• The Best Podcasts for Writers

    As podcasts continue to grow in popularity, it’s no secret that there truly is a podcast for everyone. It’s also a hive of information for writers, editors, and book lovers. As with books, however, it’s best to start with a few podcast recommendations. So, whether you’re looking to brush up on your grammar skills, hone your first draft, stay in touch on what readers want, or to feel inspired after a creative dry spell, your next podcast favorite just might be in the list below. Educational Whether you want to increase your vocabulary, brush up on your grammar, or understanding…

  • 7 Stages Most Books Are Stuck in

    1. The Dream Stage. You have a dream of writing and becoming an author, but you just don’t know where to begin. 2. The Idea Stage. You actually have a really good idea–and other people tell you it is–but you’re not sure how to develop it. 3. The Message Stage. You just taught an incredible message and you can’t help but think, “This would make a great book, but how do I develop this message into a book?” 4. The Journal/Notes Stage. For years you’ve written in a notebook or journal. You have pages and pages of great writing, but…

  • How to Write Your Life Story

    One aspect of writing that I love is when we stop to look inward at ourselves. We take note of the choices we’ve made in our lives and they present a multitude of stories to tell. Most writers don’t think it is that easy. I have received a lot of messages over the years from writers who say, “No one knows me, why would they care about my story?” And, “I’m not a professional writer, so I don’t know how to get my story on paper.” I’ve said the same thing to each one of those writers, and I’m saying…

  • Writing a Great Author Bio

    Your manuscript is done. It has been through the rewrite and revision, beta reading, and editing processes. You can see the finish line, and you are so ready to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing over that invisible line. Then, your dreams come to screeching halt! Your publisher asks you to submit your author bio. For a moment, you consider tossing the whole idea of becoming an author out the window because of one paragraph. I get it—the idea of having to write about yourself and your accomplishments seems hard. Instead, let’s look at author bios as…