Shows
The First Draft ClubS10 E07 Hot Take on Research for Fiction: More Isn’t Always Better (and Not Just Because It’s a Rabbithole)Here's my hot take: more research while drafting isn't always better.
Not just because research is a procrastination rabbit hole (though it definitely is), but because too much research can actually squash your creativity and weaken your draft.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the creativity-squashing effect of research, when to research lightly vs. thoroughly, and why fiction isn't constrained by what's "researchable" or provable.
If you're worried you haven't researched enough before writing your first draft, this episode is for you.
Love the show? Share it with a fellow writer or...
2026-03-0413 minThe First Draft ClubS10 E06 Tips for Writing a Novel from 3 Braided or Parallel Points of ViewWriting from multiple points of view? Here's the secret to making it work.
A writer in The Book Incubator asked: "How do I tell three different but related stories in one novel where they all come together in the end?"
In this episode, I'm sharing my approach to braiding multiple storylines into one cohesive novel. The key isn't the technical craft—it's how your POV characters relate to each other.
Love the show? Share it with a fellow writer or leave a review! For more resources, visit thebookincubator.com.
Let's co...
2026-02-2513 minThe First Draft ClubS10 E05 5 Ideas for Ending a Chapter on a Cliffhanger (or a Cliffhanger-ish)Ever wonder how to end a chapter in a way that makes readers want to keep going—without using the same trick every single time?
In this episode, I'm answering a question from Shannon, a writer in The Book Incubator, who asked: "Can you give me some pointers on how to end a chapter in a way that incites the reader to keep reading without being repetitive? I can only think of one way to do it."
I'm sharing 5 different strategies for ending your chapters on a compelling note (not quite a cliffhanger, but a po...
2026-02-1813 minThe First Draft ClubS10 E04 Book Marketing 101: What Never to Do, and What to Do InsteadWelcome to episode 100 of The First Draft Club! 🎉 We're celebrating by talking about something every author needs to know: book marketing.
It's the thing every author dreads—and honestly, I'm not a book marketing expert. But I do have a hot take about something you should never, ever do when promoting your book (because it doesn't work and it's not a good look).
In this milestone episode, I'm sharing one big DON'T and one big DO when it comes to marketing your book. I'll show you exactly how I did this for my novels Privilege and W...
2026-02-1116 minThe First Draft ClubS10 E03 Why and When We Actually Need Feedback: 2 Times Feedback was Critical for My Book & What to Learn From ItYou've heard me say it before: feedback too early in your writing process is useless at best and derailing at worst. But at some point, feedback from readers you trust becomes absolutely critical.
In this episode, I'm sharing two concrete examples from my memoir You Might Feel a Little Pressure—one story I was resistant to cutting and one I almost cut but didn't. Both taught me something important about when feedback matters, how many people you need to hear from before making big decisions, and why reasonable people can disagree about what belongs in your book.
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2026-02-0416 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E10 What Kind of Writer Are You? A NEW TYPOLOGY!Tired of being told you're either an "outliner" or a "pantser"? In this episode, Mary introduces a revolutionary new framework that recognizes writers exist on a spectrum—not just at two extremes.
Based on years of teaching novelists through The Book Incubator™, she reveals five distinct writer types that help you find your perfect writing process.
From her own journey discovering that neither pantsing nor outlining worked for her (leading to 13 rewrites over six years!), Mary developed this new typology that helps writers identify their ideal level of planning versus creative freedom.
If you'v...
2025-08-0617 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E08 Thoughts on Long-Term Goals, Fatigue, and MindsetHow do you motivate yourself to work toward big, overwhelming goals when gratification feels impossibly far away? In this episode, Mary shares her summer reality check: facing an entire house to organize, French lessons to restart, and a secret new watercolor hobby—all while running a business and raising a kid.
Drawing from her experience writing five books, Mary reveals the counter-intuitive secret to achieving long-term goals. She shares how she went from writing zero short stories to publishing her first novel, why she's skipping watercolor exercises to paint portraits, and what her French tutor taught her ab...
2025-07-2314 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E07 How to Research for Your Novel Without Getting Bogged DownEver started researching for your novel only to get so overwhelmed by everything you learned that you couldn't write at all? In this episode, Mary introduces the "marginalia method"—a simple but powerful technique that prevents research overwhelm while making the process more fun and efficient.
Mary breaks down the two common research traps writers fall into: research overwhelm (feeling paralyzed by too much information) and research fanaticism (trying to include everything you've learned). She then shares her practical solution that keeps research manageable and actionable.
If you've ever felt stuck because your research made yo...
2025-07-1612 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E06 What I Learned from Ann Patchett about Reading Our Past Writing: A Lesson for Memoirists, Novelists, and Human BeingsWhat happens when a bestselling author annotates her own 25-year-old novel? In this episode, Mary shares what she discovered reading Ann Patchett's newly annotated edition of "Bel Canto"—and why it taught her something crucial about how we treat our past creative work and ourselves.
Ann Patchett's handwritten notes in the margins revealed something unexpected: even successful authors can be too hard on their younger selves.
Mary breaks down the three types of annotations Patchett made and shares a personal story about memoir feedback that changed how she thinks about self-compassion in writing.
If...
2025-07-0915 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E05 3 Ways I’m Using AI Ethically as a Novelist (Spoiler: It’s NOT to Write)Let's settle this once and for all: Can novelists use AI ethically?
In this episode, 3x HarperCollins novelist Mary Adkins shares exactly how she's integrating AI into her writing process WITHOUT letting it do the actual writing. Mary breaks down three specific applications that genuinely enhance her productivity while maintaining complete creative control. From multi-dimensional research queries to cleaning up dictated manuscripts, she shows how AI can handle the tedious tasks so writers can focus on what they do best: the creative work. If you've been wondering how to navigate AI as a professional writer—or whether it...
2025-07-0216 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E04 How I am Using Dictation to Write My Next Novel
Ever wondered if you could write your novel while taking a walk? In this episode, Mary shares her honest experiment with dictation writing—how she wrote nearly half of her latest manuscript (around 50,000 words) using nothing but her iPhone and daily neighborhood walks.
Mary breaks down her journey from being "dictation curious" to discovering a writing method that increased her productivity without sacrificing quality. She shares the exact tools she tested, the surprising learning curve, and whether dictated prose actually sounds different from typed writing.
If you're a busy writer struggling to find time for yo...
2025-06-2516 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E03 What Nora Ephron Can Teach Us About Writing, a.k.a. How to Be a Parent AND Write BooksIn this episode of The First Draft Club, Mary shares the best advice she’s ever heard about balancing writing with parenting, courtesy of Nora Ephron. If you've ever felt like you're constantly dropping the ball—on your book, your job, or your family—this episode will speak directly to you. Mary breaks down the concept of “glass balls vs. plastic balls,” how it changed her perspective, and how it can help you make space for your writing without guilt. Spoiler: creativity gets to be a glass ball too.
You’ll learn:
• Nora Ephron’s brilliant advice...
2025-06-1814 minThe First Draft ClubS09 E02 A Free, Easy Way to Make Sure Your Story Works No Matter Who You Are (and Why Plot Matters)In this episode of The First Draft Club, Mary Adkins dismantles the elitist myth that plot is somehow “lowbrow” or optional in literary fiction.
Drawing from her own experience and actual Big 5 rejection letters, she explains why plot is essential—not just for publication, but for reader satisfaction.
Plus, she shares her favorite low-pressure, free method for making sure your story works, no matter where you are in your writing journey.
Whether you’ve been told your prose is beautiful but “the pacing is off,” or you’re trying to finish a draft that just won’...
2025-06-1114 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E10 How Much Can You Make in Foreign Rights - My Story (with Actual Dollar Amounts!)How much can you actually make from your book? Should you consider foreign rights or just stick to the US? What can you expect to make after your advance? In the season finale, Mary gets personal and answers your questions.
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2025-02-1217 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E09 Special Guests! Welcome, the Podcast is a Gameshow NowMary invited two fellow novelists and colleagues in The Book Incubator, Harrison and Autumn, to join her for a game she made up! Meet The Feedback Game: What would you do with X feedback? Revise? Move on? Freak out?
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2025-02-051h 02The First Draft ClubS08 E08 Is Revision Sucking? Two Strategies to Make It Joyful AgainIn this episode, Mary breaks down her two best tips for making the revision process as fun as the writing process.
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2025-01-2915 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E07 Killing Your Non-Darlings in RevisionHave you wondered why you have trouble making revisions even when you know it's necessary? Mary explores this phenomenon and shares her own struggles with loss aversion.
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S08 E03 How to Fix an 80% Good Book Getting Rejections: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-xqce2-1750a3c
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2025-01-2212 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E06 How to Write a Timeless Book (Whatever That Means)In the first episode of 2025, Mary reveals that the best way to write a timeless book is to not try to make it timeless.
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2025-01-1518 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E05 All the Numbers in Publishing No One Talks AboutWhat are the actual sales numbers for authors who get book deals versus authors who self-publish? Mary gets into the data—yep, hardcore math—to help you weigh the pros and cons (financially) of the two major publishing paths.
-Free training on how much you can make on your book: https://www.thebookincubator.com/free-training
-Blog post summary: https://maryadkinswriter.com/blog/how-much-do-authors-make
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2024-12-1825 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E04 My Top 5 Books of 2024 as a WriterMary shares the novels and memoirs that came out in 2024 that left her with the memorable reading experiences from a craft and writing perspective—ones that taught her something about writing or showed her something new about what literature can do. The books are (in no particular order):
- The Wedding People by Alison Espach
- Molly by Blake Butler
- Old Enough by Haley Jakobson
- Grief is for People by Sloane Crosley
- Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker
She wants you to know that Margo's Got Mo...
2024-12-1128 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E03 How to Fix an 80% Good Book Getting RejectionsIn the last episode, Mary talked about how a 90% great book will get rejections 100% of the time. How do you make up the difference? Whether it's a 40% gap you need to close or a 5% gap, Mary shares her recommendations.
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2024-12-0415 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E02 Why You Can Write an Amazing Book That Doesn't Get PublishedMary talks about why a 90% great book will get rejected 100% of the time...and how to tell if that's what's happening from the rejections you're getting. She:
- Shares a sample (real) rejection letter
- Discusses examples of a 10% gap between good and great
- Talks about why this means you shouldn't give up, you should revise
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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins
2024-11-2715 minThe First Draft ClubS08 E01 The Black List: The new publishing shortcut for aspiring novelistsWe're back for Season 8! Mary talks about a newcomer to publishing—The Black List—and shares costs, benefits, and how it could potentially save you months (or even years) in your publishing journey. If you dream of publication but dread the long, uncertain querying process, this episode is for you.
Show Notes:
In this episode, I cover:· What is The Black List? Learn how this groundbreaking platform, originally created for Hollywood screenwriters, works—and why it’s now disrupting the world of fiction publishing.
· How it works for novelists: I’ll break down how you ca...
2024-11-2021 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E11 Should You Hire a Book Publicist?Authors are hiring their own publicists—but how do you know if a publicist is worth the cost? Mary shares the questions she'd ask.
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PublicityxChristina: https://www.publicityxchristina.com/
2024-05-3019 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E10 How Much I Was Paid for My First Novel & Why I Don't Think Big Publishing is DeadMary takes on the recent buzz around "Big 5" publishing being a waste of time for authors by sharing her own story and how she views authorial success.
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Mary's Blog: https://maryadkinswriter.com/blog/in-defense-of-big-publishing
The Elysian Article: https://www.elysian.press/p/no-one-buys-books
2024-05-1623 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E08 The Lean-In Method for Assessing FeedbackHow do you get feedback without letting it derail you? The risk is real. Mary shares the single criterion she uses in deciding whether or not to take a piece of feedback.
2024-04-1811 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E07 The Real Secret to Writing Your Best Possible BookIn this short and sweet episode, Mary shares the secret to writing a book that's smarter than you (with some helpful words from George Saunders and Rufi Thorpe).
2024-04-0409 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E06 Rufi Thorpe (with Mary) on How to Control Your Reader's MindIn this sneak peek into the private podcast inside The Book Incubator, Mary and Rufi discuss what they label "Newtonian Narratology" (you think we're kidding!), a.k.a. why it's better for your characters to try not to cry than to cry, and why you might not need to learn how to write that one emotion you struggle to write, after all.
2024-03-2839 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E05 Interview with Psychologist & Author Joe Sanok on How to Get Your Book WrittenAuthor of Thursday is the New Friday, Joe Sanok speaks with Mary about the neuroscience findings that can help aspiring authors finally finish their drafts.
2024-03-2140 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E04 3 Publishing Myths that Are Making Me MadThere are people online selling solutions you don't need to problems that don't exist. As a writer aspiring to be published, it pays to be savvy. Mary unpacks 3 of these myths so you can avoid traps.
2024-03-1414 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E03 Here it is...the Novel-Writing Tool I Invented in 2023!In this episode, Mary shares the origin story of her newest tool "A Novel in 52 Prompts" and shares the first 3 prompts so you can knock out your first 5,000 words.
2024-03-0719 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E02 The 2 Ways Playwright Tom Stoppard Changed My Creative LifeMary shares two stories about what Tom Stoppard the playwright taught her about life and creativity.
2024-02-2913 minThe First Draft ClubS07 E01 My Current Daily Routine as a Novelist (While Running a Business & Parenting)We're back for Season 7! In this first episode of the season, Mary walks us through her current daily writing routine as she balances a new novel, work, and parenting.
2024-02-2220 minThe First Draft ClubLive with Debut Novelist & Book Incubator grad Gayle Brown on her pub day!We interrupt this post-season break to bring you a chat between Mary and Gayle Brown, an alum of The Book Incubator whose debut novel that she wrote in the program is out this week. Learn about her writing journey, what pub day feels like, and what advice she has for getting a literary agent.
You can buy A Deadly Game at Amazon (https://shorturl.at/gsvE3) or Barnes and Noble (https://shorturl.at/nyF18), or leave a review on Goodreads (https://shorturl.at/eopsG).
2023-12-1427 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E09 3 New Tips for Writing Better DialogueIn this episode, Mary builds on the 5 tips for writing stronger dialogue she shared back in the first episode of Season 5. These 3 strategies will help improve your dialogue further.
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Season 5, Episode 1: https://thefirstdraftclub.podbean.com/e/how-to-write-compelling-diagloue/
2023-11-0911 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E08 What Makes a Book ”Good” Isn’t What You Think—It’s ThisWhat actually makes us call a book "good" is something Mary recently completely changed her view on. Here's how she thinks of a "good book" now, and why.
2023-11-0211 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E07 Should You Write a Memoir or a Novel Based on Your Life?Mary shares the 3 questions she'd ask herself if deciding whether to write a true personal story or a fictionalized version based on real events. Also, join our 10,000-Word Challenge starting next week!
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Join Mary's (FREE!) 10,000-Word Challenge starting Monday, Oct. 23rd, and write the first 10,000 words of your novel or memoir in 10 days! Visit https://maryadkinswriter.com/10k-challenge-live to get started.
2023-10-1917 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E06 Why Creative Writing Classes Are So BadIn this episode, Mary gets very real about why most creative writing classes make you feel discouraged and directionless, and how to handle such a class.
2023-10-1214 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E05 What IS Upmarket Fiction? How to Write a Novel that Appeals to the Widest AudienceWhat makes a novel count as “literary fiction?” How is it different from “upmarket” fiction? And are they both better than commercial fiction? Mary defines these categories and discusses why she believes upmarket is your sweet spot as a new novelist.
2023-10-0514 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E04 My Hot Take: Why AI is Going to Make Good Writers MORE Valuable, Not LessIn this episode, Mary takes on the threat of AI to professional writing and discusses why she believes it will never replace human storytellers.
2023-09-2819 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E03 On Literary Snobbery: How to Recognize It, Understand It, and Handle itThere's an undercurrent of literary snobbery that pervades many creative writing spaces. In this episode, Mary names it, shares personal stories of what it looks like, and talks about why it can be destructive.
2023-09-2122 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E02 Live with a Literary AgentLiterary agent Marisa Corvisiero chats with Mary about what contract terms she tries to negotiate for her clients, why she thinks it's savvy for authors to publish both traditionally and independently, and how un-agented and self-publishing authors can get help with their contracts.
Check out Marisa's Authorpreneur Workshop HERE (https://www.corvisieroagency.com/writers-workshop.html).
First Draft Club listeners get 15% off with the code FIRSTDRAFT2024.
2023-09-1449 minThe First Draft ClubS06 E01 What I’ve Been Writing & Why I Abandoned My Latest NovelIn this first episode of Season 6, Mary shares what she's been working on during this long break between seasons and why she set aside her latest novel, never to return to it.
Trigger warning: Pregnancy loss is mentioned.
2023-09-0730 minThe First Draft ClubWE’RE BACK!After a long break, Mary is back for season 6 with more writing tips and some fun new episodes!
2023-08-2401 min
Craft Talk Book Club”Black Cake” by Charmaine Wilkerson: Character descriptionsWriting character descriptions is the bane of Mary's existence...and Wilkerson does it so well in this book. In this episode, we analyze a couple of her character descriptions and why they work so well, and Mary shares a trick she uses to describe characters.
2023-01-2310 minCraft Talk Book Club”Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin, part 1: The omniscient narrator and point of view"Is this an omniscient point of view?" Nicole asks Mary at the top of this episode. What a journey in point of view this novel was! Mary and Nicole dissect Zevin's point of view choices and admire her bold moves.
2022-11-1425 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E10 Should you get an MFA in Creative Writing? The Pros & ConsMary applied for MFA programs 3 times and was accepted twice, but never went. In this episode, she shares her story, as well as what she sees as the pros and cons of an MFA in Creative Writing.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/c4VV9HX-jdQ
2022-10-1317 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E09 3 Things No One Tells You About Getting a Literary AgentLiterary agents: no one really knows the secret to getting one or everything they do for you once you have one. Here, Mary shares the 3 things she didn't know about getting a literary agent and working with one (until she did).
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/Snvvn5As2M4
2022-10-0612 minCraft Talk Book ClubTrailer: Craft Talk Book Club!Craft Talk Book Club is a podcast for writers who want to improve their craft by reading great books. Each month, Nicole Breit (Spark Your Story Lab creator and Best American Essays notable essayist) and Mary Adkins (The Book Incubator founder and HarperCollins novelist) choose a recently published novel or memoir to unpack the craft choices made by the author—which they discuss over four weekly episodes. Together, we'll read and learn from some of the best writers publishing today.
2022-10-0100 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E08 The 3 Most Common Unfounded Fears of WritersThere's plenty for writers to worry about without worrying about the things we DON'T need to be concerned by. In this episode, Mary discusses the three fears writers often have that they don't need to have.
Check out more on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNkf-ON2jDRU1IdB2sb03Jw/featured
2022-09-2920 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E07 5 Steps to Getting a Literary AgentGetting a literary agent was, for Mary, the hardest part of becoming a published author. Here, she breaks down the process into actionable steps.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/tt871Fqw8_s
2022-09-2221 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E06 After You’re Published: 5 SurprisesPublishing your first book mostly feels amazing, but there are a few surprises you may not expect. In this episode, Mary shares 5 of those surprises.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/45eLaVuDC7g
2022-09-1516 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E04 How to Decide What Comes Next in Your NovelYou've started writing...but at 10 or 40 pages in, how do you decide what happens NEXT in your story? In this episode, Mary shares 4 favorite strategies.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/lzr2tPx-zSE
2022-09-0114 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E03 How to Write a Novel (The Complete, Proven Guide)Here it is—Mary's entire process for writing a publishable novel, broken down into 7 steps. You won't want to miss this one.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDIhmteyHSU&ab_channel=MaryAdkins
2022-08-2518 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E02 How I Wrote My First Book (My Personal Journey)It took Mary 99 years to write her first book (well, 6). In this episode, she shares the 3 biggest mistakes she made that she doesn't want you to make...and what to do instead.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJxT-ffg_5k&ab_channel=MaryAdkins
2022-08-1816 minThe First Draft ClubS05 E01 How to Write Compelling DialogueDoes your dialogue sound like a third-grade play? You'll want to get these strategies for writing better dialogue. Here's how Mary makes sure to write the way people actually talk.
Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9aWlbH3vQY&ab_channel=MaryAdkins
2022-08-1114 minThe First Draft ClubBig News from Mary!Mary's novel PALM BEACH is out! Order the book to get free access to a private workshop only for book purchasers—listen to this mini-episode for details.
Check out maryadkinswriter.com. Stay tuned for Season 5 coming THIS FALL!
2021-08-0303 minThe First Draft ClubBig News from Mary!This episode originally aired on 8/3/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary's novel PALM BEACH is out! Order the book to get free access to a private workshop only for book purchasers—listen to this mini-episode for details.
Check out maryadkinswriter.com. Stay tuned for Season 5!
2021-08-0303 minThe First Draft Club10 Hacks for Just Getting StartedThe first blank page is the hardest one to take down. In this episode, Mary offers original 10 hacks for overcoming your demons and getting your book draft underway.
hacks.maryadkinswriter.com
2021-05-0709 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E09 10 Hacks for Just Getting Started [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 5/7/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
The first blank page is the hardest one to take down. In this episode, Mary offers original 10 hacks for overcoming your demons and getting your book draft underway.
hacks.maryadkinswriter.com
2021-05-0709 minThe First Draft ClubYour Best Writing Goals Based on Your Enneagram TypeMary breaks down the 9 Enneagram types and evaluates different writing goals for each one. If you loathe the term "writing goals," you need to listen—you may just need a different kind.
https://tests.enneagraminstitute.com
goals.maryadkinswriter.com
2021-04-3022 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E08 Your Best Writing Goals Based on Your Enneagram Type [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 4/30/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary breaks down the 9 Enneagram types and evaluates different writing goals for each one. If you loathe the term "writing goals," you need to listen—you may just need a different kind.
https://tests.enneagraminstitute.com
goals.maryadkinswriter.com
2021-04-3022 minThe First Draft ClubThe Four Notebooks MethodSee the Reissue episode for updated information on The Four Notebooks Method.
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Mary teaches you her signature method for handwriting your novel or memoir—The Four Notebooks Method—and tells you how you can pre-order her notebook and corresponding system. Check out www.freedownload.maryadkinswriter.com.
2021-04-1616 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E06 The Four Notebooks Method [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 4/16/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary teaches you her signature method for handwriting your novel or memoir—The Four Notebooks Method—and tells you how you can download her notebook template for free. Check out www.freedownload.maryadkinswriter.com.
2021-04-1614 minThe First Draft ClubLet me guess: the idea was better in your head?How do we deal with the fact that our stories, once on paper, are never as good as they were in our minds? Mary offers 3 strategies for handling this situation.
2021-04-0912 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E05 Let me guess: the idea was better in your head? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 4/9/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
How do we deal with the fact that our stories, once on paper, are never as good as they were in our minds? Mary offers 3 strategies for handling this situation.
2021-04-0912 minThe First Draft ClubHow to Write Act 3 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 4 of 4)Mary wraps up a four-episode series on the 3-act structure with a breakdown of her favorite of the three acts, Act 3, and talks about how to find the magic of it in your own writing.
2021-04-0210 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E04 How to Write Act 3 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 4 of 4) [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 4/2/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary wraps up a four-episode series on the 3-act structure with a breakdown of her favorite of the three acts, Act 3, and talks about how to find the magic of it in your own writing.
2021-04-0210 minThe First Draft ClubHow to Write Act 2 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 3 of 4)Mary talks all things Act 2—and, most importantly, gets into why Act 2 isn't a formula but a personal challenge for you, the author.
2021-03-2613 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E03 How to Write Act 2 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 3 of 4) [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 3/26/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary talks all things Act 2—and, most importantly, gets into why Act 2 isn't a formula but a personal challenge for you, the author.
2021-03-2613 minThe First Draft ClubHow to Write Act 1 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 2 of 4)In the second of four parts on the 3-act structure, Mary dives into what we mean by Act 1 and how to break it down into a manageable tool.
2021-03-1908 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E02 How to Write Act 1 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 2 of 4) [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 3/19/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
In the second of four parts on the 3-act structure, Mary dives into what we mean by Act 1 and how to break it down into a manageable tool.
2021-03-1908 minThe First Draft ClubMy Least Annoying and Most Usable Breakdown of the 3-Act Structure (Part 1 of 4)In the first episode of Season 4, Mary kicks off a four-episode series breaking down the 3-act structure...in a way that won't terrify you, turn you off, or make you feel like you're supposed to be writing by formula.
2021-03-1212 minThe First Draft ClubS04 E01 My Least Annoying and Most Usable Breakdown of the 3-Act Structure (Part 1 of 4) [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 3/12/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
In the first episode of Season 4, Mary kicks off a four-episode series breaking down the 3-act structure...in a way that won't terrify you, turn you off, or make you feel like you're supposed to be writing by formula.
2021-03-1212 minThe First Draft ClubHow to Choose a Point of View for Your NovelChoosing a point of view is a critical early step in the novel-writing process. In this episode, Mary talks about how to choose a point of view, and what to look out for in third person. (Video link: https://youtu.be/5Z9l7_YFKMU)
2021-02-2515 minThe First Draft ClubS03 E08 How to Choose a Point of View for Your Novel [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 2/25/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Choosing a point of view is a critical early step in the novel-writing process. In this episode, Mary talks about how to choose a point of view, and what to look out for in third person. (Video link: https://youtu.be/5Z9l7_YFKMU)
2021-02-2515 minThe First Draft ClubHow much can an author expect to make on a book?What's a book advance, how is it paid out, and how do you get a really big one? Mary covers the last taboo in publishing: money. (Video link: https://youtu.be/gcgLvai4wYk)
2021-01-1413 minThe First Draft ClubS03 E02 How much can an author expect to make on a book? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 1/14/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
What's a book advance, how is it paid out, and how do you get a really big one? Mary covers the last taboo in publishing: money. (Video link: https://youtu.be/gcgLvai4wYk)
2021-01-1413 minThe First Draft ClubWhat's a book auction?Mary covers all aspects of selling your book, from getting a literary agent to signing the contract.
2020-12-1115 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E11 What’s a book auction? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 12/11/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary covers all aspects of selling your book, from getting a literary agent to signing the contract.
2020-12-1115 minThe First Draft ClubWhen—and from whom—should I solicit feedback?Feedback is critical, but not until the right time. Ask too early, and it can derail you. In this episode, Mary covers when, who, and how to ask for feedback on your book draft.
2020-12-0412 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E10 When—and from whom—should I solicit feedback? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 12/4/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Feedback is critical, but not until the right time. Ask too early, and it can derail you. In this episode, Mary covers when, who, and how to ask for feedback on your book draft.
2020-12-0412 minThe First Draft ClubHow do I write a solid first draft?Revising is necessary, but not a hundred times. In this episode, Mary talks about how to nail a solid first draft so that revising isn't a nightmare.
2020-11-2711 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E09 How do I write a solid first draft? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 11/27/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Revising is necessary, but not a hundred times. In this episode, Mary talks about how to nail a solid first draft so that revising isn't a nightmare.
2020-11-2711 minThe First Draft ClubHow do I know when my draft is done?In this episode, Mary talks about how to know when a draft is done, and how even after a book is published, she keeps editing.
2020-11-1315 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E07 How do I know when my draft is done? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 11/13/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
In this episode, Mary talks about how to know when a draft is done, and how even after a book is published, she keeps editing.
2020-11-1315 minThe First Draft ClubHow do I write when I feel so insecure?Mary gets trolled, feels insecure, and talks about what insecurity means...and what it doesn't.
2020-10-3010 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E05 How do I write when I feel so insecure? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 10/30/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary gets trolled, feels insecure, and talks about what insecurity means...and what it doesn't.
2020-10-3010 minThe First Draft ClubHow accurate do the real-world places in my novel need to be?In this episode, Mary navigates the murky world of balancing fact and fiction when your fiction is set in a world like our own.
2020-10-2311 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E04 How accurate do the real-world places in my novel need to be? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 10/23/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
In this episode, Mary navigates the murky world of balancing fact and fiction when your fiction is set in a world like our own.
2020-10-2311 minThe First Draft ClubWhen should I hit "pause" on writing to research more?Mary shares her inverted pyramid guide to researching for a novel and talks about why she does all her best research after 3 p.m.
2020-10-1611 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E03 When should I hit “pause” on writing to research more? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 10/16/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Mary shares her inverted pyramid guide to researching for a novel and talks about why she does all her best research after 3 p.m.
2020-10-1611 minThe First Draft ClubIs it bad to start a new book before I finish writing this one?In this episode, Mary talks about juggling projects, following creativity's lead, and The Bachelorette.
2020-10-0909 minThe First Draft ClubS02 E02 Is it bad to start a new book before I finish writing this one? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 10/9/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
In this episode, Mary talks about juggling projects, following creativity's lead, and The Bachelorette.
2020-10-0909 minThe First Draft ClubWhat if I don't know what it is I'm writing?Am I writing a short story or a novel? Am I ready to write my memoir? Mary addresses how to decide, and when the right time is to make the call.
2020-08-0711 minThe First Draft ClubS01 E09 What if I don’t know what it is I’m writing? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 8/7/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Am I writing a short story or a novel? Am I ready to write my memoir? Mary addresses how to decide, and when the right time is to make the call.
2020-08-0711 minThe First Draft ClubHow do I make it through the murky middle?Every writer struggles with the middle. In this episode, Mary shares her favorite tactic for making it through.
2020-07-3112 minThe First Draft ClubS01 E08 How do I make it through the murky middle? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 7/31/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
Every writer struggles with the middle. In this episode, Mary shares her favorite tactic for making it through.
2020-07-3112 minThe First Draft ClubWhat is an inciting incident?A writer asks about that terrifying term "the inciting incident," and Mary gets real in her answer.
2020-07-1011 minThe First Draft ClubS01 E05 What is an inciting incident? [Reissue]This episode originally aired on 7/10/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.
A writer asks about that terrifying term "the inciting incident," and Mary gets real in her answer.
2020-07-1011 min