Shows
Thriller 101Unlocking a Literary Agent's Wishlist: What Kathleen Foxx is Eager to Find in Your ManuscriptSend me a Text Message!Click here to rate and review the podcast!Find out more about Kathleen FoxxBrooke Robinson EpisodeCarleen Geisler EpisodeSign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen!Connect with Kathleen on TwitterConnect with David on TwitterEPISODE INFO:Today, we have another agent interview! I’m so excited to share this conversation with a brand new agent who has a resume that will make yo...2023-10-0332 min
Not Writing Advice (and other bookish things)Querying - Pt. 2 with Special Guests Kassandra Alexander & Kathleen FoxxKathleen Foxx and Kassie Alexander share their expertise when it comes to query letters, how important comps are, and the Twitter event they hold to help writers find the best ones!2023-04-2740 min
#badasswritersS6 BONUS AskAgent with Lori GalvinToday's bonus episode features a Q&A with Aevitas Creative Management literary agent Lori Galvin! Kat and Lori chat about how she got involved in and her favourite parts of agenting, what she’s currently looking for, a shoutout for The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast, how agents get paid, earning out advances, qualities that make an agent request pages, getting feedback, the publisher submission process, querying before a manuscript is ready, mentioning neurodiversity in a query letter, description in writing, nudging agents, preparing for “the call,” the importance of comps in a query letter, and how to...2023-04-2139 min#badasswritersS6E7 Author Michael DecterIn today's episode, Kat chats with Canadian author Michael Decter about his first novel, Shadow Life, where the inspiration came from, his experiences as a juror in a double homicide trial, his family history and how the Titanic could have changed everything, travelling to international locations and using those experiences, how he made Georgian Bay a character in the novel, research on stockpiling for the story, pivoting from nonfiction to fiction, the importance of librarians, fictionalizing people, title changes, his next books, working with an editor, and advice for writing fiction.
Michael is on...2023-04-1840 min#badasswritersS6 BONUS Rachel Carson || Writing Conferences || Killer Nashville Founder Clay StaffordIn today's episode, hear how scientist and biologist Rachel Carson used writing to convey a super important message to the masses, which started the environmental movement in the 1950s and 60s. Then, a little bit about writing conferences before Kat dives into a thrilling conversation with founder of the Killer Nashville International Writers' Conference, Clay Stafford. Topics covered include the plethora of things he’s involved in (writing, publishing, education, music industry, etc.), various forms of storytelling, how Killer Nashville began, what comprises ‘mystery, suspense, and thriller,’ why he loves doing what he does, diversity in books and in the co...2023-04-1450 min#badasswritersS6E6 D.E.A.R. Day || Action/Adventure Thriller Author Avanti CentraeI'm back with more literary history! Today: D.E.A.R. Day and Beverly Cleary! Then, I chat with adventure thriller author Avanti Centrae about her newest novel, Cleopatra’s Vendetta, her Van Ops series, how her ideas formulate, what archeoastronomy is, authors she draws inspiration from, reading while drafting, her outlining process, having family as early readers, her various publishing experiences, indie vs traditional publishing, film/tv, book covers, and advice for good pacing in a novel.
Thank you to everyone who participated in April's MoodPitch! Stay tuned for our fall event date announcement!
Fi...2023-04-1150 min#badasswritersS6E5 | Genres | Author John KennedyIn today’s episode, Kat chats with author John Kennedy about his crime books, The Trauma Pool and The Kill Chain; gender inequality, treatment of mental health issues, and racism in the 1980s and 90s—especially on a police force; researching detective facts and details; using microfiche for research, reaching out to a professional for research; how things were done in the 80s and 90s vs now; choosing a specific reason to write in another time period as opposed to present-day; writing in different genres; publishing in anthologies; writing short form vs long form; competitions; thoughts on writer’s block...2023-04-0442 min#badasswritersS6E4 #AskAgent with Emmy Nordstrom HigdonIn today’s special #AskAgent episode, Kat chats with Westwood Creative Artists literary agent Emmy Nordstrom Higdon about how and why they got involved in agenting, what’s grabbing their attention right now, how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of publishing, what they like to see in a query letter, grammar in query letters and sample pages, their desert island books (see below for titles/authors), choosing between agents at the same agency, re-querying rewritten manuscripts (and how to do it right), if WattPad or Kindle Vella counts as a debut, what makes them pass on a full manuscript, pet...2023-03-2859 min#badasswritersS6E3 Ancestry and Adventure Writing | Judith Turner Yamamoto | Meghan J. WardIn today's episode Kat covers two interviews. The first is with Judith Turner Yamamoto, author of Loving the Dead and Gone, covering how reader’s own experiences are brought into the story, how she became an ‘accidental’ historical novelist, her research and drafting process, finding a treasure trove of 19th century ancestral ‘stuff’ to help with research, winning the Petrichor Prize, publishing with Regal House, the found family feeling of small publishers, her article writing and world travelling, working with her husband who’s a visual artist, teaching at writing conferences, sense memory and how it can transport us and open up...2023-03-211h 07#badasswritersS6E2 Announcement || Pitch Critique | Author Amy TectorIn today's episode, Kat has a special announcement! Then, a pitch critique for a lister. After, she chats with returning guest Amy Tector, author of SPEAK FOR THE DEAD, out today! Kat talks with Amy about her Dominion Archive series, publishing three books in one year, going to her sister for research on a coroner’s career, incorporating authorial voice into stories and layering in character voice, her newsletter, marketing and publicity, virtual vs in-person events, incorporating themes, advice for weaving clues into mysteries, and using Scrivener to help with clues and red herrings.
Catch up with Am...2023-03-1438 min
Authorpreneurs Unleashed#MoodPitch with Kathleen Foxx In this episode of Authorpreneurs Unleashed, Kathryn interviews writer and editor Kathleen Foxx about Mood Boards and #MoodPitch. Learn how to use mood boards to help you write your stories, and find out more about this exciting new event that can get agents and editors interested in your work.Kathleen Foxx is an author, editor, book reviewer, and podcaster. She, Jaimie Hunter, and Lula Lockwood are the founders and organizers of #MoodPitch.#Mood Pitchmoodpitch.orgLinktreeTwitter @moodpitchersInstagram @m...2023-03-1350 min#badasswritersS6E1 || Sherlock Holmes || Crime Clubs || Author Julie Carrick DaltonIn today's episode, hear about how Sherlock Holmes came to live and the Crimes Club that Arthur Conan Doyle started. Then, Kat chats with Julie Carrick Dalton, author of Waiting for the Night Song and The Last Beekeeper (out today!). They cover what climate fiction is, how themes come into writing, the impacts of climate change and how it simmers in her mind and becomes her stories, the nostalgic hook in her book, how she got her agent and how she knew she was ready to query, the importance of getting industry feedback, the cost of industry feedback and...2023-03-0747 min
The Book and Life PodcastMeeting with Kathleen FoxxA fellow Podcaster joins me for the chat that made my week. Kathleen Foxx had so much great stuff to say and we could have gone on for a lot longer. I can't wait to have her back and to talk about more to do ith the crazy lives we have chosen to have.
2023-03-062h 14
Stay the Night PodcastGhosts with Friends featuring Canadian Author Kathleen FoxxSend us a textOur newest spooky friend Kathleen Foxx visited the pod to share her tales of intergenerational apparitions, haunted Niagara & more!Check out Kathleen's website to learn more about her here: https://kathleenfoxx.com/Katrina and Monique host a spooky podcast that combines the paranormal and travel. Every week we'll take you to multiple haunted destinations and talk about their history, haunts and how to book your own overnight with the ghosts. From spooky haunted inns, to ectoplasm filled campsites and hotels with haunted hallways for days we'll be covering them...2023-03-0139 min#badasswritersS5E12 Pitches | Walter Tevis | Author Jessica HatchIn today's episode, Kat critiques two listeners' pitches, then talks about Walter Tevis in literary history and how writers weave themes drawn from their own experiences into their stories. After, Kat chats with Jessica Hatch, author of HOW TO KEEP A HUSBAND FOR TEN DAYS and MY BIG FAKE WEDDING, about:
Why she doesn’t over-outline her stories
Winning a pitch slam
The structure of a novel
Creating creativity from constraint
Including Covid in your manuscripts and the disadvantages of not including it
Deciding which writing workshops or conferences to attend and how to afford international ones
Her fr...2023-02-2844 min#badasswritersS5E11 Erma Bombeck || Speculative Fiction with Serena StrausIn today's literary history segment, Kat talks about humour author Erma Bombeck and writing conferences. Then, she chats with lawyer and sci-fi author Sarena Straus about:
The “what if” in stories
Nonfiction proposals
Having her book optioned for tv
Speculative and science fiction
How she brings her legal career into her stories
The complexities of world building
Pitch competitions
Finding the right publisher for your story
Juggling all the things as a writer, wife, mother, lawyer
Sarena's socials: sarenastraus.com, Twitter @SarenaStraus and Instagram @sarenastraus
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On I...2023-02-2136 min#badasswritersS5E10 | Universality in Poetry, Memoir, and Fiction | A. M . Klein | Tetyana DenfordIn today's episode, Kat highlights the life and work of Jewish-Canadian poet, A.M. Klein in literary history, discusses how powerful articulating universal thoughts and feelings in poetry, memoirs, and fiction can be, and then chats with Ukrainian-American author and poet, Tetyana Denford about:
How her writing journey began
Imposter syndrome
Digging for stories in your own family tree
Titles
The business of being an author
Self-publishing and working with Bookouture
Her next novel
“Conversation books”
Self-publishing courses
The powerful impact of poetry, flash fiction, and music
Tetyana's socials: Websites: tetyanadenford.com and thecraftandbusinessofbooks.com Instagram: @tetyanawrites Twit...2023-02-1445 min#badasswritersS5E9 || Pitches || AA Milne || Anastasia ZadeikIn today's episode, Kat critiques two listeners' pitches and talks about A.A. Milne and Winnie the Pooh in today's literary history segment. Then, she chats with Anastasia Zadeik, author of the psychological thriller Blurred Fates, about
How her debut came together,
Finding your voice
Writing triggering content in a sensitive way
Mental health in stories
Having her book read by three therapists to ensure accuracy
Reaching readers on a deep level
Research
Pantsers vs plotters
Plot twists
Titles
Patience in publishing
Her experience with hybrid publishing
Querying
Cover design
Marketing and publicity
How readers want to know...2023-01-3155 min#badasswritersS5E8 Pitches || Edith Wharton || Historical Fiction with Teri BrownIn today's episode, Kat talks about Edith Wharton, born on this day in 1862 (who shares a birthday with Kat's grandmother! Happy birthday Grandma!). Then, she chats with returning author Teri M. Brown about her new novel, An Enemy Like Me, which launches today, Jan 24, 2023.
What makes an enemy?
How war changes people and families
The inspiration behind the story
The process behind writing the book
Research for historical authenticity
Book cover design
Advice for those writing more than one POV or timeline
Natural transitions
The importance of WHY
The importance of pre-launch marketing
The editing process with Atmosphere...2023-01-2450 min#badasswritersS5E7 True Crime, Nonfiction Novels, and Character Motivations || Quill and Cup's Ania RayToday Kat talks about Truman Capote's In Cold Blood, plus nonfiction novels and character motivations. (CONTENT WARNING: family murders, execution by hanging: skip to 8:21 if needed). Then, I chat with the lovely Ania Ray from Quill and Cup! We discuss:
What Quill and Cup is
Giving yourself permission to create
What a prickle is
How the community can help you avoid procrastinating!
Webinars, educational prickles, a sense of community, accountability
Ania’s own writing journey
The discomfort of first drafts
Her Cromwell Rules series
Writing a damned good book!
Her publishing journey
Her excellent advice to writers about mi...2023-01-1745 min#badasswritersS5 BONUS || James Joyce || Bookseller Shelley MacbethIn today's bonus episode, Kat talks about James Joyce in the #lithist segment; stream of consciousness, how his life events impacted his writing, and book banning. Then I chat with bookseller Shelley Macbeth of Blue Heron Books in Uxbridge, Ontario! We cover:
How she became involved with Blue Heron Books
Winning Best Bookstore awards—twice
What she gets the most joy out of at Blue Heron
Connections and the social side of bookselling
Events they do in support of authors
The Book Drunkard Festival
How Lucy Maud Montgomery fits into it all
Selecting books for the store
The im...2023-01-1345 min#badasswritersS5E6 Screenwriting vs Novel Writing || Mark GrensideIn today's episode, Kat talks about Robert Stone in #lithist who died on this day in 2015. He wrote the novel Dog Soldiers in the 1970s which went on to be adapted for film into Who'll Stop the Rain starring Nick Nolte. She talks about screenplays vs novel writing and then has a great conversation with thriller author and film industry aficionado Mark Grenside! Topics include:
his newest Thriller, Fallout
how filmmaking influences how he writes novels
imagery, dialogue, and entering a scene as late as possible
the three-act paradigm
the fundamental error he made when he first tried...2023-01-1048 min#badasswritersS5E5 J.R.R. Tolkien || Marion Lougheed || Jennifer MarianiToday is the first episode of 2023! Hear about Tolkien, who was born on this day in Literary History, then Kat chats with two authors: Marion Lougheed (who's also the EIC at Off Topic Publishing) and Jennifer Mariani. We cover:
Off Topic Publishing—how Marion got started with it
Monthly poetry boxes
Marion's editing processes
What Marion likes about writing poetry, fiction, and nonfiction
How poetry can help refine your prose
Pros and cons of being a writer and editor and publisher
Getting feedback on submissions
Writing retreat in Banff, Alberta, Canada in 2023
Jennifer's chapbook, All Forgotten Now
Jennifer re...2023-01-0351 min#badasswritersS5 BONUS || Lit Hist: Mercer Mayer || Year-End Wrap-Up || Kathleen Marple KalbIn the last episode of 2022, Kat talks about Mercer Mayer who was born On This Day in Literary History. Then she wraps up the year with book recommendations, books she can't wait to read in 2023, a reflection on two things that every writer should do going forward, and then she chats with author and radio anchor Kathleen Marple Kalb about:
Her recent three-book deal
Querying advice
Launching her debut during the pandemic
Short stories
Writing for radio shows
Pivoting back to fiction
Her various mystery books
How her role in radio inspired some stories
A killer first line
...2022-12-3044 min#badasswritersS5E4 || Literary History || Using Strange Experiences in Writing || Author MK BrownlowIn today's episode, we take a look at a very popular book that was published by Lewis Carroll On This Day in Literary History. Then, Kat chats with PB, YA, and Adult author MK Brownlow about:
Having an all-agent agent
Being an author/illustrator vs one or the other
Illustrating a book for American Idol contestant and musician Crystal Bauersocks
How the publishing aspect works for picture books
Getting stuck on her YA novel for a decade and how she got out of it
Staying in the right mindset for each genre you’re writing in
Nailing the vo...2022-12-2752 min#badasswritersS5 BONUS || Lit Hist Norman McLean || Books to Film || Author Mark TedescoIn today's bonus episode, Kat answers a listener question, talks about Norman McLean in This Day in Literary History, and chats with author Mark Tedesco about:
Themes or beliefs brought into relationships and how that analysis inspired some of his writing
How people can relate to universal themes in books regardless of their backgrounds or current situations
Moving to Italy and his experience with community and relationships
How his book, Stories From Pulgia, immerses the reader into a word of culture and community, past and present
How he gets his students interested in history lessons by bringing creativity...2022-12-231h 05#badasswritersS5E3 || Literary History || Controversial Themes in Writing || Author Linda L. RichardsThis Day in Literary History: John Steinbeck. Kat discusses controversial books and themes. Then, she chats with author Linda Richards about:
How her Noir at the Bar readings inspired her to turn her short story into a novel
How that novel turned into a series
How research for her nonfiction children’s book inspired the backdrop for her fourth novel in her current series
Drafting longhand and then transcribing it
How journalism has helped her fiction writing
The “what if” in writing
Having her book optioned for film
Giving your reader the tools to actively participate in your story
...2022-12-2044 min#badasswritersS5 BONUS: This Day in Literary History || Author Mark SchorrToday is a special day in literary history! Listen to a new brief segment on the pod: This Day in Literary History! Then, catch Kat's convo with author Mark Schorr about:
His path to writing
Drawing from real-life experiences
Research
Going “incognito” to do internet searches
How federally-funded ESP experiments in the 1970s inspired his newest novel, The Mastermind
Getting nominated for an Edgar Award for his first book, Red Diamond Private Eye
The process of nominations and picking an Edgar winner
Getting followed and questioned by the FBI
The entire process of having novels optioned for film (and...2022-12-1642 min#badasswritersS5E2 || John Byrne Barry || Jill CulinerToday's episode features two authors: John Byrne Barry and Jill Culinar, who share their fascinating writing and publishing experiences and amazing tips.
John and I discuss:
When I Killed My Father: An Assisted-Suicide Family Thriller
Putting humour into difficult subjects
The importance of having hard conversations with your family
The necessary components of a good book blurb
Having the setting accomplish more than one thing
Character voice: what it is and how to get it right
Tips for crafting stories that deal with controversial or difficult topics
Jill and I discuss:
Being a member...2022-12-1353 min#badasswritersS5 BONUS || Writing Group Shoutout || Listener Synopsis Question || Author Patty TavorminaToday Kat shouts out to her new writing group and answers a listener's question about synopses. Then, she chats with scientist-turned-author Patty Tavormina about:
Worldbuilding
Building an historical world set in the future
Pivoting into writing after retirement
How teachers can damage a child’s creativity
Her experiences with self-publishing
Marketing and promotion tips
Pulling her career in science into her writing
Putting a spin on genre expectations and elements
Writing groups
Advice for putting something unique into a genre
Patty can be found at www.pltavormina.com, on Twitter @pltavormina, and on IG @pltavormina.
Ka...2022-12-0941 min#badasswritersS5E1 || Knowing Your Genre || Author Henry CorriganWe're starting Season 5! Today I talk about knowing your genre, why it's important, and what to do if you haven't figured it out. Then, I chat with author Henry Corrigan about:
What the American Dream is and how it’s been skewed by society
How his nightmares inspired his novel, A Man in Pieces
His publication experience with Dark Stroke Books
How hybrid publishing works
Having a book that sits in different genres
How to juggle drafting in different genres/categories
Meeting genre expectations, trope expectations, etc.
How writing has helped him with his mental health
His advice on...2022-12-0658 min#badasswritersBADASSWRITERS TRAILEROh, hi! It's me! I'm just plopping this here so new listeners can get an idea of what the #badasswriters podcast is all about. :)
Thanks for listening!
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to...2022-11-3003 min
#badasswritersS4E12 || ONE YEAR PODIVERSARY EPISODE!It has been ONE YEAR since the #badasswriters podcast began! Can you believe it? Today, I tell you how this all got started and answer some questions ya'll have asked me including who I am, how I got here, why I do what I do, how I find the time, what I'm working on, plus dedications and thank yous and what I'm looking forward to in 2023.
Then, I highlight advice from a few of the past year's episodes, including:
the importance of the writing community (author Hannah Sharpe, S1E5)
how to prepare for a debut...2022-11-291h 16#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Patreon & First Page Listener Questions || Indie Author Patrick ScottIn today's bonus episode, Kat answers two listeners' questions about Patreon and writing the first page. Then she chats with indie author Patrick Scott about:
The two series he’s working on with Atmosphere Press
Recent titles Big Beasts and Unburied
His experience with hybrid publishing
The importance of getting input in your cover
The entire process of hybrid publishing from start to finish
The passion he has for writing stories
Flow state—what it is and how to achieve it
His advice for writers in any genre
The book that Patrick mentions is Daily Rituals: How Arti...2022-11-2549 min#badasswritersS4E11 || Indie Bookstores || Author & Bookseller Jan ScottToday's exciting episode is all about indie bookstores! Kat chats with author and bookseller Jan Scott, owner of Betty's Bookshelf in a cute little town called St. Mary's in Southwestern Ontario. You'll learn all kinds of things about:
How she decided to open up Betty’s Bookshelf
The book selection process
Comp titles
Indie bookstore author events
How she supports local self-published authors
Trends in the book industry
How geographic area may affect book sale trends
Collaborating with local businesses
Curating social media posts
The inspiration behind her bookstore’s name, Betty’s Bookshelf
The inspiration behind her cookbo...2022-11-2244 min#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Author Fran HawthorneIn today's bonus episode, Kat chats with award-winning non-fiction and fiction author, Fran Hawthorn. Topics covered include:
Her newest book, I Meant to Tell You, published Nov 15/22
Writing a four-generation family saga
How writing twice as many characters as you need in a multi-generational novel can help inform the present story
How her Jewish ancestry inspired her debut novel, The Heirs
The two defining moments in her writing career
Learning and improving with every book you write
The story behind Finish This Story, published in a contest at 8 years old
Advice for historical fiction writers on researching
...2022-11-1835 min#badasswritersS4E10 || Writing Organically || Listener Q's || Phil RowlandsIn today's episode, Kat goes over how to weave elements into your story organically with some examples and a craft book recommendation. Then, she answers two listeners' questions sent in via the submission form (link below), covering exposition (which turned into a bit of a mini-course on showing vs. telling) and comps from debut authors. Afterward, she chats with author, screenwriter, actor, producer, and publishing house exec, Phil Rowlands. Topics covered include:
his newest novel, Time Slip
His pivot into novel writing
Differences between screenwriting and novel writing
The inspiration behind his thrillers
Writing from a character of...2022-11-151h 07#badasswritersS4E9 || Beta Readers || Author and Screenwriter Josh SenterIn today's episode, Kat talks a bit about what beta readers are (as well as what critique partners do) and why it's so important to have them. Are you participating in NaNo? Line up some beta readers for when you're finished drafting! Then, she chats with Golden Globe Winner, Emmy Award-nominated writer, and novelist Joshua Senter about:
His new book, Still The Night Call
What led him to write this novel
Societal impacts on men's mental health and how desperation turns into radicalization
Writing complex characters
How writing for Desperate Housewives carried into everything he writes
Going back to his...2022-11-0850 min#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Book Coach Megan Clancy || Editor Jenny HubertToday Kat chats with Book Coach Megan Clancy and then Freelance Editor Jenny Hubert. Topics covered include:
How Megan became an Author Accelerator Book Coach
What she offers her clients
A typical book coach-client relationship
Brainstorming!
Plotting vs. Pantsing
How travelling helped her write
Staying on track with writing your story
Thinking counts as writing
Dealing with rejections
Writing processes
Showing your kids you’re chasing your passions
Fave craft books and editing books
The Book Editor Matchmaker, Jenny's book
The biggest reason that an editor-client relationship doesn’t work out
Red flags and green flag...2022-11-0457 min#badasswritersS4E8 || Notes on NaNoWriMo || Author Ed Di GangiIn today's episode, Kat talks about NaNoWriMo; what it is, how to do it, and some tips to set yourself up for success. Then she interviews author Ed Di Gangi, who tells a fascinating story of how he found his birth mother, who she turned out to be, and how he turned her story into a book. Topics cover include:
How he discovered who his birth mother was and how it became a book
His path to publication for The Gift Best Given
How adoption is represented in his book
Writing groups
Editing processes
What he learned about...2022-11-0148 min
These Mums WriteKathleen Foxx on why its never too late to pursue your passionsHave you ever felt like being a mom has meant putting your passion for writing to the side? Maybe in part due to pressure from you partner?
Kathleen Foxx is a mother of five who knows what it's like to let go of yourself--and how to reclaim it.
In this episode, she shares her struggle with mom guilt, the role her marriage played in keeping her away from her writing passion and how she is now channeling that realization into building an incredibly rich and diversified writing life.
Connect with Kathleen via her...2022-10-3136 min#badasswritersS4 BONUS || 2 Pitches || Author Nick HolmbergIn today's bonus episode, Kat critiques two pitches, which wraps up the pitches in the submission inbox. It'll be left open for a little longer, but as major pitch events are coming to a close after #MoodPitch next week, it will be temporarily closing as well, but reopening next year for more critiques. After that, she chat with author Nick Holmberg about:
His debut, The Emergent
Research
Having beta readers help with sensitive areas
Second-person POV
The process of applying for book awards/contests
Winning an award and celebrating
How this book came to life after 19 years of...2022-10-2854 min#badasswritersS4E7 || Pitch Critiques || Author Rus WornomToday Kat critiques three pitches, then chats with author Rus Wornom about:
Where (or who!) the idea for Ghostflowers came from
Classic rock ’n’ roll in books
Researching for historical fiction
The “sculpting” part of drafting
How he got his agent
Staying in touch with the market
Novels with graphics, etc.
His (yet) unpublished book, The Enigma Club
Recommendations for craft books: Dean Koontz’ How to Write a Bestselling Book. Danse Macabre by Stephen King
How creating art and books is similar
Writing workshops
The worst piece of writing advice
You can follow Rus on Twitter @RusWornom and on IG...2022-10-2551 min#badasswritersS4E6 || 4 Pitch Critiques || Author S. M. FreedmanIn today's episode, Kat critiques four pitches and then chats with Vancouver-based psychological thriller author S.M. Freedman about:
her new book, out today: Blood Atonement
the unlisted area in BC that helped inspire this story
her research on FLDS and psychological disorders
reaching out to people for personal experiences
nailing that first line
excavating your story
prologues
how to decipher your research and know what to cut and what’s important to the story
how training as a P.I. and in acting helped her understand the psychology behind people’s motivations
the submission process
what she’s work...2022-10-1847 min#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Pitches || Karen Heenan || Garon WhitedToday's bonus episode features three pitch critiques. Then I chat with authors Karen Heenan and Garon Whited!
Karen and I cover:
her new book, Coming Apart
re-discovering her own town from the Depression era
the differences between writing in various eras of historical fiction
writing linked standalones
her Tudor series
ensuring you’re creating well-rounded characters
choosing the right POV
creating fictional characters vs creating fictionalized characters based on real figures
advice for writers particularly in historical fiction (but in any genre, really!)
how tv and film can be helpful in writing
a good reason to an...2022-10-141h 11#badasswritersS4E5 || 4 Pitches || Gary GoldsteinToday I critique four pitches as I'm trying to get to as many as I can before #PitDark and #MoodPitch, both of which are coming up fast. Then, I chat with author, screenwriter, stageplay writer, and journalist, Gary Goldstein. We talk about:
his newest book, The Mother I Never Had, and the inspiration behind it
relationships between parents and children
the “what if” ideas
keeping loved ones alive in our memories and in stories
his experience with publishing during the pandemic
committing to writing a page or two a day to help get the first draft done
the diff...2022-10-111h 02#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Phil M WilliamsWe cover so much in today's #badass bonus interview with multi-genre author Phil M. Williams!
why people keep turning pages
relatability with the good, bad, and ugly in people
inspiration behind his thrillers
running a permaculture farm and writing a children’s book about it
teaching children through books
the benefits of gardening for writers
writing authentic sociopathic characters
the one trait that all sociopaths share
the book that can help a writer understand how a sociopath operates
using personal experience to enhance the realism of fiction
having empathy for where you’re drawing story inspiration from
the hero...2022-10-0757 min
#badasswritersS4E4 || Sensory Details || Pitches || Jowita BydlowskaFair warning: There are a few f-bombs dropped in today's episode in case you have little ears listening! Kat talks about the importance of adding sensory details to your writing and how to do it. Three listeners' pitches are critiqued. Then, author Jowita Bydlowska joins Kat to talk about:
her newest book, Possessed
tying in important themes
how the dating scene inspired this novel
writing linearly vs piecing bits of the story together
working from even a simple outline to help not get lost in the work
research rabbit holes
telling the best story you can by doing...2022-10-0439 min
#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Memoir, Fiction, and Indie Publishing || Susan DennisIn today's bonus episode, I chat with indie author Susan Dennis, who published a memoir about her life with her late photographer husband, Charles Dennis, and who also now writes fiction. We chat about:
her newest book, The Secret Field
having aging characters in a story
her fascination with buried treasures in history
the depths of research
knowing the backstory even if it’s not on the page
her memoir, The Swing
how she decided she wanted to write and share her memoir with the world
the book doctors
Shimmering Images by Lisa Dale Norton as a memoir cr...2022-09-3030 min
#badasswritersS4E3 || Writing Retreats || TSNOTYAW Thank you || Pitches || Daniel PaisnerIn today's episode, I talk about how amazing writer retreats and conferences are, how important it is to keep learning all you can about your craft, and I give a huge shoutout to The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast hosts for putting together such a terrific weekend retreat for us. Then I move on to this week's pitch critiques. After, I talk with "the world's most prolific ghost," Daniel Paisner, ghostwriter of 70+ books, 17 of which have been bestsellers. His new novel, Balloon Dog, came out this past summer. We chat about:
books that “take off” and...2022-09-2746 min
#badasswritersS4E2 || On Stephen King || Bev VincentEspecially for fans of Stephen King, today's episode first covers two pitch critiques sent in by listeners. Then, I chat with Canadian author Bev Vincent about the books he's written on King and his works, meeting and working with King, being approached by a publisher to work on a book, how memorable characters connect us with stories, the "why now" in publishing, nonfiction vs. fiction writing, what catapulted Bev into his career, the benefits of being a member in writing organizations, what he's working on now, music while writing and revising, and advice for writers.
Bev's newest...2022-09-2040 min
#badasswritersS4 BONUS || Killer First Lines || C.S. O'CinneideToday I talk a little bit about why it's so important to have a killer opening line. Then, I chat with Canadian Edgar-nominated author C.S. O'Cinneide about:
her newest novel, Eve’s Rib
how she researched for writing a teenage girl
how to nail the opening line to a novel
writing themes into your story
indie publishing with Dundurn Press
her Edgar nomination experience in NYC
her blog, She Kills Lit
writing and publishing during the pandemic
her experience walking the Camino de Santiago and how it inspired her first published book, Petra's Ghost
her recommendation for writing a st...2022-09-1646 min
#badasswritersS4E1 Pitches and Critiques || Less BS & More Joy with Author Rachael AmaranteIn E1 of my fourth season, I officially start with my pitch critique segments. First, I cover the essential parts of a pitch, then I break down the trailer and premise for the movie YESTERDAY (which was really fun!) and create a Twitter-sized pitch out of the trailer version. Then, I critique two pitches sent in by two writers. After, I chat with author, coach, motivational speaker, and mother of four, Rachael Amarante. We talk about:
society’s expectations of women and mothers
how our successes in all facets of life stem from how we view ourselves and th...2022-09-131h 04
#badasswritersS3E12 || Music and Literature || Christy Alexander HallbergToday's episode is all about the blend of music and literature, what these two mediums have in common, and why rock fiction should be more of a thing! Then, Kat chats with author Christy Alexander Hallberg about:
her book, Searching for Jimmy Page
how we use myth and art to create our own personal narratives
the power music has to create emotional experiences
the inspiration behind the book
how grief and a pilgrimage led to her writing Searching for Jimmy Page
how in-person location research can help sharpen the details in the writing
letting the characters tell the...2022-09-0650 min
#badasswritersS3E11 || Updates || Ruhi ParikhToday's episode begins with some housekeeping items, such as pitch submissions for critique on the podcast, what a pitch is, MoodPitch details, podcast interview booking information, editing packages, and what YOU would love to hear covered on the podcast. Then, I talk with teen debut author Ruhi Parikh about:
her debut novel, Subversion, a YA dystopian story
what made her decide to publish this story now
how important it is to have supporters to champion you and your books
her next book, Conversion, coming out 09/20/22!
learning your strengths and weaknesses
finding the time to write as a student
...2022-08-3023 min
#badasswritersS3E10 || Epistolary Content || Bianca MaraisIt's the episode we've all been waiting for! Today I'm so honoured to feature an interview with the inimitable Bianca Marias about her new book, THE WITCHES OF MOONSHYNE MANOR, out today! We cover so many topics, such as:
the premise and inspiration behind TWOMM
writing in multiple genres—and why
her unique writing process with TWOMM and her agent’s feedback
being the right kind of ally and championing relevant social issues in the right way by getting sensitivity readers
calibrating your manuscript according to readers’ reactions in a collaborative process of writing
her transition to Cece Lyra a...2022-08-2343 min
#badasswritersS3E9 || Writing Memoirs with author Debi LewisToday's episode features memoirist and novelist Debi Lewis, where we talk about her newly released memoir, Kitchen Medicine: How I Fed My Daughter out of Failure to Thrive. We also chat about:
why she wrote a memoir about her daughter’s struggles with eating
the unique research she used to help draw an accurate roadmap not just for herself and her family but to share with other families
important things you must consider when writing a memoir
having good and bad in your villains
the hardest part about writing a memoir
her path to publication
switching gears—and agen...2022-08-1640 min
#badasswritersS3E8 Content Warnings and Writing Difficult Subjects || Narrative Non-Fiction with Arnie BernsteinFirst, Kat discusses how to write difficult subject matter into your fiction or non-fiction manuscripts and the importance of putting a content warning on any of your work that might have something triggering for your readers. Then, listen as she chats with nonfiction author, teacher, editor, and coach, Arnie Bernstein. Topics covered include:
what drew him to writing about these forgotten stories in America’s history
how he structured his book, Bath Massacre
the research process for his narrative nonfiction
interviewing survivors
how he knew this was a story he could and should tell
writing a “fake” villain vs. wr...2022-08-021h 00
#badasswritersS3E7 || Voicey-ness || Aleksandra TrynieckaIn today's episode, Kat covers the difference between authorial and character voice and explains some of the things that can help you establish both. Then, she chats with Polish author Aleksandra Trynieka about her newly published children's book, BUNKY AND THE WALMS. Topics discussed include:
how she started with writing, constructing a reality and adding magic to it
how having a stuffed animal from a novel can help a child feel connected to the character(s)
what was important to her when looking for a publisher
her historical work-in-progress and the research that comes with it
writing to...2022-07-2626 min
#badasswritersS3E6 || 11 Essential Elements for Killer Opening Pages || Author Allie ReynoldsCheck out these 11 essential elements needed to create killer opening pages! I'll go over the things you should ensure are in your first chapter(s) as well as give some examples on what to include (and not include!) in dialogue. Then I chat with Allie Reynolds, author of Shiver and The Bay/The Swell, which is out TODAY, July 19/22 in North America! We talk about:
writing novels set in interesting places, i.e., dangerous natural environments and how being cut off from civilization can give us true insights into who the characters really are at their cores
her...2022-07-1950 min
#badasswritersS3E5 Genealogy and Fiction || J. D. EdwardsIn today's episode, you'll hear about how you can use genealogy research to mine for stories, characters, etc. Then, catch my chat with award-winning author of genealogical papers and of fiction, J. D. Edwards. You'll hear about some really interesting things, like:
how he got started in writing
winning multiple awards for his published genealogical papers
using genealogical research and applying it to fictional writing
his editing process and tips to ensure your writing will go smoother
“research the publisher before you sign that contract.”
what happens when a vanity publisher taints your book
advice on working with Amaz...2022-06-2843 min
#badasswritersS3 BONUS || Anna WillettToday's bonus episode is an interview with bestselling Australian author Anna Willett. Her newest thriller (fifteenth so far!) is Lost to the Lake, which was released earlier this year. In our chat, you'll hear about:
how she knows where to start her stories
starting with plot or character
the inspiration behind Lost to the Lake
what’s changed in her writing process between her first book to her fifteenth
how she approaches research
writing strong female characters
being approached by another publisher
advice for developing believable characters in thrillers
sprinkling in backstory and character development
You can fi...2022-06-2422 min
#badasswritersS3E4 Jack Lelko || Bailey GeeToday's episode features two guests: Jack Lelko, author of the forthcoming Christmas Bitch, and Bailey Gee, author of three poetry books: The Many Personalities of Me, Linear, and The Joys of Being Alive. Jack and I talk about the self-publishing process, the inspiration behind his debut novel, writing quirky characters, his writing process, and more. Bailey and I discuss how to write poetry, where her inspiration comes from, using beautiful language to express feelings and process emotions, and more.
Connect with Jack on his website at neurdotically.wordpress.com, on Twitter @neurdotically, and on Instagram @neurdotically_writes...2022-06-2149 min
#badasswritersS3E3 || COMPS || Jessica PayneWhat are comps? Why do we need them? Kat talks about this part of the querying and publishing process and how to use them properly. Then she welcomes back to the show author Jessica Payne, who just launched her debut thriller, Make Me Disappear, last month. Topics covered are:
how her debut launch went
getting tagged in negative reviews
the changes a manuscript goes through from offer of rep to launch
having to write the nice part of evil characters
launch teams—what they are and how to organize them (thanks to Peyton!)
how to organize your time fo...2022-06-1454 min#badasswritersS3 BONUS || Campfire Writing, Map Building, and Kat Gets Interviewed, too! || Adam BassettHow many of you like to organize all your manuscript stuff (research, notes, maps, character workups, images, etc.) in one place? Adam Bassett joins me for today's bonus episode to tell you how Campfire can help you do just that and so much more! Plus, he talks about building maps for people, writing projects, interacting with the writing community, his work with the Campfire blog and Worldbuilding magazine, and his interviews with some pretty rad people. Then he switches it up and asks Kat some questions about her daily writing questions and character development!
Links:
...2022-06-1047 min#badasswritersS3E2 || Relatable, Authentic Characters || Hannah OrensteinHow do you keep your readers turning those pages? They need to feel connected to your characters so they care about them and what they're going through in the story. Characters need to be relatable and authentic, and I'll talk a bit about that today. Then, I chat with author Hannah Orenstein about her fourth book, Meant to be Mine, which is out today, June 7/22! We talk about the book, creating authentic characters, where she draws inspiration from, how to make your readers cry!, how she's celebrating the launch, and general advice for writing romcoms.
You can...2022-06-0729 min#badasswritersS3 BONUS: Infusing Humour into Tough Topics with Comedy Writer, Voice Actor, and 4x Cancer Survivor Glenn RockowitzToday's bonus episode features an interview with Glenn Rockowitz. We talk about his two memoirs about his experiences with cancer and how it's impacted his life. We also cover:
bringing comedy to the living rooms of terminally ill people with The Best Medicine Group
dealing with reviews on personal stories in memoirs
having his first memoir optioned for film and his noot-so-great experiences with that
writing comedy for Saturday Night Live and how it prepared him for the worst-case scenario in writing
writing stand-up comedy
his voice acting career
how the landscape of publishing has changed in the...2022-06-0342 min#badasswritersS3E1 || Q&A with Alex Brown of Rising Action Publishing CollectiveYou sent in questions, we have answers! Join Alex and me as she tackles questions sent to me by the writing community over the last few weeks. We had a lot to get through, but it's all super interesting and great for authors curious about the indie publishing industry! We cover these topics:
how RA got started
how distribution works with indie bookstores and libraries
how marketing works
bringing more diversity into publishing, which is great for indie publishers who are more likely to take on those really unique books than the Big 4/5 are
turning to social media...2022-05-311h 11#badasswritersS2 BONUS || Hannah Mary McKinnon LAUNCH DAYEver wonder how suspense and thriller authors come up with their evil characters? Or how they do the research to ensure they're authentic? Check out my interview with the lovely Hannah Mary McKinnon, author of several bestsellers including NEVER COMING HOME, her newest suspense that hits the shelves TODAY. We chat about all kinds of writerly things in this fun episode, covering things like interviewing your characters, how to make unlikeable characters likeable, getting inside the minds of criminal characters, interesting ways to do research, switching from one genre to another and switching publishers, what "digital first" means in...2022-05-241h 02#badasswritersS2 BONUS: Poetry, Fiction, and Marketing with Shelby Leigh and Joseph FasanoToday's bonus episode features two poets who also happen to write fiction. First I chat with Shelby Leigh who runs monthly poetry workshops and assists authors with poetry book editing and marketing strategies. We talk about her poetry, fiction writing, how poetry can help with fiction, her publishing experiences, how she decides what poems to include in a collection, tips for writing poetry, and tips for marketing--especially when you're nervous to do so. Then, I chat with Joseph Fasano about his living poem--which is catching a lot of media attention as of late--his Poem for You series, the difference...2022-05-2052 min#badasswritersS2E12 || Preparing for Interviews || Ashley DuggerIf you've never done an author interview before, you may be nervous. In today's episode, I walk you through the process so you know what to expect. Interviews are part of a successful author's marketing plan. Dip your toes in on the #badasswriters podcast! If you're a seasoned author or industry professional who has done many interviews, let me know if you want to hang out on Zoom and talk books and publishing! Then, I chat with writer Ashley Dugger about how her career in journalism prepared her for fiction writing, switching from pantser to plotter, the benefits of...2022-05-1744 min#badasswritersS2E11 || Jennifer K. Morita & Cassandra YorkeIn today's episode, I chat with author Jennifer K. Morita about how she got her agent, how a journalism career helped prepare her for a career in writing, sitting on a book idea for twenty-five years, pitch contests, the Twitter writing community, joining writing associations, becoming the VP of Capitol Crimes, hybrid writing events, tips for mystery writers, and more.
Then, I chat with author Cassandra Yorke about the inspiration behind her debut novel, using personal trauma to fuel writing and help heal, writing a series, genre blending, listening to your story and characters in order to...2022-05-101h 02#badasswritersS2E10 Character Development || Jillean McCloryIn today's episode, I go over some interesting ways to help develop characters. Then, I chat with Canadian author Jillean McClory about why editors need editors, too, her writing journey, writing dialogue, her experience with traditional publishing during the pandemic, her blog, writing a series and avoiding redundancies, turning off your "editor brain" and focusing on getting words on the page, layering in story elements, things that developmental editors will look for and help with in shaping your story, tips for writers who are in the self-editing stage, and more!
Websites mentioned in today's episode are: www...2022-05-0358 min#badasswritersS2 BONUS || Historical Fiction, Hybrid Publishing, and Cross-Country Biking with Teri M. BrownToday's guest is a wonderfully inspiration author who's just released her debut historical fiction novel, Sunflowers Beneath the Snow. It's very timely, considering what's happening in the Ukraine these days. It's a poignant novel that follows three generations of Ukranian women and how the decision of one man has a ripple effect on future generations, and how views of politics can differ based on one's own experiences. It shows how, even in the face of adversity, hope, love, and humanity still exist.
Teri and I chat about hybrid publishing, her experiences with Atmosphere Press, knowing when you're...2022-04-2957 min#badasswritersS2E9 || LB HarpdogToday's episode features erotic paranormal fantasy author LB Harpdog. We chat about writing through emotions, how his personal experiences inspired him to write a 5-book series (as well as other works), infusing your own emotions into characters, capturing the mind, heart, and body of your reader, the importance of finding good writing partners, tips for self-publishing, seeing authors as your peers--not your competition, and that writers should never be afraid to reach out and network!
LB can be found on Twitter @HarpdogLb and Instagram @lbharpdog45.
Kathleen can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and...2022-04-2630 min#badasswritersS2 BONUS: #AskAgent w/ Claire HarrisAfter such a great reception of my first #AskAgent session with CeCe Lyra, I decided to do another one to help writers get more questions answered about querying and publishing. Today, I'm joined by P.S. Literary Agent Claire Harris for a fabulous chat. We even wore matching space buns for the occasion! We cover quite a few questions, including querying ethically, the importance of using comps, what her favourite moments of agenting are, having tiers of agents on your query list, important things in a client-agent relationship, and so much more!
Claire Harris can be found...2022-04-221h 13#badasswritersS2E8 | The Importance of Pursuing Your Passions | Jackie AmsdenIn today's episode I talk a little bit about finding time to pursue your writing passion and protecting that time, how the writing community can help you get there. When you're a parent and you write, finding this time is usually challenging but it's also crucial to reaching your writing and publishing goals. After, I talk to fellow mom, writer, and host of the These Mums Write podcast, Jackie Amsden. A former teen model, she got her inspiration for her first book while modelling in the Tokyo modelling industry. She self-published her first book, The Tokyo Cover Girls, and...2022-04-1959 min#badasswritersS2E7 Ami Maxine Irmen || Santita D'AnjouIn today's episode I talk with two guests, both of whom are teachers. First, Ami Maxine Irmen is a creative writing instructor at a community college. Ami has also been involved in teaching how to write memoirs to young women at the Jane Adeny Memorial School in Kenya, and she's been heavily involved in the bringing together of a very special project: a book full of memoirs written by the young women she taught. Proceeds from the sale of every book, called Voice of Jane Adeny Memorial School, will go towards funding scholarships so that more of these girls...2022-04-1253 min#badasswritersS2E6 Encouraging Creativity in Kids || JoAnn ConnerIn today's episode, I talk for just a few minutes about how important it is to inspire and encourage creativity in kids--whether that's your own kids or someone else's, we should all take every opportunity to help enrich kids' lives--and our own--with creativity. Then, I chat with author JoAnn Conner about publishing a children's book with her granddaughter, creating a book to help kids process when a parent has cancer, different methods of research, what an "author book" is and why it's important to use one, the difficulties in marketing and publishing, and tips for writers when doing research...2022-04-0541 min#badasswritersS2 BONUS EPISODE || Amy TectorToday's fabulous bonus episode is an interview with debut author Amy Tector where we get to nerd out about research and archives! Amy's novel, THE HONEYBEE EMERALDS, released this week, and I got to chat with her a couple months ago. We talk about her work as an archivist and how it has helped her writing career, how archival research is like a tangible connection to history, her journey to publication, signing a 3-book deal after her debut, the importance of having a critique group, sensitivity readers, giving yourself permission to be the writer you are, and yes, we...2022-04-0148 min#badasswritersS2E5 #MoodPitch Info || H.S. DilazakToday I go over just a few basic guidelines about our upcoming #MoodPitch Twitter pitch event. If you're a querying writer and haven't heard of the #MoodPitch contest, head over to our website at www.moodpitch.org where Jaimie Hunter, Lula Lockwood and I have been hard at work organizing a brand new Twitter pitch event to help you get connected with agents and publishers! After which I chat with horror author H.S. Dilazak about how she got into writing, exploring the darker elements of character, leaning on experiences with mental health, nature, and social issues, figuring out...2022-03-2934 min#badasswritersS2E4 Author Websites || Becca DayAre you unsure about building an author website or what to include on it? Check out today's episode where I talk a little bit about why you should have one and what you should start out with. Then, I chat with debut thriller author Becca Day, whose book launches TODAY! The Girl Beyond the Gate is being celebrated with a free virtual launch party, which I'll post the link to below. Becca and I chat about her debut, how she got her dream agent, how her previous career inspired her love of crime fiction, marketing efforts prior to a...2022-03-2229 min#badasswritersS2E3 Flash Fiction || Tommy DeanDo you write flash fiction or other short forms of fiction? Are you interested in learning more about it? Today's blog segment is all about flash fiction, how I discovered it, and why it's so wonderful. But don't just take it from me! I called in an expert, Tommy Dean, author of some pretty rad flash fiction and editor of Fractured Lit and Uncharted Mag. Tommy's full flash collection, Hollows, just released on March 14/22. We talk all about different forms of flash, what works and what doesn't, what to focus on, and so much more. This episode is a...2022-03-151h 15#badasswritersS2E2 || Taking the High Road in Social Media || C.M. QuinnIn this episode, I talk about nasty messages that you can get on social media and how to handle them. Then, I chat with self-published Australian author, C.M. Quinn. We cover topics such as learning how to improve your mind space when getting feedback on your writing, writing a series, publishing with Ingram Sparks and Amazon, avoidable stress in self-publishing, learning from your mistakes, and her top five tips for authors who want to self-publish.
C.M. can be found on Twitter @CM_Quinn21 and her website is www.cmquinnauthor.com.
Follow @_badasswriters on...2022-03-0857 min#badasswritersBONUS EPISODE: #AskAgent with Cece LyraComps and queries and slush piles, oh my! Get the answers to some burning publishing questions by literary agent Cecilia Lyra of P.S. Literary in this first instalment of #AskAgent on the podcast! Questions were sent via Twitter in a previous call out. During the Q&A, you'll hear Cece mention a couple of things to provide in the show notes. They are:
1. This quick read provides results of the Bowker Study that shows more adults are reading YA: https://www.shelf-awareness.com/issue.html?issue=1827#m17466
2. The name of the author who self-published...2022-03-0455 min#badasswritersS2E1 Rejections || Chantal CorcoranWelcome to my second season! Rejection is something that every writer deals with. I talk about how to move through it and past it and continue on your journey. Then I chat with author Chantal Corcoran about her writing journey, writing short vs. long fiction, why she's moved from non-fiction to fiction, her querying process, taking your writing seriously, and more. Then I announce the WINNER of the #badass giveaway I ran in Feb 2022! P.S. The fan was going crazy on my laptop again so I apologize for the noise during the blog segment and at the very...2022-03-0142 min#badasswritersBONUS EPISODE: Pitch Critiques Feb 2022Today's bonus episode is full of pitch critiques! A whole bunch of you sent in your pitches to me to be critiqued on the podcast, and I got to as many as I could within about an hour. So sit back, grab a notebook and a pen, and take some notes about your own pitch as well as about others. If you didn't send in a critique for this round, don't worry! I'm planning to do this again in the future, so keep your eyes peeled for that. There's still plenty to learn from today's pitches that you can...2022-02-231h 07#badasswritersS1E12 Story Prompts || John SteinerDo you use story prompts? Find out more about them and why you should use them in today's blog segment. Then, catch my convo with sci-fi, fantasy, and horror author John Steiner. We chat all about writing in those genres, what happens when an indie press gets bought out by another indie press, story prompts, the importance of diving deep into research, and more!2022-02-2245 min#badasswritersS1E11 Using Social Media the *Right* Way || P.L. StuartHow to use social media as a tool in your writing journey - the RIGHT way. Plus, hear me chat with self-published fantasy author P.L. Stuart about writing a series, self-publishing, blogging, using social media to help launch your writing career, celebrating successes, and tips to get that writing in any way you can. And, find out how you can enter the #badasswriters giveaway during the month of February!2022-02-1541 min#badasswritersS1E10 Writing the Story You Want to Write || Huck BeardToday I talk about writing the story you want to tell, using your passion to do it, and not turning your story into something unrecognizable to fit what someone else wants. Then, I chat with author + friend Huck Beard about his writing journey, how his agent found him, how his dog Humphrey helped him draft his debut, being out on submission, writing sprints, the importance of the writing community, and more!2022-02-0849 min#badasswritersS1E9 - The Line Between Fact and Fiction || Kiersten MarcilLet's talk about the line between fact and fiction in historical fiction! We'll look at ways to infuse facts into your story, when to deviate from history and take a different path for your fiction, and how to do the research. Then I chat with Kiersten Marcil, author of historical romance/fantasy and fellow avid researcher. We talk about her experience with indie publication, her historical series, and research process. She gives us tips for writing in the historical fiction genre and some advice for writing a series. PLUS, a recap on a very special announcement about a new...2022-02-0158 min
Afm Creative Music & Talk RadioPodcast Ep3 Podcast To Podcast! Check out cohost Kiersten Marcil and #Badasswriters podcast host Kathleen FoxxIn this episode our Kiersten Marcil sits down with the host of #badasswriters podcast Kathleen Foxx for a very informative, witty and fun conversation.
Kathleen Foxx is an emerging multi-genre novelist from Ontario, Canada. She also has several short fiction pieces published in various literary magazines, including a second-place winning micro fiction in a printed anthology. She offers freelance critiquing and editing services, is the host of the #badasswriters podcast, and edits episodes of The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast. Kathleen is very active in the writing community and tweets daily @kfoxx_writes. Her...2022-01-301h 05
#badasswritersImposter Syndrome and Writer's Block || Joseph D. SlaterToday's episode is all about overcoming imposter syndrome and learning different ways you can kick that annoying writer's block to the curb. Then, I chat with author Joseph D. Slater about those two topics, using feedback to improve your writing, challenges of self-publishing, hiring a book cover designer, and changing genres to write something your kids can read and love. The blog post can be found at https://kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/25/writers-block-and-imposter-syndrome/2022-01-251h 00
#badasswritersBetas, CPs, and Dealing with Criticism || Jenna MorrisonFind out what the next step is after you've finished writing your first draft. What's the difference between a beta reader and a critique partner? What do you do if you don't have a critique partner or want a deeper dive into your manuscript? How do you deal with criticism? Top 5 tips for this stage of your writing journey. After which I chat with author Jenna Morrison about self-publishing at a young age, using writing to help process grief, indie publishing, getting negative feedback, her writing journey, and her debut novel, A BROTHER'S TRUTH, launching Feb 4! The blog post...2022-01-1841 min
#badasswritersPantsing vs. Plotting || Jessica PayneWhat's the difference between pantsing and plotting, and what's a plantser? Find out on today's episode, after which I'll be chatting with thriller author and #momswritersclub host, Jessica Payne. We'll be talking about taking risks in writing, the importance of the writing community and the right way to join it, believing in yourself, having a social media presence as an author, #momswritersclub, plus her path to publication and writing process, and a little bit about her debut novel coming May 16, 2022, MAKE ME DISAPPEAR. The blog post can be found at https://kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/11/pantsing-vs-plotting/2022-01-1155 min
#badasswritersS1E5 The Wonderful Writing Community || Hannah SharpeHappy New Year! In this episode, I get to do my first writer interview with the lovely Hannah Sharpe. We discuss how important the writing community is, juggling writing with family and work responsibilities, how the querying process has been, writing shorter fiction to help tighten up writing, difficult and rewarding aspects of the writing journey, and advice for newer writers. The corresponding blog post is available at www.kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/04/writing-community.2022-01-0434 min#badasswritersInfusing Emotion Into Your WritingToday I put my storytelling hat on and show you ways you can infuse emotion into your writing by drawing on your own emotional experiences! The blog post is available at www.kathleenfoxx.com/12/14/2021/emotions-in-writing.2021-12-1417 min#badasswritersWriting Your SynopsisEverything you need to know about the basics of writing your synopsis in about 15 minutes! Many think it's hard to do, but with these tips, you can change your mindset about this crucial piece to your query package. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/22/the-art-of-synopses/2021-12-0716 min#badasswritersThe Art of Querying: Blurbs + Pitches + Synopses—PART IIOfficially my first podcast "episode" where I talk all about PITCHES. Learn how to craft your perfect pitch with real examples and exercises. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/15/the-art-of-pitching/2021-11-3019 min
#badasswritersAUDIO: The Art of Querying: PART I (Query Blurbs)All about querying and composing the back cover copy or "book blurb!" Tips, examples and exercises to help you hone this important skill. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/12/the-art-of-querying/2021-11-3019 min