Hillary Barnes Martinez And BJ Williams

Shows

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: The Novelist Starter PackToday we’ll discuss the novelist starter pack: five essential tools for your figurative writer’s knapsack as you make the journey from getting started with that novel to querying and hopefully publishing your work!Picks of the Week:BJ: Existence by David BrinH: The New Diary by Tristine RainerMentioned in the Episode:Brandon Sanderson’s BYU Writing CourseSave the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica BrodyS1E10: The Revision SpreadsheetS4E3 Fireside Chat: How Should I Use the Re...2025-05-0508 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: Our Writing Lives LatelyToday, we’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat– an honest conversation about our own writing practices that we hope you’ll find helpful for your writing life as well. In this episode, we’ll be talking about our writing lives lately– what’s going well, what’s not, and what we’re learning along the way.Picks of the Week:BJ: The Best Science Fiction of Isaac Asimov by Isaac AsimovH: The Service of the Dead by Candace RobbMentioned in the Episode:Sarah Ruhl Quote...2025-04-2815 min

Writing with FriendsPitfalls of the Debut NovelWe’ll be talking about the unique challenges of publishing a debut novel. Breaking into the literary world should be exciting and celebratory, and it definitely is! Still, there are a few considerations that debut authors should be aware of as they begin their publishing journeys, so we’re going to cover them here today!Picks of the Week: BJ: Star Wars: Thrawn by Timothy ZahnH: We Solve Murders by Richard OsmanMentioned in the Episode:Bonnie Garmus InterviewBonnie Garmus and Felicity Blunt InterviewS5E9...2025-04-2108 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Local Bookstores and Bookshop.orgToday's episode is all about finding inspiration and support for your writing in places you might not expect. We’re diving into the world of local bookstores and Bookshop.org!Picks of the Week:BJ: The Fifth Season by N. K. JemisinH: The Snowbirds by Christine ClancyMentioned in the Episode:New York City Mystery Bookstore: The Mysterious Bookshop 2025-04-1309 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Notetaking For WritersWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. Today, we’re going to give you a rundown of what note taking tools we’ve actually found helpful as writers, and hopefully give you some ideas about what tools might work well for you too!Picks of the Week:BJ: Feng Shui Modern by Cliff TanH: Middlemarch by George EliotMentioned in the Episode:S1E4: Zettelkasten Notetaking Systems S1E9...2025-04-0710 min

Writing with FriendsDeciding Not to Withhold a Big RevealToday, we’ll be talking about deciding not to withhold a big reveal. Whether you're writing a novel, a screenplay, or even a short story, knowing when and how to reveal critical information to your audience can make or break your narrative. We'll be discussing the impact of timing, the balance between suspense and satisfaction, and how to make those big reveals resonate with your readers.Picks of the Week:BJ: My recommendation this week is a book of comics, not to be confused with traditional comic books. It’s called Hi, Just a Quick Ques...2025-03-3107 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: Scheduling and Protecting Your Writing TimeToday we’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat– an honest conversation about how we’re applying a craft topic or tool to our own writing practices, and how you might incorporate this topic or tool into your writing life as well. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is…scheduling and protecting your writing time.Picks of the Week:BJ: Ancillary Justice by Ann LeckieH: Textbook by Amy Krouse RosenthalMentioned in the Episode:Gretchen Rubin Quote: “Don’t Let the Perfect Be the...2025-03-2412 min

Writing with FriendsWhen Writing Goals Hurt and When They HelpWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is writing goals! Specifically, we’ll cover when they hurt and when they help.Picks of the Week:H: The Other Valley by Scott Alexander HowardBJ: The Risen Empire by Scott WesterfeldMentioned in the Episode:SMART goals 2025-03-1708 min

Writing with FriendsPacing the First Five PagesWe'll be talking about pacing the first five pages of your novel. For many writers, including us here at Writing with Friends, getting the first five pages of your novel writing can feel so daunting. After all, if you are seeking to traditionally publish your manuscript, making those five pages the best they can be is essential to piquing the interest of a potential agent, publishing house, and reader. That’s a lot of pressure! So let’s jump right and and think together about how to get the pacing of the beginning of your story just right.Pi...2025-03-1010 min

Writing with FriendsInterview with Writing Partners Mitu Yilma and Jumoke BalogunToday we’ll be talking to the authors of the newsletter This Black-Ass Life, Mitu and Jumoke. For the past several years, these two friends have been writing for the Black diaspora, especially Black women. They cover pop culture, history lessons, music, and more. This episode will be a great fit for anyone interested in starting a newsletter and learning how to connect with their audience. This episode contains some language that may not be appropriate for all audiences. If you're sensitive to strong language or listening with children, you may want to consider one of our other...2025-03-0336 min

Writing with FriendsThe Power of Subtext in StorytellingWe’ll be talking about something that can really elevate your writing: the power of subtext in storytelling. It’s one of those elements that, when done right, adds a whole new layer of meaning to your work! Picks of the Week: BJ: Skyward by Brandon Sanderson H: Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe Mentioned in the Episode: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Breaking Bad (TV Show) Mad Men (TV Show)2024-12-0907 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Tarot for WritersWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is Tarot! Are you curious about tarot? Using a tarot deck can be a fun way to infuse your writing life with inspiration and encouragement. Picks of the Week: H: A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat BJ: A Descent into the Maelström by Edgar Allan Poe Mentioned in the Episode: This M...2024-12-0410 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: Writing Like an OlympianWe’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat. We’ll be talking about writing like an Olympian and accepting that it never gets easy… and that’s okay. It’s all about the endurance and dedication required to keep going, no matter how long you’ve been at it. Picks of the Week: BJ: Signal to Noise by Eric Nylund H: Bring Up The Bodies by Hilary Mantel If you have your own suggestions on how to write like an Olympian, let us know by writing to us at writin...2024-11-2507 min

Writing with FriendsWhat’s a Commercial Hook and How Do I Write One?We'll be talking about commercial hooks! As writers, we often write for the love of story and for the joy of creative expression. It can be tempting to shy away from the idea of producing anything “commercial”. But for those of us who hope to publish traditionally or build a broad audience, understanding what a commercial hook is and how to write one can be the key to getting our books into the hands of real readers. Picks of the Week: H: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo BJ: Awakening the Heroes Within by C...2024-11-1909 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Writing RetreatsWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is writing retreats! These structured environments dedicated to focused writing can be used like a tool to offer writers significant benefits, but also unique challenges for authors of all levels. Picks of the Week: BJ: The Risen Empire by Scott Westerfeld H: Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo 2024-11-1108 min

Writing with FriendsInterview with Duke Writing Instructor Luke BurkbauerToday, we’ll be talking to writer and teacher Luke Burkbauer. She’s an instructor with Duke’s Thompson Writing program with a wealth of knowledge about writing of all kinds. We’ll discuss academic and nonfiction writing in depth in this episode, exploring how to build confidence as an academic writer, how to develop your writerly identity, and how to use artificial intelligence ethically and creatively within academia. This episode will be a great fit for anyone currently studying or working in higher education, from a college freshman to professors grappling with how to teach writing skills, but any curi...2024-11-0441 min

Writing with FriendsWriting Time JumpsWe’ll be talking about how to use time jumps to add an interesting twist to your writing project! A time jump is when you shift the story forward or backwards in time, often with little or no explanation for why this jump has occurred. It can be as simple as skipping from one day to five years later, or jumping back in time to revisit an event that happened earlier on. Time jumps can be used to add a twist, create suspense, and even reveal new character information. But writing a great time jump can be tricky, so joi...2024-10-2108 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Increasing Your Luck Surface AreaWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the mindset tool we’ll be talking about today is increasing your luck surface area. Picks of the Week: BJ: Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn H: The Flatshare by Beth O’ Leary Mentioned in the Episode: Chelsea Mae Cullen Podcast Episode: How to Become The Hero of Your Own Story James Clear Quote on Luck Surface...2024-10-1408 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: An Optimistic Approach to First DraftsWe’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat– an honest conversation about how we’re applying a craft topic or tool to our own writing practices, and how you might incorporate this topic or tool into your writing life as well. And the craft topic we’ll be discussing today is how to conquer the dreaded first draft. Picks of the Week: Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier Awakening the Heroes Within: Twelve Archetypes to Help Us Find Ourselves and Transform Our World by Carol Pearson Mentioned in the Epis...2024-10-0711 min

Writing with FriendsHallie Ephron's "One-Two Punch" for Character IntroductionsWe’ll be talking about how to introduce characters effectively and with style! One reason why writing the first draft of a new manuscript can feel so daunting is because you have so many characters to introduce to your reader. How can you communicate to your reader who these characters are and what they care about without derailing the plot or boring them to tears? Our episode today can help! Picks of the Week: H: Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan BJ: Uglies by Scott Westerfeld Mentioned in the Episode: ...2024-09-3009 min

Writing with FriendsHow Grammarly Can Help (and Hurt) Your WritingWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is Grammarly. Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant that helps with grammar, spelling, punctuation, and even some style suggestions. It’s like having a personal editor at your fingertips! But there are some downsides to using Grammarly, too. We’ll discuss both the pros and cons of this tool for writers on today’s episode. Picks of the Week: H: The Wo...2024-09-2308 min

Writing with FriendsInterview with Essayist and Medical Anthropologist Dr. Alexandra MiddletonShow Notes Today, we’ll be talking to writer Dr. Alexandra Middleton. She’s an Assistant Professor of medical anthropology at the University of Copenhagen, creative nonfiction writer and essayist, runner, swimmer, and more! Tune in to hear about her career as well as her advice for aspiring writers. Mentioned in the Episode: Alexandra’s Work https://www.liminalliety.com/ (Alexandra's Website) https://therumpus.net/2023/04/11/terra-incognita/ Other Works Mentioned https://1000wordsofsummer.substack.com/about https://www.oprah.com/spirit/writing-every-day-writers-rules-aimee-bender/all https...2024-09-1634 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Following Your Writerly Intuition (Quote Series #4)Today, we’ll finish up our summer quote series. I’m excited to announce that this is the last episode of Season 4. BJ and I are cooking up a new season for you right now– with lots of craft tips, tool deep dives, fireside chats, and interviews with other writers. That season – Season 5 – will begin releasing every Monday starting September 16. We can’t wait. Other mini episodes in our quote series: S4E21 MINI: Standing on the Shoulders of Literary Giants S4E22 MINI: Paradox and Playfulness in the Writing Life S4E23 M...2024-09-0206 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Why Middle Grade and Young Adult Novels Matter (Quote Series #3)Mentioned in Episode: Other mini episodes in our quote series S4E21 MINI: Standing on the Shoulders of Literary Giants S4E22 MINI: Paradox and Playfulness in the Writing Life Books by Madeleine L’Engle: Many Waters A Ring of Endless Light A Swiftly Tilting Planet And Both Were Young Newbery Award Acceptance Speech: The Expanding Universe (1963)2024-08-1907 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Paradox, Playfulness, and the Writing Life (Quote Series #2)On today’s mini episode, we’re looking at another of my favorite quotes about the writing life. “Creativity is sacred, and it is not sacred. What we make matters enormously, and it doesn’t matter at all. We toil alone, and we are accompanied by spirits. We are terrified, and we are brave. Art is a crushing chore and a wonderful privilege. Only when we are at our most playful can divinity finally get serious with us. Make space for all these paradoxes to be equally true inside your soul, and I promise—you can make anything...2024-08-0505 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Standing on the Shoulders of Literary Giants (Quote Series #1)On today’s episode, we’ll begin a short series looking at some of my favorite quotes as they apply to writing. And today’s quote is: "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." - Isaac Newton Let's think together about the tension between the ideal of the creative genius and the reality of the creative process. Mentioned in the Episode: The Marginalian: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: The Story Behind Newton’s Famous Metaphor for How Knowledge Progresses by Maria Popova 2024-07-2905 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: How and Why You Should Write Until FailureOur question for today’s mini episode is... How and why should I write until failure? Today we'll talk about how to write to failure both in terms of honing your craft and in terms of sharing your work with an audience. Do you have thoughts on failure and the writing life? Do you have ways you push to failure that I didn’t mention? We'd love to hear from you. Our email address writingwithfriendspodcast@gmail.com. Mentioned in the Episode Zone of Proximal Development by WestEd How...2024-07-2206 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Writing When Life Gets BusyOur question for today’s mini episode is... How do I keep up a writing practice when life gets busy? We'll discuss four strategies for staying engaged in your writing practice when other responsibilities loom large. Mentioned in the Episode: Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg Atomic Habits by James Clear The Revision Spreadsheet (WWF Episodes S4E3 and S1E10) 2024-07-1506 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Why Plot Twists MatterOur question for today’s mini episode is... Why Do Plot Twists Matter? If you find crafting plot twists a little baffling, or you're unsure if your current story would even benefit from a plot twist, this episode's for you! We'll dive into a fantastic example of a plot twist and discuss the benefits of incorporating plot twists into storylines. What are the plot twists in your current project? Okay, maybe you don’t want to give spoilers, but if you have more questions on this topic or tips of your own, write to us at w...2024-07-0805 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: What's In My Bag - Writing EditionOur question for today’s mini episode is... What’s the best gear to support your writing practice? Writing is a pretty minimalistic hobby, or it can be. Still, investing in great writing gear isn’t silly or shallow. As writer Gretchen Rubin says “Beautiful tools make work a joy.” By investing in high quality writing tools, we can remind ourselves that our writing practice itself is valuable, and we can create a sense of ritual and reverence around our writing time. Mentioned in the Episode: - Moleskine Large Week...2024-07-0106 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: How much should I plan and outline before writing?Our question for today is: Is plotting vs. pantsing a helpful dichotomy? Mentioned in the Episode: The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin WWF S4E14 The best mindset shift for your writing 2024-06-2405 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: 4 Ways to Simplify Beta ReadingHi! Hillary here with a new summer mini episode. We'll keep things casual and spend a few minutes chatting about a writing question that's been on my mind lately. And our question for today is: How do I keep the beta reading process from becoming overwhelming? Do you have your own beta reading tips? We'd love to hear from you. Our email address writingwithfriendspodcast@gmail.com. And until our next chat, keep up the writing! Mentioned in the Episode: S1E9 Beta Readers and Zotero S4E3...2024-06-1706 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: The best mindset shift for your writing practiceHillary here. We’re on a summer break right now between seasons, but I’m still here some weekly mini-episodes. We'll keep things casual and spend a few minutes chatting about a writing question that's been on my mind lately. Hopefully I'll leave you with some takeaways for your own writing journey! Our question for today is: Why should you consider writing a craft rather than just and art, and what benefits will you see from this way of framing your writing practice? Mentioned in the Episode: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron...2024-06-1006 min

Writing with FriendsBONUS: Interview with Writer and Producer Jaimie WooToday, we’ll be talking to writer Jaimie Woo. She’s a Creative Producer, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant, and Communications Expert. Tune in to hear about her career as well as her advice for aspiring writers. Mentioned in the Episode: Yes She Can: 10 Stories of Hope & Change from Young Female Staffers of the Obama White House Jaimie's Website Are You There, Universe (Jaimie's Podcast) culture.house Media Jaimie's Picks: Underworld Shogun A Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez 2024-06-0345 min

Writing with FriendsHillary's Ask Me AnythingIt’s time for an ASK ME ANYTHING! We’ll be chatting with Hillary, getting a little more personal about her own writing practice, and learning more about what she’s been thinking about and working on these days. Picks of the Week: H: “Of All Things” by Isabel Gallymore BJ: On Having No Head by Douglas E. Harding Mentioned in the Episode: Jessica Brody (Save the Cat! Writes a Novel) Lisa Cron (Story Genius and Wired for Story) Elizabeth Gilbert (Big Magic) Hillary Ma...2024-05-2008 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: What movie trailers teach us about storytellingWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is movie trailers! Picks of the Week: BJ: Making Sense: Conversations on Consciousness, Morality, and the Future of Humanity by Sam Harris H:Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson Mentioned in the Episode: WWF Season 2 Episode 4: Three-Act Structure Email us your pick of the week at writingwithfriendspodcast@gmai...2024-05-1306 min

Writing with FriendsHow to become your own best editorWe’ll be talking about editing your own work. Okay, so you’ve written a first draft of your novel and you know things need to change. But how? And what? Our editing tips today can help! Picks of the Week: H: Happy Place by Emily Henry BJ: “Twelfth Night: Or What You Will” by William Shakespeare Mentioned in the Episode: Order—Method: Trollope Learns to Write by Susan L. Humphreys Mythbusters Video about polishing a turd Season 4 MINI2: Why should I let my manuscript rest? ...2024-05-0607 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: Pros and Cons of Scrivener Writing SoftwareWe’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat– an honest conversation about how we’re applying a craft topic or tool to our own writing practices, and how you might incorporate this topic or tool into your writing life as well. The tool we’ll be talking about today is our favorite piece of writing software, Scrivener. We’ll focus on the pros and cons of the software. Picks of the Week: H: Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry BJ: Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarity 2024-04-2907 min

Writing with FriendsHow can body doubling improve my writing practice?Welcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is body doubling! Do you find it hard to stay on task and focus when you’ve sat down for a writing session? Body doubling can help! Picks of the Week: H: Slow Productivity by Cal Newport BJ: Existence by David Brin Mentioned in the Episode: “What is body doubling for ADHD?” in Medical News...2024-04-2207 min

Writing with FriendsHow do I develop suplots?We’ll be talking about why subplots are the secret ingredients to add depth and complexity to any story. Picks of the Week: H: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt BJ: A Descent into the Maelström by Edgar Allen Poe Mentioned in the Episode: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling If you’ve been developing subplots in your writing project, let us know all about them by writing to us at writingwithfriendspodcast@gmail.com. 2024-04-1406 min

Writing with FriendsBJ Williams’ Ask Me AnythingIt’s time for an Ask Me Anything! We’ll be chatting with BJ and getting a little more personal about his own writing practice and what BJ’s thinking about and working on these days! Picks of the Week: H: The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street by Helene Hanff BJ: Qualityland by Marc-Uwe Kling Mentioned in the Episode: Mage Knight: The Board Game The Mad Titan’s Shadow expansion for Marvel Champions Unreliable Wizard Board Game If you have any other questions for BJ, let u...2024-04-0809 min

Writing with FriendsHow should I structure a scene?Welcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is scene cards. Do you ever sit down to write a scene and feel a bit at a loss of how to structure a scene? What should a scene actually include? What makes a scene work or not work? Scene cards can help! Picks of the Week: H: Crying in Hmart by Michelle Zauner BJ: Love in Colo...2024-04-0108 min

Writing with FriendsShould I save up my good ideas?We’ll be talking about why you should use your good ideas now instead of saving them for later. We propose in this episode that good ideas are not a finite resource and there may never be a perfect time to explore them. Picks of the Week: BJ: The Maze Runner Files by James Dashner H: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas If you use your good ideas now instead of saving them for later, let us know about your favorite example by writing to us at writingwithfriendspodcast@gmail.co...2024-03-2507 min

Writing with FriendsFireside Chat: How should I use the revision spreadsheet?We’ll be gathering around our metaphorical fireplace for a fireside chat– an honest conversation about how we’re applying a craft topic or tool to our own writing practices, and how you might incorporate this topic or tool into your writing life as well. The tool we’ll be talking about today is the revision spreadsheet! Picks of the Week: H: The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell BJ: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T Kiyosaki Mentioned in the Episode: Revision Spreadsheet Template S1E10 Tool Deep Div...2024-03-1808 min

Writing with FriendsIs Goodreads a useful tool for writers?Show Notes: Welcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is Goodreads! Picks of the Week: H: Acedia & Me by Kathleen Norris BJ: Golden Son by Pierce Brown Mentioned in the Episode: The Goodreads Author Program 2024-03-1106 min

Writing with FriendsShould I work on multiple projects at once?Ever find yourself in the middle of one writing project and itching to start another, then second guessing if that’s even a good idea? We’re tackling the pros and cons of this dilemma to help you figure out what the right strategy is for your writing life! Picks of the Week H: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel BJ: The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni Mentioned in the Episode: Brandon Sanderson on his workflow Anthony Trollope writing routine 2024-03-0407 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Why let your manuscript rest?We're kicking off Season 4 with some mini-episodes. We'll keep things casual and spend a few minutes chatting about a writing topic that's been on my mind lately. Hopefully I'll leave you with some helpful takeaways for your own writing journey. On this episode, we'll tackle why and when you should let your manuscript rest, and what you can do in the meantime! 2024-02-1906 min

Writing with FriendsMINI: Why rewrite? And how much is too much?We're kicking off Season 4 with some mini-episodes. We'll keep things casual and spend 3-5 minutes chatting about a writing topic that's been on my mind lately and hopefully I'll leave you with some helpful takeaways for your own writing journey. On this episode, we'll tackle two questions: Why rewrite? And how much rewriting is too much? Mentioned in the episode: Michaela Coel's profile by E. Alex Jung in Vulture 2024-02-0504 min

Writing with FriendsA Post NaNoWriMo Pep TalkWe're diving into the thrilling world of NaNoWriMo. But first, congratulations to everyone who completed NaNoWriMo for November 2023! That’s an amazing accomplishment and we want to go over ideas of what to do post NaNoWriMo. P.S. This is our final episode of Season 3. We look forward to being back in your podcast feeds in 2024. Happy New Year! Picks of the Week: BJ: The Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi H: The Likeness by Tana French Mentioned in the Episode: NaNoWriMo Forums NaNoWriMo The "No...2023-12-1108 min

Writing with FriendsMailbag Episode: Finding a Writing Routine That WorksWe'll be talking about writing routines! For many of us, the hardest part of writing is actually sitting down to write! So how can we ease the path into a fruitful and satisfying writing session? Routines can help! Picks of the Week: BJ: The Forgetting Moon by Brian Lee Durfee H: I Love School by Philemon Sturges Mentioned in the Episode: NaNoWriMo Wired for Story by Lisa Cron (scene matrix technique) 2023-12-0408 min

Writing with FriendsFocus Timers for Writing SessionsShow Notes: Welcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is focus timers– a way to easily silence those distractions to give yourself quiet time to focus on your writing! Picks of the Week: BJ: Seveneves by Neal Stephenson H: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert Mentioned in the Episode: Microsoft Focus Timer iPhone/Mac Focus Mode 2023-11-2706 min

Writing with FriendsDeveloping Secondary CharactersWe’ll be talking about writing secondary characters, including some fundamentals of fiction writing to help with character planning and development. Picks of the Week: BJ: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain H: Four Lost Cities by Annalee Newitz Mentioned in the Episode: Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling 2023-11-2008 min

Writing with FriendsListening to Music While WritingWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. The tool we’ll be talking about is incorporating music into your writing practice! Having trouble getting into flow during your writing sessions? Or maybe you're really struggling to nail down your character's emotional arc over the course of your novel. In either case, using music in your writing practice can help! Picks of the Week: BJ: The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness H: Ca...2023-11-1308 min

Writing with FriendsThe Stasis = Death BeatWe’ll be talking about the “point of no return” at the beginning of your novel, also known as the “stasis=death” moment. Are you unsure of how to frame the stakes at the beginning of your novel? Do you have a sense of where you want your story to go, but you're not quite sure how to jumpstart your protagonist's motivation to get there? The framework of the stasis = death moment can help! Picks of the Week: BJ:The Maze Cutter by James Dashner H: If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha 2023-11-0608 min

Writing with FriendsInstagram and Twitter for WritersWe're taking a tool deep dive by highlighting the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. We’ll be talking about social media including Instagram and Twitter. Picks of the Week: BJ: The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb H: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas Mentioned in the Episode: Common writing/literary hashtags include: #amwriting, #amquerying, and #bookstagram 2023-10-3008 min

Writing with FriendsIncorporating Feedback When EditingWe’ll be talking about how to incorporate feedback when editing. If you’re in the editing process with feedback from friends, editors, beta readers, or writing partners, keep listening for tips and guidance. Picks of the Week: BJ: Why Didn’t They Teach Me This In School? by Cary Siegel H: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 2023-10-2308 min

Writing with FriendsVoice Memos as a Brainstorming ToolWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. The tool we’ll be talking about today is voice memos. Picks of the Week: BJ: Bloodmarked by Tracey Deonn H: The Cloister Walk by Kathleen Norris Mentioned in the Episode: The index card method in Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott Season 2 Episode 15: Boredom Season 1 Episode 10: The Revision Spreadsheet 2023-10-1606 min

Writing with FriendsInspiration Boards for Novel WritingDo you wonder how other writers draw inspiration from images and objects to render their settings and characters more vivid on the page? An inspiration board might be just what you need! Picks of the Week: Story Genius by Lisa Cron Legendborn by Tracy Deonn Mentioned in the Episode: "Abraham Verghese on the Whiteboard: Its Iterations and Complications" by Abraham Verghese “Ruta Sepetys: Up Close and Personal” by Alegria Barclay 2023-10-0907 min

Writing with FriendsInterview with TV Writer Ritza BloomToday, we’ll be talking to TV writer Ritza Bloom, who’s written for ABC’s Grownish as well as Disney’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. Tune in to hear about what a TV writer’s room actually feels like, where Ritza draws her inspiration from, and some of her advice for aspiring writers. We’re currently taking a bit of time off to enjoy the summer between our second and third seasons and to deepen our personal writing practices, but we’ll look forward to being back in your podcast feed soon with season three! 2023-06-1235 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: BoredomWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is boredom. How is boredom a tool, you ask? Well, at the heart of boredom lies…our creativity! Picks of the Week: The Chaos Machine by Max Fisher Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O’Malley Mentioned in the Episode: Darwin's Thinking Path Manoush Zomorodi's TED Talk Resource...2023-05-0808 min

Writing with FriendsCrafting Effective DialogueToday on Season 2 Episode 14, we’ll be talking about how to improve dialogue in our writing to make it both effective and nuanced. Picks of the Week: Cuba: An American History by Ada Ferrer Mort by Terry Pratchett Mentioned in the Episode: Writing With Friends Season 1 Episode 2: How Often to Use Adverbs and the Writing Sprint 2023-05-0108 min

Writing with FriendsNavigating the Midpoint BeatWe’ll be talking about the midpoint beat. So you’ve written the beginning of your story. You have an idea for a mind-blowing finale. But hmm… what’s supposed to happen in the middle again? Fear not! We’re here to help. Picks of the Week Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell Mentioned in the Episode: Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody 2023-04-2407 min

Writing with FriendsReading Widely Across GenresToday, we’ll be talking about reading widely across genres. If you’re writing regularly, how important is it that you find time to read, too? We’ll be uncovering why reading can be so helpful for writers, especially intentionally reading books outside of our comfort zones. Picks of the Week: Momo by Michael Ende Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus 2023-04-1708 min

Writing with FriendsWeekly Artist DatesWe'll be talking about the artist date: a method for cultivating inspiration in your creative life. Do you sometimes sit down to write and find that your inspiration has mysteriously dried up? Taking yourself on an artist date could help! Picks of the Week: BJ: The Magician King by Lev Grossman H: On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong Mentioned in the Episode: Julia Cameron's Descriptions of Artist Dates NPR's Life Kit Podcast on How to Have Fun 2023-04-1007 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Using Online Archives to Research for Your NovelWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is online archives– and more specifically, how to use online archives to engage in high quality research for your current novel project! Picks of the Week: How to Do Nothing by Jenny O’Dell Momo by Michael Ende Mentioned in the Episode: JSTOR free articles EBSCO free databases British Museum f...2023-04-0307 min

Writing with FriendsWriting Vividly by Removing Filtering WordsWe'll be talking about filtering words. Do you want to create scenes and descriptions that feel vivid to your reader? Removing filtering words can help. Picks of the Week: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevan The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon 2023-03-2706 min

Writing with FriendsConquering the Middle BuildWe’ll be talking about conquering the middle build. Sometimes you have those high level ideas for your story, but can’t quite connect it all. Don’t worry, because today we’ll discuss how to keep things moving through the middle of your writing project. Picks of the Week: BJ: The Puzzle Palace by James Bamford H: A World of Curiosities by Louise Penny 2023-03-2008 min

Writing with FriendsFive Senses Portrait for Character DevelopmentWe'll be talking about using all five senses to describe and develop your characters. By using a 5 senses character development exercise, you can create a multi-dimensional, nuanced description of your characters’ physical traits in just a few minutes. Picks of the Week: Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk (Author), Antonia Lloyd-Jones (Translator) I Am Number Four by James Frey/Pittacus Lore Mentioned in the Episode: Happier Podcast Episode 387- Creating a Five-Senses Portrait 2023-03-1307 min

Writing with FriendsThe 15-Minute Daily Writing PracticeWe’ll be talking about the 15-minute daily writing practice. This writing craft gives you a feeling of satisfaction, accomplishment, and progress while continuing to work on a larger task. Picks of the Week: The High Druid’s Blade by Terry Brooks Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris Mentioned in the Episode: Don’t Break the Chain app 2023-03-0607 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: NotebooksWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is notebooks! In contrast to our helpful episode on OneNote, a digital notebook, which you can hear more about in Season 1, Episode 8, today’s focus is on the physical notebook. Picks of the Week: Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There by Lewis Carroll The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston Mentioned in the Episode: ...2023-02-2706 min

Writing with FriendsThree-Act StructureWe’ll be talking about the three-act structure. This classic model for narrative fiction can help you break down your writing into more manageable pieces. It can also help you consider the pacing and progression of your story. Picks of the Week: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins Cuba: An American History by Ada Ferrer Mentioned in the Episode: Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field 2023-02-1305 min

Writing with FriendsThe Strange vs. the FamiliarWe’ll be talking about the Strange vs. the Familiar, a helpful framework for thinking strategically about whether to take a more traditional or a more innovative approach to your draft. Picks of the Week: Armada by Ernest Cline Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer Mentioned in the Episode: Brandon Sanderson's Lecture on "Blending the Familiar & Strange" The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley Lady Night by Tamora Pierce Cinder by Marissa Meyer Knives Out directed by Rian Johnson 2023-02-0607 min

Writing with FriendsWriting Fan FictionWe’ll be talking about writing fan fiction. We want to discuss a fun creative writing avenue that might scare some due to copyright laws, but we think taking some of your favorite worlds and putting your own spin on it can be a truly rewarding pursuit. Picks of the Week: Children of Dune by Frank Herbert Kiss Her Once for Me by Alison Cochrun Mentioned in the Episode: Fanfiction.net Wattpad.com 2023-01-3005 min

Writing with FriendsStory Grid Genre BreakdownsWe’ll be talking about genre grid breakdowns. Have you ever eeked out a first draft of a manuscript and felt like something was missing? If so, story grid genre breakdowns can really shed some light on how to approach your draft! Picks of the Week: The Secret to Superhuman Strength by Alison Bechdel Afro Puffs Are the Antennae of the Universe by Zig Zag Claybourne Mentioned in the Episode: The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know by Sean Coyne https://storygrid.com/action-genre/ https://storygrid.com/genre-conventions/ 2023-01-2306 min

Writing with FriendsHoliday Bonus: Flash Fiction Writing WorkshopWe’ll be talking about flash fiction and doing a mini-writing workshop live as we read our own flash fiction to each other. Not sure if you’re ready to commit to a story idea? Looking to infuse your writing life with some inspiration in a low-key way? The short, get-in, get-out format of flash fiction might be perfect for you. Picks of the Week: What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions by Randall Munroe The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson 2022-12-1914 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: The Revision SpreadsheetWe’ll be taking a tool deep dive. We’ll be highlighting the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is the infamous revision spreadsheet! Picks of the Week: Seconds by Brian Lee O’Malley Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention and How to Think Deeply Again by Johann Hari Mentioned in the Episode: Revision Spreadsheet Template 2022-11-2108 min

Writing with FriendsBeta Readers and ZoteroWe’ll be talking about beta readers. After you’ve finished writing your latest pieces, you might want to consider sharing them with others to get vital feedback from a sample audience. And our tool tip of the week is Zotero. Stay tuned to hear about how painless constructing a research bibliography can actually be. For real. We promise it’s not that bad! Picks of the Week: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke Mentioned in the Episode: Zotero Mendeley Pape 2022-11-1409 min

Writing with FriendsPrinted Drafts and OneNoteWe’ll be talking about printed drafts. If you consider yourself a pen and paper person – or if you’re seeking a way to look at a picked-over draft with fresh eyes, this craft topic is for you. And our tool tip of the week is OneNote. Stay tuned to hear about this personal notebook in the cloud! Picks of the Week: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins Who? A Celebration of Babies by Robie H. Harris Mentioned in the Episode: OneNote 2022-11-0709 min

Writing with FriendsShort Stories as Plot and Setting Exploration and Writers’ Association WebinarsWe’ll be talking about short stories as a means of plot and setting exploration. If you have a great idea for a novel but are feeling uncertain of where to dive in, this craft topic may be the perfect way to get started. And our tool tip of the week is writers’ association webinars. Stay tuned to hear about what perks writing associations offer and why joining a non-work-related Zoom might actually be an exciting opportunity. We promise. Picks of the Week: Survive the Night by Riley Sager All We Can Save: Truth...2022-10-3108 min

Writing with FriendsMorning Pages and the Libby AppWe’ll be talking about morning pages. If you’re feeling stuck in your current writing project or you think you might even be engaging in a bit of self-sabotage or procrastination in your writing life, this craft idea just might be for you! And our tool tip of the week is the Libby app. Stay tuned to hear about how Hillary and BJ access library books in the digital age. Picks of the Week: The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez Mentioned in the Episo...2022-10-2409 min

Writing with FriendsTool Deep Dive: Scrivener Writing SoftwareWelcome to a tool deep dive episode, where we highlight the features and the challenges of a tool we think you’ll find helpful as a writer. And the tool we’ll be talking about today is Scrivener, our favorite writing software! Picks of the Week: Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov Alaska Sourdough by Ruth Allman Mentioned in the Episode: Scrivener writing software 2022-10-1708 min

Writing with FriendsCharacter Spectrums and the Zettelkasten Notetaking SystemWe’ll be talking about character spectrums. More specifically, we’ll be covering Brandon Sanderson’s sliding scales for writing a character: likability, proactivity, and competence. And our tool tip of the week is the Zettelkasten notetaking system. Stay tuned to hear about how a 20th century German sociologist inspired a modern-day open source note taking software. Picks of the Week: Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert Things that Matter by Joshua Becker How to Take Smart Notes by Sonke Ahrens Mentioned in the Episode: Brandon Sanderson BYU Lecture on Character Brandon Sanderson’s Writing Excuses...2022-10-1008 min

Writing with FriendsConceptualizing the Muse and Grammar AppsWe’ll be discussing the muse– where our writing inspiration comes from and why the way we conceptualize inspiration can have an impact on our writing practice. And our tool tip of the week is grammar apps and extensions. Stay tuned to hear about how Grammarly and other grammar checking software can speed up your draft editing workflow. Picks of the Week: Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson Death in Holy Orders by P.D. James Mentioned in the Episode: Elizabeth Gilbert's TedTalk Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Walking on Water by Madeleine L’En...2022-10-0309 min

Writing with FriendsHow Often to Use Adverbs and the Writing SprintWe’ll be talking about how often we should use adverbs in our writing and addressing Steven King’s adverb advice in particular. And our tool tip of the week is setting up a distraction-free writing environment. Stay tuned to hear about how the humble tomato could help you power through a difficult round of revisions! Picks of the Week: Foundation by Isaac Asimov Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder Mentioned in the Episode: A Writer's Book of Days by Judy Reeves 2022-09-2609 min

Writing with FriendsWriting Workshops and Text to Speech ToolsWriting workshops are the best way we’ve found to breathe new life into stale drafts and get the encouragement and camaraderie you need to stay the course on the sometimes lonely path of consistent writing practice! And our tool tip of the week is text to speech tools. Stay tuned to hear about how you can let your web browser narrate your own novel right back to you! Picks of the Week: Dune by Frank Herbert You'll Grow Out of It by Jessi Klein Mentioned in the Episode: Natural Reader 2022-09-1908 min

Writing with FriendsTrailerWelcome to Writing with Friends! We’re writers and friends on a quest to improve our creative writing craft. And along the way, we’ll be sharing our best tips, insights, and the writing tools we love. From building an awesome character to deciding if writing software is worth the sticker price, we’ve got you covered. Tune in each week for a little friendship and shop talk on your writing journey. New episodes drop on Mondays!2022-09-1800 min