sharpen your novel-writing skills in surprising ways. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – What is a corruption arc, really? 00:17 – Quick hello & what we’re unpacking today 01:17 – A refresher on negative character arcs 02:28 – The anatomy of a corruption arc 04:59 – Walter White’s descent into darkness 05:54 – Plot structure and the corruption arc 07:44 – Breaking down Walter White’s transformation 14:52 – How to craft a strong, believable corruption arc Corruption arcs are tricky—but so rewarding to write. They push us to look at how people change, what they justify, and the line between who they are and who they become . And spoiler: it’s never as clean as we think. If you’re building a character who breaks bad, this episode will give you the structure, insight, and tools to do it right . For more on crafting negative character ars check out: Episode 46: The Disillusionment Arc Episode 48: The Falling Arc Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Live Pitching vs. Cold Querying: Insights from Author and Agent Amy Nielsen 41:09
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Querying is hard. Sending email after email, waiting for months (or forever) for a response—it’s enough to make any writer scream. But what if you could skip the inbox slush pile and pitch your book directly to an agent? That’s precisely what Amy Neilsen—author, literary agent, and freelance editor—joins me to talk about in this episode. Amy has been on both sides of the process, and she’s here to break down the differences between live pitching and cold querying so you can decide which approach is right for you. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Meet Amy Neilsen, A librarian-turned-literary agent 00:34 – Amy’s unexpected journey to publishing Worth It 06:52 – The highs and lows of getting published 10:17 – Why having a writing community matters 12:37 – Live pitching vs. cold querying—how do you choose? 21:24 – How to overcome pitch nerves (without spiraling) 22:03 – How to make your live pitch count (and what not to do) 23:20 – Why agent feedback is gold (even when it stings) 25:56 – Must-have comp resources for querying writers 28:02 – How to make real industry connections 37:14 – The power of a solid writing community 38:13 – Where to connect with Amy To Connect with Amy : website - www.amynielsenauthor.com Manuscript Wish List - www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/amy-nielsen/ Query Manager - www.querytracker.net/agent/16163 Twitter/X - @AmyNielsen06 IG: @author_amy.nielsen Other Links and Resources discussed on the show: Writing Day Workshops Live Pitch Template The Shit No One Tells You About Writing Podcast Website How to Find Compelling Comp Titles for Your Book by Star Wuerdemann on the Jane Friedman blog Thriller 101 Podcast Thriller storyteller’s society Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Planning Your Novel: From Idea to Outline 46:55
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Download Your Free Novel Planning Guide! In this episode of Write It Scared, I’m sharing my interview from the Be a Bestseller 6.0 Back to Basics Summit hosted by Emma Dhesi and we discuss practical strategies for planning and outlining your novel in a way that works for you. The highlights: 📌 The fundamentals of storytelling—character, conflict, plot structure, and theme 📌 Why mindset matters and how to set realistic expectations for your writing journey 📌 How to connect with your story’s purpose so you stay motivated 📌 The balance between planning and discovery—because not every writer thrives with a strict outline And I talk about my own journey—from feeling like a repressed creative soul to fully stepping into my identity as a fiction writer and book coach. If you’ve ever struggled with turning a story idea into something structured, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to get started. Episode Breakdown 📌 01:19 – Special episode announcement 📌 02:28 – Interview with Emma Dashie 📌 04:37 – My journey from repressed creative to fiction writer & coach 📌 09:03 – Why mindset is everything in writing 📌 15:19 – Understanding story structure (without overcomplicating it) 📌 20:51 – Finding your story’s purpose—why this story, now? 📌 23:25 – The core foundations of storytelling 📌 25:06 – What makes a compelling story 📌 27:31 – Building conflict & stakes readers care about 📌 28:36 – Writing strong character arcs & believable antagonists 📌 30:50 – The role of theme in storytelling (and how to use it naturally) 📌 32:34 – Plotting vs. Pantsing—which approach is best for you? 📌 36:07 – Inciting incidents, plot points & keeping your story moving 📌 42:17 – Supporting writers through the messy middle 📌 45:04 – Final thoughts + resources to help you plan your novel Final Thoughts Writing a novel isn’t about forcing yourself into a one-size-fits-all process. It’s about finding what works for you—a balance between planning and allowing space for discovery. If you want more help structuring your novel, check out the free resources below! Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Poli-Fi Author, Michael Fedor on Writing, Rewriting, and Never Giving Up 35:31
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Writing a novel is never a straight path. But what happens when that journey takes 20 years? In this episode, I sit down with Michael Fedor, an award-winning independent author, to talk about the long, winding road to publishing his debut novel, What It Takes to Kill a Bull Moose , a political science fiction thriller with deep themes and sharp commentary. Michael shares: ✨ How an idea from two decades ago finally became a published book ✨ The highs and lows of drafting, rewriting, and refining a novel over time ✨ How personal life events and evolving perspectives shaped his storytelling ✨ The importance of community, persistence, and finding the right tools to stay motivated ✨ Lessons learned from self-publishing and navigating the indie author world If you’ve ever struggled with finishing a manuscript or wondered if it’s too late to make your writing dreams a reality, Michael’s story is proof that perseverance pays off. Episode Breakdown 📌 00:00 – The reality of long-term writing projects 📌 01:11 – Meet Michael Fedor and his writing journey 📌 02:52 – How What It Takes to Kill a Bull Moose came to life 📌 08:29 – Writing political science fiction and balancing genre with message 📌 13:54 – The biggest challenges in writing and rewriting over 20 years 📌 24:00 – How to balance writing with real life (and why it’s okay to take breaks) 📌 26:48 – Michael’s best advice for writers struggling to finish their novel 📌 35:05 – Final thoughts and encouragement for your own writing journey Writing isn’t just about speed—it’s about sticking with the story that won’t let you go. Whether you're knee-deep in your first draft or revising something you started years ago, this episode will remind you that your book is worth finishing. Let me know what resonated most with you from Michael’s journey, and as always—keep writing, even when it’s scary. ✨ To connect with Michael, please visit these links: Substack https://michaelfedorbooks.substack.com/ Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/23296831.Michael_Fedor Website https://michaelfedorbooks.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michaelfedorbooks/ Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Crafting the Tragic Falling Character Arc 24:14
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The Falling Arc isn’t about a villain—it’s about a character who could have chosen differently but instead becomes consumed by their worst impulses. Their story isn’t just dark—it’s unsettling, raw, and real. This character starts with potential, but instead of rising to the occasion, they spiral downward—deeper into moral corruption, delusion, or even self-destruction. The Falling Arc is one of the most devastating negative character arcs (overview of negative arcs in episode 46 ,) and today, we’re breaking down exactly how to write one. Using Tom Ripley from The Talented Mr. Ripley as a prime example, this episode explores: 🔥 What makes a falling arc so compelling (and chilling) 🔥 The false beliefs that drive a character’s descent 🔥 Key story beats that shape their tragic downfall 🔥 How to build reader empathy for a character losing their way 🔥 A full breakdown of Tom Ripley’s arc, from his first deception to his final, chilling moment If you're crafting a protagonist who loses themselves to darkness, this episode will help you nail the psychological and emotional depth needed to make it unforgettable. Episode Breakdown 📌 00:00 – The power of negative character arcs 📌 00:53 – What makes the falling arc uniquely tragic? 📌 01:37 – The essential ingredients for a compelling downward spiral 📌 02:59 – Breaking down Tom Ripley’s journey step by step 📌 05:05 – How Tom Ripley’s false beliefs drive his moral downfall 📌 07:19 – The inciting incident that sets his descent in motion 📌 10:45 – Midpoint realization: How Tom justifies his crimes 📌 13:41 – The slow, chilling downward spiral 📌 16:55 – The climax and Tom's ultimate fall 📌 19:26 – Final thoughts on writing falling arcs 📌 20:32 – Recap + sneak peek at next week’s corruption arc deep dive Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Tips on Writing Historical Fiction with Author Susanne Dunlap 38:27
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What does it take to bring history to life on the page? In this episode of Write it Scared , I’m sitting down with Susanne Dunlap—acclaimed historical fiction author, writing mentor, and all-around storytelling powerhouse. Susanne’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She went from earning a PhD in music history to publishing her first novel at 50, and now she has 14 novels to her name! We chat about the lessons she’s learned along the way—why curiosity, persistence, and patience are essential to writing, how to handle the mountains of research that come with historical fiction, and the delicate balance between fact and storytelling. We also get into her transition from historical fiction to historical romance (because, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a little romance with their history?) If you’ve ever wondered how to make history feel real without drowning in research—or if you just need a reminder that it’s never too late to start your writing career—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! What You’ll Learn: ✅ The key to balancing research and storytelling in historical fiction ✅ Key mindset shifts to avoid overwhelm for historical fiction writers ✅ Tips for managing research without getting stuck in extraneous details ✅ The challenges (and joys!) of transitioning to historical romance Episode Breakdown: 00:21 – Meet Susanne Dunlap! 00:43 – Her journey from academia to author 01:43 – Lessons from her publishing experience 02:14 – Why persistence matters in writing 02:38 – The power of storytelling in historical fiction 05:13 – Why historical fiction is so captivating 07:39 – Research: How much is too much? 18:18 – Balancing historical accuracy with compelling fiction 21:12 – Challenges in writing historical fiction & how to push through 25:12 – Moving into historical romance: what changes? 28:43 – Final thoughts & what Susanne is working on now Guest Bio and Links Susanne Dunlap is the award-winning author of over a dozen historical novels, as well as an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach in fiction, nonfiction, and memoir. Her love of history began in academia with a PhD in music history from Yale. Her novel THE PORTRAITIST won first prize in its category in the 2022 Eric Hoffer Book Awards, and was a finalist in the CIBA Goethe Awards and the Foreword Indies Awards. THE ADORED ONE: A NOVEL OF LILLIAN LORRAINE AND FLORENZ ZIEGFELD, won first place in its category in the 2023 CIBA Goethe Awards for Late Historical Fiction. Today, she lives, coaches, and writes in beautiful Biddeford, Maine. Website: https://susanne-dunlap.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/susanne_dun Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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The Write It Scared Podcast

1 Essentials of Crafting Negative Character Arcs + Deep Dive into the Disillusionment Arc 24:00
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Not every character’s journey leads to triumph—some lead to harsh truths and shattered illusions. In this episode we do an overview the negative character arcs and then focus on the specifics of the Disillusionment Arc. Unlike positive arcs where characters grow and overcome their flaws, disillusionment arcs are about painful realizations. These characters start believing in something—an ideal, a system, a person—only to have that belief stripped away, leaving them changed, but not necessarily better off. Using powerful examples like The Great Gatsby and The Firm , we’ll break down: ✨ How false beliefs shape a character’s journey ✨ The key differences between negative and positive arcs ✨ Why disillusionment arcs resonate so deeply with readers ✨ How to craft a compelling downfall without losing your audience If you want to explore the darker side of storytelling and create characters whose struggles feel real , this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✅ Benefits of understanding negative arcs, even if your main character doesn’t have one ✅The essential components of a Disillusionment Arc ✅ How to differentiate a disillusionment arc from a traditional fall or corruption arc ✅ Why false beliefs are the driving force behind negative arcs ✅ How to use this arc to add depth and emotional impact to your stories ✅ Examples of disillusionment arcs in literature and film ( The Great Gatsby , The Firm ) Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Negative Character Arcs 01:21 Overview of Negative Character Arcs 06:51 Understanding the Disillusionment Arc 12:45 Disillusionment Arc in Story Structure 16:24 Examples of Disillusionment Arcs 22:03 Wrap Up Negative arcs don’t just make for compelling stories—they reflect the painful truths we all face at some point. So if you’re ready to explore the darker side of character growth, grab your notebook and let’s dive in. Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you. Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here! To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/ https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears…
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