Shows
Writers With WrinklesAsk B&L: Book Coaching? What even is that?Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status.Guest Bio: Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle grade novels and a seasoned book coach who works primarily with middle grade writers. Drawing from her own experience in traditional publishing, Beth helps writers finish manuscripts, tackle revisions, and prepare...
2025-08-0435 minWriters With WrinklesNavigating KidLit and Publishing Realities with Agent Joyce SweeneySend us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilient in a tough industry.Guest Bio: Joyce Sweeney is the Director of KidLit at The Seymour Agency, where they’ve worked as a literary agent for five years. Prior to agenting, Joyce spent decades as a writ...
2025-07-2135 minWriters With WrinklesBONUS: How to Write Action That Kids Can’t Put Down (an interview with author & book coach Beth McMullen)Send us a text🎙️ Episode Summary: In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turning stories for kids.👩💼 Guest Bio: Beth McMullen is the author of ten traditionally published novels, including the Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls and Secret of the Storm series. She is also the co-host of the Writers With...
2025-07-1421 minWriters With WrinklesIs AI a Useful Tool? (An Ask B&L Episode)Send us a textIn this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process.Key Discussion Points:Recent Highlights: Beth and Lisa reference two previous episodes with editor Joel Brigham and encourage listeners to grab the accompanying cheat sheets at writerswithwrinkles.net by signing up for the newsletter.AI as a Writing Tool: The duo clarifies that AI should not...
2025-07-0733 minWriters With WrinklesDrafting Without Fear: Writing Momentum and Mistakes to Avoid, with editor Joel BrighamSend us a textBeth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript.Guest Bio: Joel Brigham is a seasoned developmental editor and founder of Brigham Editorial. With over 21 years of experience as an English teacher, Joel also mentors authors through RevPit, an online writing community focused on providing free editorial feedback. He is a former Pitch Wars mentor and the...
2025-06-0954 minWriters With WrinklesTo Edit or Not to Edit? (An Ask B&L Episode)Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down complex concepts with clarity and humor.Key Discussion Points:Catching Up: Beth shares travel stories from Copenhagen and Amsterdam, including a must-visit bakery (Anderson Bakery), while Lisa talks...
2025-05-2633 minWriters With WrinklesENCORE: Editor Ivan Taurisano talks kidlit and IPSend us a textIn this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.Guest BioIvan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and select MG and YA titles. He has collaborated on several successful series and brands, such as How to...
2025-05-1237 minWriters With WrinklesLove, Art & Storytelling in Rome: Brian Selznick on his new novel Run Away With MeSend us a textEpisode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story.Guest Bio: Brian Selznick is the Caldecott Medal-winning author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which became Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His innovative storytelling style blends narrative and illustration, captivating readers of all ages...
2025-05-0550 minWriters With WrinklesWriting Scary, Querying Smart: Insider Tips with Agent & Author Carey Blankenship-KramerSend us a textBeth and Lisa sit down with Carey Blankenship-Kramer, literary agent and author of Ghost Scout's Honor, to talk all things publishing—from crafting irresistible query letters to the harsh realities of publishing economics. Carey shares heartfelt insights on the future of middle grade, the evolving horror genre, and what truly makes her heart sing when reading submissions.Guest Bio: Carey Blankenship-Kramer is a literary agent and author whose debut novel Ghost Scout's Honor (Scholastic, April 2025) is a queer, neurodiverse middle grade horror adventure set in ghost-filled Savannah. Since be...
2025-04-2835 minWriters With WrinklesWriting Origin Stories! Do you have one?Send us a text🎙️ Episode Summary: In this special "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid explore the emotional challenges of the current creative climate and share their personal writing origin stories to inspire struggling writers. With humor, heart, and a dash of wine, they offer a candid look at what first ignited their passion to write and how to reconnect with that spark during tough times.🔑 Key Discussion Points:Mental health in writing: Beth and Lisa acknowledge the current collective sense of...
2025-04-1439 minWriters With WrinklesIf It Feels Not Normal, It’s Probably Not: Ask Beth & LisaSend us a textEpisode Summary: In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times.Guest Bio: No guest this episode – just your favorite duo, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, authors and co-hosts of Writers With Wrinkles.Key Discussion Points:The value of disconnecting: Beth shares her experience of...
2025-03-3126 minWriters With WrinklesIt’s YOUR Name on the NovelSend us a text🎧 Episode Summary: In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, our favorite author duo jumps into listener questions covering everything from publishing red flags to agent transparency and the editorial process. With humor, honesty, and real talk, they break down what’s “normal” in publishing—and what’s not.📝 Key Discussion Points:Editorial Letter Red Flags: A 40-page editorial letter? Not normal. Beth and Lisa explain what you should expect from your editor and why stripping a manuscript’s voice is a major red flag.What Happens Aft...
2025-03-3140 minWriters With WrinklesBreaking Barriers in Publishing: Michele McAvoy on Small Press Success & Writing RealitiesSend us a textPLEASE NOTE: this episode was orignally meant to drop on March 31st but we moved it up so listeners can take advantage of The Little Press's upcoming pitch party. Listen to the full episode for details.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Michele McAvoy, award-winning children’s book author, publisher, and founder of The Little Press. Michele shares her journey from self-published author to small press publisher, offering insight into the publishing industry, small press advantages, and advice for aspiring authors navigating the co...
2025-03-1734 minWriters With WrinklesCracking the Code: Middle Grade & YA Publishing Secrets with managing editor Meg GaertnerSend us a textIn this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Meg Gaertner, managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions. Meg shares insights into middle grade and young adult publishing, the acquisitions process, and trends shaping the industry.Guest BioMeg Gaertner is the managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions, acquiring titles for the Jolly Fish Press and Flux imprints. She is passionate about publishing books that expand perspectives, increase representation, and tackle complex topics with nuance. Her authors...
2025-03-0334 minWriters With WrinklesBreaking Out of the Writing Rut: Micro Goals, Fresh Eyes & Creative HacksSend us a textIn this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing.Key Discussion PointsRecognizing a Writing Rut: How to identify when you’re stuck in autopilot and losing creative energy.Micro Goals for Progress: Beth shares her strategy of setting small, achievable goals like 500-word daily targets to push through blocks.Shaking Up...
2025-02-1727 minWriters With WrinklesFrom Query to Publication: Agent Adria Goetz on Perfecting Your Pitch and Navigating the IndustrySend us a textIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, building resilience, and staying attuned to market trends.Guest BioAdria Goetz is a Senior Literary Agent and Illustration Coordinator at KT Literary, specializing in picture books, middle grade, graphic novels, and adult fiction. Sh...
2025-02-0340 minWriters With WrinklesResilience, Rejections, and Rediscovering Joy in WritingSend us a textIn this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle listener questions about navigating the challenges of writing and publishing, including understanding agent rejections and crafting strong hooks. They also discuss personal writing goals and the importance of building supportive writer communities.Key Discussion PointsNew Year's Writing Resolutions:Beth aims to quit Amazon shopping and regain control over external influences.Lisa focuses on rediscovering joy in writing after a challenging year in publishing.Understanding Agent Rejections:"No editorial vision" often means agents can't see...
2025-01-2024 minWriters With WrinklesCracking the Publishing Code: Expert Tips from Editor Ivan TaurisanoSend us a text**Please Note: Guest Adria Gaetz episode will drop on February 3rd, not January 20th.**In the premier episode of Season 4, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.Guest BioIvan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and...
2025-01-0636 minWriters With WrinklesEncore Episode: Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez Tells You What You Need to KnowSend us a textEpisode Summary: Beth and Lisa chat with Kaitlyn Sanchez, literary agent at Bradford Literary and co-creator of kidlit contests, about navigating the publishing industry. Kaitlyn shares actionable insights for aspiring authors on trends, querying agents, and creating standout manuscripts.Guest Bio: Kaitlyn Sanchez is a literary agent at Bradford Literary, middle school math teacher, and co-creator of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, Kidlit Zombie Week, and the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy. A passionate advocate for children's literature, Kaitlyn specializes in helping writers connect their stories...
2024-12-2333 minWriters With WrinklesWhat happens when you land in author jail? Season 3 Finale: Ask Beth & LisaSend us a textIn this engaging season finale, Beth and Lisa address common writing and publishing challenges, offering practical advice for aspiring authors. From navigating illustration decisions to overcoming the hurdles of low book sales, they provide actionable insights with humor and honesty.Key Discussion PointsIllustration Questions for Authors:Clarified that non-illustrator authors do not need to provide illustrations for their books; publishers manage that process.Shared insights into the collaboration between authors and illustrators, including how unexpected details can enhance a book.Author Jail and Sales...
2024-12-0928 minWriters With WrinklesA Slightly Unhinged Conversation about Endings that Stick & Avoiding the Rush to the Final ChapterSend us a textIn this impromptu episode (guest couldn't make it last minute!!), Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid dive into the challenges of finishing a novel, with Lisa candidly sharing her ongoing struggles with her book's last chapter. The hosts discuss strategies to avoid rushed endings and ways to reignite enthusiasm during the final stages of writing.Guest Bio No guest this week—Beth and Lisa take center stage with an unscripted and authentic conversation.Key Discussion PointsThe Perils of the Last Chapter
2024-11-2518 minWriters With WrinklesYou're an 'Orphaned' Author. Now What?Send us a textIn this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the harsh realities of getting "orphaned" in publishing and offer practical tips for authors to navigate setbacks when their editors leave mid-project. They discuss proactive steps authors can take to protect their work, advocate for themselves, and manage expectations in an unpredictable industry.Key Discussion PointsWhat It Means to be Orphaned: Beth and Lisa explain how "orphaning" happens in publishing—when an acquiring editor leaves the publisher, leaving the author without a pr...
2024-11-1136 minWriters With WrinklesEmpowering Young Readers: A Conversation with Literacy Advocate E-TrainSend us a textEpisode Summary:In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with teenage literacy advocate and podcast host, E-Train, who founded E-Train Talks Inc. to combat "book deserts" and promote literacy among underrepresented communities. E-Train discusses his journey into reading advocacy, the books that inspire young readers, and the importance of diverse representation in middle-grade literature.Guest Bio:E-Train is a teenage literacy advocate, reading ambassador, and founder of E-Train Talks Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and access to books for...
2024-11-0421 minWriters With WrinklesQuery like a Pro: Agent Amy Nielsen Tells Us HowSend us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with Amy Nielsen, a literary agent at Purcell Agency and a published author, about her experiences with both. Amy shares invaluable tips for querying, editing, and how to handle the ups and downs of the publishing industry.Guest Bio: Amy Nielsen is a literary agent with Purcell Agency, specializing in young adult and picture books. A former youth librarian with nearly two decades of experience, Amy penned her debut novel, Worth It, while working...
2024-10-2835 minWriters With WrinklesBeta Readers, Book Comps and Barley's Cupcake CrisisSend us a textIn episode 37 of Writers With Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer listener questions about writing, with a focus on the differences between beta readers and critique partners, how to find critique partners, and advice on book comps for queries. Lisa also offers a PSA on dogs eating too many cupcakes.Key Discussion Points:Beta Readers vs. Critique Partners:Beth and Lisa explain that beta readers provide general reader feedback, focusing on how engaging a manuscript is, while critique partners offer more technical, writer-focused critiques. Beta...
2024-10-1423 minWriters With WrinklesBehind the Scenes with Literary Agent Cathie Hedrick-ArmstrongSend us a textIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid chat with Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong, literary agent at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. Cathie discusses her journey in the publishing world, offering insightful tips on querying, writing from the heart, and maintaining professionalism on social media.Guest BioCathie Hedrick-Armstrong is a literary agent at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, author, and book lover. She began her writing career in 2014 with her debut historical fiction, The Edge of Nowhere, and later published the YA novel Roam, which addresses...
2024-09-3032 minWriters With WrinklesWhat is going ON in the Middle Grade Market??Send us a textIn this episode, Beth and Lisa take a look at the challenges facing middle-grade publishing, from declining sales to changes in bookstore stocking strategies, that seem to be all anyone can talk about! They share insights on how aspiring authors can adapt to the shifting landscape and stand out in a saturated market.Key Discussion Points:Viral Tweet and Industry Impact: Lisa’s tweet about authors leaving middle grade went viral, sparking widespread conversation and worry among aspiring authors. (00:46)Middle-Grade Sales Decline: Middle-grade sales dr...
2024-09-2025 minWriters With WrinklesAsk Beth & Lisa: How to Juggle Multiple Writing Projects...Or Not?Send us a textIn this listener Q&A episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer a question about juggling multiple writing projects and staying focused. They share personal approaches to managing ideas and offer advice on how to prioritize projects for aspiring authors.Key Discussion PointsHandling Multiple Writing Projects: Beth and Lisa tackle a listener's question about managing various writing ideas, from picture books to novels and screenplays.Beth's Approach: Beth often starts several projects and lets the most compelling one "...
2024-09-1621 minWriters With WrinklesNavigating the Publishing World: Insights from Agent and Author Ann RoseSend us a textIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent and author Ann Rose to discuss the state of the publishing industry, what makes a debut novel stand out, and how to balance writing for the heart and the market.Guest Bio:Ann Rose is a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author of young adult novels under the pen name A.M. Rose. With a passion for storytelling, she champions books with strong voices and unique concepts. Ann's latest book, The Seemingly Impossible...
2024-09-0222 minWriters With WrinklesAsk Beth & Lisa: Surviving the Query TrenchesSend us a textIn this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid introduce a new segment called "Ask Beth & Lisa." They jump right into the challenges of surviving the query trenches, offering practical advice on managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking literary representation.Key Discussion PointsCoping Strategies for Querying: Beth and Lisa share their contrasting approaches to dealing with the long waiting periods in the query process. Beth suggests immediately starting a new project to stay productive, while Lisa advocates for taking...
2024-08-1922 minWriters With WrinklesInsider Insights with Disney Hyperion Editor Rachel StarkSend us a textIn this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Rachel Stark, an editor at Disney Hyperion, discussing the state of middle grade and graphic novels, and providing insights into the publishing industry's inner workings. They also delve into how authors can craft compelling submissions and navigate the complexities of book acquisitions.Guest BioRachel Stark is an experienced editor at Disney Hyperion, known for editing award-winning books like Simon Sort of Says. They have also worked on launching Disney Hyperion's Kugali Ink imprint, which focuses on...
2024-08-0544 minWriters With WrinklesMarketing Magic: Authentic Strategies for Children's Book Success with Alonzo FullerSend us a text(PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Alonzo's own.)In this episode, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmidt interview Alonzo Fuller, a marketing specialist for children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. They discuss marketing strategies, advice for introverted authors, and the importance of authenticity in book promotion.Guest Bio: Alonzo Fuller is a marketing specialist at Andrews McMeel Publishing, focusing on children's books. With experience in sports, entertainment, and automotive industries, Alonzo brings a wealth of knowledge to the field of book marketing...
2024-07-2226 minWriters With WrinklesWrite Shorter Books? Here's the scoop on that...Send us a textEpisode SummaryBeth and Lisa discuss their summer activities and insights from the ALA conference, emphasizing the need for shorter middle-grade books and adaptability in writing. They also announce changes to their podcast format for improved content quality.Key Discussion PointsSummer Vacation Reflections: Beth and Lisa reminisce about their childhood summer vacations and discuss how the tradition of summer vacation reports in school can be exclusionary.ALA Conference Insights: Lisa shares her experience at the ALA conference...
2024-07-1526 minWriters With WrinklesThe 31 Day Build Your Author Platform Challenge is NOW!Send us a textKey Discussion Points:1. Summer Slump in Writing: Beth and Lisa discuss how summer activities can lead to a writing slump and share personal experiences and tips for overcoming it.2. Character Development: Lisa shares her struggle with her character's emotional journey and how understanding her character's background helped overcome writing challenges.3. Author Accelerator Book Coaching: Beth talks about her experience with the Author Accelerator's book coaching certification, emphasizing the importance of understanding a character's motivations.4. Platform Building Challenge: Recap of the platform building challenge that starts...
2024-06-0327 minWriters With WrinklesMiddle Grade Magic! Co Host Lisa Schmid Goes Deep with new novel Hart & SoulsSend us a textThis episode features co-host Lisa Schmid discussing her upcoming middle-grade novel "Hart & Souls." The focus is on the challenges of writing a second novel, known as the sophomore slump, and the unique pressures and expectations that come with it. Key Discussion Points: 1. Introduction to "Hart & Souls" - Lisa introduces her novel about Stix Hart, a sixth-grader dealing with anxiety from past bullying. He meets three ghosts with unresolved issues and helps them move on. 2. The Sophomore Slump - Beth and Lisa discuss the diffic...
2024-05-2035 minWriters With WrinklesThe 31-Day Build Your Author Platform Challenge! (We swear it will be fun!)Send us a textHosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa SchmidTheme: The 31-Day Platform ChallengeFor: Aspiring authors looking for practical advice on building and enhancing their author platform.Key Discussion Points:Overview of the 31-Day Challenge: Aimed at building author platforms through daily, manageable tasks starting June 1st. Hosted in partnership with Bitsy Kemper. Details can be found on their blog at Writers with Wrinkles.Importance of Author Platforms: Both hosts emphasized the necessity of...
2024-05-0621 minWriters With WrinklesRespect Your Secondary Characters! Here's why and how.Send us a textHosts: - Beth McMullen- Lisa SchmidTheme: The importance of secondary characters in storytelling.Key Discussion Points: - Secondary characters add depth, complexity, and enrich the narrative.- They contribute to the world-building, provide subplots, conflicts, and challenges.- Effective secondary characters are distinct from main characters and have their own development arc.- They can reflect, challenge, and highlight aspects of the protagonist, aiding in their growth.- Secondary characters should impact the pl...
2024-04-2222 minWriters With WrinklesFrom Teacher to Bestselling Author, Matt Eicheldinger is telling the stories kids want to readSend us a textHosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa SchmidTheme: Writer Resilience, SuccessKey Discussion Points:Matt Eicheldinger's Background:Transition from childhood interests to writing.Teaching career and its role in storytelling.Path to self-publishing and eventual traditional publishing success.Celebrating Recent Successes:Matt's book, "Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes," hits bestseller lists.Discussion on dealing with imposter syndrome and the overwhelming nature of success.The Realities of Publishing:The challenges of gaining visibility...
2024-04-1546 minWriters With WrinklesWords Matter. Just ask picture book author Lisa RiddioughSend us a textHosts:Beth McMullenLisa SchmidThemes:Exploring the nuances of writing rhyming picture books with guest Lisa Riddiough, a Northern California based writer and author of the newly released picture book, Pie-rats.Key Discussion Points:1. The Art of Rhyme in Picture Books: Discussion on the industry's view on rhyming picture books and the common misconceptions that surround them. 2. Natural Rhymers vs. Learned Technique: Insight into the natural ability of rhyming versus the learned sk...
2024-04-0128 minWriters With WrinklesThe 17-minute pep talk you NEED right now!Send us a textSeason 3, Episode 13 - Embracing Rejection and Failure in Your Writing Journey Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid Episode Theme: Navigating Failure and Rejection in Writing Key Discussion Points:1. Personal Experience with Rejection: - Shared a recent rejection of their Cat’s Rule picture book. - Importance of closure in rejections, even without feedback.2. Interpreting Rejection: - Sometimes, rejections hide internal conflicts within publishing companies. - Creating narratives around rejections can be a coping mechanism.3. Detachin...
2024-03-2518 minWriters With WrinklesMastering Happily Ever After: The Art of Writing Romance with Patience BloomSend us a textWriters With Wrinkles: Patience Bloom on Romance WritingPatience Bloom, a freelance book editor with 26 years of experience in romance publishing, joins Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid on the podcast Writers With Wrinkles.Key points:Elements of a captivating romance protagonist:Likable, even if flawed.Human and relatable.Vulnerable but strong.Possesses expertise in a specific area.Common pitfalls in portraying romantic relationships:Lack of conflict.Unrealistic or drawn-out conflict.Poor timing of romantic development....
2024-03-0428 min