Simply Write w/ Polly Campbell https://pollycampbell.com en 2022 Polly Campbell Have you always dreamed of writing? Of becoming a published author? Then you are in the right place, because in this podcast Simply Write, veteran magazine writer and author, Polly Campbell offers the kind of practical, behind-the-screens information and inspiration that will help you shape a writing career. We'll go deep into writing technique, mindset, markets, pitches, and the other details you'll need to publish your work and we will talk to bestselling authors about how they get their work done and published and how you can do it too. Join us every Monday when we talk about the craft of writing and the quirks of creating a writer's life. And consider joining the Simply Write community by becoming a subscriber at simplywrite.substack.com where you'll have access to exclusive material and bonus content. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/7b30602e-469a-11ed-887c-073f8e41b22a/image/SW1.png?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Simply Write w/ Polly Campbell https://pollycampbell.com no episodic Listen in as we discuss the craft of writing and the quirks of publishing and creating a successful writing career. Polly Cambell | Electracast Have you always dreamed of writing? Of becoming a published author? Then you are in the right place, because in this podcast Simply Write, veteran magazine writer and author, Polly Campbell offers the kind of practical, behind-the-screens information and inspiration that will help you shape a writing career. We'll go deep into writing technique, mindset, markets, pitches, and the other details you'll need to publish your work and we will talk to bestselling authors about how they get their work done and published and how you can do it too. Join us every Monday when we talk about the craft of writing and the quirks of creating a writer's life. And consider joining the Simply Write community by becoming a subscriber at simplywrite.substack.com where you'll have access to exclusive material and bonus content. Have you always dreamed of writing? Of becoming a published author?

Then you are in the right place, because in this podcast Simply Write, veteran magazine writer and author, Polly Campbell offers the kind of practical, behind-the-screens information and inspiration that will help you shape a writing career.

We'll go deep into writing technique, mindset, markets, pitches, and the other details you'll need to publish your work and we will talk to bestselling authors about how they get their work done and published and how you can do it too.

Join us every Monday when we talk about the craft of writing and the quirks of creating a writer's life.

And consider joining the Simply Write community by becoming a subscriber at simplywrite.substack.com where you'll have access to exclusive material and bonus content.

]]> Polly Cambell p2campbell@comcast.net 459. Spring Storytelling Techniques In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how spring’s creative energy can reignite your writing practice, drawing on research showing how increased daylight boosts mood and cognitive flexibility. She then dives into storytelling as the foundation of effective writing—beyond technique. Polly breaks down essential elements like the hook, inciting incidents, and narrative arcs, emphasizing how strong structure keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. With practical insights and examples, she encourages writers to think big picture: not just how to write, but how to carry a reader through a meaningful experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 11 May 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how spring’s creative energy can reignite your writing practice, drawing on research showing how increased daylight boosts mood and cognitive flexibility. She then dives into storytelling as the foundation of effective writing—beyond technique. Polly breaks down essential elements like the hook, inciting incidents, and narrative arcs, emphasizing how strong structure keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. With practical insights and examples, she encourages writers to think big picture: not just how to write, but how to carry a reader through a meaningful experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how spring’s creative energy can reignite your writing practice, drawing on research showing how increased daylight boosts mood and cognitive flexibility. She then dives into storytelling as the foundation of effective writing—beyond technique. Polly breaks down essential elements like the hook, inciting incidents, and narrative arcs, emphasizing how strong structure keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. With practical insights and examples, she encourages writers to think big picture: not just how to write, but how to carry a reader through a meaningful experience.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1459 no 458. B2B Freelance Content Writer Julie Revelant In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Julie Revelant, a B2B healthcare copywriter, about the real rhythms of freelance writing. Julie shares her path from journalism and TV to a niche, B2B career, and breaks down the difference between content (to inform) and copy (to persuade), and how freelancers can position themselves as a strategic partner. This is a practical, candid look at building a sustainable writing life. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 04 May 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Julie Revelant, a B2B healthcare copywriter, about the real rhythms of freelance writing. Julie shares her path from journalism and TV to a niche, B2B career, and breaks down the difference between content (to inform) and copy (to persuade), and how freelancers can position themselves as a strategic partner. This is a practical, candid look at building a sustainable writing life. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Julie Revelant, a B2B healthcare copywriter, about the real rhythms of freelance writing. Julie shares her path from journalism and TV to a niche, B2B career, and breaks down the difference between content (to inform) and copy (to persuade), and how freelancers can position themselves as a strategic partner. This is a practical, candid look at building a sustainable writing life.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2083 no 357. Better Business Communications If you’re in the business of writing, you’re also in the business of communication. Pitch letters, emails, proposals, cover letters are part of the administration work writers must do. And if you want to write copy and content for a living, you'll need to master the art of the letter. In this episode, we share essential tips for writing clear, authentic, and persuasive copy that connects and communicates your message efficiently and effectively. In business writing, clarity matters more than cleverness. When your reader understands you quickly, they’re far more likely to respond, engage, and say yes. These practical strategies will help you be understood, build trust, and polish your professional writing across platforms and projects. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 31 Mar 2026 21:12:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast If you’re in the business of writing, you’re also in the business of communication. Pitch letters, emails, proposals, cover letters are part of the administration work writers must do. And if you want to write copy and content for a living, you'll need to master the art of the letter. In this episode, we share essential tips for writing clear, authentic, and persuasive copy that connects and communicates your message efficiently and effectively. In business writing, clarity matters more than cleverness. When your reader understands you quickly, they’re far more likely to respond, engage, and say yes. These practical strategies will help you be understood, build trust, and polish your professional writing across platforms and projects. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you’re in the business of writing, you’re also in the business of communication. Pitch letters, emails, proposals, cover letters are part of the administration work writers must do. And if you want to write copy and content for a living, you'll need to master the art of the letter.

In this episode, we share essential tips for writing clear, authentic, and persuasive copy that connects and communicates your message efficiently and effectively. In business writing, clarity matters more than cleverness. When your reader understands you quickly, they’re far more likely to respond, engage, and say yes.

These practical strategies will help you be understood, build trust, and polish your professional writing across platforms and projects.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1707 no 356. Bonnie Buckner Explains How Writers Can Use Their Dreams to Create Dreams, and that soft state when we are between sleep and waking up, can be fertile ground for ideas. In this episode, Polly talks with Bonnie Buckner about how paying attention to dreams, keeping a dream journal, and lingering in that drifting morning mindset can spark insights for writers. Bonnie, the author of The Secret Mind, shares her writing process and explains how dreams are a creative space that can help us access insight and unexpected creative breakthroughs. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Dreams, and that soft state when we are between sleep and waking up, can be fertile ground for ideas. In this episode, Polly talks with Bonnie Buckner about how paying attention to dreams, keeping a dream journal, and lingering in that drifting morning mindset can spark insights for writers. Bonnie, the author of The Secret Mind, shares her writing process and explains how dreams are a creative space that can help us access insight and unexpected creative breakthroughs. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Dreams, and that soft state when we are between sleep and waking up, can be fertile ground for ideas. In this episode, Polly talks with Bonnie Buckner about how paying attention to dreams, keeping a dream journal, and lingering in that drifting morning mindset can spark insights for writers.

Bonnie, the author of The Secret Mind, shares her writing process and explains how dreams are a creative space that can help us access insight and unexpected creative breakthroughs.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2052 no 355. Freelancing 101: Adapt, Hustle, Persist and Enjoy Freelancing has changed a lot since the early days of magazines, brochures, and press releases, but one thing hasn’t changed: writers who want to make a living need more than strong sentences. In this episode, Polly talks about what it really takes to build a freelance writing life today. From defining your services and creating a simple website to pitching editors and connecting with clients, freelancing requires organization, persistence, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Polly also shares practical advice about writing samples, handling rejection, tracking business details, and developing the habit of making things even when there’s no assignment or deadline. Freelance writing can involve articles, blogs, newsletters, podcast scripts, and more. The opportunities are wide, but success comes to writers who show initiative, follow through, and keep writing. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Freelancing has changed a lot since the early days of magazines, brochures, and press releases, but one thing hasn’t changed: writers who want to make a living need more than strong sentences. In this episode, Polly talks about what it really takes to build a freelance writing life today. From defining your services and creating a simple website to pitching editors and connecting with clients, freelancing requires organization, persistence, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Polly also shares practical advice about writing samples, handling rejection, tracking business details, and developing the habit of making things even when there’s no assignment or deadline. Freelance writing can involve articles, blogs, newsletters, podcast scripts, and more. The opportunities are wide, but success comes to writers who show initiative, follow through, and keep writing. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Freelancing has changed a lot since the early days of magazines, brochures, and press releases, but one thing hasn’t changed: writers who want to make a living need more than strong sentences. In this episode, Polly talks about what it really takes to build a freelance writing life today.

From defining your services and creating a simple website to pitching editors and connecting with clients, freelancing requires organization, persistence, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Polly also shares practical advice about writing samples, handling rejection, tracking business details, and developing the habit of making things even when there’s no assignment or deadline.

Freelance writing can involve articles, blogs, newsletters, podcast scripts, and more. The opportunities are wide, but success comes to writers who show initiative, follow through, and keep writing.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2173 no 354. Mark Wilson: From Side Project to Series Author Mark Wilson joins Simply Write with Polly to talk about his debut novel, Full of Beans, a time-traveling detective story, and the steady work it took to bring the book to life. Mark shares how he built the story with detailed outlines on graph paper and wrote during evenings and weekends while holding a demanding day job as a researcher working toward a cure for Rett syndrome. We talk about persistence, building a writing routine, and continuing to write even when you’re unsure where the story is going. Mark also discusses the role of beta readers and professional critiques, and what he learned about point of view and character development through revision. He explains why he chose to publish with a concierge publisher that allowed him to keep creative control while getting professional support for design and marketing. Mark is now at work on the sequel, with plans for a trilogy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Mark Wilson joins Simply Write with Polly to talk about his debut novel, Full of Beans, a time-traveling detective story, and the steady work it took to bring the book to life. Mark shares how he built the story with detailed outlines on graph paper and wrote during evenings and weekends while holding a demanding day job as a researcher working toward a cure for Rett syndrome. We talk about persistence, building a writing routine, and continuing to write even when you’re unsure where the story is going. Mark also discusses the role of beta readers and professional critiques, and what he learned about point of view and character development through revision. He explains why he chose to publish with a concierge publisher that allowed him to keep creative control while getting professional support for design and marketing. Mark is now at work on the sequel, with plans for a trilogy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Author Mark Wilson joins Simply Write with Polly to talk about his debut novel, Full of Beans, a time-traveling detective story, and the steady work it took to bring the book to life. Mark shares how he built the story with detailed outlines on graph paper and wrote during evenings and weekends while holding a demanding day job as a researcher working toward a cure for Rett syndrome.

We talk about persistence, building a writing routine, and continuing to write even when you’re unsure where the story is going. Mark also discusses the role of beta readers and professional critiques, and what he learned about point of view and character development through revision.

He explains why he chose to publish with a concierge publisher that allowed him to keep creative control while getting professional support for design and marketing.

Mark is now at work on the sequel, with plans for a trilogy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1778 no 353. Solid Chapter Summaries and Why You Should Ship Your Work Chapter summaries are the architectural backbone of a strong nonfiction proposal, and in this episode, we talk about their role in your nonfiction book proposal and what a good chapter summary should include. Then we dive into the importance of shipping your work. Writing is powerful when shared, and a regular practice of writing to publish or share with others will uplevel your work. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join us over on Substack at simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Chapter summaries are the architectural backbone of a strong nonfiction proposal, and in this episode, we talk about their role in your nonfiction book proposal and what a good chapter summary should include. Then we dive into the importance of shipping your work. Writing is powerful when shared, and a regular practice of writing to publish or share with others will uplevel your work. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join us over on Substack at simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Chapter summaries are the architectural backbone of a strong nonfiction proposal, and in this episode, we talk about their role in your nonfiction book proposal and what a good chapter summary should include.

Then we dive into the importance of shipping your work. Writing is powerful when shared, and a regular practice of writing to publish or share with others will uplevel your work.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join us over on Substack at simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1939 no 352. Z.S. Diamanti On Writing Fantasy, Creating a Long Career Polly talks with award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti about writing craft, productivity, and the systems that support a long-term creative life. They discuss managing multiple projects, using accountability partners, and protecting focused writing time. Zac shares insights from launching the third book in his Fables of Finlestia series and discusses his Stone & Sky series, along with his approach to outlining, pacing, and balancing intuition with structure in fantasy writing. They also explore the entrepreneurial side of authorship, from direct sales to building sustainable platforms. Learn more at https://zsdiamanti.com For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti about writing craft, productivity, and the systems that support a long-term creative life. They discuss managing multiple projects, using accountability partners, and protecting focused writing time. Zac shares insights from launching the third book in his Fables of Finlestia series and discusses his Stone & Sky series, along with his approach to outlining, pacing, and balancing intuition with structure in fantasy writing. They also explore the entrepreneurial side of authorship, from direct sales to building sustainable platforms. Learn more at https://zsdiamanti.com For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti about writing craft, productivity, and the systems that support a long-term creative life. They discuss managing multiple projects, using accountability partners, and protecting focused writing time.

Zac shares insights from launching the third book in his Fables of Finlestia series and discusses his Stone & Sky series, along with his approach to outlining, pacing, and balancing intuition with structure in fantasy writing.

They also explore the entrepreneurial side of authorship, from direct sales to building sustainable platforms.

Learn more at https://zsdiamanti.com

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2250 no 351. Quirks and Character Building In this episode, we explore how to build character on the page without overexplaining. Objects serve as emotional anchors. Character quirks and behavior under pressure expose character motivation, and character can be revealed through actions, habits, and choices. We talk about it all in this episode. For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode, we explore how to build character on the page without overexplaining. Objects serve as emotional anchors. Character quirks and behavior under pressure expose character motivation, and character can be revealed through actions, habits, and choices. We talk about it all in this episode. For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode, we explore how to build character on the page without overexplaining. Objects serve as emotional anchors. Character quirks and behavior under pressure expose character motivation, and character can be revealed through actions, habits, and choices. We talk about it all in this episode.

For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2054 no 350. Tarot Reader and Astrologist Theresa Reed Talks Writing for Metaphysical Markets This episode of Simply Write features Theresa, a seasoned tarot reader and author with more than 30 years of experience, in a grounded conversation about metaphysical writing and creative practice. Theresa shares how she uses tarot and astrology as tools for personal insight and creative development, including how these practices inform her writing process. We talk about making complex metaphysical ideas accessible to readers, using tarot for character development, and understanding market dynamics within the metaphysical space. Whether you write within this genre or are simply curious about alternative creative tools, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective and practical ideas. In the What's in the Desk segment, Theresa also mentions her Bots by artist Gary Hirsch. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:46:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast This episode of Simply Write features Theresa, a seasoned tarot reader and author with more than 30 years of experience, in a grounded conversation about metaphysical writing and creative practice. Theresa shares how she uses tarot and astrology as tools for personal insight and creative development, including how these practices inform her writing process. We talk about making complex metaphysical ideas accessible to readers, using tarot for character development, and understanding market dynamics within the metaphysical space. Whether you write within this genre or are simply curious about alternative creative tools, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective and practical ideas. In the What's in the Desk segment, Theresa also mentions her Bots by artist Gary Hirsch. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This episode of Simply Write features Theresa, a seasoned tarot reader and author with more than 30 years of experience, in a grounded conversation about metaphysical writing and creative practice. Theresa shares how she uses tarot and astrology as tools for personal insight and creative development, including how these practices inform her writing process. We talk about making complex metaphysical ideas accessible to readers, using tarot for character development, and understanding market dynamics within the metaphysical space. Whether you write within this genre or are simply curious about alternative creative tools, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective and practical ideas.

In the What's in the Desk segment, Theresa also mentions her Bots by artist Gary Hirsch.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1936 no 349. Troubleshooting Tips When the Work Drags In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly we continue our coverage of the elements of a nonfiction book proposal and discuss manuscript specifications and the role of the table of contents. Then the focus shifts to troubleshooting. Polly breaks down how to diagnose what’s really going on when the process feels like a slog and the work dull and slow. Here, we look at mindset, planning, and focus as a way to ease blocks and improve pacing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:38:00 -0000 full 3 49 Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly we continue our coverage of the elements of a nonfiction book proposal and discuss manuscript specifications and the role of the table of contents. Then the focus shifts to troubleshooting. Polly breaks down how to diagnose what’s really going on when the process feels like a slog and the work dull and slow. Here, we look at mindset, planning, and focus as a way to ease blocks and improve pacing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly we continue our coverage of the elements of a nonfiction book proposal and discuss manuscript specifications and the role of the table of contents.

Then the focus shifts to troubleshooting. Polly breaks down how to diagnose what’s really going on when the process feels like a slog and the work dull and slow. Here, we look at mindset, planning, and focus as a way to ease blocks and improve pacing.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1888 no 348. Writing Historical Fiction with Carol Strickland Polly talks with Carol Strickland, art historian, professor, and author, about her shift from nonfiction to historical fiction and what drew her to write about remarkable women. Carol shared the inspiration behind her novel Sparks Fly Up: The Lost Story of Margaret Fuller, which explores the life and work of the influential 19th-century American writer and feminist, and how passion, rigorous research, and imaginative storytelling shape Carol's work. They discussed the writing process, revision, character development, and the challenge of balancing fact with narrative drive. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full 3 48 Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with Carol Strickland, art historian, professor, and author, about her shift from nonfiction to historical fiction and what drew her to write about remarkable women. Carol shared the inspiration behind her novel Sparks Fly Up: The Lost Story of Margaret Fuller, which explores the life and work of the influential 19th-century American writer and feminist, and how passion, rigorous research, and imaginative storytelling shape Carol's work. They discussed the writing process, revision, character development, and the challenge of balancing fact with narrative drive. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with Carol Strickland, art historian, professor, and author, about her shift from nonfiction to historical fiction and what drew her to write about remarkable women. Carol shared the inspiration behind her novel Sparks Fly Up: The Lost Story of Margaret Fuller, which explores the life and work of the influential 19th-century American writer and feminist, and how passion, rigorous research, and imaginative storytelling shape Carol's work.

They discussed the writing process, revision, character development, and the challenge of balancing fact with narrative drive.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1413 no 347. Another Tool for Writers: Intuition Intuition isn’t guesswork. Research shows it’s the fast, unconscious integration of the skills you’ve already built, and it happens more easily when we stop overthinking. In this episode, Polly talks about how to access our writer's intuition and how to use it to find flow and make our writing sessions for satisfying and productive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Intuition isn’t guesswork. Research shows it’s the fast, unconscious integration of the skills you’ve already built, and it happens more easily when we stop overthinking. In this episode, Polly talks about how to access our writer's intuition and how to use it to find flow and make our writing sessions for satisfying and productive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Intuition isn’t guesswork. Research shows it’s the fast, unconscious integration of the skills you’ve already built, and it happens more easily when we stop overthinking. In this episode, Polly talks about how to access our writer's intuition and how to use it to find flow and make our writing sessions for satisfying and productive.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1959 no 346. Build Platform Without Burning Out with Emily Florence Polly digs into what it takes for writers to build a platform today—why it matters, how to start, and how to keep going without burning out, with author and book publicity consultant Emily Florence. Emily explained her approach to sustainable writing and work practice, and how to take consistent, small steps to grow a career. Instead of taking on all social media, writers can focus on a few platforms as a way to genuinely connect with readers now and for future projects. Polly and Emily also discussed local PR, podcast outreach, and practical DIY strategies authors can use at any stage. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly digs into what it takes for writers to build a platform today—why it matters, how to start, and how to keep going without burning out, with author and book publicity consultant Emily Florence. Emily explained her approach to sustainable writing and work practice, and how to take consistent, small steps to grow a career. Instead of taking on all social media, writers can focus on a few platforms as a way to genuinely connect with readers now and for future projects. Polly and Emily also discussed local PR, podcast outreach, and practical DIY strategies authors can use at any stage. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly digs into what it takes for writers to build a platform today—why it matters, how to start, and how to keep going without burning out, with author and book publicity consultant Emily Florence.

Emily explained her approach to sustainable writing and work practice, and how to take consistent, small steps to grow a career.

Instead of taking on all social media, writers can focus on a few platforms as a way to genuinely connect with readers now and for future projects.

Polly and Emily also discussed local PR, podcast outreach, and practical DIY strategies authors can use at any stage.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1749 no 345. Be a Better, Happier Writer This Year To start the New Year, we break down the habits, craft techniques, and mindset shifts Polly uses to elevate her writing and also create a more satisfying writing process. We explore how to read like a writer, build consistent routines, strengthen clarity and style, develop voice, and the importance of revision. And why it's important to find calm in discomfort. Want to have a better, more producitve writing year? Start by behaving like a writer. Today we'll talk about what that means. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join simplywrite.substack.com. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Here are Simply Write show notes under 100 words, tightened for clarity and flow, with your required link included. Simply Write | Episode 345 — Be a Better Writer in 2026 To get better at writing, show up consistently. Read widely, write regularly, study how stories work, and revise with intention. Build habits that support creativity, seek feedback, and practice reading like a writer so you can learn from every page. Embrace discomfort, stay curious, and commit to the work—even on days you don’t feel like it. Plus, in What’s in the Desk, Polly shares insights from Seth Godin’s The Practice. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 06 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full 3 45 Polly Cambell | Electracast To start the New Year, we break down the habits, craft techniques, and mindset shifts Polly uses to elevate her writing and also create a more satisfying writing process. We explore how to read like a writer, build consistent routines, strengthen clarity and style, develop voice, and the importance of revision. And why it's important to find calm in discomfort. Want to have a better, more producitve writing year? Start by behaving like a writer. Today we'll talk about what that means. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join simplywrite.substack.com. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Here are Simply Write show notes under 100 words, tightened for clarity and flow, with your required link included. Simply Write | Episode 345 — Be a Better Writer in 2026 To get better at writing, show up consistently. Read widely, write regularly, study how stories work, and revise with intention. Build habits that support creativity, seek feedback, and practice reading like a writer so you can learn from every page. Embrace discomfort, stay curious, and commit to the work—even on days you don’t feel like it. Plus, in What’s in the Desk, Polly shares insights from Seth Godin’s The Practice. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices To start the New Year, we break down the habits, craft techniques, and mindset shifts Polly uses to elevate her writing and also create a more satisfying writing process.

We explore how to read like a writer, build consistent routines, strengthen clarity and style, develop voice, and the importance of revision. And why it's important to find calm in discomfort.

Want to have a better, more producitve writing year? Start by behaving like a writer. Today we'll talk about what that means.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join simplywrite.substack.com.


For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Here are Simply Write show notes under 100 words, tightened for clarity and flow, with your required link included.

Simply Write | Episode 345 — Be a Better Writer in 2026
To get better at writing, show up consistently. Read widely, write regularly, study how stories work, and revise with intention. Build habits that support creativity, seek feedback, and practice reading like a writer so you can learn from every page. Embrace discomfort, stay curious, and commit to the work—even on days you don’t feel like it. Plus, in What’s in the Desk, Polly shares insights from Seth Godin’s The Practice.
For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1854 no 344. Engineering Your Memoir with Wendy Dale In this episode, Polly talks with memoir coach and author Wendy Dale, whose books include Avoiding Prison and Other Noble Vacation Goals and The Memoir Engineering System. Wendy shares how a deep dive into reading memoir manuscripts shaped her approach to writing and led her to develop seven core principles that help writers avoid common mistakes while still leaving room for creativity. In this chat, Wendy breaks down her system of scenes and transitions and explains how understanding how they work can help us craft a stronger draft. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode, Polly talks with memoir coach and author Wendy Dale, whose books include Avoiding Prison and Other Noble Vacation Goals and The Memoir Engineering System. Wendy shares how a deep dive into reading memoir manuscripts shaped her approach to writing and led her to develop seven core principles that help writers avoid common mistakes while still leaving room for creativity. In this chat, Wendy breaks down her system of scenes and transitions and explains how understanding how they work can help us craft a stronger draft. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode, Polly talks with memoir coach and author Wendy Dale, whose books include Avoiding Prison and Other Noble Vacation Goals and The Memoir Engineering System. Wendy shares how a deep dive into reading memoir manuscripts shaped her approach to writing and led her to develop seven core principles that help writers avoid common mistakes while still leaving room for creativity.

In this chat, Wendy breaks down her system of scenes and transitions and explains how understanding how they work can help us craft a stronger draft.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1816 no 343. The #1 Tip I Offer New Writers, and I Remind Myself Too New writers often ask for tips about how to write and finish their books. Sure, there are plenty of lessons on craft—but the real key is mindset. Writing a book takes persistence. Do what you can to make it easier to keep going: prime your brain to create, find a supportive community, and celebrate your progress along the way. The words will come if you keep showing up. In this episode, Polly covers some ways to make that easier. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast New writers often ask for tips about how to write and finish their books. Sure, there are plenty of lessons on craft—but the real key is mindset. Writing a book takes persistence. Do what you can to make it easier to keep going: prime your brain to create, find a supportive community, and celebrate your progress along the way. The words will come if you keep showing up. In this episode, Polly covers some ways to make that easier. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices New writers often ask for tips about how to write and finish their books. Sure, there are plenty of lessons on craft—but the real key is mindset. Writing a book takes persistence. Do what you can to make it easier to keep going: prime your brain to create, find a supportive community, and celebrate your progress along the way. The words will come if you keep showing up. In this episode, Polly covers some ways to make that easier.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1885 no 342. Author Matty Dalrymple and Creative Control for Indie Authors Polly talks with author and Indie Author Podcast host Matty Dalrymple about today’s changing publishing world and how indie and traditional routes are increasingly overlapping. Matty shares why indie publishing offers creative control, faster timelines, and long-term earning potential, while also noting how traditional publishers are adapting indie strategies. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Author Matty Dalrymple and Creative Control for Indie Authors full Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with author and Indie Author Podcast host Matty Dalrymple about today’s changing publishing world and how indie and traditional routes are increasingly overlapping. Matty shares why indie publishing offers creative control, faster timelines, and long-term earning potential, while also noting how traditional publishers are adapting indie strategies. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with author and Indie Author Podcast host Matty Dalrymple about today’s changing publishing world and how indie and traditional routes are increasingly overlapping. Matty shares why indie publishing offers creative control, faster timelines, and long-term earning potential, while also noting how traditional publishers are adapting indie strategies.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2380 no 341. How Do You Know When the Piece is Done? How do you know when a piece is truly finished? In this episode of Simply Write, we talk through the signs that indicate that drafting and revising are done. Fatigue, intuition, and deadlines all play a part, and often, "good enough" is a good tell. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast How do you know when a piece is truly finished? In this episode of Simply Write, we talk through the signs that indicate that drafting and revising are done. Fatigue, intuition, and deadlines all play a part, and often, "good enough" is a good tell. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you know when a piece is truly finished? In this episode of Simply Write, we talk through the signs that indicate that drafting and revising are done.


Fatigue, intuition, and deadlines all play a part, and often, "good enough" is a good tell.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1789 no 340. Alma Katsu: The Making and Marketing of Thriller and Horror Books Award-winning novelist Alma Katsu joins Polly to talk about writing across genres, the intersection of real life and fiction, and how her years in intelligence work have shaped her thrillers. Alma shares insights on building tension, creating layered characters, and why writing horror doesn’t always mean blood and gore. They also discuss what it takes to sustain a long writing career, how to stay curious, and why consistency—not perfection—is what keeps writers improving and publishing. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full 3 40 Polly Cambell | Electracast Award-winning novelist Alma Katsu joins Polly to talk about writing across genres, the intersection of real life and fiction, and how her years in intelligence work have shaped her thrillers. Alma shares insights on building tension, creating layered characters, and why writing horror doesn’t always mean blood and gore. They also discuss what it takes to sustain a long writing career, how to stay curious, and why consistency—not perfection—is what keeps writers improving and publishing. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Award-winning novelist Alma Katsu joins Polly to talk about writing across genres, the intersection of real life and fiction, and how her years in intelligence work have shaped her thrillers. Alma shares insights on building tension, creating layered characters, and why writing horror doesn’t always mean blood and gore.

They also discuss what it takes to sustain a long writing career, how to stay curious, and why consistency—not perfection—is what keeps writers improving and publishing.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2218 no 339. Writing Success on Your Terms What if success wasn’t about external recognition and reward but alignment? Research shows our sense of success is shaped by our environment, but satisfaction comes when it matches our core values. In today's episode, Polly explores what it means to be a successful writer and how we can define success in a way that helps us improve, persist, and feel good about our work. When we our mindful of our values, sphere of influence, writing possibilities can open up. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full 3 39 Polly Cambell | Electracast What if success wasn’t about external recognition and reward but alignment? Research shows our sense of success is shaped by our environment, but satisfaction comes when it matches our core values. In today's episode, Polly explores what it means to be a successful writer and how we can define success in a way that helps us improve, persist, and feel good about our work. When we our mindful of our values, sphere of influence, writing possibilities can open up. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What if success wasn’t about external recognition and reward but alignment? Research shows our sense of success is shaped by our environment, but satisfaction comes when it matches our core values.

In today's episode, Polly explores what it means to be a successful writer and how we can define success in a way that helps us improve, persist, and feel good about our work.

When we our mindful of our values, sphere of influence, writing possibilities can open up.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2225 no 338. From Law to Literature: Kathleen Barber on Momentum, Endings, and the Writing Life Author Kathleen Barber joins Polly Campbell to talk about her transition from corporate law to full-time writing and the release of her new book, Both Things Are True. Kathleen shares how her structured writing routine helps her balance family, book coaching, and writing. She and Polly dive into the pros and cons of shifting from one business into the writing business, the solitude of storytelling, and the challenges of marketing books. Kathleen also reflects on her shift from suspense to romance, explaining why both genres require “earned” endings to satisfy readers. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000 From Law to Literature: Kathleen Barber on Momentum, Endings, and the Writing Life full 3 38 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Kathleen Barber joins Polly Campbell to talk about her transition from corporate law to full-time writing and the release of her new book, Both Things Are True. Kathleen shares how her structured writing routine helps her balance family, book coaching, and writing. She and Polly dive into the pros and cons of shifting from one business into the writing business, the solitude of storytelling, and the challenges of marketing books. Kathleen also reflects on her shift from suspense to romance, explaining why both genres require “earned” endings to satisfy readers. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Author Kathleen Barber joins Polly Campbell to talk about her transition from corporate law to full-time writing and the release of her new book, Both Things Are True. Kathleen shares how her structured writing routine helps her balance family, book coaching, and writing.

She and Polly dive into the pros and cons of shifting from one business into the writing business, the solitude of storytelling, and the challenges of marketing books.

Kathleen also reflects on her shift from suspense to romance, explaining why both genres require “earned” endings to satisfy readers.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1849 no 337. Scene Building Tips and the Nonfiction Proposal Overview Polly is working on a nonfiction proposal, and beginning this week, she'll explain her process and the role the Overview plays in the proposal. Then tune in every two weeks as Polly shares another key element of the proposal she's working on and how you can create your own to sell a nonfiction book. In the craft half of the podcast, we talk about scene building. What scenes are, what they must do, and how to build them. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, join our Simply Write community at: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Scene Building Tips and the Nonfiction Proposal Overview full 3 37 Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly is working on a nonfiction proposal, and beginning this week, she'll explain her process and the role the Overview plays in the proposal. Then tune in every two weeks as Polly shares another key element of the proposal she's working on and how you can create your own to sell a nonfiction book. In the craft half of the podcast, we talk about scene building. What scenes are, what they must do, and how to build them. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, join our Simply Write community at: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly is working on a nonfiction proposal, and beginning this week, she'll explain her process and the role the Overview plays in the proposal.

Then tune in every two weeks as Polly shares another key element of the proposal she's working on and how you can create your own to sell a nonfiction book.

In the craft half of the podcast, we talk about scene building. What scenes are, what they must do, and how to build them.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, join our Simply Write community at: https://simplywrite.substack.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1908 no 336. From Engineer to Novelist: Alan Orloff on Writing with Discipline and Passion Former nuclear engineer turned novelist Alan Orloff joins Polly Campbell to talk about his path from short stories to published books. Alan shares how discipline and persistence shaped his writing process, why following your passions matters, and how inspiration often comes from unexpected places. He also opens up about the realities of publishing—the rejections, the surprises, and the highly subjective nature of reviews and decisions. From crime fiction to horror and YA, Alan has explored many genres, always guided by curiosity and enthusiasm. He and Polly discuss the importance of finishing drafts, staying authentic, and finding joy in the work, whether it’s a novel or short story. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000 From Engineer to Novelist: Alan Orloff on Writing with Discipline and Passion full 3 36 Polly Cambell | Electracast Former nuclear engineer turned novelist Alan Orloff joins Polly Campbell to talk about his path from short stories to published books. Alan shares how discipline and persistence shaped his writing process, why following your passions matters, and how inspiration often comes from unexpected places. He also opens up about the realities of publishing—the rejections, the surprises, and the highly subjective nature of reviews and decisions. From crime fiction to horror and YA, Alan has explored many genres, always guided by curiosity and enthusiasm. He and Polly discuss the importance of finishing drafts, staying authentic, and finding joy in the work, whether it’s a novel or short story. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Former nuclear engineer turned novelist Alan Orloff joins Polly Campbell to talk about his path from short stories to published books. Alan shares how discipline and persistence shaped his writing process, why following your passions matters, and how inspiration often comes from unexpected places. He also opens up about the realities of publishing—the rejections, the surprises, and the highly subjective nature of reviews and decisions.

From crime fiction to horror and YA, Alan has explored many genres, always guided by curiosity and enthusiasm. He and Polly discuss the importance of finishing drafts, staying authentic, and finding joy in the work, whether it’s a novel or short story.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1862 no 335. The Big Opening and How to Write One How do you hook a reader from the very first line? Whether you’re writing an essay, article, or book, the opening does more than start the piece—it’s the invitation that convinces your reader to come along. In this episode of Simply Write, we talk about what a strong opening should do and how to craft one that makes readers lean in. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000 The Big Opening and How to Write One full 3 35 Polly Cambell | Electracast How do you hook a reader from the very first line? Whether you’re writing an essay, article, or book, the opening does more than start the piece—it’s the invitation that convinces your reader to come along. In this episode of Simply Write, we talk about what a strong opening should do and how to craft one that makes readers lean in. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you hook a reader from the very first line? Whether you’re writing an essay, article, or book, the opening does more than start the piece—it’s the invitation that convinces your reader to come along. In this episode of Simply Write, we talk about what a strong opening should do and how to craft one that makes readers lean in.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1691 334. Teaching, Storytelling, and Terri Lilga’s Author's Journey On this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with children’s author and retired teacher Terri Lilga about her creative journey from the classroom to the bookshelf. Terri shares how her years teaching second grade and working in gifted education shaped her approach to storytelling, character, and problem-solving in her books. Her latest release, There’s a Hubbard in My Cupboard, follows her debut Santa’s Simon, and both highlight her love of playful language, rhyme, and imaginative problem-solving. Terri also offers a candid look at the realities of publishing and marketing children’s books, the rewards of engaging with young readers, and the importance of making literature accessible to all. If you’ve ever wondered how everyday experiences can spark story ideas—or what it takes to bring a children’s book to life—this conversation is full of encouragement and insight. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Teaching, Storytelling, and Terri Lilga’s Author's Journey full 3 34 Polly Cambell | Electracast On this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with children’s author and retired teacher Terri Lilga about her creative journey from the classroom to the bookshelf. Terri shares how her years teaching second grade and working in gifted education shaped her approach to storytelling, character, and problem-solving in her books. Her latest release, There’s a Hubbard in My Cupboard, follows her debut Santa’s Simon, and both highlight her love of playful language, rhyme, and imaginative problem-solving. Terri also offers a candid look at the realities of publishing and marketing children’s books, the rewards of engaging with young readers, and the importance of making literature accessible to all. If you’ve ever wondered how everyday experiences can spark story ideas—or what it takes to bring a children’s book to life—this conversation is full of encouragement and insight. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices On this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with children’s author and retired teacher Terri Lilga about her creative journey from the classroom to the bookshelf. Terri shares how her years teaching second grade and working in gifted education shaped her approach to storytelling, character, and problem-solving in her books.

Her latest release, There’s a Hubbard in My Cupboard, follows her debut Santa’s Simon, and both highlight her love of playful language, rhyme, and imaginative problem-solving. Terri also offers a candid look at the realities of publishing and marketing children’s books, the rewards of engaging with young readers, and the importance of making literature accessible to all.

If you’ve ever wondered how everyday experiences can spark story ideas—or what it takes to bring a children’s book to life—this conversation is full of encouragement and insight.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2258 no 333. Pantsing, Plotting or a Little of Both? Hello Writers, had some technical issues with ad placement and sound quality last week, which a listener alerted me to. Thank You. I've cleaned that up and reissued this show for easier listening. Hope you enjoy and tune in next week for another new author Interview. In this episode of Simply Write, we’re talking pantsing (writing by the seat of your pants) and plotting (planning before you write)—two different methods of writing. Plotting gives you structure, helps avoid plot holes, and keeps you on track, especially with complex stories. Pantsing, on the other hand, fuels creativity, surprise, and discovery as you follow the story wherever it leads. Most writers like me, land somewhere in between, blending structure with spontaneity. Whether you outline, free-write, or mix the two, the best method is the one that keeps you writing—and enjoying the process. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 08 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Hello Writers, had some technical issues with ad placement and sound quality last week, which a listener alerted me to. Thank You. I've cleaned that up and reissued this show for easier listening. Hope you enjoy and tune in next week for another new author Interview. In this episode of Simply Write, we’re talking pantsing (writing by the seat of your pants) and plotting (planning before you write)—two different methods of writing. Plotting gives you structure, helps avoid plot holes, and keeps you on track, especially with complex stories. Pantsing, on the other hand, fuels creativity, surprise, and discovery as you follow the story wherever it leads. Most writers like me, land somewhere in between, blending structure with spontaneity. Whether you outline, free-write, or mix the two, the best method is the one that keeps you writing—and enjoying the process. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hello Writers, had some technical issues with ad placement and sound quality last week, which a listener alerted me to. Thank You. I've cleaned that up and reissued this show for easier listening. Hope you enjoy and tune in next week for another new author Interview.

In this episode of Simply Write, we’re talking pantsing (writing by the seat of your pants) and plotting (planning before you write)—two different methods of writing.

Plotting gives you structure, helps avoid plot holes, and keeps you on track, especially with complex stories. Pantsing, on the other hand, fuels creativity, surprise, and discovery as you follow the story wherever it leads.

Most writers like me, land somewhere in between, blending structure with spontaneity.

Whether you outline, free-write, or mix the two, the best method is the one that keeps you writing—and enjoying the process.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠.



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1375 no 332. Toni McLellan Talks Content and the Recipe for Her Writing Dessert Polly and Toni dive deep into the twists and turns of their creative careers—navigating parenting, COVID, content writing, and shifting publishing trends—while reflecting on what it takes to stay adaptable and inspired in today’s writing world. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 28 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly and Toni dive deep into the twists and turns of their creative careers—navigating parenting, COVID, content writing, and shifting publishing trends—while reflecting on what it takes to stay adaptable and inspired in today’s writing world. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly and Toni dive deep into the twists and turns of their creative careers—navigating parenting, COVID, content writing, and shifting publishing trends—while reflecting on what it takes to stay adaptable and inspired in today’s writing world.

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2517 no 331. Making Story From Details of Life The most powerful stories often begin with your own experiences. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how writers can mine their daily lives—memories, emotions, and everyday moments—for rich, compelling story material. Whether you're crafting personal essays, memoirs, or fiction, your unique perspective is your greatest asset. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full Polly Cambell | Electracast The most powerful stories often begin with your own experiences. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how writers can mine their daily lives—memories, emotions, and everyday moments—for rich, compelling story material. Whether you're crafting personal essays, memoirs, or fiction, your unique perspective is your greatest asset. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The most powerful stories often begin with your own experiences. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly explores how writers can mine their daily lives—memories, emotions, and everyday moments—for rich, compelling story material. Whether you're crafting personal essays, memoirs, or fiction, your unique perspective is your greatest asset.


For more on writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1759 no 330. Glyn Vincent: The Making of a Memoir What does it take to turn a real-life journey into a story readers can’t put down? In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with writer Glyn about how a harrowing transatlantic sailing trip tied in with his family history to spark his memoir, Crossing, and what it takes to shape memory into narrative. He talks about the power of taking careful notes—like the daily entries he made in a logbook while at sea—and how those observations became the backbone of his writing. Polly and Glyn dive into the importance of small details, the tension that keeps readers turning pages, and the craft of choosing what to include and what to let go. How do you find the thread that ties your memories together? And how do you strike the balance between truth and storytelling? This episode offers insight, inspiration, and permission to slow down and write with intention. For more on Glyn Vincent and his book Crossing, go to https://www.glynvincent.com/ Join our Simply Write community and get in touch with Polly at Simply Write w/Polly on Substack: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 14 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Glyn Vincent: The Making of a Memoir full 3 30 Polly Cambell | Electracast What does it take to turn a real-life journey into a story readers can’t put down? In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with writer Glyn about how a harrowing transatlantic sailing trip tied in with his family history to spark his memoir, Crossing, and what it takes to shape memory into narrative. He talks about the power of taking careful notes—like the daily entries he made in a logbook while at sea—and how those observations became the backbone of his writing. Polly and Glyn dive into the importance of small details, the tension that keeps readers turning pages, and the craft of choosing what to include and what to let go. How do you find the thread that ties your memories together? And how do you strike the balance between truth and storytelling? This episode offers insight, inspiration, and permission to slow down and write with intention. For more on Glyn Vincent and his book Crossing, go to https://www.glynvincent.com/ Join our Simply Write community and get in touch with Polly at Simply Write w/Polly on Substack: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What does it take to turn a real-life journey into a story readers can’t put down? In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with writer Glyn about how a harrowing transatlantic sailing trip tied in with his family history to spark his memoir, Crossing, and what it takes to shape memory into narrative.

He talks about the power of taking careful notes—like the daily entries he made in a logbook while at sea—and how those observations became the backbone of his writing. Polly and Glyn dive into the importance of small details, the tension that keeps readers turning pages, and the craft of choosing what to include and what to let go.

How do you find the thread that ties your memories together? And how do you strike the balance between truth and storytelling? This episode offers insight, inspiration, and permission to slow down and write with intention.

For more on Glyn Vincent and his book Crossing, go to https://www.glynvincent.com/

Join our Simply Write community and get in touch with Polly at Simply Write w/Polly on Substack: https://simplywrite.substack.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2003 no 329. Writers It's OK to Chill Out To get the writing done, we must show up consistently and keep working—even when it feels difficult. But if we don’t take care of the other parts of our lives or step back when things become too overwhelming, the writing won’t matter anyway. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly Campbell explores how this paradox plays out in her own life and explains why trying too hard can actually stall your creative momentum—and what to do instead. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 07 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Writers It's OK to Chill Out full 3 29 Polly Cambell | Electracast To get the writing done, we must show up consistently and keep working—even when it feels difficult. But if we don’t take care of the other parts of our lives or step back when things become too overwhelming, the writing won’t matter anyway. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly Campbell explores how this paradox plays out in her own life and explains why trying too hard can actually stall your creative momentum—and what to do instead. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices To get the writing done, we must show up consistently and keep working—even when it feels difficult. But if we don’t take care of the other parts of our lives or step back when things become too overwhelming, the writing won’t matter anyway. In this episode of Simply Write, Polly Campbell explores how this paradox plays out in her own life and explains why trying too hard can actually stall your creative momentum—and what to do instead. For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com⁠.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2150 no 328. Writer's Digest EIC Amy Jones: Writing, Editing, and AI In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Amy Jones, Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest Magazine, about how the 105-year-old magazine keeps writing fresh, what the role of an editor is, and the differences between writing and editing. Amy also shares tips writers can use to submit to the magazine and talks about how AI is changing the way editors work--and what that means for writers. Also, it's time to register for the upcoming Writer's Digest Annual Conference. Go to https://writersdigestconference.com/ For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 30 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Writer's Digest EIC Amy Jones: Writing, Editing, and AI full 3 28 Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Amy Jones, Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest Magazine, about how the 105-year-old magazine keeps writing fresh, what the role of an editor is, and the differences between writing and editing. Amy also shares tips writers can use to submit to the magazine and talks about how AI is changing the way editors work--and what that means for writers. Also, it's time to register for the upcoming Writer's Digest Annual Conference. Go to https://writersdigestconference.com/ For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Simply Write, Polly talks with Amy Jones, Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest Magazine, about how the 105-year-old magazine keeps writing fresh, what the role of an editor is, and the differences between writing and editing.

Amy also shares tips writers can use to submit to the magazine and talks about how AI is changing the way editors work--and what that means for writers.

Also, it's time to register for the upcoming Writer's Digest Annual Conference. Go to https://writersdigestconference.com/

For more on writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join us at ⁠simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2478 no 327. Motivation Reset Ever feel like you want to write, but just can’t get started? This episode is your motivation reset. Learn why action beats inspiration, how Skinner’s Law can get you unstuck, and simple tricks to outsmart your resistance. Get your gear ready. Make a plan. Let’s write—one small win at a time. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life join us on Simply Write https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Motivation Reset full 3 27 Polly Cambell | Electracast Ever feel like you want to write, but just can’t get started? This episode is your motivation reset. Learn why action beats inspiration, how Skinner’s Law can get you unstuck, and simple tricks to outsmart your resistance. Get your gear ready. Make a plan. Let’s write—one small win at a time. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life join us on Simply Write https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Ever feel like you want to write, but just can’t get started? This episode is your motivation reset. Learn why action beats inspiration, how Skinner’s Law can get you unstuck, and simple tricks to outsmart your resistance. Get your gear ready. Make a plan. Let’s write—one small win at a time.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life join us on Simply Write https://simplywrite.substack.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2123 no 326. Building a Nonfiction Book: Tips from Dr. Jennifer Dorsey Jennifer Dorsey, an expert in nonfiction publishing, discussed the value of writing nonfiction books for establishing credibility and elevating one's brand, while sharing insights into her typical workday as a developmental editor and publisher. She emphasized the importance of having professional credibility and a clear marketing plan when writing nonfiction books, recommending authors to consider their reader avatars and evaluate the need for their book. If you are thinking about writing a nonfiction book, start here. Find Jennifer Dorsey and her book, From Pitch to Print: The Non-Fiction Writer’s 10-Step Plan to Getting Published at https://drjendorsey.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Building a Nonfiction Book: Tips from Dr. Jennifer Dorsey full 3 26 Polly Cambell | Electracast Jennifer Dorsey, an expert in nonfiction publishing, discussed the value of writing nonfiction books for establishing credibility and elevating one's brand, while sharing insights into her typical workday as a developmental editor and publisher. She emphasized the importance of having professional credibility and a clear marketing plan when writing nonfiction books, recommending authors to consider their reader avatars and evaluate the need for their book. If you are thinking about writing a nonfiction book, start here. Find Jennifer Dorsey and her book, From Pitch to Print: The Non-Fiction Writer’s 10-Step Plan to Getting Published at https://drjendorsey.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Jennifer Dorsey, an expert in nonfiction publishing, discussed the value of writing nonfiction books for establishing credibility and elevating one's brand, while sharing insights into her typical workday as a developmental editor and publisher. She emphasized the importance of having professional credibility and a clear marketing plan when writing nonfiction books, recommending authors to consider their reader avatars and evaluate the need for their book.

If you are thinking about writing a nonfiction book, start here.

Find Jennifer Dorsey and her book, From Pitch to Print: The Non-Fiction Writer’s 10-Step Plan to Getting Published at https://drjendorsey.com

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1842 no 325. How to Take Notes, Feedback Without Losing Your Confidence and Your Mind Writing should be shared, which means dealing with feedback — the helpful, the harsh, and everything in between. In this episode, Polly talks about how to handle criticism without losing your creative voice. You’ll learn how to filter advice, recognize useful patterns, and know when to revise or stand firm. We’ll also explore how to stay grounded in your purpose and bounce back from tough notes with more clarity and confidence. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe at: simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 How to Take Notes, Feedback Without Losing Your Confidence and Your Mind full 3 25 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing should be shared, which means dealing with feedback — the helpful, the harsh, and everything in between. In this episode, Polly talks about how to handle criticism without losing your creative voice. You’ll learn how to filter advice, recognize useful patterns, and know when to revise or stand firm. We’ll also explore how to stay grounded in your purpose and bounce back from tough notes with more clarity and confidence. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe at: simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing should be shared, which means dealing with feedback — the helpful, the harsh, and everything in between. In this episode, Polly talks about how to handle criticism without losing your creative voice.

You’ll learn how to filter advice, recognize useful patterns, and know when to revise or stand firm. We’ll also explore how to stay grounded in your purpose and bounce back from tough notes with more clarity and confidence.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe at: simplywrite.substack.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2406 no 324. Janis Thomas: Character is the Secret to Compelling Story In this episode, author Janis Thomas joins Polly to talk about her lifelong love of writing and the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire. Janis shares how she began writing at a young age and how her stories aim to offer readers escape, comfort, and hope--even when writing domestic suspense. When it comes to craft, Thomas says the best stories come from character and the conflicts they face and the lessons they need to learn. Subscribe to Simply Write on Substack for more tips and inspiration at https://simplywrite.substack.com 🔗 Learn more about Janis Thomas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Character is the Secret to Compelling Story full 3 24 Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode, author Janis Thomas joins Polly to talk about her lifelong love of writing and the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire. Janis shares how she began writing at a young age and how her stories aim to offer readers escape, comfort, and hope--even when writing domestic suspense. When it comes to craft, Thomas says the best stories come from character and the conflicts they face and the lessons they need to learn. Subscribe to Simply Write on Substack for more tips and inspiration at https://simplywrite.substack.com 🔗 Learn more about Janis Thomas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode, author Janis Thomas joins Polly to talk about her lifelong love of writing and the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire. Janis shares how she began writing at a young age and how her stories aim to offer readers escape, comfort, and hope--even when writing domestic suspense.

When it comes to craft, Thomas says the best stories come from character and the conflicts they face and the lessons they need to learn.

Subscribe to Simply Write on Substack for more tips and inspiration at https://simplywrite.substack.com


🔗 Learn more about Janis Thomas

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2024 no 323. The Write Goal: Get What You Want From Your Writing Show Notes: Simply Write with Polly Campbell – Episode: Build the Writing Life You Want You don’t need a book deal or a side hustle to call yourself a writer. In this episode, Polly explores the heart of the writing life — one rooted in curiosity, expression, and personal growth. Whether you’re journaling, storytelling, or simply trying to make sense of the world, writing is enough. We’ll talk about the importance of asking why you write, how to focus on the writing itself (not just the outcomes), and how to build a practice that fits your life — not someone else’s expectations. You’ll hear why writing is a skill to build, how it can transform your emotional and creative well-being, and how small, intentional steps lead to lasting growth. Forget the pressure to publish. Come back to the page. Because the real power? It’s in the writing. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 26 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000 The Write Goal: Get What You Want From Your Writing full 3 23 Polly Cambell | Electracast Show Notes: Simply Write with Polly Campbell – Episode: Build the Writing Life You Want You don’t need a book deal or a side hustle to call yourself a writer. In this episode, Polly explores the heart of the writing life — one rooted in curiosity, expression, and personal growth. Whether you’re journaling, storytelling, or simply trying to make sense of the world, writing is enough. We’ll talk about the importance of asking why you write, how to focus on the writing itself (not just the outcomes), and how to build a practice that fits your life — not someone else’s expectations. You’ll hear why writing is a skill to build, how it can transform your emotional and creative well-being, and how small, intentional steps lead to lasting growth. Forget the pressure to publish. Come back to the page. Because the real power? It’s in the writing. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Show Notes: Simply Write with Polly Campbell – Episode: Build the Writing Life You Want

You don’t need a book deal or a side hustle to call yourself a writer. In this episode, Polly explores the heart of the writing life — one rooted in curiosity, expression, and personal growth. Whether you’re journaling, storytelling, or simply trying to make sense of the world, writing is enough.

We’ll talk about the importance of asking why you write, how to focus on the writing itself (not just the outcomes), and how to build a practice that fits your life — not someone else’s expectations. You’ll hear why writing is a skill to build, how it can transform your emotional and creative well-being, and how small, intentional steps lead to lasting growth.

Forget the pressure to publish. Come back to the page. Because the real power? It’s in the writing.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at simplywrite.substack.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2212 no 322. Novelist: Ellen Meister on Enjoying the Challenge Author Ellen Meister's newest book Joyride was in a drawer for years, before she came back to it and finished the novel. In this compelling episode, Meister explains why she couldn't let go of the book, her process for plotting, how she experimented with POV and voice before deciding on her narrator, and why she loves a good writing challenge. Join our Simply Write community for more writing inspiration: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 19 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Novelist: Ellen Meister on Enjoying the Challenge full 3 24 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Ellen Meister's newest book Joyride was in a drawer for years, before she came back to it and finished the novel. In this compelling episode, Meister explains why she couldn't let go of the book, her process for plotting, how she experimented with POV and voice before deciding on her narrator, and why she loves a good writing challenge. Join our Simply Write community for more writing inspiration: https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Author Ellen Meister's newest book Joyride was in a drawer for years, before she came back to it and finished the novel. In this compelling episode, Meister explains why she couldn't let go of the book, her process for plotting, how she experimented with POV and voice before deciding on her narrator, and why she loves a good writing challenge.


Join our Simply Write community for more writing inspiration: https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2260 no 321. Ease Friction, Have Fun Writing Again Writing can be fun, meaningful, energizing. But it certainly isn't easy and often we make it harder than it needs to be. In this episode, I’m talking about the friction points that get in the way of our writing and our joy and how we can move through them with more ease. Whether it’s scheduling conflicts, self-doubt, or the distractions that drain your focus, identifying what’s not working can help you create a writing practice that actually supports your goals—and feels good, too. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Ease Friction, Have Fun Writing Again full 3 21 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing can be fun, meaningful, energizing. But it certainly isn't easy and often we make it harder than it needs to be. In this episode, I’m talking about the friction points that get in the way of our writing and our joy and how we can move through them with more ease. Whether it’s scheduling conflicts, self-doubt, or the distractions that drain your focus, identifying what’s not working can help you create a writing practice that actually supports your goals—and feels good, too. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing can be fun, meaningful, energizing. But it certainly isn't easy and often we make it harder than it needs to be. In this episode, I’m talking about the friction points that get in the way of our writing and our joy and how we can move through them with more ease.

Whether it’s scheduling conflicts, self-doubt, or the distractions that drain your focus, identifying what’s not working can help you create a writing practice that actually supports your goals—and feels good, too.


For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1749 no 320. Ann Garvin: "You Just Have to Keep Going" For USA Today bestselling author Ann Garvin, the story often starts with the peccadillo—the thing she's been working on her whole life--and then she has her characters confront it too. The result? Relatable, engaging characters and six books. In this insightful and lively episode, Author Ann Garvin shares how she builds compelling characters, writes with ADHD, and why empathy is at the heart of every great story. She also dives into how her writing process has evolved throughout her career. If you’re working on a novel—or just love a good story—this is a must-listen! Find Ann and her books at anngarvin.com. For more on writing and the writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 05 May 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Ann Garvin: "You Just Have to Keep Going" full 3 22 Polly Cambell | Electracast For USA Today bestselling author Ann Garvin, the story often starts with the peccadillo—the thing she's been working on her whole life--and then she has her characters confront it too. The result? Relatable, engaging characters and six books. In this insightful and lively episode, Author Ann Garvin shares how she builds compelling characters, writes with ADHD, and why empathy is at the heart of every great story. She also dives into how her writing process has evolved throughout her career. If you’re working on a novel—or just love a good story—this is a must-listen! Find Ann and her books at anngarvin.com. For more on writing and the writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices For USA Today bestselling author Ann Garvin, the story often starts with the peccadillo—the thing she's been working on her whole life--and then she has her characters confront it too. The result? Relatable, engaging characters and six books.


In this insightful and lively episode, Author Ann Garvin shares how she builds compelling characters, writes with ADHD, and why empathy is at the heart of every great story. She also dives into how her writing process has evolved throughout her career. If you’re working on a novel—or just love a good story—this is a must-listen!


Find Ann and her books at anngarvin.com.

For more on writing and the writer’s life, join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2306 no 319. Writing With Spring Energy How do the seasons influence your creativity? In this episode we explore how seasonal changes impact our energy, emotions, and creative flow. From spring’s burst of inspiration to summer’s social buzz, fall’s introspective depth, and winter’s reflective quiet, each season offers unique creative opportunities. Learn how to harness these natural rhythms to fuel your writing and artistic projects. Don’t fight the seasons—flow with them! For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply, Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Writing With Spring Energy full Polly Cambell | Electracast How do the seasons influence your creativity? In this episode we explore how seasonal changes impact our energy, emotions, and creative flow. From spring’s burst of inspiration to summer’s social buzz, fall’s introspective depth, and winter’s reflective quiet, each season offers unique creative opportunities. Learn how to harness these natural rhythms to fuel your writing and artistic projects. Don’t fight the seasons—flow with them! For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply, Write community at simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do the seasons influence your creativity? In this episode we explore how seasonal changes impact our energy, emotions, and creative flow. From spring’s burst of inspiration to summer’s social buzz, fall’s introspective depth, and winter’s reflective quiet, each season offers unique creative opportunities. Learn how to harness these natural rhythms to fuel your writing and artistic projects. Don’t fight the seasons—flow with them!

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer’s life, join the Simply, Write community at simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1709 no 318. Jane Friedman: The Work of a Writer-Entrepreneur If you want to publish your work and build a sustainable writing career, you need to develop not only your writing skills but also your entrepreneurial savvy to thrive in today’s creator economy. That’s the advice of Jane Friedman—publishing expert, sought-after speaker, and author of The Business of Being a Writer, Second Edition. In this special show, Friedman discusses the concept of platform and lived platform, emphasizing that writers don’t need to approach social media like a Fortune 500 company to succeed. Instead, she shares practical strategies for choosing the right marketing channels to build a reader funnel and attract the right audience to your work. Friedman also explains why authors should evaluate each project independently to determine the best publishing route. “Nothing is static,” she says. What worked for one book may not be the best fit for the next. She encourages writers to consider all publishing options with an open mind rather than limiting themselves to a single view of publishing. For more wisdom from Jane Friedman, visit janefriedman.com. And for more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, check out Simply Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Jane Friedman: The Work of a Writer-Entrepreneur full 3 18 Polly Cambell | Electracast If you want to publish your work and build a sustainable writing career, you need to develop not only your writing skills but also your entrepreneurial savvy to thrive in today’s creator economy. That’s the advice of Jane Friedman—publishing expert, sought-after speaker, and author of The Business of Being a Writer, Second Edition. In this special show, Friedman discusses the concept of platform and lived platform, emphasizing that writers don’t need to approach social media like a Fortune 500 company to succeed. Instead, she shares practical strategies for choosing the right marketing channels to build a reader funnel and attract the right audience to your work. Friedman also explains why authors should evaluate each project independently to determine the best publishing route. “Nothing is static,” she says. What worked for one book may not be the best fit for the next. She encourages writers to consider all publishing options with an open mind rather than limiting themselves to a single view of publishing. For more wisdom from Jane Friedman, visit janefriedman.com. And for more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, check out Simply Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you want to publish your work and build a sustainable writing career, you need to develop not only your writing skills but also your entrepreneurial savvy to thrive in today’s creator economy. That’s the advice of Jane Friedman—publishing expert, sought-after speaker, and author of The Business of Being a Writer, Second Edition.


In this special show, Friedman discusses the concept of platform and lived platform, emphasizing that writers don’t need to approach social media like a Fortune 500 company to succeed. Instead, she shares practical strategies for choosing the right marketing channels to build a reader funnel and attract the right audience to your work.


Friedman also explains why authors should evaluate each project independently to determine the best publishing route.


“Nothing is static,” she says. What worked for one book may not be the best fit for the next. She encourages writers to consider all publishing options with an open mind rather than limiting themselves to a single view of publishing.


For more wisdom from Jane Friedman, visit janefriedman.com.


And for more on the writing craft and crafting a writing life, check out Simply Write.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2070 no 317. The Agile Writer: Pivot Toward Possibilities Writers who stay flexible and open to change see more opportunities and create work that resonates. In this episode, we dive into writer agility—why it matters, how to train yourself to notice trends, and ways to adapt your writing to an ever-changing world. Join the Simply Write community for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Subscribe at SimplyWrite.Substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 The Agile Writer: Pivot Toward Possibilities full 3 17 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writers who stay flexible and open to change see more opportunities and create work that resonates. In this episode, we dive into writer agility—why it matters, how to train yourself to notice trends, and ways to adapt your writing to an ever-changing world. Join the Simply Write community for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Subscribe at SimplyWrite.Substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writers who stay flexible and open to change see more opportunities and create work that resonates. In this episode, we dive into writer agility—why it matters, how to train yourself to notice trends, and ways to adapt your writing to an ever-changing world.

Join the Simply Write community for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Subscribe at SimplyWrite.Substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2294 no 316 Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: The Seasons of Writing https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author, poet, and educator Elisabeth Sharp McKetta, PhD to explore the intersection of storytelling, writing, and personal growth. Writing, says Sharp McKetta is an act of discovery, and can help us understand our world and our lives, but just like the changing seasons, our writing and our processes change too. When we pay attention to those shifts, we can grow and find the flow and meaning in our work. For more from teacher, author, storyteller, Elisabeth Sharp McKetta go to https://elisabethsharpmcketta.com/ For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000 Elisabeth Sharp McKetta: The Seasons of Writing full 3 16 Polly Cambell | Electracast In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author, poet, and educator Elisabeth Sharp McKetta, PhD to explore the intersection of storytelling, writing, and personal growth. Writing, says Sharp McKetta is an act of discovery, and can help us understand our world and our lives, but just like the changing seasons, our writing and our processes change too. When we pay attention to those shifts, we can grow and find the flow and meaning in our work. For more from teacher, author, storyteller, Elisabeth Sharp McKetta go to https://elisabethsharpmcketta.com/ For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author, poet, and educator Elisabeth Sharp McKetta, PhD to explore the intersection of storytelling, writing, and personal growth. Writing, says Sharp McKetta is an act of discovery, and can help us understand our world and our lives, but just like the changing seasons, our writing and our processes change too. When we pay attention to those shifts, we can grow and find the flow and meaning in our work.

For more from teacher, author, storyteller, Elisabeth Sharp McKetta go to https://elisabethsharpmcketta.com/

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2587 no 315. Become a More Confident Writer https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Episode Show Notes: The Power of Consistent Effort in Writing Writing isn’t about waiting for inspiration—it’s about committing to steady practice. Research shows that consistency not only enhances creativity but also strengthens self-efficacy, the belief in your ability to succeed. In this episode, we explore how showing up regularly to write sharpens your craft and builds the confidence needed to push past self-doubt. And, I'll share the unexpected ways that alone helped shape my writing career and offer some ways to keep going when the last thing you feel like is writing. To learn more about the writing craft and crafting and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Become a More Confident Writer full 3 15 Polly Cambell | Electracast Episode Show Notes: The Power of Consistent Effort in Writing Writing isn’t about waiting for inspiration—it’s about committing to steady practice. Research shows that consistency not only enhances creativity but also strengthens self-efficacy, the belief in your ability to succeed. In this episode, we explore how showing up regularly to write sharpens your craft and builds the confidence needed to push past self-doubt. And, I'll share the unexpected ways that alone helped shape my writing career and offer some ways to keep going when the last thing you feel like is writing. To learn more about the writing craft and crafting and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Episode Show Notes: The Power of Consistent Effort in Writing

Writing isn’t about waiting for inspiration—it’s about committing to steady practice. Research shows that consistency not only enhances creativity but also strengthens self-efficacy, the belief in your ability to succeed. In this episode, we explore how showing up regularly to write sharpens your craft and builds the confidence needed to push past self-doubt.

And, I'll share the unexpected ways that alone helped shape my writing career and offer some ways to keep going when the last thing you feel like is writing.

To learn more about the writing craft and crafting and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2038 no 314. Bestselling Author Jessica Strawser on the Challenge of Writing Multiple POVs and Timelines https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Strawser shares insights on navigating multiple timelines and POVs, something she does in her newest book Catch You Later, and how she uses a synopsis to structure her stories while still leaving room for creative surprises throughout the writing process. Strawser who is also a writer, editor-at-large for Writer's Digest, and a mom talks about the role of time management in shaping her writing career and why writing sometimes requires sacrifices. This is a far-reaching interview that gives you a clear look into how a full-time author gets the work done. Find Jessica Strawser, and more about her books and other work, at https://jessicastrawser.com. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Bestselling Author Jessica Strawser on the Challenge of Writing Multiple POVs and Timelines full 3 14 Polly Cambell | Electracast USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Strawser shares insights on navigating multiple timelines and POVs, something she does in her newest book Catch You Later, and how she uses a synopsis to structure her stories while still leaving room for creative surprises throughout the writing process. Strawser who is also a writer, editor-at-large for Writer's Digest, and a mom talks about the role of time management in shaping her writing career and why writing sometimes requires sacrifices. This is a far-reaching interview that gives you a clear look into how a full-time author gets the work done. Find Jessica Strawser, and more about her books and other work, at https://jessicastrawser.com. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Strawser shares insights on navigating multiple timelines and POVs, something she does in her newest book Catch You Later, and how she uses a synopsis to structure her stories while still leaving room for creative surprises throughout the writing process. Strawser who is also a writer, editor-at-large for Writer's Digest, and a mom talks about the role of time management in shaping her writing career and why writing sometimes requires sacrifices.

This is a far-reaching interview that gives you a clear look into how a full-time author gets the work done. Find Jessica Strawser, and more about her books and other work, at https://jessicastrawser.com.

For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2673 no 313. The One Practice That Will Make You a Better Writer https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite It's an idea that changed my writing and helped me improve and publish more. What is it? Growth mindset. As writers we regularly face rejection and can be steeped in self-doubt. With a growth mindset, though, we see those rejections and setbacks as nothing more than information we can use to become better. Rejection, critical feedback, and mistakes are not character flaws, they are opportunities to learn and improve. And when we adopt a growth mindset we are more likely to persist --which is huge if you want to publish. With a growth mindset, we don't have to beat ourselves up over a disappointment or setback that leaves us free to be more creative, more relaxed, and more likely to keep on toward our goals. Listen in to learn more about why I think a growth mindset is essential to a writing life and how I use it in mine. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0000 The One Practice That Will Help You Write More with Less Stress full 3 13 Polly Cambell | Electracast It's an idea that changed my writing and helped me improve and publish more. What is it? Growth mindset. As writers we regularly face rejection and can be steeped in self-doubt. With a growth mindset, though, we see those rejections and setbacks as nothing more than information we can use to become better. Rejection, critical feedback, and mistakes are not character flaws, they are opportunities to learn and improve. And when we adopt a growth mindset we are more likely to persist --which is huge if you want to publish. With a growth mindset, we don't have to beat ourselves up over a disappointment or setback that leaves us free to be more creative, more relaxed, and more likely to keep on toward our goals. Listen in to learn more about why I think a growth mindset is essential to a writing life and how I use it in mine. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's an idea that changed my writing and helped me improve and publish more. What is it? Growth mindset. As writers we regularly face rejection and can be steeped in self-doubt. With a growth mindset, though, we see those rejections and setbacks as nothing more than information we can use to become better. Rejection, critical feedback, and mistakes are not character flaws, they are opportunities to learn and improve. And when we adopt a growth mindset we are more likely to persist --which is huge if you want to publish. With a growth mindset, we don't have to beat ourselves up over a disappointment or setback that leaves us free to be more creative, more relaxed, and more likely to keep on toward our goals. Listen in to learn more about why I think a growth mindset is essential to a writing life and how I use it in mine.

For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join us at Simply Write w/Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1916 no 312. Agent Jessica Berg on the Author-Agent Relationship https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Agent and author Jessica Berg shares how building a strong relationship with your agent is like dating—communication is key. Plus, we explore using curiosity to tackle blank-page fears and keep your creative momentum. From spaghetti drafts to editing marathons balanced by cat videos, discover tips to keep writing and find the agent that can help you elevate your writing career. For more on Jessica Berg go to https://rosecliffliterary.com. Rosecliff is open to submissions. And to learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Agent Jessica Berg on the Author-Agent Relationship full 3 12 Polly Cambell | Electracast Agent and author Jessica Berg shares how building a strong relationship with your agent is like dating—communication is key. Plus, we explore using curiosity to tackle blank-page fears and keep your creative momentum. From spaghetti drafts to editing marathons balanced by cat videos, discover tips to keep writing and find the agent that can help you elevate your writing career. For more on Jessica Berg go to https://rosecliffliterary.com. Rosecliff is open to submissions. And to learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Agent and author Jessica Berg shares how building a strong relationship with your agent is like dating—communication is key. Plus, we explore using curiosity to tackle blank-page fears and keep your creative momentum. From spaghetti drafts to editing marathons balanced by cat videos, discover tips to keep writing and find the agent that can help you elevate your writing career.

For more on Jessica Berg go to https://rosecliffliterary.com. Rosecliff is open to submissions.

And to learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2079 no 311. Conquer your Writing Fears with Curiosity https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Writing can feel vulnerable no matter your experience level, or what you are working on. Sitting down to a blank page, a new chapter or scene or developing story draft can feel scary. But curiosity is the antidote. In this episode, we offer actionable advice to help you approach your work with fresh eyes. Discover how curiosity can break down barriers, spark your imagination, and keep your writing flowing. For more ideas on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Conquer your Writing Fears with Curiosity full 3 11 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing can feel vulnerable no matter your experience level, or what you are working on. Sitting down to a blank page, a new chapter or scene or developing story draft can feel scary. But curiosity is the antidote. In this episode, we offer actionable advice to help you approach your work with fresh eyes. Discover how curiosity can break down barriers, spark your imagination, and keep your writing flowing. For more ideas on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing can feel vulnerable no matter your experience level, or what you are working on. Sitting down to a blank page, a new chapter or scene or developing story draft can feel scary. But curiosity is the antidote. In this episode, we offer actionable advice to help you approach your work with fresh eyes. Discover how curiosity can break down barriers, spark your imagination, and keep your writing flowing.

For more ideas on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2123 no 310. Russell Nohelty: What Writers Need to Know to Sell Books https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Schedule a block of four or five hours when you go all in on the priority for the day, says USA Today Bestselling author Russell Nohelty and host of The Author Stack, among other pubs, on Substack. Whether that's marketing, writing, or even thinking about the next project, you need to focus your attention on the task of the day. Extraordinarily prolific and committed to helping other writers get their work into the world, Nohelty talks about writing 18 books in one year, how he is becoming a faster and better writer, and why you won't find his books on retail shelves--at least for now, during this far-reaching and fascinating conversation. Find Russell Nohelty on Substack here https://substack.com/@russellnohelty For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write w/Polly Substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000 What Writers Need to Know to Sell Books full 3 10 Polly Cambell | Electracast Schedule a block of four or five hours when you go all in on the priority for the day, says USA Today Bestselling author Russell Nohelty and host of The Author Stack, among other pubs, on Substack. Whether that's marketing, writing, or even thinking about the next project, you need to focus your attention on the task of the day. Extraordinarily prolific and committed to helping other writers get their work into the world, Nohelty talks about writing 18 books in one year, how he is becoming a faster and better writer, and why you won't find his books on retail shelves--at least for now, during this far-reaching and fascinating conversation. Find Russell Nohelty on Substack here https://substack.com/@russellnohelty For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write w/Polly Substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Schedule a block of four or five hours when you go all in on the priority for the day, says USA Today Bestselling author Russell Nohelty and host of The Author Stack, among other pubs, on Substack. Whether that's marketing, writing, or even thinking about the next project, you need to focus your attention on the task of the day.

Extraordinarily prolific and committed to helping other writers get their work into the world, Nohelty talks about writing 18 books in one year, how he is becoming a faster and better writer, and why you won't find his books on retail shelves--at least for now, during this far-reaching and fascinating conversation.

Find Russell Nohelty on Substack here https://substack.com/@russellnohelty

For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write w/Polly Substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2175 no 309. Do This to Turn Your Ideas Into Engaging Content https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Incubation is an essential part of the creative process. But, it's one of the more difficult aspects of writing for Polly and something she's working to improve. In today's episode, Polly will explain what incubation is, how it's an important part of writing and development, and how we can all learn to embrace the process and utilize it to write better. Polly will also explain the subtle shift she made to her morning routine and how it's making a big difference in her day. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Do This to Turn Your Ideas Into Engaging Content full 3 9 Polly Cambell | Electracast Incubation is an essential part of the creative process. But, it's one of the more difficult aspects of writing for Polly and something she's working to improve. In today's episode, Polly will explain what incubation is, how it's an important part of writing and development, and how we can all learn to embrace the process and utilize it to write better. Polly will also explain the subtle shift she made to her morning routine and how it's making a big difference in her day. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Incubation is an essential part of the creative process. But, it's one of the more difficult aspects of writing for Polly and something she's working to improve. In today's episode, Polly will explain what incubation is, how it's an important part of writing and development, and how we can all learn to embrace the process and utilize it to write better. Polly will also explain the subtle shift she made to her morning routine and how it's making a big difference in her day. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2017 no 308. Marion Roach Smith: Master Class in Memoir https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite "You've got to habituate your creativity," says renowned memoirist and teacher Marion Roach Smith. "Be hospitable to your writing." That means making time for your writing and doing it when you are at your creative peak. Then, says Roach Smith, you've got to sit down and discover what your story is really about and spill it out on the page. She tells you how in this episode. Listen up. This episode is will make you better writer. At least it did that for me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Marion Roach Smith: Master Class in Memoir full 3 8 Polly Cambell | Electracast "You've got to habituate your creativity," says renowned memoirist and teacher Marion Roach Smith. "Be hospitable to your writing." That means making time for your writing and doing it when you are at your creative peak. Then, says Roach Smith, you've got to sit down and discover what your story is really about and spill it out on the page. She tells you how in this episode. Listen up. This episode is will make you better writer. At least it did that for me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices "You've got to habituate your creativity," says renowned memoirist and teacher Marion Roach Smith. "Be hospitable to your writing."

That means making time for your writing and doing it when you are at your creative peak.

Then, says Roach Smith, you've got to sit down and discover what your story is really about and spill it out on the page. She tells you how in this episode. Listen up. This episode is will make you better writer. At least it did that for me.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1818 no 307. Use These Habits to Make The Writing Process Easier https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Which habits are helping you get the writing done? Which are slowing you down, feeling dull, or keeping you stuck? In this episode we talk about the habits I believe every writer needs to give attention to if they want to write more and publish more and feel good doing these things. Changing your writer mojo can come down to replacing old routines with better ones and in this episode we'll talk about some I'm adding in, or giving renewed attention to that can help you jumpstart your practice too. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000 Use These Habits to Make The Writing Process Easier full 3 7 Polly Cambell | Electracast Which habits are helping you get the writing done? Which are slowing you down, feeling dull, or keeping you stuck? In this episode we talk about the habits I believe every writer needs to give attention to if they want to write more and publish more and feel good doing these things. Changing your writer mojo can come down to replacing old routines with better ones and in this episode we'll talk about some I'm adding in, or giving renewed attention to that can help you jumpstart your practice too. For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Which habits are helping you get the writing done? Which are slowing you down, feeling dull, or keeping you stuck?

In this episode we talk about the habits I believe every writer needs to give attention to if they want to write more and publish more and feel good doing these things. Changing your writer mojo can come down to replacing old routines with better ones and in this episode we'll talk about some I'm adding in, or giving renewed attention to that can help you jumpstart your practice too.

For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1841 no REPLAY 261. Fantasy Author Khan Wong, Talks About Blurring Lines in Fiction https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite We hope you enjoy this replay featuring author Khan Wong who talks about blurring genre lines, writing to big themes, and inspiration. All of us at Simply Write will be back in a couple of weeks with new shows about writing and living. In the meantime, please join the Simply Write community and subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Now about the episode: It's described as science fiction but Khan Wong's newest book The Circus Infinite, is also apace fantasy and some even call it a space opera. No matter how it's categorized the book is getting rave reviews. Publishers and readers rely on genres to identify and group books on bookstore shelves and for marketing materials, but blurring the lines can make for a compelling story. In this episode, Wong talks about genres, his writing process draws on both outlines and in-the-moment inspiration, and how his work was pulled from the slush pile to get a publishing deal. This is a must-listen for authors exploring genre, sci-fi, fantasy, and anyone who needs a dose of hope and inspiration to keep writing. Get in touch with Wong and find his book The Circus Infinite https://khanwong.com Get in touch with me Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where you can become a paid member and support more of these kinds of conversations with authors and writing discussions. Thank you for listening Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 30 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000 REPLAY Author Khan Wong, Talks About Writing Fantasy and Blurring Lines full 2 61 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author of the Space Fantasy Circus Infinite We hope you enjoy this replay featuring author Khan Wong who talks about blurring genre lines, writing to big themes, and inspiration. All of us at Simply Write will be back in a couple of weeks with new shows about writing and living. In the meantime, please join the Simply Write community and subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Now about the episode: It's described as science fiction but Khan Wong's newest book The Circus Infinite, is also apace fantasy and some even call it a space opera. No matter how it's categorized the book is getting rave reviews. Publishers and readers rely on genres to identify and group books on bookstore shelves and for marketing materials, but blurring the lines can make for a compelling story. In this episode, Wong talks about genres, his writing process draws on both outlines and in-the-moment inspiration, and how his work was pulled from the slush pile to get a publishing deal. This is a must-listen for authors exploring genre, sci-fi, fantasy, and anyone who needs a dose of hope and inspiration to keep writing. Get in touch with Wong and find his book The Circus Infinite https://khanwong.com Get in touch with me Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where you can become a paid member and support more of these kinds of conversations with authors and writing discussions. Thank you for listening Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We hope you enjoy this replay featuring author Khan Wong who talks about blurring genre lines, writing to big themes, and inspiration. All of us at Simply Write will be back in a couple of weeks with new shows about writing and living. In the meantime, please join the Simply Write community and subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Now about the episode:

It's described as science fiction but Khan Wong's newest book The Circus Infinite, is also apace fantasy and some even call it a space opera. No matter how it's categorized the book is getting rave reviews.

Publishers and readers rely on genres to identify and group books on bookstore shelves and for marketing materials, but blurring the lines can make for a compelling story. In this episode, Wong talks about genres, his writing process draws on both outlines and in-the-moment inspiration, and how his work was pulled from the slush pile to get a publishing deal.

This is a must-listen for authors exploring genre, sci-fi, fantasy, and anyone who needs a dose of hope and inspiration to keep writing.

Get in touch with Wong and find his book The Circus Infinite https://khanwong.com

Get in touch with me Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where you can become a paid member and support more of these kinds of conversations with authors and writing discussions.


Thank you for listening

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2293 no REPLAY 109. Setting Up Your Freelance Writing Business https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite If you are looking to launch your freelance business in 2025 this episode can help. Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular episodes from 2023 and we'll be back in a couple of weeks with all new shows to help us with the writing craft and crafting a writing life. For more on the writing craft and craft a writer's life be sure to subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Now about the episode: The end of the year is a good time to make sure you have a healthy business infrastructure, one that supports the writing work you want to do. In this episode we talk about some of the people and processes that can help you create a health shop, so you can publish more. Follow Polly on Instagram @PollyLCampbell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000 REPLAY Setting Up Your Freelance Writing Business full 1 9 Polly Cambell | Electracast Licenses, invoices, taxes and the other responsibilities of running a freelance writing business. If you are looking to launch your freelance business in 2025 this episode can help. Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular episodes from 2023 and we'll be back in a couple of weeks with all new shows to help us with the writing craft and crafting a writing life. For more on the writing craft and craft a writer's life be sure to subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com Now about the episode: The end of the year is a good time to make sure you have a healthy business infrastructure, one that supports the writing work you want to do. In this episode we talk about some of the people and processes that can help you create a health shop, so you can publish more. Follow Polly on Instagram @PollyLCampbell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you are looking to launch your freelance business in 2025 this episode can help.

Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular episodes from 2023 and we'll be back in a couple of weeks with all new shows to help us with the writing craft and crafting a writing life.

For more on the writing craft and craft a writer's life be sure to subscribe to our Simply Write substack at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Now about the episode:

The end of the year is a good time to make sure you have a healthy business infrastructure, one that supports the writing work you want to do. In this episode we talk about some of the people and processes that can help you create a health shop, so you can publish more.


Follow Polly on Instagram @PollyLCampbell

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]]> 2202 no 306. Woz Flint On Writing and Typing and Managing Distraction https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Can a typewriter be an antidote to perfectionism? It was for author Woz Flint, author of The Distraction Free First Draft: Unplug, Forget Perfectionism, and Write More Than Ever Using a Typewriter. Flint was gifted a typewriter a decade ago and that ignited her curiosity and opened up a new world of writing and writers, and, typewriter users nationwide. In this episode, she takes us on a deep dive into the world of typewriters and how they help her get her writing done. For more on Woz Flint and her book go to https://wozflint.com You can connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Woz Flint On Writing and Typing and Managing Distraction full 3 6 Polly Cambell | Electracast Can a typewriter be an antidote to perfectionism? It was for author Woz Flint, author of The Distraction Free First Draft: Unplug, Forget Perfectionism, and Write More Than Ever Using a Typewriter. Flint was gifted a typewriter a decade ago and that ignited her curiosity and opened up a new world of writing and writers, and, typewriter users nationwide. In this episode, she takes us on a deep dive into the world of typewriters and how they help her get her writing done. For more on Woz Flint and her book go to https://wozflint.com You can connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Can a typewriter be an antidote to perfectionism? It was for author Woz Flint, author of The Distraction Free First Draft: Unplug, Forget Perfectionism, and Write More Than Ever Using a Typewriter. Flint was gifted a typewriter a decade ago and that ignited her curiosity and opened up a new world of writing and writers, and, typewriter users nationwide. In this episode, she takes us on a deep dive into the world of typewriters and how they help her get her writing done.

For more on Woz Flint and her book go to https://wozflint.com

You can connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1948 no 305. How to Shape Your Writing Legacy and Why You Should Think About It https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite We've all heard about the importance of platform and branding, but today we go deeper to talk about shaping the arc of our careers to do work that is not only enjoyable but meaningful. What do you value about writing and what do you want to write next? What have you accomplished, which goals are no longer important? Now is the time to reflect on our work, our goals, and what we want to do with our writing in the months and years ahead so we can be deliberate with our writing and our process to create resonant work and a life that matters. In this episode, we talk about how to do it. For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000 How to Shape Your Writing Legacy and Why You Should Think About It full 3 5 Polly Cambell | Electracast We've all heard about the importance of platform and branding, but today we go deeper to talk about shaping the arc of our careers to do work that is not only enjoyable but meaningful. What do you value about writing and what do you want to write next? What have you accomplished, which goals are no longer important? Now is the time to reflect on our work, our goals, and what we want to do with our writing in the months and years ahead so we can be deliberate with our writing and our process to create resonant work and a life that matters. In this episode, we talk about how to do it. For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We've all heard about the importance of platform and branding, but today we go deeper to talk about shaping the arc of our careers to do work that is not only enjoyable but meaningful. What do you value about writing and what do you want to write next? What have you accomplished, which goals are no longer important? Now is the time to reflect on our work, our goals, and what we want to do with our writing in the months and years ahead so we can be deliberate with our writing and our process to create resonant work and a life that matters. In this episode, we talk about how to do it.

For more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, subscribe to Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2082 no 304. Carol Hoenig on How Characters Drive Her Fiction https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Award-winning author Carol Hoenig, works on all sides of publishing. She's owned a bookstore, worked at another, and handles publicity and events for other authors. In this episode this publishing professional talks about her writing process--yes, her characters speak to her--why she goes all in to marketing her own books, and the one thing she does at the end of her writing session that makes it easier to begin again the next day. Find Carol Hoenig and her books including the newest When She Was a Finley at https://carolhoenig.com For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write subscription community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000 full 3 4 Polly Cambell | Electracast Award-winning author Carol Hoenig, works on all sides of publishing. She's owned a bookstore, worked at another, and handles publicity and events for other authors. In this episode this publishing professional talks about her writing process--yes, her characters speak to her--why she goes all in to marketing her own books, and the one thing she does at the end of her writing session that makes it easier to begin again the next day. Find Carol Hoenig and her books including the newest When She Was a Finley at https://carolhoenig.com For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write subscription community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Award-winning author Carol Hoenig, works on all sides of publishing. She's owned a bookstore, worked at another, and handles publicity and events for other authors. In this episode this publishing professional talks about her writing process--yes, her characters speak to her--why she goes all in to marketing her own books, and the one thing she does at the end of her writing session that makes it easier to begin again the next day.

Find Carol Hoenig and her books including the newest When She Was a Finley at https://carolhoenig.com

For more on the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write subscription community at https:simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1735 no 303. Gratitude Gives a Creative Boost https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Sure gratitude is good for our health, lowering our blood pressure, easing our stress, and improving our moods, but did you know it can also enhance creativity? A regular gratitude practice will not only leave you feeling better but it will also help you be more open to new experiences, expansive in your thoughts, and more optimistic about writing. And that will help you keep going on the tough days. For more on how gratitude helps writers and the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, please join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 25 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Gratitude Gives a Creative Boost full 3 3 Polly Cambell | Electracast Sure gratitude is good for our health, lowering our blood pressure, easing our stress, and improving our moods, but did you know it can also enhance creativity? A regular gratitude practice will not only leave you feeling better but it will also help you be more open to new experiences, expansive in your thoughts, and more optimistic about writing. And that will help you keep going on the tough days. For more on how gratitude helps writers and the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, please join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sure gratitude is good for our health, lowering our blood pressure, easing our stress, and improving our moods, but did you know it can also enhance creativity? A regular gratitude practice will not only leave you feeling better but it will also help you be more open to new experiences, expansive in your thoughts, and more optimistic about writing. And that will help you keep going on the tough days.

For more on how gratitude helps writers and the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life, please join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2011 no 302. Author Scott Semegran Talks Process, Spreadsheets, and Writing Book on a Lunch Break https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Author Scott Semegran is a family man with a full-time job, and author who has written nine books, including several award winners, by writing on his lunch break. The author of The Codger and the Sparrow says it's about making the time you have to write, efficient. He uses a spreadsheet to track his work, so he doesn't waste time trying to find his place in the work, he often plays the same music, without lyrics, pours a cup of coffee, and blocks out the time on his lunch break to get the writing done. The habits, he says, help prime his brain to write, helping him to use the time he has efficiently. The practice has helped him produce multiple award-winning stories, and he explains in its episode how awards can help an author. Find Scott Semegran , author of The Codger and the Sparrow here: https://scottsemegran.com/ Join Polly and the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Author Scott Semegran Talks Process, Spreadsheets, and Writing Book on a Lunch Break full 3 2 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Scott Semegran is a family man with a full-time job, and author who has written nine books, including several award winners, by writing on his lunch break. The author of The Codger and the Sparrow says it's about making the time you have to write, efficient. He uses a spreadsheet to track his work, so he doesn't waste time trying to find his place in the work, he often plays the same music, without lyrics, pours a cup of coffee, and blocks out the time on his lunch break to get the writing done. The habits, he says, help prime his brain to write, helping him to use the time he has efficiently. The practice has helped him produce multiple award-winning stories, and he explains in its episode how awards can help an author. Find Scott Semegran , author of The Codger and the Sparrow here: https://scottsemegran.com/ Join Polly and the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Author Scott Semegran is a family man with a full-time job, and author who has written nine books, including several award winners, by writing on his lunch break. The author of The Codger and the Sparrow says it's about making the time you have to write, efficient. He uses a spreadsheet to track his work, so he doesn't waste time trying to find his place in the work, he often plays the same music, without lyrics, pours a cup of coffee, and blocks out the time on his lunch break to get the writing done. The habits, he says, help prime his brain to write, helping him to use the time he has efficiently. The practice has helped him produce multiple award-winning stories, and he explains in its episode how awards can help an author.

Find Scott Semegran , author of The Codger and the Sparrow here: https://scottsemegran.com/

Join Polly and the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1822 no 301. Patience Required for Writing Success Patience is linked to perseverance, well-being, and creativity--all things writers need to successfully write and publish without compromising their mental health. Tune in to learn how you can build your patience levels to keep creating amidst the uncertainty of a writing life. For more on the the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join Polly and the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Patience Required for Writing Success full 3 1 Polly Cambell | Electracast Patience is linked to perseverance, well-being, and creativity--all things writers need to successfully write and publish without compromising their mental health. Tune in to learn how you can build your patience levels to keep creating amidst the uncertainty of a writing life. For more on the the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join Polly and the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Patience is linked to perseverance, well-being, and creativity--all things writers need to successfully write and publish without compromising their mental health. Tune in to learn how you can build your patience levels to keep creating amidst the uncertainty of a writing life.

For more on the the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join Polly and the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

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]]> 2106 no 300. J.F. Penn Talks About Flipping the Script on Your Writing Career https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite J.F. Penn, the award-winning author of Blood Vintage and other books and podcaster at The Creative Penn, kicks off Simply Write's third season with a great conversation about "flipping the script" and allowing your creativity and writing to evolve as your interests grow and change. After creating an extensive nonfiction library for writers, J.F. Penn is now focused on writing edgier, darker fiction and nonfiction that explores the psychology of religion and other topics. In this episode she explains how and why she shifted her writing and publishing focus and why she's having so much fun. She also explains why writers shouldn't fear AI but learn how to use those tools to enhance their work. Learn more about J.F. Penn and find her books at https://JFPenn.com Connect with Polly and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000 J.F. Penn Talks About flipping the Script on Your Writing Creer full 3 300 Polly Cambell | Electracast J.F. Penn, the award-winning author of Blood Vintage and other books and podcaster at The Creative Penn, kicks off Simply Write's third season with a great conversation about "flipping the script" and allowing your creativity and writing to evolve as your interests grow and change. After creating an extensive nonfiction library for writers, J.F. Penn is now focused on writing edgier, darker fiction and nonfiction that explores the psychology of religion and other topics. In this episode she explains how and why she shifted her writing and publishing focus and why she's having so much fun. She also explains why writers shouldn't fear AI but learn how to use those tools to enhance their work. Learn more about J.F. Penn and find her books at https://JFPenn.com Connect with Polly and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices J.F. Penn, the award-winning author of Blood Vintage and other books and podcaster at The Creative Penn, kicks off Simply Write's third season with a great conversation about "flipping the script" and allowing your creativity and writing to evolve as your interests grow and change. After creating an extensive nonfiction library for writers, J.F. Penn is now focused on writing edgier, darker fiction and nonfiction that explores the psychology of religion and other topics. In this episode she explains how and why she shifted her writing and publishing focus and why she's having so much fun. She also explains why writers shouldn't fear AI but learn how to use those tools to enhance their work.

Learn more about J.F. Penn and find her books at https://JFPenn.com

Connect with Polly and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2297 no 299. Craft Compelling, Real Characters in Your Nonfiction https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite In nonfiction essays, memoirs, and other forms, you've got to stick to the truth and discover the real-life characters in the story you are telling. But whether that's you, someone you are profiling, or a person in a service piece you encountered, it's up to you to observe their unique behaviors, details, and traits to create layered characters that readers care about and relate to. Characters are what drive the story and connect readers. In this episode, we talk about how to reveal authentic characters in your nonfiction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 28 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Craft Compelling, Real Characters in Your Nonfiction full 2 99 Polly Cambell | Electracast In nonfiction essays, memoirs, and other forms, you've got to stick to the truth and discover the real-life characters in the story you are telling. But whether that's you, someone you are profiling, or a person in a service piece you encountered, it's up to you to observe their unique behaviors, details, and traits to create layered characters that readers care about and relate to. Characters are what drive the story and connect readers. In this episode, we talk about how to reveal authentic characters in your nonfiction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In nonfiction essays, memoirs, and other forms, you've got to stick to the truth and discover the real-life characters in the story you are telling. But whether that's you, someone you are profiling, or a person in a service piece you encountered, it's up to you to observe their unique behaviors, details, and traits to create layered characters that readers care about and relate to. Characters are what drive the story and connect readers. In this episode, we talk about how to reveal authentic characters in your nonfiction.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1877 no 298. Ghostwriter Maggie Mills on the Importance of Telling Stories for Others https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Ghostwriter Maggie Mills has written books for celebrities, athletes, preachers, and scores of other people who have overcome challenges, built businesses, survived mental illness, and have other incredible stories to tell. She's driven by curiosity, the desire to tell interesting stories, and make a living. In this far-reaching episode, she fills us in on the nuts and bolts that she uses to fulfill all of those things through her work as an in-demand ghostwriter. And she offers tips for how we can do it too. Find Maggie Mills at maggiemills.com and don't forget to say Simply Write w/Polly Campbell sent you. And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a paid subscriber to access our upcoming popup class Master the Techniques of Writing Better Nonfiction, on Oct. 25 at 10 a.m. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 21 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Ghostwriter Maggie Mills on the Importance of Telling Stories for Others full 2 98 Polly Cambell | Electracast Ghostwriter Maggie Mills has written books for celebrities, athletes, preachers, and scores of other people who have overcome challenges, built businesses, survived mental illness, and have other incredible stories to tell. She's driven by curiosity, the desire to tell interesting stories, and make a living. In this far-reaching episode, she fills us in on the nuts and bolts that she uses to fulfill all of those things through her work as an in-demand ghostwriter. And she offers tips for how we can do it too. Find Maggie Mills at maggiemills.com and don't forget to say Simply Write w/Polly Campbell sent you. And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a paid subscriber to access our upcoming popup class Master the Techniques of Writing Better Nonfiction, on Oct. 25 at 10 a.m. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Ghostwriter Maggie Mills has written books for celebrities, athletes, preachers, and scores of other people who have overcome challenges, built businesses, survived mental illness, and have other incredible stories to tell. She's driven by curiosity, the desire to tell interesting stories, and make a living. In this far-reaching episode, she fills us in on the nuts and bolts that she uses to fulfill all of those things through her work as an in-demand ghostwriter. And she offers tips for how we can do it too.

Find Maggie Mills at maggiemills.com and don't forget to say Simply Write w/Polly Campbell sent you.

And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a paid subscriber to access our upcoming popup class Master the Techniques of Writing Better Nonfiction, on Oct. 25 at 10 a.m.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1873 no 297. Crappy Rough Drafts and Why They Are So Important https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Rough drafts can help us clarify our ideas and structure, build momentum, expand our creative process, and develop new and innovative ideas in our work, but only if we can allow ourselves to abandon the drive for perfection and write freely. In this episode I share some ways to do it and why we must give ourselves permission to write trash. Only then, do we have the materials on the page that we need to create art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Crappy Rough Drafts and Why They Are So Important full 2 97 Polly Cambell | Electracast Rough drafts can help us clarify our ideas and structure, build momentum, expand our creative process, and develop new and innovative ideas in our work, but only if we can allow ourselves to abandon the drive for perfection and write freely. In this episode I share some ways to do it and why we must give ourselves permission to write trash. Only then, do we have the materials on the page that we need to create art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Rough drafts can help us clarify our ideas and structure, build momentum, expand our creative process, and develop new and innovative ideas in our work, but only if we can allow ourselves to abandon the drive for perfection and write freely. In this episode I share some ways to do it and why we must give ourselves permission to write trash. Only then, do we have the materials on the page that we need to create art.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2075 no 296. Veronica Llorca Smith: Building Your Writers' Brand and Ecosystem https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Veronica Llorca Smith, author of The Lemon Tree Mindset talks about how to grow your writer's brand and business so you can amplify your voice, build your ecosystem, and build your reach. This is a way not only to reach more readers but also to develop a platform that will help you create more publication opportunities. To start developing your writer's brand, consider what you want to be known for and listen to this podcast. You aren't selling only your book or newsletter, you are also selling yourself. An authentic brand helps you do that. Listen to this episode to learn how to start. Contact Veronica Llorca Smith and learn more about The Lemon Tree Mindset here: https://veronicallorcasmith.com Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com where paid subscribers get full articles and archives, access to pop-up classes at discounted rates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Veronica Llorca Smith: Building Your Writers' Brand and Ecosystem full 2 96 Polly Cambell | Electracast Veronica Llorca Smith, author of The Lemon Tree Mindset talks about how to grow your writer's brand and business so you can amplify your voice, build your ecosystem, and build your reach. This is a way not only to reach more readers but also to develop a platform that will help you create more publication opportunities. To start developing your writer's brand, consider what you want to be known for and listen to this podcast. You aren't selling only your book or newsletter, you are also selling yourself. An authentic brand helps you do that. Listen to this episode to learn how to start. Contact Veronica Llorca Smith and learn more about The Lemon Tree Mindset here: https://veronicallorcasmith.com Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com where paid subscribers get full articles and archives, access to pop-up classes at discounted rates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Veronica Llorca Smith, author of The Lemon Tree Mindset talks about how to grow your writer's brand and business so you can amplify your voice, build your ecosystem, and build your reach. This is a way not only to reach more readers but also to develop a platform that will help you create more publication opportunities. To start developing your writer's brand, consider what you want to be known for and listen to this podcast. You aren't selling only your book or newsletter, you are also selling yourself. An authentic brand helps you do that. Listen to this episode to learn how to start.

Contact Veronica Llorca Smith and learn more about The Lemon Tree Mindset here: https://veronicallorcasmith.com

Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com where paid subscribers get full articles and archives, access to pop-up classes at discounted rates

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1850 no 295. Go Easy on Yourself, You'll Get the Writing Done https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Creating a sustainable writing practice is as much about mindset as it is about marketing and craft. Beat yourself up and you're likely to experience creative blocks and even more self-doubt. Self-compassion is actually a way through those blocks and bad feelings. In today's episode, I'll explain why it's so helpful to writers and how you can develop your own more self-compassionate approach. It won't make you soft, it will make you better. For more, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for early-bird class discounts, feedback on your work, and essays, and encouragement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Go Easy on Yourself, You'll Get the Writing Done full 2 95 Polly Cambell | Electracast Creating a sustainable writing practice is as much about mindset as it is about marketing and craft. Beat yourself up and you're likely to experience creative blocks and even more self-doubt. Self-compassion is actually a way through those blocks and bad feelings. In today's episode, I'll explain why it's so helpful to writers and how you can develop your own more self-compassionate approach. It won't make you soft, it will make you better. For more, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for early-bird class discounts, feedback on your work, and essays, and encouragement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Creating a sustainable writing practice is as much about mindset as it is about marketing and craft. Beat yourself up and you're likely to experience creative blocks and even more self-doubt. Self-compassion is actually a way through those blocks and bad feelings. In today's episode, I'll explain why it's so helpful to writers and how you can develop your own more self-compassionate approach. It won't make you soft, it will make you better.

For more, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for early-bird class discounts, feedback on your work, and essays, and encouragement.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1954 no 294. Michael Hearns: Detective Fiction Author Draws From the Darkness https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Michael Hearns, an author, retired police, detective, and undercover agent who investigated drug cartels, money laundering networks, homicides, and other crimes in the shadows of sunny South Florida talks about the real-life details he writes into his detective fiction so that his novels feel authentic. He calls this genre of gritty realism Dark Tropics and says writing characters with emotional depth and getting the details accurate from street names to menu items are essential to respecting the readers and keeping them engaged. Find more about Michael at MichaelHearns.com Join our Simply Write community, at https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Michael Hearns: Detective Fiction Author Draws From the Darkness full 2 94 Polly Cambell | Electracast Michael Hearns, an author, retired police, detective, and undercover agent who investigated drug cartels, money laundering networks, homicides, and other crimes in the shadows of sunny South Florida talks about the real-life details he writes into his detective fiction so that his novels feel authentic. He calls this genre of gritty realism Dark Tropics and says writing characters with emotional depth and getting the details accurate from street names to menu items are essential to respecting the readers and keeping them engaged. Find more about Michael at MichaelHearns.com Join our Simply Write community, at https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Michael Hearns, an author, retired police, detective, and undercover agent who investigated drug cartels, money laundering networks, homicides, and other crimes in the shadows of sunny South Florida talks about the real-life details he writes into his detective fiction so that his novels feel authentic. He calls this genre of gritty realism Dark Tropics and says writing characters with emotional depth and getting the details accurate from street names to menu items are essential to respecting the readers and keeping them engaged.

Find more about Michael at MichaelHearns.com

Join our Simply Write community, at https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1994 no 293. How to Write a Query Letter https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Whether you want to publish a novel or nonfiction book, essay, or article, you will need a query letter to sell your idea and yourself to agents and editors. In this episode, we cover the things that need to be in that letter as well as a couple of tips that can help you sell your work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000 How to Write a Query Letter full 2 293 Polly Cambell | Electracast Whether you want to publish a novel or nonfiction book, essay, or article, you will need a query letter to sell your idea and yourself to agents and editors. In this episode, we cover the things that need to be in that letter as well as a couple of tips that can help you sell your work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Whether you want to publish a novel or nonfiction book, essay, or article, you will need a query letter to sell your idea and yourself to agents and editors. In this episode, we cover the things that need to be in that letter as well as a couple of tips that can help you sell your work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1949 no 292. Indie Press Publisher Dianne Pearce https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Dianne Pearce loves reading so much that it seems natural that she would become a writer and publisher. Now as the founder of Current Words, an indie publisher, she has some suggestions for authors to keep in mind if they truly want to publish and release their work. For more on Dianne Pearce and Current Words, https://currentwords.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Indie Press Publisher Dianne Pearce full 2 92 Polly Cambell | Electracast Dianne Pearce loves reading so much that it seems natural that she would become a writer and publisher. Now as the founder of Current Words, an indie publisher, she has some suggestions for authors to keep in mind if they truly want to publish and release their work. For more on Dianne Pearce and Current Words, https://currentwords.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Dianne Pearce loves reading so much that it seems natural that she would become a writer and publisher. Now as the founder of Current Words, an indie publisher, she has some suggestions for authors to keep in mind if they truly want to publish and release their work.

For more on Dianne Pearce and Current Words, https://currentwords.com

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2418 REPLAY: Writing Through Rejection https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite This episode ran our first season, but writers and rejection will always be an issue. Rejection can be a painful part of the job. But, when we learn to accept and manage rejection we can use it as a motivational tool to keep writing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000 REPLAY: Writing Through Rejection full 1 19 Polly Cambell | Electracast Rejection hurts, but you don't have to be paralyzed by the pain. This episode ran our first season, but writers and rejection will always be an issue. Rejection can be a painful part of the job. But, when we learn to accept and manage rejection we can use it as a motivational tool to keep writing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This episode ran our first season, but writers and rejection will always be an issue. Rejection can be a painful part of the job. But, when we learn to accept and manage rejection we can use it as a motivational tool to keep writing.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1857 no 291. Romance Writer Susan Carlisle https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Award-winning romance writer Susan Carlisle dictates 1500 to 2000 a day on her phone to quickly get the first draft out. Then she spends most of her time in revisions and editing. That process helps her publish multiple books a year. What does it take to write compelling romance novels? Carlisle says there are some common tropes, and she wants to leave readers with a feel-good ending, but the "trope is the umbrella of the story, but that's not the part that makes a story work," Carlisle says. Readers must be invested in the characters, intrigued by the setting, and propelled forward by everything that happens along the way. Listen for more on Carlisle's writing process and why she says she's in the "feel-good" business. Go to https://susancarlisle.com for more on Carlisle and her books. Join the Simply Write community, https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Romance Writer Susan Carlisle full 2 91 Polly Cambell | Electracast Draft by dictation, romance tropes, feel-good books Award-winning romance writer Susan Carlisle dictates 1500 to 2000 a day on her phone to quickly get the first draft out. Then she spends most of her time in revisions and editing. That process helps her publish multiple books a year. What does it take to write compelling romance novels? Carlisle says there are some common tropes, and she wants to leave readers with a feel-good ending, but the "trope is the umbrella of the story, but that's not the part that makes a story work," Carlisle says. Readers must be invested in the characters, intrigued by the setting, and propelled forward by everything that happens along the way. Listen for more on Carlisle's writing process and why she says she's in the "feel-good" business. Go to https://susancarlisle.com for more on Carlisle and her books. Join the Simply Write community, https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Award-winning romance writer Susan Carlisle dictates 1500 to 2000 a day on her phone to quickly get the first draft out. Then she spends most of her time in revisions and editing. That process helps her publish multiple books a year.

What does it take to write compelling romance novels? Carlisle says there are some common tropes, and she wants to leave readers with a feel-good ending, but the "trope is the umbrella of the story, but that's not the part that makes a story work," Carlisle says. Readers must be invested in the characters, intrigued by the setting, and propelled forward by everything that happens along the way.

Listen for more on Carlisle's writing process and why she says she's in the "feel-good" business.

Go to https://susancarlisle.com for more on Carlisle and her books.

Join the Simply Write community, https://simplywrite.substack.com, for more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2013 no 290. When Can You Call Yourself a Writer? https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Being a writer requires more than putting words on a page. It's a whole mindset. You have to believe you can do it and then give yourself permission to go after it and write consistently. I remember the first moment I called myself a write without any other qualifiers. It was awkward, embarrassing and life-changing. In this episode, I'll explain why the declaration was so important and why I think calling yourself a writer is essential to becoming one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0000 When Can You Call Yourself a Writer? full 2 90 Polly Cambell | Electracast Being a writer requires more than putting words on a page. It's a whole mindset. You have to believe you can do it and then give yourself permission to go after it and write consistently. I remember the first moment I called myself a write without any other qualifiers. It was awkward, embarrassing and life-changing. In this episode, I'll explain why the declaration was so important and why I think calling yourself a writer is essential to becoming one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Being a writer requires more than putting words on a page. It's a whole mindset. You have to believe you can do it and then give yourself permission to go after it and write consistently. I remember the first moment I called myself a write without any other qualifiers. It was awkward, embarrassing and life-changing.

In this episode, I'll explain why the declaration was so important and why I think calling yourself a writer is essential to becoming one.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2021 no 289. Author, Coach Caroline Donahue Writing Through Fear https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Book coach and author Caroline Donahue explains how we can manage our fears and even use it to build excitement and energy around our writing process. In this enlightening interview the author of three books including her newest, Writing through Fear: A Story Arcana Guide, Donahue says we can make fear an ally in our writing. For more on Caroline Donahue and her work go to https://www.carolinedonahue.com. And join our Simply Write community on Substack for plenty more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Author, Coach Caroline Donahue Writing Through Fear full 2 89 Polly Cambell | Electracast Book coach and author Caroline Donahue explains how we can manage our fears and even use it to build excitement and energy around our writing process. In this enlightening interview the author of three books including her newest, Writing through Fear: A Story Arcana Guide, Donahue says we can make fear an ally in our writing. For more on Caroline Donahue and her work go to https://www.carolinedonahue.com. And join our Simply Write community on Substack for plenty more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Book coach and author Caroline Donahue explains how we can manage our fears and even use it to build excitement and energy around our writing process. In this enlightening interview the author of three books including her newest, Writing through Fear: A Story Arcana Guide, Donahue says we can make fear an ally in our writing.

For more on Caroline Donahue and her work go to https://www.carolinedonahue.com.

And join our Simply Write community on Substack for plenty more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://simplywrite.substack.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2400 no 288. Why Stakes Matter and How To Use Them In Your Story https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite What pressures is your character facing? What does she want and why does she want it? What kind of risks will she face and what obstacles will she encounter as she strives tor her ultimate goal. In other words, what are the stakes? In this episode, we define the stakes of both nonfiction and fiction stories and explain why they matter. Then we cover some things to consider when ratcheting up the risk/reward scenarios for your main. To get in touch with Polly and learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0000 full 2 88 Polly Cambell | Electracast Why Stakes Matter and How To Use Them In Your Story What pressures is your character facing? What does she want and why does she want it? What kind of risks will she face and what obstacles will she encounter as she strives tor her ultimate goal. In other words, what are the stakes? In this episode, we define the stakes of both nonfiction and fiction stories and explain why they matter. Then we cover some things to consider when ratcheting up the risk/reward scenarios for your main. To get in touch with Polly and learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What pressures is your character facing? What does she want and why does she want it? What kind of risks will she face and what obstacles will she encounter as she strives tor her ultimate goal.

In other words, what are the stakes?

In this episode, we define the stakes of both nonfiction and fiction stories and explain why they matter. Then we cover some things to consider when ratcheting up the risk/reward scenarios for your main.

To get in touch with Polly and learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2094 no 287. Author, Magazine Editor Lorna Hollifield https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Lorna Hollifield starts "every single day of my life with a bath in the morning" and doesn't bother to make her bed, but she is self-aware and has used her strengths to forge a thriving career as an author, columnist and now managing editor of Charleston Women Magazine. One of the tips she gives to writers who want to make a career out of freelancing is to study the style and tone of the magazine, its articles, and headlines, and then give them a clean and polished draft that would fit in the pages. Her books Tobacco Sun and The Ocean At Night can be purchased wherever books are sold. You can find more about Lorna and her books here: https://lorna-hollifield.com/my-books/ And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and sign up for our Paid Subscriber Perks Program to access tip sheets, craft reports, full essays, writing assignments, and feedback on your work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000 full 2 87 Polly Cambell | Electracast Lorna Hollifield starts "every single day of my life with a bath in the morning" and doesn't bother to make her bed, but she is self-aware and has used her strengths to forge a thriving career as an author, columnist and now managing editor of Charleston Women Magazine. One of the tips she gives to writers who want to make a career out of freelancing is to study the style and tone of the magazine, its articles, and headlines, and then give them a clean and polished draft that would fit in the pages. Her books Tobacco Sun and The Ocean At Night can be purchased wherever books are sold. You can find more about Lorna and her books here: https://lorna-hollifield.com/my-books/ And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and sign up for our Paid Subscriber Perks Program to access tip sheets, craft reports, full essays, writing assignments, and feedback on your work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lorna Hollifield starts "every single day of my life with a bath in the morning" and doesn't bother to make her bed, but she is self-aware and has used her strengths to forge a thriving career as an author, columnist and now managing editor of Charleston Women Magazine.

One of the tips she gives to writers who want to make a career out of freelancing is to study the style and tone of the magazine, its articles, and headlines, and then give them a clean and polished draft that would fit in the pages.

Her books Tobacco Sun and The Ocean At Night can be purchased wherever books are sold. You can find more about Lorna and her books here: https://lorna-hollifield.com/my-books/

And join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and sign up for our Paid Subscriber Perks Program to access tip sheets, craft reports, full essays, writing assignments, and feedback on your work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1914 no 286. Non-negotiables and Micro Goals to Keep Your Writing on Track https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Freelancing does have its perks, but paid time off is not one of them. Knowing how to manage your to-do list when life's unexpected (toothache) and planned moments (vacation) take you away from the work, is the key to managing stress and getting the work done In today's episode I'll share two of my strategies for staying on track and avoiding the pressure and overwhelm even when you are pressed for time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Non-negotiables and Micro Goals to Keep Your Writing on Track full 2 86 Polly Cambell | Electracast Freelancing does have its perks, but paid time off is not one of them. Knowing how to manage your to-do list when life's unexpected (toothache) and planned moments (vacation) take you away from the work, is the key to managing stress and getting the work done In today's episode I'll share two of my strategies for staying on track and avoiding the pressure and overwhelm even when you are pressed for time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Freelancing does have its perks, but paid time off is not one of them. Knowing how to manage your to-do list when life's unexpected (toothache) and planned moments (vacation) take you away from the work, is the key to managing stress and getting the work done In today's episode I'll share two of my strategies for staying on track and avoiding the pressure and overwhelm even when you are pressed for time.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2393 no 285. Author Leslie J. Wyatt: On the Fun of Writing Romance https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Leslie Wyatt has published young adult novels, nonfiction books, and magazine articles, and now she is working on a series of romance books for those who have lived a little longer, she says. Her writing process has changed and evolved over the years too. But how does she keep writing books across the genres? The key, Wyatt says, is to keep showing up. This inspiring conversation will make you want to keep showing up too. Find Leslie J. Wyatt at https://lesliejwyatt.com/books And, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 15 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Author Leslie J. Wyatt: On the Fun of Writing Romance full 2 85 Polly Cambell | Electracast Leslie Wyatt has published young adult novels, nonfiction books, and magazine articles, and now she is working on a series of romance books for those who have lived a little longer, she says. Her writing process has changed and evolved over the years too. But how does she keep writing books across the genres? The key, Wyatt says, is to keep showing up. This inspiring conversation will make you want to keep showing up too. Find Leslie J. Wyatt at https://lesliejwyatt.com/books And, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Leslie Wyatt has published young adult novels, nonfiction books, and magazine articles, and now she is working on a series of romance books for those who have lived a little longer, she says. Her writing process has changed and evolved over the years too. But how does she keep writing books across the genres?

The key, Wyatt says, is to keep showing up.

This inspiring conversation will make you want to keep showing up too.

Find Leslie J. Wyatt at https://lesliejwyatt.com/books

And, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1955 no 283. Write Despite Summer Distractions https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite The brash and bright days of summer can make it hard for me to focus, but with micro-goals, a daily practice, and reframing the notion of writing work, I am able to get the writing done and enjoy the summer fun. These ideas might help you stay on track too. Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a Simply Paid Subscriber Perks member to receive writing assignments, personal feedback, craft tip sheets and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Write Despite Summer Distractions full 1 83 Polly Cambell | Electracast The brash and bright days of summer can make it hard for me to focus, but with micro-goals, a daily practice, and reframing the notion of writing work, I am able to get the writing done and enjoy the summer fun. These ideas might help you stay on track too. Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a Simply Paid Subscriber Perks member to receive writing assignments, personal feedback, craft tip sheets and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The brash and bright days of summer can make it hard for me to focus, but with micro-goals, a daily practice, and reframing the notion of writing work, I am able to get the writing done and enjoy the summer fun. These ideas might help you stay on track too.

Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and become a Simply Paid Subscriber Perks member to receive writing assignments, personal feedback, craft tip sheets and more.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1690 no 282. Author Joel Shoemaker on Writing the Story You Want to Write https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Librarian Joel Shoemaker is the author of "Bacon Grief," and the award-winning "Silas on Sundays," an LGBTQIA+ affirming faith picture book featuring a gender, non-conforming character. In this far-reaching and fun discussion, Joel talks about writing the stories he cares about for readers who don't always see themselves represented in books, the importance of knowing your audience, writing about faith, relationships, and gender norms, and how he embraces the "fun" side of marketing to connect with his readers. Find more about Joel and his work at https://itsjoelshoemaker.com Join our Simply Write community where, under the blue logo, we talk about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://substack.com/@pollycampbell. Under the yellow logo, you'll find Simply Said, a Substack and podcast about living well, doing good, and being happy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 01 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Author Joel Shoemaker on Writing the Story You Want to Write full 1 82 Polly Cambell | Electracast Librarian Joel Shoemaker is the author of "Bacon Grief," and the award-winning "Silas on Sundays," an LGBTQIA+ affirming faith picture book featuring a gender, non-conforming character. In this far-reaching and fun discussion, Joel talks about writing the stories he cares about for readers who don't always see themselves represented in books, the importance of knowing your audience, writing about faith, relationships, and gender norms, and how he embraces the "fun" side of marketing to connect with his readers. Find more about Joel and his work at https://itsjoelshoemaker.com Join our Simply Write community where, under the blue logo, we talk about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://substack.com/@pollycampbell. Under the yellow logo, you'll find Simply Said, a Substack and podcast about living well, doing good, and being happy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Librarian Joel Shoemaker is the author of "Bacon Grief," and the award-winning "Silas on Sundays," an LGBTQIA+ affirming faith picture book featuring a gender, non-conforming character.

In this far-reaching and fun discussion, Joel talks about writing the stories he cares about for readers who don't always see themselves represented in books, the importance of knowing your audience, writing about faith, relationships, and gender norms, and how he embraces the "fun" side of marketing to connect with his readers.

Find more about Joel and his work at https://itsjoelshoemaker.com

Join our Simply Write community where, under the blue logo, we talk about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://substack.com/@pollycampbell. Under the yellow logo, you'll find Simply Said, a Substack and podcast about living well, doing good, and being happy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1883 no 281. How To Know When Your Piece is Finished https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 How do you know when your piece is done? I am often asked this question and there are no clear answers. After months of writing and revising how do you know your book, essay, and articles are solid and ready to send to editors? In this episode we discuss the signs to watch for that indicate you have reached The End--part intuition, part copy blindness, and even some satisfaction--and the practices you need to perform before sending out the final document. For more on this topic, the writer's craft, and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where Simply Paid, Subscriber Perks members receive bonuses including tip sheets and feedback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0000 How to Know When Your Piece is Finished full 2 81 Polly Cambell | Electracast How do you know when your piece is done? I am often asked this question and there are no clear answers. After months of writing and revising how do you know your book, essay, and articles are solid and ready to send to editors? In this episode we discuss the signs to watch for that indicate you have reached The End--part intuition, part copy blindness, and even some satisfaction--and the practices you need to perform before sending out the final document. For more on this topic, the writer's craft, and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where Simply Paid, Subscriber Perks members receive bonuses including tip sheets and feedback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you know when your piece is done? I am often asked this question and there are no clear answers. After months of writing and revising how do you know your book, essay, and articles are solid and ready to send to editors?

In this episode we discuss the signs to watch for that indicate you have reached The End--part intuition, part copy blindness, and even some satisfaction--and the practices you need to perform before sending out the final document.

For more on this topic, the writer's craft, and crafting a writer's life join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where Simply Paid, Subscriber Perks members receive bonuses including tip sheets and feedback.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1745 no 280. Agent Lucinda Halpern Explains What Agents Are Looking For https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Working with an experienced agent can help a writer improve their books and get them published, but before signing with an agent, you need to have a Big Idea, clear title concept, and other key elements, in your work and pitch, that will make your book an "easy get," says renowned agent and author Lucinda Halpern. In this episode, Halpern goes deep into what agents want and how writers can not only create fantastic work but then put their business hats on to connect with an agent and sell their manuscripts. Halpern is a literary agent with over 15 years experience, and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York. She's worked in publicity for HarperCollins, and has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, representing New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of business, personal growth, psychology, narrative nonfiction, and upmarket fiction. Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House/Penguin Random House; February 2024). Learn more at getsignedbook.com or lucindaliterary.com and follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram and Twitter. Go to GetSigned book.com/bonuses to receive a free gift that Lucinda is offering to Simply Write w/Polly listeners and for more join our Simply Write community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Jun 2024 18:04:00 -0000 Agent Lucinda Halpern Explains What Agents Are Looking For full 2 80 Polly Cambell | Electracast Working with an experienced agent can help a writer improve their books and get them published, but before signing with an agent, you need to have a Big Idea, clear title concept, and other key elements, in your work and pitch, that will make your book an "easy get," says renowned agent and author Lucinda Halpern. In this episode, Halpern goes deep into what agents want and how writers can not only create fantastic work but then put their business hats on to connect with an agent and sell their manuscripts. Halpern is a literary agent with over 15 years experience, and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York. She's worked in publicity for HarperCollins, and has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, representing New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of business, personal growth, psychology, narrative nonfiction, and upmarket fiction. Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House/Penguin Random House; February 2024). Learn more at getsignedbook.com or lucindaliterary.com and follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram and Twitter. Go to GetSigned book.com/bonuses to receive a free gift that Lucinda is offering to Simply Write w/Polly listeners and for more join our Simply Write community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Working with an experienced agent can help a writer improve their books and get them published, but before signing with an agent, you need to have a Big Idea, clear title concept, and other key elements, in your work and pitch, that will make your book an "easy get," says renowned agent and author Lucinda Halpern.

In this episode, Halpern goes deep into what agents want and how writers can not only create fantastic work but then put their business hats on to connect with an agent and sell their manuscripts.

Halpern is a literary agent with over 15 years experience, and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York. She's worked in publicity for HarperCollins, and has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, representing New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of business, personal growth, psychology, narrative nonfiction, and upmarket fiction. Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House/Penguin Random House; February 2024). Learn more at getsignedbook.com or lucindaliterary.com and follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram and Twitter.

Go to GetSigned book.com/bonuses to receive a free gift that Lucinda is offering to Simply Write w/Polly listeners and for more join our Simply Write community.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1917 no 279. Managing Writer's Anxiety https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/ECM3561422974?selected=ECM6804125534 We can be a neurotic bunch of writers irritated when we feel blocked, euphoric when the writing comes, worrying about if we are good enough, internalizing comments and criticism, stressing about every word and detail trying to work up the nerve to hit "send" and release the work to the world. But this anxiety can keep us from writing and diminish the quality of our work. Plus, it isn't a whole lot of fun. In this episode, we talk about how anxiety can block writers and what we can do to overcome it and keep writing. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and join the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program for early offers, craft tip sheets, writing assignments, and other bonus material. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sat, 08 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Managing Writer's Anxiety full 2 81 Polly Cambell | Electracast We can be a neurotic bunch of writers irritated when we feel blocked, euphoric when the writing comes, worrying about if we are good enough, internalizing comments and criticism, stressing about every word and detail trying to work up the nerve to hit "send" and release the work to the world. But this anxiety can keep us from writing and diminish the quality of our work. Plus, it isn't a whole lot of fun. In this episode, we talk about how anxiety can block writers and what we can do to overcome it and keep writing. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and join the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program for early offers, craft tip sheets, writing assignments, and other bonus material. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We can be a neurotic bunch of writers irritated when we feel blocked, euphoric when the writing comes, worrying about if we are good enough, internalizing comments and criticism, stressing about every word and detail trying to work up the nerve to hit "send" and release the work to the world. But this anxiety can keep us from writing and diminish the quality of our work. Plus, it isn't a whole lot of fun. In this episode, we talk about how anxiety can block writers and what we can do to overcome it and keep writing.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and join the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program for early offers, craft tip sheets, writing assignments, and other bonus material.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1841 no 278. An Ly-Tampere Explains the Role of a Book Coach https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Most writers manage multiple projects and roles while also carving out time to write. Part of creating a sustainable writing career is to figure out ways to pay the bills and hone the craft. Writer and coach An Ly-Tampere coaches book coaches and talks about creating this niche within a writing career, how to combine the entrepreneurial spirit with creative work, and what writers can expect when looking for a coach. But beyond that, she says, the best coaches will have coaches themselves so that they can understand the writing business, how to inspire creativity and motivation, and other ways to help writers elevate their careers. For more on An Ly's work and coaching go to https://anlytampere.com/blog/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0000 An Ly-Tampere Explains the Role of a Book Coach full 2 78 Polly Cambell | Electracast Most writers manage multiple projects and roles while also carving out time to write. Part of creating a sustainable writing career is to figure out ways to pay the bills and hone the craft. Writer and coach An Ly-Tampere coaches book coaches and talks about creating this niche within a writing career, how to combine the entrepreneurial spirit with creative work, and what writers can expect when looking for a coach. But beyond that, she says, the best coaches will have coaches themselves so that they can understand the writing business, how to inspire creativity and motivation, and other ways to help writers elevate their careers. For more on An Ly's work and coaching go to https://anlytampere.com/blog/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Most writers manage multiple projects and roles while also carving out time to write. Part of creating a sustainable writing career is to figure out ways to pay the bills and hone the craft. Writer and coach An Ly-Tampere coaches book coaches and talks about creating this niche within a writing career, how to combine the entrepreneurial spirit with creative work, and what writers can expect when looking for a coach. But beyond that, she says, the best coaches will have coaches themselves so that they can understand the writing business, how to inspire creativity and motivation, and other ways to help writers elevate their careers.

For more on An Ly's work and coaching go to https://anlytampere.com/blog/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2207 no Replay: Finding Focus and Form https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Hello Writers, today we are replaying one of our most popular episodes about focus and form. The tips we include can help you find the direction of your work and make it easier to write. Hope you find it valuable and tune in next week, for an all-new episode. Thanks for listening. The clearer you are about the story you want to tell and where the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program for tip sheets, writing prompts, and assignments--with feedback, and all kinds of other fun stuff. Go to https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 May 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Finding Focus and Form full Polly Cambell | Electracast Hello Writers, today we are replaying one of our most popular episodes about focus and form. The tips we include can help you find the direction of your work and make it easier to write. Hope you find it valuable and tune in next week, for an all-new episode. Thanks for listening. The clearer you are about the story you want to tell and where the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers. For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program for tip sheets, writing prompts, and assignments--with feedback, and all kinds of other fun stuff. Go to https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hello Writers, today we are replaying one of our most popular episodes about focus and form. The tips we include can help you find the direction of your work and make it easier to write. Hope you find it valuable and tune in next week, for an all-new episode. Thanks for listening.


The clearer you are about the story you want to tell and where the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers.

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program for tip sheets, writing prompts, and assignments--with feedback, and all kinds of other fun stuff. Go to https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1788 no 277. Monica Saigal on Sensory Details and World Building https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite The author of "A Kiss in Kashmir" and other novels, short stories, and cookbooks, Monica Saigal talks about her heritage of food and stories and how those elements are central to her writing. Food has a kind of intimacy, she says, because we experience it with all of our senses. To bring that experience alive on the page, she layers in those sensory details, creating a textured world for the reader so that they too become immersed in the story. This episode is a masterclass in descriptive writing and world-building. Learn more about Monica Saigal and work with her at https://monicabhide.com/meet-monica/ Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive tips sheets, writing prompts and assignments with feedback, and other perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 May 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Monica Saigal on Sensory Details and World Building full 2 77 Polly Cambell | Electracast The author of "A Kiss in Kashmir" and other novels, short stories, and cookbooks, Monica Saigal talks about her heritage of food and stories and how those elements are central to her writing. Food has a kind of intimacy, she says, because we experience it with all of our senses. To bring that experience alive on the page, she layers in those sensory details, creating a textured world for the reader so that they too become immersed in the story. This episode is a masterclass in descriptive writing and world-building. Learn more about Monica Saigal and work with her at https://monicabhide.com/meet-monica/ Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive tips sheets, writing prompts and assignments with feedback, and other perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The author of "A Kiss in Kashmir" and other novels, short stories, and cookbooks, Monica Saigal talks about her heritage of food and stories and how those elements are central to her writing.

Food has a kind of intimacy, she says, because we experience it with all of our senses. To bring that experience alive on the page, she layers in those sensory details, creating a textured world for the reader so that they too become immersed in the story.

This episode is a masterclass in descriptive writing and world-building.

Learn more about Monica Saigal and work with her at https://monicabhide.com/meet-monica/

Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive tips sheets, writing prompts and assignments with feedback, and other perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2008 no 276.. The Big 3 Challenges That Hold Writers Back https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Are those inner voices getting oloud inyour head, or you having problems finding the time or getting stuck in which idea to choose? Yep, these situations diffuse our motivation, keep us anxious and make it hard for us to finish our writing. In today's episode we get into each one and offer solutions that will help you get started and keep going. And don't forget to join our Simply Write community and Simply Paid Subscribers Perks program for tip sheets, craft discussions, and even writing prompts and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 May 2024 11:00:00 -0000 The Big 3 Challenges That Hold Writers Back full 2 76 Polly Cambell | Electracast Are those inner voices getting oloud inyour head, or you having problems finding the time or getting stuck in which idea to choose? Yep, these situations diffuse our motivation, keep us anxious and make it hard for us to finish our writing. In today's episode we get into each one and offer solutions that will help you get started and keep going. And don't forget to join our Simply Write community and Simply Paid Subscribers Perks program for tip sheets, craft discussions, and even writing prompts and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are those inner voices getting oloud inyour head, or you having problems finding the time or getting stuck in which idea to choose? Yep, these situations diffuse our motivation, keep us anxious and make it hard for us to finish our writing.

In today's episode we get into each one and offer solutions that will help you get started and keep going.

And don't forget to join our Simply Write community and Simply Paid Subscribers Perks program for tip sheets, craft discussions, and even writing prompts and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2038 no 275.. The Author of The Grim Reader Talks About the Importance of Getting the Facts Right https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 The key to writing a book, working full-time, and keeping up with friends, family, and other activities is flexibility, says author, pharmacist, and triathlete Miffie Seideman. In this episode we talk about the importance of getting your facts right, research, staying grounded, and the importance of Plan Bs and 5 Find Miffie Seideman and her book "The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril" here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/ Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive access to tips sheets, writing assignments, feedback on your work, and more here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 06 May 2024 11:00:00 -0000 The Author of The Grim Reader Talks About the Importance of Getting the Facts Right full 2 75 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Miffie Seideman explains how she turned her pharmaceutical background into a reference book for writers. The key to writing a book, working full-time, and keeping up with friends, family, and other activities is flexibility, says author, pharmacist, and triathlete Miffie Seideman. In this episode we talk about the importance of getting your facts right, research, staying grounded, and the importance of Plan Bs and 5 Find Miffie Seideman and her book "The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril" here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/ Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive access to tips sheets, writing assignments, feedback on your work, and more here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The key to writing a book, working full-time, and keeping up with friends, family, and other activities is flexibility, says author, pharmacist, and triathlete Miffie Seideman. In this episode we talk about the importance of getting your facts right, research, staying grounded, and the importance of Plan Bs and 5

Find Miffie Seideman and her book "The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril" here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/

Join our Simply Write community and become a member of the Simply, Paid Subscriber Perks program to receive access to tips sheets, writing assignments, feedback on your work, and more here: https://miffieseideman.com/books/.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1882 no 274. The Feedback Loop: How to Handle Notes and Criticism https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 It's time to send out your work, it's part of your job--writers write and share their work. Yet, no matter how many thousands of times I've done that over the years it always feels a little scary. Getting notes or negative feedback isn't easy, but giving and receiving it is essential to becoming a better writer and improving your work. It is also part of the publishing process. In this show we talk about the Feedback Loop, how to ask for it, what to do with it, and how to use it in your work. Then we also discuss how to give feedback to help other writers. Want to know more about beta readers, how to deal with comments on your work, and more? Tune in here and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0000 The Feedback Loop: How to Handle Notes and Criticism full 2 74 Polly Cambell | Electracast It's time to send out your work, it's part of your job--writers write and share their work. Yet, no matter how many thousands of times I've done that over the years it always feels a little scary. Getting notes or negative feedback isn't easy, but giving and receiving it is essential to becoming a better writer and improving your work. It is also part of the publishing process. In this show we talk about the Feedback Loop, how to ask for it, what to do with it, and how to use it in your work. Then we also discuss how to give feedback to help other writers. Want to know more about beta readers, how to deal with comments on your work, and more? Tune in here and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's time to send out your work, it's part of your job--writers write and share their work. Yet, no matter how many thousands of times I've done that over the years it always feels a little scary.

Getting notes or negative feedback isn't easy, but giving and receiving it is essential to becoming a better writer and improving your work. It is also part of the publishing process.

In this show we talk about the Feedback Loop, how to ask for it, what to do with it, and how to use it in your work. Then we also discuss how to give feedback to help other writers.

Want to know more about beta readers, how to deal with comments on your work, and more? Tune in here and join the Simply Write

community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2166 no 273. Author Sandra Gurvis on Research and Balancing Diverse Projects Over a Decades Long Career https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Sandra Gurvis hasn't run off to the circus, but she did write about the evolution of the Greatest Show on Earth in her historical nonfiction book Three Ringling Circus: A History of Sarasota, Florida, and the Famous Ringling Brothers It's one of nearly 20 books Gurvis haws written over her long freelance career. Today she talks about the importance of a cornerstone client, writing both fiction and nonfiction, and how to manage loads of research even when it's conflicting. Contact Sandra Gurvis here: https://www.sandragurvis.com/ Join our Simply Write community and become a paid subscriber to begin receiving perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com Thanks for listening. Now sit down and Simply, Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 22 Apr 2024 17:10:00 -0000 Author Sandra Gurvis on Research and Balancing Diverse Projects Over a Decades Long Career full 2 273 Polly Cambell | Electracast Sandra Gurvis hasn't run off to the circus, but she did write about the evolution of the Greatest Show on Earth in her historical nonfiction book Three Ringling Circus: A History of Sarasota, Florida, and the Famous Ringling Brothers It's one of nearly 20 books Gurvis haws written over her long freelance career. Today she talks about the importance of a cornerstone client, writing both fiction and nonfiction, and how to manage loads of research even when it's conflicting. Contact Sandra Gurvis here: https://www.sandragurvis.com/ Join our Simply Write community and become a paid subscriber to begin receiving perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com Thanks for listening. Now sit down and Simply, Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sandra Gurvis hasn't run off to the circus, but she did write about the evolution of the Greatest Show on Earth in her historical nonfiction book Three Ringling Circus: A History of Sarasota, Florida, and the Famous Ringling Brothers It's one of nearly 20 books Gurvis haws written over her long freelance career. Today she talks about the importance of a cornerstone client, writing both fiction and nonfiction, and how to manage loads of research even when it's conflicting.

Contact Sandra Gurvis here: https://www.sandragurvis.com/

Join our Simply Write community and become a paid subscriber to begin receiving perks at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Thanks for listening.

Now sit down and Simply, Write.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1547 no 272. Healthy Writer, Better Writing https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Writers can suffer from aching backs, carpal tunnel, stiff necks, cognitive issues, and chronic illnesses, that make it impossible to write. Remember to take care of your brain and body so you are able to do the work you want to do. Start by staying hydrated, sitting in a good chair, and taking breaks, and be sure to tune in to Simply Write w/Polly Campbell for more tips and tricks to keep your body, brain, and business healthy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Healthy Writer, Better Writing full 2 72 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writers can suffer from aching backs, carpal tunnel, stiff necks, cognitive issues, and chronic illnesses, that make it impossible to write. Remember to take care of your brain and body so you are able to do the work you want to do. Start by staying hydrated, sitting in a good chair, and taking breaks, and be sure to tune in to Simply Write w/Polly Campbell for more tips and tricks to keep your body, brain, and business healthy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writers can suffer from aching backs, carpal tunnel, stiff necks, cognitive issues, and chronic illnesses, that make it impossible to write. Remember to take care of your brain and body so you are able to do the work you want to do.

Start by staying hydrated, sitting in a good chair, and taking breaks, and be sure to tune in to Simply Write w/Polly Campbell for more tips and tricks to keep your body, brain, and business healthy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1951 no 271. Laura Heffernan Talks the Must-Haves in Cozy Mysteries https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Author Laura Heffernan made her way by writing romance and then shifted to add multiple cozy mysteries to her repertoire. This prolific writer talks about writing romances, cozy mysteries under a pseudonym, and publishing three books a year. Find Laura Heffernan at https:lauraheffernan.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Laura Heffernan Talks the Must-Haves in Cozy Mysteries full 2 71 Polly Cambell | Electracast Author Laura Heffernan made her way by writing romance and then shifted to add multiple cozy mysteries to her repertoire. This prolific writer talks about writing romances, cozy mysteries under a pseudonym, and publishing three books a year. Find Laura Heffernan at https:lauraheffernan.com For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Author Laura Heffernan made her way by writing romance and then shifted to add multiple cozy mysteries to her repertoire. This prolific writer talks about writing romances, cozy mysteries under a pseudonym, and publishing three books a year.

Find Laura Heffernan at https:lauraheffernan.com

For more on the writing craft and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1758 no 270. Pick a Niche, Publish More https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 A writing niche can make researching, interviewing, and even writing more efficient and leave you more time to write. In this episode, Polly Campbell explains how to find your niche and why it makes the writer's life easier. Get in touch with Polly and join the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Pick a Niche, Publish More full 2 70 Polly Cambell | Electracast With a writing speciality you'll have more time to write and publish. A writing niche can make researching, interviewing, and even writing more efficient and leave you more time to write. In this episode, Polly Campbell explains how to find your niche and why it makes the writer's life easier. Get in touch with Polly and join the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices A writing niche can make researching, interviewing, and even writing more efficient and leave you more time to write. In this episode, Polly Campbell explains how to find your niche and why it makes the writer's life easier.

Get in touch with Polly and join the Simply Write community https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1922 no 269, Author Tara Laskowski Shares Her Publishing Process https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Last time thriller writer Tara Laskowski was here she was working on her book The Weekend Retreat. The book is now available and Tara returns to tell us what it was like to write the book under contract and on deadline, why she decided to toss out the original story--tears may or may not have been involved-- and what she's been up to since the book's publication. For more join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Tara Laskowski here: https://taralaskowski.com and her new book The Weekend Retreat is available wherever you buy books. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 25 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Author Tara Laskowski Shares Her Publishing Process full 2 69 Polly Cambell | Electracast She cut 50,000 words, cried and then started again when she realized the original story wasn't working. Last time thriller writer Tara Laskowski was here she was working on her book The Weekend Retreat. The book is now available and Tara returns to tell us what it was like to write the book under contract and on deadline, why she decided to toss out the original story--tears may or may not have been involved-- and what she's been up to since the book's publication. For more join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Tara Laskowski here: https://taralaskowski.com and her new book The Weekend Retreat is available wherever you buy books. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Last time thriller writer Tara Laskowski was here she was working on her book The Weekend Retreat. The book is now available and Tara returns to tell us what it was like to write the book under contract and on deadline, why she decided to toss out the original story--tears may or may not have been involved-- and what she's been up to since the book's publication.

For more join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com

Find Tara Laskowski here: https://taralaskowski.com and her new book The Weekend Retreat is available wherever you buy books.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2067 no 268. Writing Big Emotions Whether you are writing nonfiction essays or books or novels and short stories, the most compelling pieces include emotional resonance. As readers, we are often sucked in by the feelings our characters are experiencing. We want to follow them through the story to see what happens next and the unique ways they experience and express their fear, joy, sadness, love. Our characters' emotions provide conflict and tension and reveal who they are. And as in life, the emotions on the page, often motivate a range of behavior. But writing big emotions can be fraught because we've got to imagine, or feel them ourselves. In this episode, we explore the importance of allowing the people in your stories to express their big feelings and the techniques we can use to make them universal and unique. It's not enough to say your character is scared, you've got to show us what that looks like so we can feel it too. This episode will offer some tips to do just that and also explain why there are some pieces we should put on hold until we have time to process the emotional moments before we write about them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Writing Big Emotions full 2 68 Polly Cambell | Electracast Feelings connect us to characters, but you've got to do more than tell us what they are feeling. Whether you are writing nonfiction essays or books or novels and short stories, the most compelling pieces include emotional resonance. As readers, we are often sucked in by the feelings our characters are experiencing. We want to follow them through the story to see what happens next and the unique ways they experience and express their fear, joy, sadness, love. Our characters' emotions provide conflict and tension and reveal who they are. And as in life, the emotions on the page, often motivate a range of behavior. But writing big emotions can be fraught because we've got to imagine, or feel them ourselves. In this episode, we explore the importance of allowing the people in your stories to express their big feelings and the techniques we can use to make them universal and unique. It's not enough to say your character is scared, you've got to show us what that looks like so we can feel it too. This episode will offer some tips to do just that and also explain why there are some pieces we should put on hold until we have time to process the emotional moments before we write about them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Whether you are writing nonfiction essays or books or novels and short stories, the most compelling pieces include emotional resonance. As readers, we are often sucked in by the feelings our characters are experiencing. We want to follow them through the story to see what happens next and the unique ways they experience and express their fear, joy, sadness, love. Our characters' emotions provide conflict and tension and reveal who they are. And as in life, the emotions on the page, often motivate a range of behavior.

But writing big emotions can be fraught because we've got to imagine, or feel them ourselves. In this episode, we explore the importance of allowing the people in your stories to express their big feelings and the techniques we can use to make them universal and unique. It's not enough to say your character is scared, you've got to show us what that looks like so we can feel it too.

This episode will offer some tips to do just that and also explain why there are some pieces we should put on hold until we have time to process the emotional moments before we write about them.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2231 no 267. Author, Teacher Rachael Herron Explains How She Stays Focused https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 From the comfort of a recliner Rachael Herron writes about her obsessions, whatever the thing is that has captured her interest, the thing that she's thinking about when she can't fall asleep--and then she gets down to the writing business working on deadlines, revisions, her podcast or classes that are coming up. Herron who produces her podcast Ink In Your Veins and has traditionally and self-published a range of fiction and nonfiction books, says she is "highly distractible" so she puts boundaries or "guardrails" in place so she can get the writing done each day. And while she has always wanted to be a writer, 99 percent of the time while she is writing she says she feels like a fraud or a terrible writer. Now she recognizes that this feeling is normal, it's part of the process, and that has helped her become comfortable in those feelings of discomfort that many writers experience. For more, listen to this fantastic conversation with Rachael Herron and go to https://rachaelherron.com to learn more about her work and podcast Ink In Your Veins. For more about our interview, and crafting a writer's life and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 11 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0000 Author, Teacher Rachael Herron Explains How She Stays Focused full 2 67 Polly Cambell | Electracast Ninety-nine percent of the time acclaimed writer Herron says she feels like a fraud while writing, but, she says means you are doing the work. From the comfort of a recliner Rachael Herron writes about her obsessions, whatever the thing is that has captured her interest, the thing that she's thinking about when she can't fall asleep--and then she gets down to the writing business working on deadlines, revisions, her podcast or classes that are coming up. Herron who produces her podcast Ink In Your Veins and has traditionally and self-published a range of fiction and nonfiction books, says she is "highly distractible" so she puts boundaries or "guardrails" in place so she can get the writing done each day. And while she has always wanted to be a writer, 99 percent of the time while she is writing she says she feels like a fraud or a terrible writer. Now she recognizes that this feeling is normal, it's part of the process, and that has helped her become comfortable in those feelings of discomfort that many writers experience. For more, listen to this fantastic conversation with Rachael Herron and go to https://rachaelherron.com to learn more about her work and podcast Ink In Your Veins. For more about our interview, and crafting a writer's life and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices From the comfort of a recliner Rachael Herron writes about her obsessions, whatever the thing is that has captured her interest, the thing that she's thinking about when she can't fall asleep--and then she gets down to the writing business working on deadlines, revisions, her podcast or classes that are coming up.

Herron who produces her podcast Ink In Your Veins and has traditionally and self-published a range of fiction and nonfiction books, says she is "highly distractible" so she puts boundaries or "guardrails" in place so she can get the writing done each day. And while she has always wanted to be a writer, 99 percent of the time while she is writing she says she feels like a fraud or a terrible writer. Now she recognizes that this feeling is normal, it's part of the process, and that has helped her become comfortable in those feelings of discomfort that many writers experience.

For more, listen to this fantastic conversation with Rachael Herron and go to https://rachaelherron.com to learn more about her work and podcast Ink In Your Veins.

For more about our interview, and crafting a writer's life and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2217 no 266. What Does Professional Mean for Writers? https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 You might be able to work in your pajamas, but creating freelance writing success or securing an agent and publishing deal often comes down to much more than your ability to write. You've got to act like a professional. In this episode Polly talks about what it means to be a professional writer, including the importance of meeting deadlines, getting work in on time, meeting editorial market requirements, and taking notes in a way that will have editors coming back to work with you. Professional writing is about being coachable, emotionally intelligent, and recognizing what your job is. Tune in to learn more about what makes someone a sought-after writer so that you can become one yourself. For more on the other qualities editors, agents and publishers look for in a writer, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0000 What Does Professionalism Mean for Writers? full 2 66 Polly Cambell | Electracast Raise the standards and elevate your career. You might be able to work in your pajamas, but creating freelance writing success or securing an agent and publishing deal often comes down to much more than your ability to write. You've got to act like a professional. In this episode Polly talks about what it means to be a professional writer, including the importance of meeting deadlines, getting work in on time, meeting editorial market requirements, and taking notes in a way that will have editors coming back to work with you. Professional writing is about being coachable, emotionally intelligent, and recognizing what your job is. Tune in to learn more about what makes someone a sought-after writer so that you can become one yourself. For more on the other qualities editors, agents and publishers look for in a writer, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices You might be able to work in your pajamas, but creating freelance writing success or securing an agent and publishing deal often comes down to much more than your ability to write. You've got to act like a professional.

In this episode Polly talks about what it means to be a professional writer, including the importance of meeting deadlines, getting work in on time, meeting editorial market requirements, and taking notes in a way that will have editors coming back to work with you.

Professional writing is about being coachable, emotionally intelligent, and recognizing what your job is. Tune in to learn more about what makes someone a sought-after writer so that you can become one yourself.

For more on the other qualities editors, agents and publishers look for in a writer, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1983 no 265. Author Danielle Centoni Talks Food Writing and Taking Creative Risks Don't be afraid to take a risk, says James Beard-winning food writer and author Danielle Centoni. "If you believe you can do the job do anything you can to prove to that person that you can." Centoni, a food writer with a background in journalism and the co-author of Oregon Wine + Food and other books had a love for cooking and food and created an opportunity for herself when the newspaper she worked with was hiring for the foods section. After her newspaper experience, Centoni started writing cookbooks, and talks about what it's like to see her book used in a stranger's kitchen and why writing a book is a gratifying, labor of love. And by the time her recipes make it in the cookbook, she says it's got to be something she would make again and it must be "excellent." "Do what you want with it," Centoni says about the recipes she develops in her cookbooks, "Put your own spin on it. You know whatever you want to do make it the thing that you love and come back to, like, that makes me so happy." Get in touch with @DCentoni on Instagram. Get in touch with Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com and learn more about the writer's life, and how to develop a writing practice that Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Author Danielle Centoni Talks Food Writing and Taking Creative Risks full 2 64 Polly Cambell | Electracast Become an expert in your niche to get writing opportunities Don't be afraid to take a risk, says James Beard-winning food writer and author Danielle Centoni. "If you believe you can do the job do anything you can to prove to that person that you can." Centoni, a food writer with a background in journalism and the co-author of Oregon Wine + Food and other books had a love for cooking and food and created an opportunity for herself when the newspaper she worked with was hiring for the foods section. After her newspaper experience, Centoni started writing cookbooks, and talks about what it's like to see her book used in a stranger's kitchen and why writing a book is a gratifying, labor of love. And by the time her recipes make it in the cookbook, she says it's got to be something she would make again and it must be "excellent." "Do what you want with it," Centoni says about the recipes she develops in her cookbooks, "Put your own spin on it. You know whatever you want to do make it the thing that you love and come back to, like, that makes me so happy." Get in touch with @DCentoni on Instagram. Get in touch with Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com and learn more about the writer's life, and how to develop a writing practice that Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Don't be afraid to take a risk, says James Beard-winning food writer and author Danielle Centoni. "If you believe you can do the job do anything you can to prove to that person that you can."

Centoni, a food writer with a background in journalism and the co-author of Oregon Wine + Food and other books had a love for cooking and food and created an opportunity for herself when the newspaper she worked with was hiring for the foods section. After her newspaper experience, Centoni started writing cookbooks, and talks about what it's like to see her book used in a stranger's kitchen and why writing a book is a gratifying, labor of love. And by the time her recipes make it in the cookbook, she says it's got to be something she would make again and it must be "excellent."

"Do what you want with it," Centoni says about the recipes she develops in her cookbooks, "Put your own spin on it. You know whatever you want to do make it the thing that you love and come back to, like, that makes me so happy."

Get in touch with @DCentoni on Instagram.

Get in touch with Polly Campbell at https://simplywrite.substack.com and learn more about the writer's life, and how to develop a writing practice that

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2321 264. Going Deep into the Work https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Writer's Retreat for One Producing on deadline is exhausting and a necessary part of the writer's work. Whether you are writing to publish or writing between breaks from your other job, between your child's school hours, or even early in the morning before the others in the house wake and you have to head out the door. Yes, we have learned how to write in slivers of time. But the work deserves more and so do we. Plan a writer's retreat for one. Whether it's a couple of days at the beach or a couple of hours on a Wednesday morning in a room in your house where you can go deep into a single project and work undisturbed and undistracted (put that phone away) setting longer blocks of time away to write is an important way to develop better work and feel better while writing. For more on creating space to write and the ups and downs of publishing your work, join on Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com You'll be better for it and so will the work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Going Deep into the Work full 2 64 Polly Cambell | Electracast Blocks of uninterrupted writing time are good for us and the work. Writer's Retreat for One Producing on deadline is exhausting and a necessary part of the writer's work. Whether you are writing to publish or writing between breaks from your other job, between your child's school hours, or even early in the morning before the others in the house wake and you have to head out the door. Yes, we have learned how to write in slivers of time. But the work deserves more and so do we. Plan a writer's retreat for one. Whether it's a couple of days at the beach or a couple of hours on a Wednesday morning in a room in your house where you can go deep into a single project and work undisturbed and undistracted (put that phone away) setting longer blocks of time away to write is an important way to develop better work and feel better while writing. For more on creating space to write and the ups and downs of publishing your work, join on Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com You'll be better for it and so will the work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writer's Retreat for One

Producing on deadline is exhausting and a necessary part of the writer's work. Whether you are writing to publish or writing between breaks from your other job, between your child's school hours, or even early in the morning before the others in the house wake and you have to head out the door.

Yes, we have learned how to write in slivers of time. But the work deserves more and so do we.

Plan a writer's retreat for one. Whether it's a couple of days at the beach or a couple of hours on a Wednesday morning in a room in your house where you can go deep into a single project and work undisturbed and undistracted (put that phone away) setting longer blocks of time away to write is an important way to develop better work and feel better while writing.

For more on creating space to write and the ups and downs of publishing your work, join on Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

You'll be better for it and so will the work.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2050 no 263. Best-Selling Author Amy Stewart Explains How She Writes Both Nonfiction and Novels https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Though Amy Stewart author of the Drunken Botanist, the Kopp Sisters historical fiction series, and many others, has wanted to be a writer since she was a kid, that doesn't matter one bit, she says. We change throughout our lives, whether you wanted to write early or are coming to it now, writing is accessible to anyone. Writing, like her urban sketching and artwork she creates, is about practice, learning the skills, and processes that help you improve and get the world done. It's also important that writers stay well. Writing, sitting at the desk typing, can hurt the body over time. In this wide-ranging interview, Stewart explains her writing process, and why she isn't an early morning or late-night writer. To learn more about author Amy Stewart and take her classes go to https://amystewart.com Her newest book, The Tree Collectors which she both wrote and illustrated, is set for a July, 2024 release. And connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substanc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Best-Selling Author Amy Stewart Explains How She Writes Both Nonfiction and Novels full 2 63 Polly Cambell | Electracast Character and tension are important in both forms. Though Amy Stewart author of the Drunken Botanist, the Kopp Sisters historical fiction series, and many others, has wanted to be a writer since she was a kid, that doesn't matter one bit, she says. We change throughout our lives, whether you wanted to write early or are coming to it now, writing is accessible to anyone. Writing, like her urban sketching and artwork she creates, is about practice, learning the skills, and processes that help you improve and get the world done. It's also important that writers stay well. Writing, sitting at the desk typing, can hurt the body over time. In this wide-ranging interview, Stewart explains her writing process, and why she isn't an early morning or late-night writer. To learn more about author Amy Stewart and take her classes go to https://amystewart.com Her newest book, The Tree Collectors which she both wrote and illustrated, is set for a July, 2024 release. And connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substanc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Though Amy Stewart author of the Drunken Botanist, the Kopp Sisters historical fiction series, and many others, has wanted to be a writer since she was a kid, that doesn't matter one bit, she says. We change throughout our lives, whether you wanted to write early or are coming to it now, writing is accessible to anyone. Writing, like her urban sketching and artwork she creates, is about practice, learning the skills, and processes that help you improve and get the world done. It's also important that writers stay well. Writing, sitting at the desk typing, can hurt the body over time. In this wide-ranging interview, Stewart explains her writing process, and why she isn't an early morning or late-night writer.

To learn more about author Amy Stewart and take her classes go to https://amystewart.com

Her newest book, The Tree Collectors which she both wrote and illustrated, is set for a July, 2024 release.

And connect with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substanc.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2086 no 262. How to Build an Author's Platform https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Are platforms still a thing? Absolutely. If you want to publish traditionally, publishers and agents will want to know you have a built-in audience and have expertise in the topic you want to write about. Having an expanded platform is important for self-publishing writers and fiction writers too. It's a way to reach readers and be seen as the "authority" by your target audience. And fiction writers aren't off the hook either. But how can we build an author's platform and still be authentic? How can we do the work of platform development and still have time to write? In this episode, I'll share with you how I developed my platform before I published my first book and how it's evolved and grown since--especially when I played to my skills rather than trying to do it all. If I can do it, anyone can. Please, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about publishing, writing, and living the writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0000 How to Build an Author's Platform full 2 62 Polly Cambell | Electracast Yep, platforms are still important, but we don't have to make the process so hard. Are platforms still a thing? Absolutely. If you want to publish traditionally, publishers and agents will want to know you have a built-in audience and have expertise in the topic you want to write about. Having an expanded platform is important for self-publishing writers and fiction writers too. It's a way to reach readers and be seen as the "authority" by your target audience. And fiction writers aren't off the hook either. But how can we build an author's platform and still be authentic? How can we do the work of platform development and still have time to write? In this episode, I'll share with you how I developed my platform before I published my first book and how it's evolved and grown since--especially when I played to my skills rather than trying to do it all. If I can do it, anyone can. Please, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about publishing, writing, and living the writer's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are platforms still a thing? Absolutely. If you want to publish traditionally, publishers and agents will want to know you have a built-in audience and have expertise in the topic you want to write about. Having an expanded platform is important for self-publishing writers and fiction writers too. It's a way to reach readers and be seen as the "authority" by your target audience. And fiction writers aren't off the hook either. But how can we build an author's platform and still be authentic? How can we do the work of platform development and still have time to write?

In this episode, I'll share with you how I developed my platform before I published my first book and how it's evolved and grown since--especially when I played to my skills rather than trying to do it all.

If I can do it, anyone can.

Please, join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about publishing, writing, and living the writer's life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1971 no 260. Writing and Publishing Short Pieces Short pieces between 250 and 1,000 can be a good way to break into new markets and create a steady flow of income. Content marketers are often hired to write 500-word Welcome pages, many publications publish and pay for short essays, and front-of-the-book shorts are a good way to see your name in print. If you can explain a complex idea in a brief, or rally brand enthusiasm in less than 400 words in a corporate newsletter, you may even get a regular gig. But writing short pieces is one of the more difficult things to do. Each short piece requires a tight focus, emotion, a setting, evocative details, and even a character or expert source. Getting all of that to work in a 500-word piece is challenging, but with practice, you'll get better at it and the skills you learn will make all of your writing better. Listen in to learn strategies to write powerful, shorts and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for tip sheets and columns about the writing craft and crafting a writing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Writing and Publishing Short Pieces full 2 60 Polly Cambell | Electracast Short pieces are a good way to compile clips, and make money. Use these techniques to write better shorts. Short pieces between 250 and 1,000 can be a good way to break into new markets and create a steady flow of income. Content marketers are often hired to write 500-word Welcome pages, many publications publish and pay for short essays, and front-of-the-book shorts are a good way to see your name in print. If you can explain a complex idea in a brief, or rally brand enthusiasm in less than 400 words in a corporate newsletter, you may even get a regular gig. But writing short pieces is one of the more difficult things to do. Each short piece requires a tight focus, emotion, a setting, evocative details, and even a character or expert source. Getting all of that to work in a 500-word piece is challenging, but with practice, you'll get better at it and the skills you learn will make all of your writing better. Listen in to learn strategies to write powerful, shorts and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for tip sheets and columns about the writing craft and crafting a writing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Short pieces between 250 and 1,000 can be a good way to break into new markets and create a steady flow of income. Content marketers are often hired to write 500-word Welcome pages, many publications publish and pay for short essays, and front-of-the-book shorts are a good way to see your name in print. If you can explain a complex idea in a brief, or rally brand enthusiasm in less than 400 words in a corporate newsletter, you may even get a regular gig.

But writing short pieces is one of the more difficult things to do. Each short piece requires a tight focus, emotion, a setting, evocative details, and even a character or expert source.

Getting all of that to work in a 500-word piece is challenging, but with practice, you'll get better at it and the skills you learn will make all of your writing better.

Listen in to learn strategies to write powerful, shorts and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for tip sheets and columns about the writing craft and crafting a writing life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1685 no 259. Ghostwriting with Marcia Layton Turner https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Many people from entrepreneurs to entertainers hire ghostwriters to write books on their behalf. And that makes for some great writing opportunities for writers who can manage a book project from start to finish and do it in the voice, cadence, and tone of their client. But how can you break into the ghostwriting business? What skills are required for writers who want to work as ghostwriters, and what is it like to collaborate with a client while writing a book on their behalf? Veteran author and ghostwriter Marcia Layton Turner explains the unique niche of ghostwriting, and how she landed her first client and has gone on to write dozens of books over the years. She also talks about fee structures, boundaries, and what to expect as a ghostwriter. Want to learn more about ghostwriting? Visit the Association of Ghostwriters, at https://associationofghostwriters.org. Connect with Marcia Layton Turner at Marcia Layton Turner here: https://marcialaytonturner.com/about/ And be sure to get in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 15 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Ghostwriting with Marcia Layton Turner full 2 59 Polly Cambell | Electracast This writing niche can be another revenue stream for writers who can take on someone else's tone and voice. Many people from entrepreneurs to entertainers hire ghostwriters to write books on their behalf. And that makes for some great writing opportunities for writers who can manage a book project from start to finish and do it in the voice, cadence, and tone of their client. But how can you break into the ghostwriting business? What skills are required for writers who want to work as ghostwriters, and what is it like to collaborate with a client while writing a book on their behalf? Veteran author and ghostwriter Marcia Layton Turner explains the unique niche of ghostwriting, and how she landed her first client and has gone on to write dozens of books over the years. She also talks about fee structures, boundaries, and what to expect as a ghostwriter. Want to learn more about ghostwriting? Visit the Association of Ghostwriters, at https://associationofghostwriters.org. Connect with Marcia Layton Turner at Marcia Layton Turner here: https://marcialaytonturner.com/about/ And be sure to get in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Many people from entrepreneurs to entertainers hire ghostwriters to write books on their behalf.

And that makes for some great writing opportunities for writers who can manage a book project from start to finish and do it in the voice, cadence, and tone of their client.

But how can you break into the ghostwriting business? What skills are required for writers who want to work as ghostwriters, and what is it like to collaborate with a client while writing a book on their behalf?

Veteran author and ghostwriter Marcia Layton Turner explains the unique niche of ghostwriting, and how she landed her first client and has gone on to write dozens of books over the years. She also talks about fee structures, boundaries, and what to expect as a ghostwriter.

Want to learn more about ghostwriting? Visit the Association of Ghostwriters, at https://associationofghostwriters.org.

Connect with Marcia Layton Turner at Marcia Layton Turner here: https://marcialaytonturner.com/about/

And be sure to get in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2347 no 258. Deliberate Thinking is Important To Good Writing https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Writing happens long before we sit down at the computer. It happens in our hearts and our heads. Yet too, often writers don't leave the time they need to think their stories through. I'm not suggesting you develop a specific outline, or have everything figured out before you sit down to write, but it is helpful, necessary even to invest some time to think about this. This counts as writing too. This kind of deliberate thinking works like brainstorming for me. I'll take notes, let my imagination unspool and solve problems in my story, figure out story structure, or consider the form and markets that might best work for me. It's a creative process and gives me a more solid footing when I sit down at the computer to create a loosey-goosey first draft. In this episode, I share some ways I approach this kind of development process--one of my favorite parts of writing--and why I'm never really off work, even when I'm not sitting at the computer. Writing is always working on the mind. When we learn how to harness that, it makes us better writers. Get in touch with me, Polly, and get class discounts, publishing insights, author tips, and more as part of our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 08 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Deliberate Thinking is Important to Good Writing full 2 58 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing happens in the heart, head, and then, on the page. Writing happens long before we sit down at the computer. It happens in our hearts and our heads. Yet too, often writers don't leave the time they need to think their stories through. I'm not suggesting you develop a specific outline, or have everything figured out before you sit down to write, but it is helpful, necessary even to invest some time to think about this. This counts as writing too. This kind of deliberate thinking works like brainstorming for me. I'll take notes, let my imagination unspool and solve problems in my story, figure out story structure, or consider the form and markets that might best work for me. It's a creative process and gives me a more solid footing when I sit down at the computer to create a loosey-goosey first draft. In this episode, I share some ways I approach this kind of development process--one of my favorite parts of writing--and why I'm never really off work, even when I'm not sitting at the computer. Writing is always working on the mind. When we learn how to harness that, it makes us better writers. Get in touch with me, Polly, and get class discounts, publishing insights, author tips, and more as part of our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing happens long before we sit down at the computer. It happens in our hearts and our heads. Yet too, often writers don't leave the time they need to think their stories through. I'm not suggesting you develop a specific outline, or have everything figured out before you sit down to write, but it is helpful, necessary even to invest some time to think about this. This counts as writing too.

This kind of deliberate thinking works like brainstorming for me. I'll take notes, let my imagination unspool and solve problems in my story, figure out story structure, or consider the form and markets that might best work for me.

It's a creative process and gives me a more solid footing when I sit down at the computer to create a loosey-goosey first draft.

In this episode, I share some ways I approach this kind of development process--one of my favorite parts of writing--and why I'm never really off work, even when I'm not sitting at the computer. Writing is always working on the mind. When we learn how to harness that, it makes us better writers.

Get in touch with me, Polly, and get class discounts, publishing insights, author tips, and more as part of our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2141 no REPLAY 137. Bust Writer's Block https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular shows and learn why Polly doesn't really believe in writer's block. Join us Monday, Jan. 8 for all new shows and author interviews on Simply Write w/Polly. To get in touch with Polly and pick up the End of the Year Writer's Wrap Up and other tip sheets join the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Happy New Year. There are plenty of times when the writing feels hard. When it's difficult to find flow, you are filled with self-doubt and everything you put down on the page seems to suck. Still, that's no reason to quit, and those difficult feelings don't have to keep you from writing. In fact, they shouldn't. And if you want to write to publish, they can't. Every profession has days where the work isn't fun or doesn't come easily. No excuses. No blocks. You've still got to do the work. But there are some tips we can use to push through and make the hard writing days feel a little easier. In this episode, Polly talks about the things that can make a writer believe they are blocked and how to manage them so you can get the writing done. And, she shares a confession. For more on writer's block, the writing craft, and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 01 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000 Bust Writer's Block full 1 37 Polly Cambell | Electracast Here's how to make progress on the hard writing days. Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular shows and learn why Polly doesn't really believe in writer's block. Join us Monday, Jan. 8 for all new shows and author interviews on Simply Write w/Polly. To get in touch with Polly and pick up the End of the Year Writer's Wrap Up and other tip sheets join the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Happy New Year. There are plenty of times when the writing feels hard. When it's difficult to find flow, you are filled with self-doubt and everything you put down on the page seems to suck. Still, that's no reason to quit, and those difficult feelings don't have to keep you from writing. In fact, they shouldn't. And if you want to write to publish, they can't. Every profession has days where the work isn't fun or doesn't come easily. No excuses. No blocks. You've still got to do the work. But there are some tips we can use to push through and make the hard writing days feel a little easier. In this episode, Polly talks about the things that can make a writer believe they are blocked and how to manage them so you can get the writing done. And, she shares a confession. For more on writer's block, the writing craft, and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Enjoy this replay of one of our most popular shows and learn why Polly doesn't really believe in writer's block. Join us Monday, Jan. 8 for all new shows and author interviews on Simply Write w/Polly.

To get in touch with Polly and pick up the End of the Year Writer's Wrap Up and other tip sheets join the Simply Write Community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Happy New Year.

There are plenty of times when the writing feels hard. When it's difficult to find flow, you are filled with self-doubt and everything you put down on the page seems to suck. Still, that's no reason to quit, and those difficult feelings don't have to keep you from writing. In fact, they shouldn't. And if you want to write to publish, they can't. Every profession has days where the work isn't fun or doesn't come easily. No excuses. No blocks. You've still got to do the work.

But there are some tips we can use to push through and make the hard writing days feel a little easier. In this episode, Polly talks about the things that can make a writer believe they are blocked and how to manage them so you can get the writing done. And, she shares a confession.

For more on writer's block, the writing craft, and crafting a writer's life join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1869 no 103. The Power of Writing Rituals & Routines --REPLAY https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 The New Year is a great time to reflect on your writing process and routines. What is working? What isn't? How can you be more productive, and creative, and generate more publishing opportunities? Rituals and routines can help. In this episode, one of our most popular from last year, Polly talks about her writing routines and how you can create those practices that will help you get the writing done. Ready to move that project forward, daily rituals and a solid writing routine can help you get the writing done. This episode originally aired Nov. 7, 2022. Get in touch with Polly and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 25 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0000 The Power of Writing Rituals & Routines -- REPLAY full 1 3 Polly Cambell | Electracast Prime your brain to more productive and creative The New Year is a great time to reflect on your writing process and routines. What is working? What isn't? How can you be more productive, and creative, and generate more publishing opportunities? Rituals and routines can help. In this episode, one of our most popular from last year, Polly talks about her writing routines and how you can create those practices that will help you get the writing done. Ready to move that project forward, daily rituals and a solid writing routine can help you get the writing done. This episode originally aired Nov. 7, 2022. Get in touch with Polly and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The New Year is a great time to reflect on your writing process and routines. What is working? What isn't? How can you be more productive, and creative, and generate more publishing opportunities? Rituals and routines can help. In this episode, one of our most popular from last year, Polly talks about her writing routines and how you can create those practices that will help you get the writing done.

Ready to move that project forward, daily rituals and a solid writing routine can help you get the writing done.

This episode originally aired Nov. 7, 2022.

Get in touch with Polly and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1736 no 257. Agent Amy Collins on What Writers Need to Know When Pitching Agents https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite It's true agents are inundated with pitches from authors. And, says Amy Collins, an agent at Talcott Notch Literary it's also true that they routinely turn down great work. But that doesn't mean you should stop trying and it helps a lot when you learn how to provide agents what they need. Often, Collins says, agents turn down good books, because they already have authors with books in similar genres, or she can only take on a couple of new clients and has already found them. A rejection doesn't mean your work is a flop, it means you've got to keep seeking the right agent match and hit their inbox at just the right time. It isn't easy, and perseverance matters, Collins says, but so do other things in publishing and life. In this candid conversation, Collins breaks down what authors need to know when pitching an agent and why not everyone is going to get published and that doesn't mean you aren't a good writer. We also talk comp titles, rules of submitting to agents (here's a hint: depends on the agent), and Amy Collins also teaches classes on queries, comp titles, and more at https://amysadvice.com. There you can also find articles and other resources. Amy is also an agent at Talcott Notch Literary Services. Right now she is closed to queries. Check the website for any updates. Be in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Agent Amy Collins on What Writers Need to Know When Pitching Agents full 2 57 Polly Cambell | Electracast Comp titles must be in your pitch and Collins has a foolproof way to find them. It's true agents are inundated with pitches from authors. And, says Amy Collins, an agent at Talcott Notch Literary it's also true that they routinely turn down great work. But that doesn't mean you should stop trying and it helps a lot when you learn how to provide agents what they need. Often, Collins says, agents turn down good books, because they already have authors with books in similar genres, or she can only take on a couple of new clients and has already found them. A rejection doesn't mean your work is a flop, it means you've got to keep seeking the right agent match and hit their inbox at just the right time. It isn't easy, and perseverance matters, Collins says, but so do other things in publishing and life. In this candid conversation, Collins breaks down what authors need to know when pitching an agent and why not everyone is going to get published and that doesn't mean you aren't a good writer. We also talk comp titles, rules of submitting to agents (here's a hint: depends on the agent), and Amy Collins also teaches classes on queries, comp titles, and more at https://amysadvice.com. There you can also find articles and other resources. Amy is also an agent at Talcott Notch Literary Services. Right now she is closed to queries. Check the website for any updates. Be in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's true agents are inundated with pitches from authors. And, says Amy Collins, an agent at Talcott Notch Literary it's also true that they routinely turn down great work. But that doesn't mean you should stop trying and it helps a lot when you learn how to provide agents what they need.

Often, Collins says, agents turn down good books, because they already have authors with books in similar genres, or she can only take on a couple of new clients and has already found them.

A rejection doesn't mean your work is a flop, it means you've got to keep seeking the right agent match and hit their inbox at just the right time. It isn't easy, and perseverance matters, Collins says, but so do other things in publishing and life.

In this candid conversation, Collins breaks down what authors need to know when pitching an agent and why not everyone is going to get published and that doesn't mean you aren't a good writer. We also talk comp titles, rules of submitting to agents (here's a hint: depends on the agent), and

Amy Collins also teaches classes on queries, comp titles, and more at https://amysadvice.com. There you can also find articles and other resources.

Amy is also an agent at Talcott Notch Literary Services. Right now she is closed to queries. Check the website for any updates.

Be in touch with Polly and join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1931 no 256. End of the Year Writer Wrap-Up https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite 'Tis the season to take care of business. In this episode, we cover the end-of-the-year reminders and the planning and development work you can do now to create a successful year ahead. Have you renewed your business license, and prepared your estimated taxes? Have you established your editorial calendar and drafted letters of introduction? Now is the time. Listen to this episode to learn how I lay the groundwork for the new year and use this month to ramp up my writing career. To get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, please join our free Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and check in to pick up the Writer's Year End Checklist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0000 End of the Year Writer Wrap=Up full 2 56 Polly Cambell | Electracast These planning and business reminders can help you finish the year strong and prepare your writing business for New Year success. 'Tis the season to take care of business. In this episode, we cover the end-of-the-year reminders and the planning and development work you can do now to create a successful year ahead. Have you renewed your business license, and prepared your estimated taxes? Have you established your editorial calendar and drafted letters of introduction? Now is the time. Listen to this episode to learn how I lay the groundwork for the new year and use this month to ramp up my writing career. To get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, please join our free Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and check in to pick up the Writer's Year End Checklist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices 'Tis the season to take care of business. In this episode, we cover the end-of-the-year reminders and the planning and development work you can do now to create a successful year ahead. Have you renewed your business license, and prepared your estimated taxes? Have you established your editorial calendar and drafted letters of introduction? Now is the time. Listen to this episode to learn how I lay the groundwork for the new year and use this month to ramp up my writing career.

To get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, please join our free Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and check in to pick up the Writer's Year End Checklist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2239 no 255. Strategies to Keep Writing During Busy Times https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 End-of-the-year planning and paperwork. Kids on break from school. Seasonal festivities. Planning and pitching for the year ahead. Editorial calendars and goal planning. These are just a few of the things professional writers contend during this time of the year. But, instead of being thrown by the distraction, they flex their schedule and get the job done. Here are a few of the strategies Polly uses to keep up during the busy times: Prioritizes deadlines which are all the things others are waiting on her for. Builds in days off. She doesn't even pretend she'll work on these days. Establishes developmental deadlines. Then, she builds in the rest of her schedule and keeps to a writing plan. Polly explains these points and the others she uses to stay on track and on task despite the other distractions and fun this time of year and how you can make time for it all too with some flexible planning. Have tips, questions, or ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life? Get in touch with Polly, and become a part of our community here at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Strategies to Keep Writing During Busy Times full 2 55 Polly Cambell | Electracast It's easy to lose focus with so many distractions this time of year, but these tips can help you make progress. End-of-the-year planning and paperwork. Kids on break from school. Seasonal festivities. Planning and pitching for the year ahead. Editorial calendars and goal planning. These are just a few of the things professional writers contend during this time of the year. But, instead of being thrown by the distraction, they flex their schedule and get the job done. Here are a few of the strategies Polly uses to keep up during the busy times: Prioritizes deadlines which are all the things others are waiting on her for. Builds in days off. She doesn't even pretend she'll work on these days. Establishes developmental deadlines. Then, she builds in the rest of her schedule and keeps to a writing plan. Polly explains these points and the others she uses to stay on track and on task despite the other distractions and fun this time of year and how you can make time for it all too with some flexible planning. Have tips, questions, or ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life? Get in touch with Polly, and become a part of our community here at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices End-of-the-year planning and paperwork. Kids on break from school. Seasonal festivities. Planning and pitching for the year ahead. Editorial calendars and goal planning. These are just a few of the things professional writers contend during this time of the year.

But, instead of being thrown by the distraction, they flex their schedule and get the job done.

Here are a few of the strategies Polly uses to keep up during the busy times:

  1. Prioritizes deadlines which are all the things others are waiting on her for.
  2. Builds in days off. She doesn't even pretend she'll work on these days.
  3. Establishes developmental deadlines.

Then, she builds in the rest of her schedule and keeps to a writing plan. Polly explains these points and the others she uses to stay on track and on task despite the other distractions and fun this time of year and how you can make time for it all too with some flexible planning.

Have tips, questions, or ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life? Get in touch with Polly, and become a part of our community here at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1721 no 254. Attorney, Author Sonia Frontera Explains Why She Independently Publishes https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Sonia Frontera has always had a love of writing--even when she went to law school. Now she uses both her legal expertise and writing skills to independently publish books such as Relationship Solutions: Effective Strategies to Heal Your Heart and Create the Happiness You Deserve. Her writing voice is accessible, positive, and authentic and her books avoid pages of legal jargon. That was by design, Frontera says. She wants her work to be helpful and she recognizes her books serve as a calling card to potential clients. That's one of the reasons, Frontera decided to self-publish and why right now, she doesn't have any plans to publish traditionally. She wants full control over her voice and style and her schedule. In this episode Frontera shares her writing process, how she manages writing around her work as an attorney, and why she invested in a group of professionals to help her self-publish her books. Get in contact with Sonia Frontera and find her books at https://soniafrontera.com Connect with me, Polly Campbell, and find our tip sheets, author links, and more about writing when you join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. See ya there. Thanks for being here and for listening. Now, it's time to Simply Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000 254. Attorney, Author Sonia Frontera Explains Why She Independently Publishes full 2 54 Polly Cambell | Electracast Merge your expertise with your writing passion. Sonia Frontera has always had a love of writing--even when she went to law school. Now she uses both her legal expertise and writing skills to independently publish books such as Relationship Solutions: Effective Strategies to Heal Your Heart and Create the Happiness You Deserve. Her writing voice is accessible, positive, and authentic and her books avoid pages of legal jargon. That was by design, Frontera says. She wants her work to be helpful and she recognizes her books serve as a calling card to potential clients. That's one of the reasons, Frontera decided to self-publish and why right now, she doesn't have any plans to publish traditionally. She wants full control over her voice and style and her schedule. In this episode Frontera shares her writing process, how she manages writing around her work as an attorney, and why she invested in a group of professionals to help her self-publish her books. Get in contact with Sonia Frontera and find her books at https://soniafrontera.com Connect with me, Polly Campbell, and find our tip sheets, author links, and more about writing when you join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. See ya there. Thanks for being here and for listening. Now, it's time to Simply Write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sonia Frontera has always had a love of writing--even when she went to law school. Now she uses both her legal expertise and writing skills to independently publish books such as Relationship Solutions: Effective Strategies to Heal Your Heart and Create the Happiness You Deserve.

Her writing voice is accessible, positive, and authentic and her books avoid pages of legal jargon. That was by design, Frontera says. She wants her work to be helpful and she recognizes her books serve as a calling card to potential clients.

That's one of the reasons, Frontera decided to self-publish and why right now, she doesn't have any plans to publish traditionally. She wants full control over her voice and style and her schedule.

In this episode Frontera shares her writing process, how she manages writing around her work as an attorney, and why she invested in a group of professionals to help her self-publish her books.

Get in contact with Sonia Frontera and find her books at https://soniafrontera.com

Connect with me, Polly Campbell, and find our tip sheets, author links, and more about writing when you join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. See ya there.

Thanks for being here and for listening.

Now, it's time to Simply Write.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1754 no 253. Writer's Envy is Real. Here's How to Manage It. https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Yeah, I know, it can be tough to see even the most well-deserved colleagues climb the bestseller charts when you are struggling to find an agent or even knock out a first draft. I get it. Writer's Envy is real, but it can also be motivating. There are opportunities out there for hardworking writers and your success will not limit my chances. So the best way to deal is to celebrate the success of others and use your own envy and big feelings to drive your work. In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly, we talk about managing Writer's Envy and making it work for you. And, thank you, thank you, thank you. This is the first episode of Season 2, Simply Write w/Polly. The podcast has been on for a year now thanks to you. Thanks for listening each week and being a part of our growing Simply Write w/Polly community. I've already got some fabulous authors booked for the year ahead and I can't wait to share their insights with you, as well as more tips, thoughts, and ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life. Thanks for being here. -p Want to get in touch with me, Polly, and become a part of our community? Join us at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Writer's Envy is Real. Here's How to Manage It. full 2 53 Polly Cambell | Electracast Envious of another writer's success? You are not alone, afterall, writers are people too. Here's how to use those big feelings. Yeah, I know, it can be tough to see even the most well-deserved colleagues climb the bestseller charts when you are struggling to find an agent or even knock out a first draft. I get it. Writer's Envy is real, but it can also be motivating. There are opportunities out there for hardworking writers and your success will not limit my chances. So the best way to deal is to celebrate the success of others and use your own envy and big feelings to drive your work. In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly, we talk about managing Writer's Envy and making it work for you. And, thank you, thank you, thank you. This is the first episode of Season 2, Simply Write w/Polly. The podcast has been on for a year now thanks to you. Thanks for listening each week and being a part of our growing Simply Write w/Polly community. I've already got some fabulous authors booked for the year ahead and I can't wait to share their insights with you, as well as more tips, thoughts, and ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life. Thanks for being here. -p Want to get in touch with me, Polly, and become a part of our community? Join us at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Yeah, I know, it can be tough to see even the most well-deserved colleagues climb the bestseller charts when you are struggling to find an agent or even knock out a first draft. I get it. Writer's Envy is real, but it can also be motivating.

There are opportunities out there for hardworking writers and your success will not limit my chances. So the best way to deal is to celebrate the success of others and use your own envy and big feelings to drive your work.

In this episode of Simply Write w/Polly, we talk about managing Writer's Envy and making it work for you.

And, thank you, thank you, thank you. This is the first episode of Season 2, Simply Write w/Polly. The podcast has been on for a year now thanks to you. Thanks for listening each week and being a part of our growing Simply Write w/Polly community. I've already got some fabulous authors booked for the year ahead and I can't wait to share their insights with you, as well as more tips, thoughts, and ideas about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life.

Thanks for being here.

-p

Want to get in touch with me, Polly, and become a part of our community? Join us at Simply Write, on https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2027 no 152. Author Kathy Ramsperger Talks How Journaling Helps Her Novel Writing Journaling helps award-winning author Kathryn Brown Ramsperger solve problems, access her imagination, and free up her creative brain to get the work done. Whether it's Morning Pages or journaling on the go, Rampsberger is a firm believer that journaling is a door to our imagination. A journal can keep our ideas in a safe place, or allow us to release big feelings so that we can move on. It's also a tool to get the ideas for our next novel or project percolating. Ramsperger, who is also a writing coach and journalist, talks about how to journal to make our writing better. Get in touch with Kathryn Brown Ramsperger https://kathrynbrownramsperger.com/ and find all her books including A Thousand Flying Things there or wherever books are sold. Subscribe to her newsletter and receive a free cookbook. Get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Find my newest book You, Recharged, at your local bookstore and here: https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 06 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Author Kathy Ramsperger Talks How Journaling Helps Her Novel Writing full 1 52 Polly Cambell | Electracast Morning pages and other journaling forms can help writers find new material, solve writing problems, and gain clarity Journaling helps award-winning author Kathryn Brown Ramsperger solve problems, access her imagination, and free up her creative brain to get the work done. Whether it's Morning Pages or journaling on the go, Rampsberger is a firm believer that journaling is a door to our imagination. A journal can keep our ideas in a safe place, or allow us to release big feelings so that we can move on. It's also a tool to get the ideas for our next novel or project percolating. Ramsperger, who is also a writing coach and journalist, talks about how to journal to make our writing better. Get in touch with Kathryn Brown Ramsperger https://kathrynbrownramsperger.com/ and find all her books including A Thousand Flying Things there or wherever books are sold. Subscribe to her newsletter and receive a free cookbook. Get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Find my newest book You, Recharged, at your local bookstore and here: https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Journaling helps award-winning author Kathryn Brown Ramsperger solve problems, access her imagination, and free up her creative brain to get the work done.

Whether it's Morning Pages or journaling on the go, Rampsberger is a firm believer that journaling is a door to our imagination. A journal can keep our ideas in a safe place, or allow us to release big feelings so that we can move on. It's also a tool to get the ideas for our next novel or project percolating. Ramsperger, who is also a writing coach and journalist, talks about how to journal to make our writing better.

Get in touch with Kathryn Brown Ramsperger https://kathrynbrownramsperger.com/ and find all her books including A Thousand Flying Things there or wherever books are sold. Subscribe to her newsletter and receive a free cookbook.

Get in touch with me, Polly Campbell, and become part of our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Find my newest book You, Recharged, at your local bookstore and here: https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2327 no 151. Break in With Service Articles https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Every Service Piece Needs These Things Problems. Solutions. Hope and Humans. There are plenty of places to break in with service pieces, but each article must include the components editors are looking for and readers want. I've written service for decades and in this episode I'll share what those elements are and how you can structure them to break in and publish. Want more? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life. You'll find me, Polly Campbell, there too, so please get in touch. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Break in With Service Articles full 1 52 Polly Cambell | Electracast :Learn the elements your articles need to get published. Every Service Piece Needs These Things Problems. Solutions. Hope and Humans. There are plenty of places to break in with service pieces, but each article must include the components editors are looking for and readers want. I've written service for decades and in this episode I'll share what those elements are and how you can structure them to break in and publish. Want more? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life. You'll find me, Polly Campbell, there too, so please get in touch. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Every Service Piece Needs These Things

Problems.

Solutions.

Hope and Humans.


There are plenty of places to break in with service pieces, but each article must include the components editors are looking for and readers want.

I've written service for decades and in this episode I'll share what those elements are and how you can structure them to break in and publish.

Want more?

Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life. You'll find me, Polly Campbell, there too, so please get in touch. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us.

Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1987 no 150. Author Susan Johnston Taylor Talks Writing for Children https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Writing for the Children's Market Author, poet, and journalist Susan Johnston Taylor writes articles and books for children and adults, and her newest picture book is written in poetry. Diversifying your writing career is akin to diversifying your investment portfolio, Johnston Taylor says, and an important way to publish in a variety of markets. Throughout her career, Johnston Taylor says she has followed her own curiosity and her interests and then sought the markets that are best suited for the range of writing she likes to do. Writing picture books is especially demanding because you have only a few words to convey action, character, and a compelling story. In this episode, Johnston Taylor talks about her newest book, Animals in Surprising Shades, https://bookshop.org/p/books/animals-in-surprising-shades-poems-about-earth-s-colorful-creatures-susan-johnston-taylor/18745652?ean=9781957655048, illustrated by Annie Bakst, and the rules she follows to write short, strong prose for children. A few things she recommends? Use strong verbs, that do not need to be modified by an adverb. Consider how the words sound on the page since many of these books will be read aloud to young children. And, don't narrate what can be illustrated. For more on Susan Johnston Taylor and to get in touch, go to https://staylorwrites.com/ And get in touch with us by joining our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and the craft and crafting a writer's life. If you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Oct 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Author Susan Johnston Taylor Talks Writing For Children full 1 50 Polly Cambell | Electracast Following your curiosity into diverse writing markets pays dividends. Writing for the Children's Market Author, poet, and journalist Susan Johnston Taylor writes articles and books for children and adults, and her newest picture book is written in poetry. Diversifying your writing career is akin to diversifying your investment portfolio, Johnston Taylor says, and an important way to publish in a variety of markets. Throughout her career, Johnston Taylor says she has followed her own curiosity and her interests and then sought the markets that are best suited for the range of writing she likes to do. Writing picture books is especially demanding because you have only a few words to convey action, character, and a compelling story. In this episode, Johnston Taylor talks about her newest book, Animals in Surprising Shades, https://bookshop.org/p/books/animals-in-surprising-shades-poems-about-earth-s-colorful-creatures-susan-johnston-taylor/18745652?ean=9781957655048, illustrated by Annie Bakst, and the rules she follows to write short, strong prose for children. A few things she recommends? Use strong verbs, that do not need to be modified by an adverb. Consider how the words sound on the page since many of these books will be read aloud to young children. And, don't narrate what can be illustrated. For more on Susan Johnston Taylor and to get in touch, go to https://staylorwrites.com/ And get in touch with us by joining our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and the craft and crafting a writer's life. If you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing for the Children's Market

Author, poet, and journalist Susan Johnston Taylor writes articles and books for children and adults, and her newest picture book is written in poetry.

Diversifying your writing career is akin to diversifying your investment portfolio, Johnston Taylor says, and an important way to publish in a variety of markets.

Throughout her career, Johnston Taylor says she has followed her own curiosity and her interests and then sought the markets that are best suited for the range of writing she likes to do.

Writing picture books is especially demanding because you have only a few words to convey action, character, and a compelling story.

In this episode, Johnston Taylor talks about her newest book, Animals in Surprising Shades, https://bookshop.org/p/books/animals-in-surprising-shades-poems-about-earth-s-colorful-creatures-susan-johnston-taylor/18745652?ean=9781957655048, illustrated by Annie Bakst, and the rules she follows to write short, strong prose for children.

A few things she recommends?

Use strong verbs, that do not need to be modified by an adverb.

Consider how the words sound on the page since many of these books will be read aloud to young children.

And, don't narrate what can be illustrated.

For more on Susan Johnston Taylor and to get in touch, go to https://staylorwrites.com/

And get in touch with us by joining our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and the craft and crafting a writer's life.

If you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us.

Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2051 no 149. Writing Through Heartbreak https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Keep Going Writing Our Way Through The news of the week has knocked me back. It can be hard to head into the quiet of the writing desk and focus on the work we need to get done. But, writing is also a job. My husband works in a hospital, and he doesn't skip work when he's feeling sad or uninspired. Last week we took our car to the mechanic, and he was there. I don't know if he has problems in his relationship or is bothered by the news reports. I wish him well, but I just want him to fix my car. It's tough, writing, because our jobs require us to be quiet and focused. We must observe, notice, take in those details, and then apply them to our fiction or essays, articles, or screenplays so others can understand them too. This is hard to do when external factors push in whether they be our worries over a sick kid, a late check, or stories of war and natural disasters and people suffering. It isn't easy to gather ourselves and sit quietly and get the work done. This is the work of it. Despite my anxiety, I have a story due. So, over the years I've cultivated my mental preparedness kit to help me get to work when other things are pushing in. I share some of the tricks I use to stay on track, like writing about the thing that seems to be nagging at my attention and then getting down to the work, and other ideas. How do you keep going to meet your writing deadlines when the world pushes in? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:33:00 -0000 Writing Through Heartbreak full 1 49 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing is a job. Here's how we can manage the most difficult distractions and hit deadline. Keep Going Writing Our Way Through The news of the week has knocked me back. It can be hard to head into the quiet of the writing desk and focus on the work we need to get done. But, writing is also a job. My husband works in a hospital, and he doesn't skip work when he's feeling sad or uninspired. Last week we took our car to the mechanic, and he was there. I don't know if he has problems in his relationship or is bothered by the news reports. I wish him well, but I just want him to fix my car. It's tough, writing, because our jobs require us to be quiet and focused. We must observe, notice, take in those details, and then apply them to our fiction or essays, articles, or screenplays so others can understand them too. This is hard to do when external factors push in whether they be our worries over a sick kid, a late check, or stories of war and natural disasters and people suffering. It isn't easy to gather ourselves and sit quietly and get the work done. This is the work of it. Despite my anxiety, I have a story due. So, over the years I've cultivated my mental preparedness kit to help me get to work when other things are pushing in. I share some of the tricks I use to stay on track, like writing about the thing that seems to be nagging at my attention and then getting down to the work, and other ideas. How do you keep going to meet your writing deadlines when the world pushes in? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Keep Going

Writing Our Way Through


The news of the week has knocked me back. It can be hard to head into the quiet of the writing desk and focus on the work we need to get done. But, writing is also a job. My husband works in a hospital, and he doesn't skip work when he's feeling sad or uninspired.

Last week we took our car to the mechanic, and he was there. I don't know if he has problems in his relationship or is bothered by the news reports. I wish him well, but I just want him to fix my car.

It's tough, writing, because our jobs require us to be quiet and focused. We must observe, notice, take in those details, and then apply them to our fiction or essays, articles, or screenplays so others can understand them too.

This is hard to do when external factors push in whether they be our worries over a sick kid, a late check, or stories of war and natural disasters and people suffering. It isn't easy to gather ourselves and sit quietly and get the work done.

This is the work of it. Despite my anxiety, I have a story due. So, over the years I've cultivated my mental preparedness kit to help me get to work when other things are pushing in. I share some of the tricks I use to stay on track, like writing about the thing that seems to be nagging at my attention and then getting down to the work, and other ideas.

How do you keep going to meet your writing deadlines when the world pushes in?

Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and let me know how you handle the ups and downs in a writing life join us as we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life.

And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star rating or review. It helps other writers discover us.

Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2008 no 148. Sandra Beckwith on How to Sell More Books https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Reframe Your Marketing Mindset Author, writer, and book marketing expert Sandra Beckwith suggests that when writers and authors change how they think about marketing they will feel more comfortable promoting their work. It's a simple reframe, says the host of BuildBookBuzz.com a marketing resource for writers and authors at https://buildbookbuzz.com/ Nobody cares about your book more, and nobody is going to do it as well as you will, Beckwith says. But, writers must look beyond the self-promotion. "You are selling your book, not yourself," Beckwith says in this enlightening episode. If you care enough to develop, write, and publish the work, to begin with, then you must also have a deep desire to not only write more but also to inspire, inform, educate, and entertain others. That's what writing does. If that is the case, Beckwith says, it's your responsibility to sell your writing. Recognize your writing and books as products people need. Then, by letting them know about your work, you are doing them a service. This reframe shook my world and made marketing a whole lot easier. Listen to this fab episode now and get in touch with Sandra Beckwith at BuildBookBuzz.com How does this notion of marketing your book as a service to readers sit with you? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life and let me know how you approach marketing. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star-rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Oct 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Sandra Beckwith on How to Sell More Books full 1 48 Polly Cambell | Electracast If we want to write more, we've got to sell more, and this simple reframe will help you do it. Reframe Your Marketing Mindset Author, writer, and book marketing expert Sandra Beckwith suggests that when writers and authors change how they think about marketing they will feel more comfortable promoting their work. It's a simple reframe, says the host of BuildBookBuzz.com a marketing resource for writers and authors at https://buildbookbuzz.com/ Nobody cares about your book more, and nobody is going to do it as well as you will, Beckwith says. But, writers must look beyond the self-promotion. "You are selling your book, not yourself," Beckwith says in this enlightening episode. If you care enough to develop, write, and publish the work, to begin with, then you must also have a deep desire to not only write more but also to inspire, inform, educate, and entertain others. That's what writing does. If that is the case, Beckwith says, it's your responsibility to sell your writing. Recognize your writing and books as products people need. Then, by letting them know about your work, you are doing them a service. This reframe shook my world and made marketing a whole lot easier. Listen to this fab episode now and get in touch with Sandra Beckwith at BuildBookBuzz.com How does this notion of marketing your book as a service to readers sit with you? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life and let me know how you approach marketing. And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star-rating or review. It helps other writers discover us. Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Reframe Your Marketing Mindset

Author, writer, and book marketing expert Sandra Beckwith suggests that when writers and authors change how they think about marketing they will feel more comfortable promoting their work.

It's a simple reframe, says the host of BuildBookBuzz.com a marketing resource for writers and authors at https://buildbookbuzz.com/

Nobody cares about your book more, and nobody is going to do it as well as you will, Beckwith says. But, writers must look beyond the self-promotion.

"You are selling your book, not yourself," Beckwith says in this enlightening episode.

If you care enough to develop, write, and publish the work, to begin with, then you must also have a deep desire to not only write more but also to inspire, inform, educate, and entertain others. That's what writing does.

If that is the case, Beckwith says, it's your responsibility to sell your writing. Recognize your writing and books as products people need. Then, by letting them know about your work, you are doing them a service.

This reframe shook my world and made marketing a whole lot easier.

Listen to this fab episode now and get in touch with Sandra Beckwith at BuildBookBuzz.com

How does this notion of marketing your book as a service to readers sit with you? Join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com where we talk about the writing business and craft and crafting a writer's life and let me know how you approach marketing.

And if you like what you hear on Simply Write w/Polly, please drop a star-rating or review. It helps other writers discover us.

Thanks. I appreciate you reading, writing, and listening with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2410 no 147. How Pre-crastination Hurts Our Writing Life Are You a Pre-crastinator? Have you ever heard of the term, pre-crastination? I hadn't and yet, now I know, I am an avid pre-crastinator. When the to-do list is too long, or I'm feeling the tension of deadlines, I tend to act hastily, quickly checking things off my list. And that can cause big problems for writers. Pre-crastination is when we are more focused on getting things done rather than deliberate steps we need to take toward the overall, larger goals. We get wrapped up in the doing without considering if what we are doing really makes sense. This is a time-waster and can diminish our productivity because often we have to come back and start again when we realize the things we were checking off are not applicable to the larger body of work. And, pre-crastinators often make more mistakes--hello, like the email I sent to the wrong editor. Though our tendency toward pre-crastination may have been inherited from our ancient ancestors, now it makes for sloppy, unprofessional, and unclear work. Not traits that are good for writers--or anyone for that matter. With awareness and the tools we cover in this episode, we can break the pre-crastination cycle before it causes big trouble in our work. Get in touch and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com let us know you've heard the episode and leave a comment about the challenges or successes you are experiencing in your writer's life. We love to hear from you. Thanks for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 02 Oct 2023 11:00:00 -0000 How Pre-crastination Hurts Our Writing Life full 1 47 Polly Cambell | Electracast I can't believe I did that. One example of how pre-crastination led to a big faux pas. Are You a Pre-crastinator? Have you ever heard of the term, pre-crastination? I hadn't and yet, now I know, I am an avid pre-crastinator. When the to-do list is too long, or I'm feeling the tension of deadlines, I tend to act hastily, quickly checking things off my list. And that can cause big problems for writers. Pre-crastination is when we are more focused on getting things done rather than deliberate steps we need to take toward the overall, larger goals. We get wrapped up in the doing without considering if what we are doing really makes sense. This is a time-waster and can diminish our productivity because often we have to come back and start again when we realize the things we were checking off are not applicable to the larger body of work. And, pre-crastinators often make more mistakes--hello, like the email I sent to the wrong editor. Though our tendency toward pre-crastination may have been inherited from our ancient ancestors, now it makes for sloppy, unprofessional, and unclear work. Not traits that are good for writers--or anyone for that matter. With awareness and the tools we cover in this episode, we can break the pre-crastination cycle before it causes big trouble in our work. Get in touch and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com let us know you've heard the episode and leave a comment about the challenges or successes you are experiencing in your writer's life. We love to hear from you. Thanks for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are You a Pre-crastinator?

Have you ever heard of the term, pre-crastination? I hadn't and yet, now I know, I am an avid pre-crastinator. When the to-do list is too long, or I'm feeling the tension of deadlines, I tend to act hastily, quickly checking things off my list. And that can cause big problems for writers.

Pre-crastination is when we are more focused on getting things done rather than deliberate steps we need to take toward the overall, larger goals. We get wrapped up in the doing without considering if what we are doing really makes sense. This is a time-waster and can diminish our productivity because often we have to come back and start again when we realize the things we were checking off are not applicable to the larger body of work. And, pre-crastinators often make more mistakes--hello, like the email I sent to the wrong editor.

Though our tendency toward pre-crastination may have been inherited from our ancient ancestors, now it makes for sloppy, unprofessional, and unclear work. Not traits that are good for writers--or anyone for that matter.

With awareness and the tools we cover in this episode, we can break the pre-crastination cycle before it causes big trouble in our work.

Get in touch and join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com let us know you've heard the episode and leave a comment about the challenges or successes you are experiencing in your writer's life. We love to hear from you. Thanks for listening.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2322 no 146. Criticism, Persistence, and Self-Publishing with Fantasy Author Joshua Rutherford https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Writing Despite Criticism Fantasy author Joshua K. Rutherford keeps a notebook nearby while working his day job and finds pockets of time to write at night after the kids are in bed. Often, he says, the writing process is restorative. But criticism weighed heavily on him until he decided to independently publish his fantasy novel and felt empowered. Now, readers are clamoring for his books like Sons of Chenia, and the novels in his Fourpointe Chronicles Series, including the newest Peacefall. Rutherford says fantasy allows him to discuss real-life issues like racism, inequality, and love, in made-up worlds. Find Joshua Rutherford and his books at https://joshuakrutherford.com/ Get in touch with Polly at https://pollycampbell.com and become part of the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Criticism, Persistence, and Self-Publishing with Fantasy Author Joshua Rutherford full 1 46 Polly Cambell | Electracast How one fantasy author uses fantasy and made-up worlds to discuss real life issues. Writing Despite Criticism Fantasy author Joshua K. Rutherford keeps a notebook nearby while working his day job and finds pockets of time to write at night after the kids are in bed. Often, he says, the writing process is restorative. But criticism weighed heavily on him until he decided to independently publish his fantasy novel and felt empowered. Now, readers are clamoring for his books like Sons of Chenia, and the novels in his Fourpointe Chronicles Series, including the newest Peacefall. Rutherford says fantasy allows him to discuss real-life issues like racism, inequality, and love, in made-up worlds. Find Joshua Rutherford and his books at https://joshuakrutherford.com/ Get in touch with Polly at https://pollycampbell.com and become part of the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Writing Despite Criticism

Fantasy author Joshua K. Rutherford keeps a notebook nearby while working his day job and finds pockets of time to write at night after the kids are in bed. Often, he says, the writing process is restorative. But criticism weighed heavily on him until he decided to independently publish his fantasy novel and felt empowered. Now, readers are clamoring for his books like Sons of Chenia, and the novels in his Fourpointe Chronicles Series, including the newest Peacefall.

Rutherford says fantasy allows him to discuss real-life issues like racism, inequality, and love, in made-up worlds.

Find Joshua Rutherford and his books at https://joshuakrutherford.com/

Get in touch with Polly at https://pollycampbell.com and become part of the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1994 no 145. Better Research with Retrieval Practice https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Use Retrieval Practice for Better Writing Writers must take in and process a lot of information. But it's not enough to store it in our memories. We've got to index the information in a way we can remember it in our brains, and then apply it to the craft and the pieces we are working on. Learning is not just about memorization, it's about our ability to apply that knowledge when needed. In this episode, Polly explains how this powerful practice helps embed the knowledge we are learning so that we can access it as needed to make the writing process easier and more efficient. Polly also shares how she used retrieval practice to help her work through the trouble spots in her novel. Want to get in touch? Join Polly and the Simply Write community for inspiration and information about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Better Research with Retrieval Practice full 1 45 Polly Cambell | Electracast This practice can help learn and apply what you know in your work. Use Retrieval Practice for Better Writing Writers must take in and process a lot of information. But it's not enough to store it in our memories. We've got to index the information in a way we can remember it in our brains, and then apply it to the craft and the pieces we are working on. Learning is not just about memorization, it's about our ability to apply that knowledge when needed. In this episode, Polly explains how this powerful practice helps embed the knowledge we are learning so that we can access it as needed to make the writing process easier and more efficient. Polly also shares how she used retrieval practice to help her work through the trouble spots in her novel. Want to get in touch? Join Polly and the Simply Write community for inspiration and information about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Use Retrieval Practice for Better Writing

Writers must take in and process a lot of information. But it's not enough to store it in our memories. We've got to index the information in a way we can remember it in our brains, and then apply it to the craft and the pieces we are working on. Learning is not just about memorization, it's about our ability to apply that knowledge when needed.

In this episode, Polly explains how this powerful practice helps embed the knowledge we are learning so that we can access it as needed to make the writing process easier and more efficient. Polly also shares how she used retrieval practice to help her work through the trouble spots in her novel.

Want to get in touch? Join Polly and the Simply Write community for inspiration and information about the writer's craft and crafting a writer's life simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 905 no 144. Editor, Author, Teacher Estelle Erasmus Talks Pitches and Publishing https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Estelle Erasmus Says "Write the Piece Only You Can Write" Award-winning journalist, teacher, and editor Estelle Erasmus has spent three decades in magazine journalism serving as editor-in-chief to some of the biggest magazines in the U.S. Now she shares her wisdom on Simply Write w/Polly and in her new book Writing that Gets Noticed. To write articles and essays that get published Erasmus says writers must understand the market and audience for the publication they want to write for, as well as themselves so that they can write from their unique point of view and voice. Pitching the story's peg to the editors is also essential and Erasmus explains what that is and how to discover it during this wide-reaching interview An essential-listen for anyone who wants to publish their work. For more on her classes and work, go to https://estelleserasmus.com/ Find her book, Writing That Gets Noticed: Find Your Voice, Become a Better Storyteller, Get Published wherever books are sold, and listen to her podcast Freelance Writing Direct. Be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for insider tips and writing inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 11 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Editor, Author, Teacher Estelle Erasmus Talks Pitches and Publishing full 1 44 Polly Cambell | Electracast Estelle Erasmus explains how to hook editors and readers with the story peg. Estelle Erasmus Says "Write the Piece Only You Can Write" Award-winning journalist, teacher, and editor Estelle Erasmus has spent three decades in magazine journalism serving as editor-in-chief to some of the biggest magazines in the U.S. Now she shares her wisdom on Simply Write w/Polly and in her new book Writing that Gets Noticed. To write articles and essays that get published Erasmus says writers must understand the market and audience for the publication they want to write for, as well as themselves so that they can write from their unique point of view and voice. Pitching the story's peg to the editors is also essential and Erasmus explains what that is and how to discover it during this wide-reaching interview An essential-listen for anyone who wants to publish their work. For more on her classes and work, go to https://estelleserasmus.com/ Find her book, Writing That Gets Noticed: Find Your Voice, Become a Better Storyteller, Get Published wherever books are sold, and listen to her podcast Freelance Writing Direct. Be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for insider tips and writing inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Estelle Erasmus Says "Write the Piece Only You Can Write"

Award-winning journalist, teacher, and editor Estelle Erasmus has spent three decades in magazine journalism serving as editor-in-chief to some of the biggest magazines in the U.S. Now she shares her wisdom on Simply Write w/Polly and in her new book Writing that Gets Noticed.

To write articles and essays that get published Erasmus says writers must understand the market and audience for the publication they want to write for, as well as themselves so that they can write from their unique point of view and voice. Pitching the story's peg to the editors is also essential and Erasmus explains what that is and how to discover it during this wide-reaching interview An essential-listen for anyone who wants to publish their work. For more on her classes and work, go to https://estelleserasmus.com/

Find her book, Writing That Gets Noticed: Find Your Voice, Become a Better Storyteller, Get Published wherever books are sold, and listen to her podcast Freelance Writing Direct.

Be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for insider tips and writing inspiration.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2215 no 143. Show Your Work https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Every time Polly hits "send" on a new piece, it's nerve-wracking, but especially when I'm going out cold, to the readers without editors or publishers to hone my work. Still, this regular practice of publishing on blogs or newsletters, even social media forums can elevate your writing, help you find your voice, and become better at taking a concept from your mind to the page for readers. Journaling, expressive writing, and morning pages are all important forms of writing. Heck, writing anything matters. But professional writers write for readers and the more often you do that, the better you'll become. So whether you have a big assignment in the works, or you are working top publish for the first time, this regular publishing practice will help. And, the What's in the Deak segment highlights a sweet notebook. Check it out here: https://papress.com/collections/journals-notebooks Get in touch: https://simplywrite.substack.com The Simply Write community is where I put this practice to the test. If you decide to take on this week's assignment leave a comment and let me know so I can be one of your readers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 04 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Show Your Work full 1 43 Polly Cambell | Electracast Get used to writing for readers with this practice Every time Polly hits "send" on a new piece, it's nerve-wracking, but especially when I'm going out cold, to the readers without editors or publishers to hone my work. Still, this regular practice of publishing on blogs or newsletters, even social media forums can elevate your writing, help you find your voice, and become better at taking a concept from your mind to the page for readers. Journaling, expressive writing, and morning pages are all important forms of writing. Heck, writing anything matters. But professional writers write for readers and the more often you do that, the better you'll become. So whether you have a big assignment in the works, or you are working top publish for the first time, this regular publishing practice will help. And, the What's in the Deak segment highlights a sweet notebook. Check it out here: https://papress.com/collections/journals-notebooks Get in touch: https://simplywrite.substack.com The Simply Write community is where I put this practice to the test. If you decide to take on this week's assignment leave a comment and let me know so I can be one of your readers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Every time Polly hits "send" on a new piece, it's nerve-wracking, but especially when I'm going out cold, to the readers without editors or publishers to hone my work. Still, this regular practice of publishing on blogs or newsletters, even social media forums can elevate your writing, help you find your voice, and become better at taking a concept from your mind to the page for readers.

Journaling, expressive writing, and morning pages are all important forms of writing. Heck, writing anything matters. But professional writers write for readers and the more often you do that, the better you'll become.

So whether you have a big assignment in the works, or you are working top publish for the first time, this regular publishing practice will help.

And, the What's in the Deak segment highlights a sweet notebook. Check it out here: https://papress.com/collections/journals-notebooks

Get in touch: https://simplywrite.substack.com

The Simply Write community is where I put this practice to the test. If you decide to take on this week's assignment leave a comment and let me know so I can be one of your readers.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1898 no 110. REPLAY: Make an Editorial Calendar and Publish More--REPLAY https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2 We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too. We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show. And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Enjoy the show. If you want to publish regularly, a strategic planning process backed up by an editorial calendar can help. In this popular show, Polly explains what an editorial calendar is, how it determines what publications publish, and when and how you can make your own to track ideas, markets, deadlines, and publishing opportunities. The process is also a way to ignite creativity and develop saleable ideas. Listen to this crowd-favorite show to understand why. For more, don't forget to become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. And please subscribe to this show Simply Write w/Polly. Your subscription and reviews help us reach more writers. Thanks for your support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Make an Editorial Calendar and Publish More full 1 10 Polly Cambell | Electracast A little strategic planning can make the publishing process easier One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2 We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too. We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show. And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Enjoy the show. If you want to publish regularly, a strategic planning process backed up by an editorial calendar can help. In this popular show, Polly explains what an editorial calendar is, how it determines what publications publish, and when and how you can make your own to track ideas, markets, deadlines, and publishing opportunities. The process is also a way to ignite creativity and develop saleable ideas. Listen to this crowd-favorite show to understand why. For more, don't forget to become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. And please subscribe to this show Simply Write w/Polly. Your subscription and reviews help us reach more writers. Thanks for your support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2

We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too.

We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show.

And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published.

Enjoy the show.

If you want to publish regularly, a strategic planning process backed up by an editorial calendar can help. In this popular show, Polly explains what an editorial calendar is, how it determines what publications publish, and when and how you can make your own to track ideas, markets, deadlines, and publishing opportunities. The process is also a way to ignite creativity and develop saleable ideas. Listen to this crowd-favorite show to understand why.

For more, don't forget to become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published.

And please subscribe to this show Simply Write w/Polly. Your subscription and reviews help us reach more writers. Thanks for your support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2181 no 105. How to Choose the Best Idea--REPLAY One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2 We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too. We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show. And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Now, enjoy the show--one of our most popular. If you want to publish, it's not enough to have a good idea. You have to have the right idea, at the right time for the market you want to pitch or the readers you want to reach. So how do you choose the right one? We cover that in today's show and explain why you must scrutinize your idea and evaluate form, timeliness, and focus before you ever start writing. Don't forget to subscribe to the Simply Write w/Polly podcast and become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0000 How to Choose the Best Idea full 1 5 Polly Cambell | Electracast Not every idea makes a good story, knowing which ones do will help you get published. One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2 We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too. We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show. And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Now, enjoy the show--one of our most popular. If you want to publish, it's not enough to have a good idea. You have to have the right idea, at the right time for the market you want to pitch or the readers you want to reach. So how do you choose the right one? We cover that in today's show and explain why you must scrutinize your idea and evaluate form, timeliness, and focus before you ever start writing. Don't forget to subscribe to the Simply Write w/Polly podcast and become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices One of Our Favorites and News About Season 2

We are in the dog days of summer and, though we feel like lazing on the couch in the warm afternoons, we are not. We are writing and interviewing and are hard at work on Season Two. We are excited to bring you more tips and insider info, more guests, more authors and freelancers, and people who are crafting writing careers and have ideas and insights that can help us do it too.

We will be back with all-new shows Monday, Sept. 5 and in the meantime, we want to share a couple of our favorites and two of the most listened-to shows from our first year. We hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe so you get all new shows. If you love the show, please leave a review. That is the best way to help showcase the authors and guests we feature and help other writers find the show.

And be sure to join our Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com and keep on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published.

Now, enjoy the show--one of our most popular.

If you want to publish, it's not enough to have a good idea. You have to have the right idea, at the right time for the market you want to pitch or the readers you want to reach.

So how do you choose the right one? We cover that in today's show and explain why you must scrutinize your idea and evaluate form, timeliness, and focus before you ever start writing.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Simply Write w/Polly podcast and become part of our community here: https://simplywrite.substack.com and keep up on the tips and ideas professional writers use to get published.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2167 no 140. EIC Sarah Klein Talks Service Journalism, Pitching, and Publishing https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Study the Site to Become a Go-To Writer Livestrong.com Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director Sarah Klein talks about the importance of collaboration between writers and editors. Writers who find success and publish repeatedly tend to be those who understand the site or publication they are pitching to and the needs of the readers. Klein suggests that writers study the publication they want to write for to get an idea of the audience, tone, and voice used and to avoid making assumptions on the page. She encourages her writers and editors to challenge assumptions and look for ways to make each piece and the information provided more accessible, applicable, and inclusive to all readers. "The writers I have the best relationships with are open to collaborating to fine-tune the voice and tone to fit the brand," Klein says. In the pitch form available at Livestrong.com Klein wants to know why the article you are pitching is ideal for Livestrong.com and why you are the one to write it. For more go to Livestrong.com or find Sarah Klein at Sarahklein.com Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com https://pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 14 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0000 140. EIC Sarah Klein Talks Service Journalism, Pitching and Publishing full 1 40 Polly Cambell | Electracast Want repeat article assignments? Learn to write to the market. Study the Site to Become a Go-To Writer Livestrong.com Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director Sarah Klein talks about the importance of collaboration between writers and editors. Writers who find success and publish repeatedly tend to be those who understand the site or publication they are pitching to and the needs of the readers. Klein suggests that writers study the publication they want to write for to get an idea of the audience, tone, and voice used and to avoid making assumptions on the page. She encourages her writers and editors to challenge assumptions and look for ways to make each piece and the information provided more accessible, applicable, and inclusive to all readers. "The writers I have the best relationships with are open to collaborating to fine-tune the voice and tone to fit the brand," Klein says. In the pitch form available at Livestrong.com Klein wants to know why the article you are pitching is ideal for Livestrong.com and why you are the one to write it. For more go to Livestrong.com or find Sarah Klein at Sarahklein.com Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com https://pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Study the Site to Become a Go-To Writer

Livestrong.com Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director Sarah Klein talks about the importance of collaboration between writers and editors.

Writers who find success and publish repeatedly tend to be those who understand the site or publication they are pitching to and the needs of the readers. Klein suggests that writers study the publication they want to write for to get an idea of the audience, tone, and voice used and to avoid making assumptions on the page.

She encourages her writers and editors to challenge assumptions and look for ways to make each piece and the information provided more accessible, applicable, and inclusive to all readers.

"The writers I have the best relationships with are open to collaborating to fine-tune the voice and tone to fit the brand," Klein says.

In the pitch form available at Livestrong.com Klein wants to know why the article you are pitching is ideal for Livestrong.com and why you are the one to write it.

For more go to Livestrong.com or find Sarah Klein at Sarahklein.com


Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com

https://pollycampbell.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1995 no 139 Five Things to Avoid in Your Writing Everyone talks about the Rules of Writing. The thing is many of them change depending on who you are talking to and the piece you are writing. Yet, this is a craft and we can become better writers by applying some basic techniques even while we learn about genre and figure out our process. No matter what you are writing, i think there are five things (and of course many more) that can instantly make your work better. Avoid vague words. Steer away from cliche and adverbs, at least some of the time. Not all of the time, though. Vary your sentence length and structure to improve pacing and tone. And the last two? Are all about the habits we need to avoid and the mindsets we have to adopt if we are going to get anything on the page. Listen to learn more. And let me know what techniques you use to instantly uplevel your writing. Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and drop a note or comment. And you can see how Ii apply some of the tips in my newest book You, Recharged. https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1690564939&sr=1-1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Five Things to Avoid in Your Writing full 1 39 Polly Cambell | Electracast There are tons of rules about writing, but these five things are easy to apply and will instantly improve your work. Everyone talks about the Rules of Writing. The thing is many of them change depending on who you are talking to and the piece you are writing. Yet, this is a craft and we can become better writers by applying some basic techniques even while we learn about genre and figure out our process. No matter what you are writing, i think there are five things (and of course many more) that can instantly make your work better. Avoid vague words. Steer away from cliche and adverbs, at least some of the time. Not all of the time, though. Vary your sentence length and structure to improve pacing and tone. And the last two? Are all about the habits we need to avoid and the mindsets we have to adopt if we are going to get anything on the page. Listen to learn more. And let me know what techniques you use to instantly uplevel your writing. Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and drop a note or comment. And you can see how Ii apply some of the tips in my newest book You, Recharged. https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1690564939&sr=1-1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Everyone talks about the Rules of Writing. The thing is many of them change depending on who you are talking to and the piece you are writing.

Yet, this is a craft and we can become better writers by applying some basic techniques even while we learn about genre and figure out our process. No matter what you are writing, i think there are five things (and of course many more) that can instantly make your work better.

  1. Avoid vague words.
  2. Steer away from cliche and adverbs, at least some of the time. Not all of the time, though.
  3. Vary your sentence length and structure to improve pacing and tone.


And the last two? Are all about the habits we need to avoid and the mindsets we have to adopt if we are going to get anything on the page. Listen to learn more.

And let me know what techniques you use to instantly uplevel your writing. Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com and drop a note or comment. And you can see how Ii apply some of the tips in my newest book You, Recharged. https://www.amazon.com/You-Recharged-Fatigue-Mostly-Usually/dp/1642504882/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1690564939&sr=1-1

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1964 no 138. Cozy Mystery Author Angela M. Sanders Talks About Creating the Fictional World https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Quirky, interesting characters, a comfortable and familiar world, with plenty of clues and plot twists are the main things that keep readers coming back to a cozy mystery series, says Angela M. Sanders. She writes nonfiction pieces and is the author of multiple cozy mystery series, including the Witch Way Librarian Cozy Mysteries, beginning with Witch Upon a Star It's the continuity readers like and the safe, welcoming feel, Sanders says, but that poses unique challenges for the writer. You want to create a fictional world that is familiar and welcoming, yet interesting to old and new readers like and one that can accommodate the varied plot twists and turns throughout a long-running series. Sanders suggests cozy writers: Create a community or setting --with natural features and changing dynamics that would naturally attract new people -- characters-- so you have storylines for a long-running series. Drop in red herrings and clues for readers to follow throughout the book. And, don't forget to add some humor or funny, odd characters. You'll find these elements and others in Sander's books and these are the types of things she notices in real life too. "The world is a fascinating place and everyone has stories," Sanders says. In this far-reaching conversation Sanders shares her writing process, information about her advances and income, and how she creates a synopsis for each book for her publisher. Angela M. Sanders also coaches writers. For more about her coaching and books go to https://angelamsanders.com/ And, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about writing craft, and crafting a writing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Cozy Mystery Author Angela M. Sanders Talks About Creating the Fictional World full 1 38 Polly Cambell | Electracast Quirky characters and a comfortable welcoming setting will help you craft a cozy that readers love coming back to. Quirky, interesting characters, a comfortable and familiar world, with plenty of clues and plot twists are the main things that keep readers coming back to a cozy mystery series, says Angela M. Sanders. She writes nonfiction pieces and is the author of multiple cozy mystery series, including the Witch Way Librarian Cozy Mysteries, beginning with Witch Upon a Star It's the continuity readers like and the safe, welcoming feel, Sanders says, but that poses unique challenges for the writer. You want to create a fictional world that is familiar and welcoming, yet interesting to old and new readers like and one that can accommodate the varied plot twists and turns throughout a long-running series. Sanders suggests cozy writers: Create a community or setting --with natural features and changing dynamics that would naturally attract new people -- characters-- so you have storylines for a long-running series. Drop in red herrings and clues for readers to follow throughout the book. And, don't forget to add some humor or funny, odd characters. You'll find these elements and others in Sander's books and these are the types of things she notices in real life too. "The world is a fascinating place and everyone has stories," Sanders says. In this far-reaching conversation Sanders shares her writing process, information about her advances and income, and how she creates a synopsis for each book for her publisher. Angela M. Sanders also coaches writers. For more about her coaching and books go to https://angelamsanders.com/ And, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about writing craft, and crafting a writing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Quirky, interesting characters, a comfortable and familiar world, with plenty of clues and plot twists are the main things that keep readers coming back to a cozy mystery series, says Angela M. Sanders.

She writes nonfiction pieces and is the author of multiple cozy mystery series, including the Witch Way Librarian Cozy Mysteries, beginning with Witch Upon a Star

It's the continuity readers like and the safe, welcoming feel, Sanders says, but that poses unique challenges for the writer. You want to create a fictional world that is familiar and welcoming, yet interesting to old and new readers like and one that can accommodate the varied plot twists and turns throughout a long-running series.

Sanders suggests cozy writers:

Create a community or setting --with natural features and changing dynamics that would naturally attract new people -- characters-- so you have storylines for a long-running series.

Drop in red herrings and clues for readers to follow throughout the book.

And, don't forget to add some humor or funny, odd characters.

You'll find these elements and others in Sander's books and these are the types of things she notices in real life too.

"The world is a fascinating place and everyone has stories," Sanders says.

In this far-reaching conversation Sanders shares her writing process, information about her advances and income, and how she creates a synopsis for each book for her publisher.

Angela M. Sanders also coaches writers. For more about her coaching and books go to https://angelamsanders.com/

And, join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com for more about writing craft, and crafting a writing life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2365 no 136. E.A. Aymar: Persistence, Inspiration, and Identity in Thriller Novels https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite The writing process is personal, there is no one right way to do it, but no matter how you set your schedule up, you've got to find your way to get the writing done, to do the work whether you are publishing or not. For award-winning thriller author and essayist E.A. Aymar, his writing process starts at 4 a.m. before he gets his son ready for school and starts his day job. Aymar began writing daily in 1997 and persisted for nearly 20 years before selling his first book. So what kept him going despite years of rejection? Inspiration, a community of writers, and believing that he is a writer and writing is what he does so it wasn't a question of quitting. Though the slow-evolving success sometimes made him question his writing chops, he was always committed to the craft and now that's paid off big time. E. A. Aymar is the author of No Home For Killers, an Amazon bestseller. His Short Story Still Crazy After All These Years has been nominated for an Anthony Award and he's got a new novel coming out next year. On Simply Write w/Polly Aymar talks about his process, persistence, and identity in his writing, and explains how he, a man born in Panama accurately writes female characters. And what about the violence in Thrillers? Listen to hear Aymar's take on the issue. Connect with the author E.A. Aymar at https://www.eaymarwrites.com/ And sign up for his free Crime Fiction Newsletter here: https://www.eaymarwrites.com/ Check out his Anthony-Aware Nominated short story in the anthology Paranoia Blues For more on authors, the writing craft and crafting a writing life, and the occasional freebie, join Polly and the Simply Write community at SimplyWrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0000 E.A. Aymar: Persistence, Inspiration, and Identity in Thriller Novels full 1 36 Polly Cambell | Electracast Aymar explains how his persistence to writing has paid off big-time and what he thinks about violence in his novels. The writing process is personal, there is no one right way to do it, but no matter how you set your schedule up, you've got to find your way to get the writing done, to do the work whether you are publishing or not. For award-winning thriller author and essayist E.A. Aymar, his writing process starts at 4 a.m. before he gets his son ready for school and starts his day job. Aymar began writing daily in 1997 and persisted for nearly 20 years before selling his first book. So what kept him going despite years of rejection? Inspiration, a community of writers, and believing that he is a writer and writing is what he does so it wasn't a question of quitting. Though the slow-evolving success sometimes made him question his writing chops, he was always committed to the craft and now that's paid off big time. E. A. Aymar is the author of No Home For Killers, an Amazon bestseller. His Short Story Still Crazy After All These Years has been nominated for an Anthony Award and he's got a new novel coming out next year. On Simply Write w/Polly Aymar talks about his process, persistence, and identity in his writing, and explains how he, a man born in Panama accurately writes female characters. And what about the violence in Thrillers? Listen to hear Aymar's take on the issue. Connect with the author E.A. Aymar at https://www.eaymarwrites.com/ And sign up for his free Crime Fiction Newsletter here: https://www.eaymarwrites.com/ Check out his Anthony-Aware Nominated short story in the anthology Paranoia Blues For more on authors, the writing craft and crafting a writing life, and the occasional freebie, join Polly and the Simply Write community at SimplyWrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The writing process is personal, there is no one right way to do it, but no matter how you set your schedule up, you've got to find your way to get the writing done, to do the work whether you are publishing or not.

For award-winning thriller author and essayist E.A. Aymar, his writing process starts at 4 a.m. before he gets his son ready for school and starts his day job.

Aymar began writing daily in 1997 and persisted for nearly 20 years before selling his first book. So what kept him going despite years of rejection? Inspiration, a community of writers, and believing that he is a writer and writing is what he does so it wasn't a question of quitting.

Though the slow-evolving success sometimes made him question his writing chops, he was always committed to the craft and now that's paid off big time.

E. A. Aymar is the author of No Home For Killers, an Amazon bestseller. His Short Story Still Crazy After All These Years has been nominated for an Anthony Award and he's got a new novel coming out next year.

On Simply Write w/Polly Aymar talks about his process, persistence, and identity in his writing, and explains how he, a man born in Panama accurately writes female characters. And what about the violence in Thrillers? Listen to hear Aymar's take on the issue.

Connect with the author E.A. Aymar at https://www.eaymarwrites.com/

And sign up for his free Crime Fiction Newsletter here: https://www.eaymarwrites.com/

Check out his Anthony-Aware Nominated short story in the anthology Paranoia Blues

For more on authors, the writing craft and crafting a writing life, and the occasional freebie, join Polly and the Simply Write community at SimplyWrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2296 no 135. Planning and Development for Steady Income https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Plan Ahead to Establish a Constant Revenue Stream It can take months to get paid for the essays, articles, or marketing pieces you're writing now. Sure, those delays can cause real stress. But with a savings account and a development calendar, a well-organized writer will not only have pieces ready to ship but also assignments on deck for the weeks and months ahead. Creating a developmental calendar and strategy can help you identify what's due when and what openings you have in your assignment schedule so you can direct pitches, Letters of Introduction, and cover letters to secure assignments all year round. It's never too soon to plan for the next job. In this episode, Polly talks about how she plans her future log to secure work year-round. To learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Planning and Development for Steady Income full 1 35 Polly Cambell | Electracast Create a system to help you complete the pieces your working on, even while pitching new ones. Plan Ahead to Establish a Constant Revenue Stream It can take months to get paid for the essays, articles, or marketing pieces you're writing now. Sure, those delays can cause real stress. But with a savings account and a development calendar, a well-organized writer will not only have pieces ready to ship but also assignments on deck for the weeks and months ahead. Creating a developmental calendar and strategy can help you identify what's due when and what openings you have in your assignment schedule so you can direct pitches, Letters of Introduction, and cover letters to secure assignments all year round. It's never too soon to plan for the next job. In this episode, Polly talks about how she plans her future log to secure work year-round. To learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Plan Ahead to Establish a Constant Revenue Stream

It can take months to get paid for the essays, articles, or marketing pieces you're writing now. Sure, those delays can cause real stress. But with a savings account and a development calendar, a well-organized writer will not only have pieces ready to ship but also assignments on deck for the weeks and months ahead.

Creating a developmental calendar and strategy can help you identify what's due when and what openings you have in your assignment schedule so you can direct pitches, Letters of Introduction, and cover letters to secure assignments all year round. It's never too soon to plan for the next job. In this episode, Polly talks about how she plans her future log to secure work year-round.

To learn more about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life, join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1735 no 134. The Writer's Field Trip https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Time To Get Up and Go Remember from your school days the fun of a field trip? It was always exciting to get out of the classroom for a day-long trip to the zoo or a museum or a Shakespeare play. It didn't matter what we did, it was good to have a break in the routine. Writers need to change up their routines too to rejuvenate and ignite inspiration. It's good for you and great for the work. Julia Cameron writes about the Artist's Date in her book The Artist's Way. Polly takes Field Trips where she can shake loosen the cobwebs in her mind, learn something new, be surrounded by inspiring people and works, and rejuvenate. Over the years her field trips have included one-hour trips to a bookstore, a walk in a park, a mixology class, ukulele lessons, and movie matinees, and other fun things. What will your next Writer's Field Trip be? It's fun to think about and fun to get out there. Makes coming back to the desk more satisfying too. Tour a museum, visit a gallery, take a cooking class, or visit a bookstore. It doesn't matter what you do, but it does matter whether you do it. To have interesting things to write about, writers must immerse themselves in the world, experience new things and chase their curiosities. That's also a fun excuse to get up from the keyboard and go exploring for an hour or two. Plan a field trip and let us know how it went. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0000 The Writer's Field Trip full 1 34 Polly Cambell | Electracast To create interesting writing, you need to live an interesting life. Time To Get Up and Go Remember from your school days the fun of a field trip? It was always exciting to get out of the classroom for a day-long trip to the zoo or a museum or a Shakespeare play. It didn't matter what we did, it was good to have a break in the routine. Writers need to change up their routines too to rejuvenate and ignite inspiration. It's good for you and great for the work. Julia Cameron writes about the Artist's Date in her book The Artist's Way. Polly takes Field Trips where she can shake loosen the cobwebs in her mind, learn something new, be surrounded by inspiring people and works, and rejuvenate. Over the years her field trips have included one-hour trips to a bookstore, a walk in a park, a mixology class, ukulele lessons, and movie matinees, and other fun things. What will your next Writer's Field Trip be? It's fun to think about and fun to get out there. Makes coming back to the desk more satisfying too. Tour a museum, visit a gallery, take a cooking class, or visit a bookstore. It doesn't matter what you do, but it does matter whether you do it. To have interesting things to write about, writers must immerse themselves in the world, experience new things and chase their curiosities. That's also a fun excuse to get up from the keyboard and go exploring for an hour or two. Plan a field trip and let us know how it went. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Time To Get Up and Go

Remember from your school days the fun of a field trip? It was always exciting to get out of the classroom for a day-long trip to the zoo or a museum or a Shakespeare play. It didn't matter what we did, it was good to have a break in the routine.

Writers need to change up their routines too to rejuvenate and ignite inspiration. It's good for you and great for the work.

Julia Cameron writes about the Artist's Date in her book The Artist's Way.

Polly takes Field Trips where she can shake loosen the cobwebs in her mind, learn something new, be surrounded by inspiring people and works, and rejuvenate.

Over the years her field trips have included one-hour trips to a bookstore, a walk in a park, a mixology class, ukulele lessons, and movie matinees, and other fun things. What will your next Writer's Field Trip be? It's fun to think about and fun to get out there. Makes coming back to the desk more satisfying too.

Tour a museum, visit a gallery, take a cooking class, or visit a bookstore. It doesn't matter what you do, but it does matter whether you do it. To have interesting things to write about, writers must immerse themselves in the world, experience new things and chase their curiosities. That's also a fun excuse to get up from the keyboard and go exploring for an hour or two.

Plan a field trip and let us know how it went. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1020 no 133. Optimizing the Revision Process In this episode, Polly Campbell talks about why she loves revising and the seven-step process she uses to stay on track. Write the Quick Draft Go toward the obvious. Cut out echoes. Make sure the focus is clear and the action tight. Cut vague language, add powerful verbs. Go deep. Stay with it, working over every element. Print it out. Let it cool down. Then, read it aloud. Seriously, do this! And, revise on the page. Revising is an essential part of the writing process and a must-do if you want to publish and continue your writing career. But revision becomes easier when you have a process--even a checklist -- so you can optimize your time, remember to dot our i's and cross our t's, and create the best piece possible. In this episode, Polly shares her revision process and more to help you get the job done. And be sure to join Polly and the Simply Write community for more on craft and creating a writer's life, https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 26 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Optimizing the Revision Process full 1 33 Polly Cambell | Electracast Revision is Polly's favorite part of writing process and it might be the most important part of the job. In this episode, Polly Campbell talks about why she loves revising and the seven-step process she uses to stay on track. Write the Quick Draft Go toward the obvious. Cut out echoes. Make sure the focus is clear and the action tight. Cut vague language, add powerful verbs. Go deep. Stay with it, working over every element. Print it out. Let it cool down. Then, read it aloud. Seriously, do this! And, revise on the page. Revising is an essential part of the writing process and a must-do if you want to publish and continue your writing career. But revision becomes easier when you have a process--even a checklist -- so you can optimize your time, remember to dot our i's and cross our t's, and create the best piece possible. In this episode, Polly shares her revision process and more to help you get the job done. And be sure to join Polly and the Simply Write community for more on craft and creating a writer's life, https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode, Polly Campbell talks about why she loves revising and the seven-step process she uses to stay on track.

  1. Write the Quick Draft
  2. Go toward the obvious. Cut out echoes. Make sure the focus is clear and the action tight. Cut vague language, add powerful verbs.
  3. Go deep. Stay with it, working over every element.
  4. Print it out.
  5. Let it cool down.
  6. Then, read it aloud. Seriously, do this!
  7. And, revise on the page.


Revising is an essential part of the writing process and a must-do if you want to publish and continue your writing career. But revision becomes easier when you have a process--even a checklist -- so you can optimize your time, remember to dot our i's and cross our t's, and create the best piece possible.

In this episode, Polly shares her revision process and more to help you get the job done.

And be sure to join Polly and the Simply Write community for more on craft and creating a writer's life, https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2043 no 132. Paula Rizzo: Author & Media Strategist Offers Tips for Talking to the Media https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 What is Your Book About? Can you tell me in one compelling sentence what your book is about? Author and media strategist Paula Rizzo says it's even hard for her to do, but that's why she develops and practices her pitch long before she ever starts promoting it and she gives some great tips for other writers to use when promoting their work. The nonfiction author of Listful Living: A List-Making Journey to a Less-Stressed You comes from the world of television writing and producing, and now she coaches authors and entrepreneurs on how to effectively communicate their messages during interviews, even while she's working on a novel herself. Paula also talks about how her writing process, how an accountability buddy 3,000 miles away helped her stay on track, and the challenges of moving between nonfiction and a novel. Freebie: Get the Ten Questions Every Author Needs to Answer From Rizzo here https://paularizzo.com/10q/ And check out her book Listful Living, https://listproducer.com/listful-living-book/ Polly has been working through the book and has found it helpful when it comes to motivation and thinking about the why behind our work so we can set up an effective writing process and protect the time to write. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 19 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Paula Rizzo: Author and Media Strategist Offers Tips for Talking to the Media full 1 32 Polly Cambell | Electracast Can you explain your book in one, compelling sentence that will capture the interest of the media, agents, and readers? What is Your Book About? Can you tell me in one compelling sentence what your book is about? Author and media strategist Paula Rizzo says it's even hard for her to do, but that's why she develops and practices her pitch long before she ever starts promoting it and she gives some great tips for other writers to use when promoting their work. The nonfiction author of Listful Living: A List-Making Journey to a Less-Stressed You comes from the world of television writing and producing, and now she coaches authors and entrepreneurs on how to effectively communicate their messages during interviews, even while she's working on a novel herself. Paula also talks about how her writing process, how an accountability buddy 3,000 miles away helped her stay on track, and the challenges of moving between nonfiction and a novel. Freebie: Get the Ten Questions Every Author Needs to Answer From Rizzo here https://paularizzo.com/10q/ And check out her book Listful Living, https://listproducer.com/listful-living-book/ Polly has been working through the book and has found it helpful when it comes to motivation and thinking about the why behind our work so we can set up an effective writing process and protect the time to write. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What is Your Book About?

Can you tell me in one compelling sentence what your book is about?

Author and media strategist Paula Rizzo says it's even hard for her to do, but that's why she develops and practices her pitch long before she ever starts promoting it and she gives some great tips for other writers to use when promoting their work.

The nonfiction author of Listful Living: A List-Making Journey to a Less-Stressed You comes from the world of television writing and producing, and now she coaches authors and entrepreneurs on how to effectively communicate their messages during interviews, even while she's working on a novel herself.

Paula also talks about how her writing process, how an accountability buddy 3,000 miles away helped her stay on track, and the challenges of moving between nonfiction and a novel.

Freebie: Get the Ten Questions Every Author Needs to Answer From Rizzo here https://paularizzo.com/10q/

And check out her book Listful Living, https://listproducer.com/listful-living-book/

Polly has been working through the book and has found it helpful when it comes to motivation and thinking about the why behind our work so we can set up an effective writing process and protect the time to write.

Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https:simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2394 no 131. Writers and Imposter Syndrome https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 In 1978 two psychologists came up with a term that describes an experience many of us have had and it is called Imposter Syndrome. If you are a striving writer who is also wracked by self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy and have a hard time saying that you are a writer, then congratulations you, like Neil Gaiman, Maya Angelou, Brene Brown, and so many other bestselling writers have felt it too. Imposter syndrome is not uncommon but it can keep us from writing and publishing. In this show, author Polly Campbell explains what imposter syndrome is and the practical ways we can manage it right now so we can craft a writing career. Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com https://pollycampbell.com Want to learn more about Imposter Syndrome? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/imposter-syndrome Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Psychologist Dr. Pauline Clance, https://www.paulineroseclance.com/impostor_phenomenon.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Writers and Imposter Syndrome full 1 30 Polly Cambell | Electracast Do you feel like a fraud when you call yourself a writer? Imposter Syndrome is real. Here's what to do about it. In 1978 two psychologists came up with a term that describes an experience many of us have had and it is called Imposter Syndrome. If you are a striving writer who is also wracked by self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy and have a hard time saying that you are a writer, then congratulations you, like Neil Gaiman, Maya Angelou, Brene Brown, and so many other bestselling writers have felt it too. Imposter syndrome is not uncommon but it can keep us from writing and publishing. In this show, author Polly Campbell explains what imposter syndrome is and the practical ways we can manage it right now so we can craft a writing career. Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com https://pollycampbell.com Want to learn more about Imposter Syndrome? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/imposter-syndrome Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Psychologist Dr. Pauline Clance, https://www.paulineroseclance.com/impostor_phenomenon.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In 1978 two psychologists came up with a term that describes an experience many of us have had and it is called Imposter Syndrome.

If you are a striving writer who is also wracked by self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy and have a hard time saying that you are a writer, then congratulations you, like Neil Gaiman, Maya Angelou, Brene Brown, and so many other bestselling writers have felt it too.

Imposter syndrome is not uncommon but it can keep us from writing and publishing. In this show, author Polly Campbell explains what imposter syndrome is and the practical ways we can manage it right now so we can craft a writing career.


Connect with Polly and receive more writing tips, publishing insights, and author perspectives at Simply Write at https://simplywrite.substack.com

https://pollycampbell.com


Want to learn more about Imposter Syndrome?

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/imposter-syndrome

Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Psychologist Dr. Pauline Clance, https://www.paulineroseclance.com/impostor_phenomenon.html

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2190 no 130. Author Jen Singer Talks About Building a Diverse Career https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Diverse Skills Mean More Opportunity and a More Interesting Career for Freelance Writer and Editor Jen Singer Author, ghostwriter, blogger, editor, and writing coach Jen Singer has crafted a successful writing career by honing a diverse set of skills and drawing from personal experience to help others. Jen writes books, speeches, articles, and other pieces for a range of clients and editors. She also coaches, develops book proposals, and serves as a developmental editor to other writers. She can also quote Springsteen like a boss. Jen Singer's newest work, The Just Diagnosed Guides, evolved out of her personal health crisis. In these short guides, she shares what she learned as a patient and offers practical strategies and insights others can use when managing their own health challenges. Writing, Jen says, is a way to connect and help others and she always wants to deliver something that will improve the readers' experience. But finding different ways to deliver that material is the key to creating a sustainable freelance career. There are a lot of ways to build a freelance business, but rarely do writers succeed by doing only one thing. Jen tells Polly that to last in the profession, writers must think like writers and entrepreneurs and continue to develop, adapt, and learn new skills to keep up with changing markets and opportunities. And, tune it to hear the business advice she gives her son about freelance work. Talk writing with Polly and Become part of the Simply Write Community https://simplywrite.substack.com Work with Jen: https://jen-singer.com/ Buy the Guides https://justdxguides.com/just-dx-guides/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 05 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Author Jen Singer Talks About Building a Diverse Career full 1 31 Polly Cambell | Electracast Keep learning to develop the diverse skillset that will help you findn freelance success in changing times. Diverse Skills Mean More Opportunity and a More Interesting Career for Freelance Writer and Editor Jen Singer Author, ghostwriter, blogger, editor, and writing coach Jen Singer has crafted a successful writing career by honing a diverse set of skills and drawing from personal experience to help others. Jen writes books, speeches, articles, and other pieces for a range of clients and editors. She also coaches, develops book proposals, and serves as a developmental editor to other writers. She can also quote Springsteen like a boss. Jen Singer's newest work, The Just Diagnosed Guides, evolved out of her personal health crisis. In these short guides, she shares what she learned as a patient and offers practical strategies and insights others can use when managing their own health challenges. Writing, Jen says, is a way to connect and help others and she always wants to deliver something that will improve the readers' experience. But finding different ways to deliver that material is the key to creating a sustainable freelance career. There are a lot of ways to build a freelance business, but rarely do writers succeed by doing only one thing. Jen tells Polly that to last in the profession, writers must think like writers and entrepreneurs and continue to develop, adapt, and learn new skills to keep up with changing markets and opportunities. And, tune it to hear the business advice she gives her son about freelance work. Talk writing with Polly and Become part of the Simply Write Community https://simplywrite.substack.com Work with Jen: https://jen-singer.com/ Buy the Guides https://justdxguides.com/just-dx-guides/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Diverse Skills Mean More Opportunity and a More Interesting Career for Freelance Writer and Editor Jen Singer

Author, ghostwriter, blogger, editor, and writing coach Jen Singer has crafted a successful writing career by honing a diverse set of skills and drawing from personal experience to help others. Jen writes books, speeches, articles, and other pieces for a range of clients and editors. She also coaches, develops book proposals, and serves as a developmental editor to other writers. She can also quote Springsteen like a boss.

Jen Singer's newest work, The Just Diagnosed Guides, evolved out of her personal health crisis. In these short guides, she shares what she learned as a patient and offers practical strategies and insights others can use when managing their own health challenges.

Writing, Jen says, is a way to connect and help others and she always wants to deliver something that will improve the readers' experience.

But finding different ways to deliver that material is the key to creating a sustainable freelance career.

There are a lot of ways to build a freelance business, but rarely do writers succeed by doing only one thing. Jen tells Polly that to last in the profession, writers must think like writers and entrepreneurs and continue to develop, adapt, and learn new skills to keep up with changing markets and opportunities. And, tune it to hear the business advice she gives her son about freelance work.

Talk writing with Polly and Become part of the Simply Write Community https://simplywrite.substack.com

Work with Jen: https://jen-singer.com/

Buy the Guides https://justdxguides.com/just-dx-guides/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2280 no 129. Thriller Author Alice Henderson: Real Life Expertise Makes for Great Fiction Thriller author Alice Henderson happens to also be a wildlife biologist who spends a great deal of time in nature, tracking some of our most elusive animals. Whether it's a dry desert or a snowy mountain the characters she creates often face challenges from nature and antagonists. She pulls on her expertise and interests in biology and writing to create captivating tales about the things she cares most about. An engaging story, she believes, is one way to get people interested in issues, such as wildlife preservation, that have big impacts on the real world. In this fun conversation, Polly and Alice Henderson talk about the importance of setting in building suspense, how she threads her personal interests together to create a writing career, and how to write in a tent when there is no electricity. Find more about Alice Henderson and her work at AliceHenderson.com And find out more about Polly Campbell, crafting a writing career and living a writer's life at Simply Write at https://simplywrite. substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 22 May 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Thriller Author Alice Henderson: Real Life Expertise Makes for Great Fiction full 1 29 Polly Cambell | Electracast Can we change the world by captivating people with our storeis? Author Alice Henderson thinks so. Thriller author Alice Henderson happens to also be a wildlife biologist who spends a great deal of time in nature, tracking some of our most elusive animals. Whether it's a dry desert or a snowy mountain the characters she creates often face challenges from nature and antagonists. She pulls on her expertise and interests in biology and writing to create captivating tales about the things she cares most about. An engaging story, she believes, is one way to get people interested in issues, such as wildlife preservation, that have big impacts on the real world. In this fun conversation, Polly and Alice Henderson talk about the importance of setting in building suspense, how she threads her personal interests together to create a writing career, and how to write in a tent when there is no electricity. Find more about Alice Henderson and her work at AliceHenderson.com And find out more about Polly Campbell, crafting a writing career and living a writer's life at Simply Write at https://simplywrite. substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thriller author Alice Henderson happens to also be a wildlife biologist who spends a great deal of time in nature, tracking some of our most elusive animals. Whether it's a dry desert or a snowy mountain the characters she creates often face challenges from nature and antagonists. She pulls on her expertise and interests in biology and writing to create captivating tales about the things she cares most about.

An engaging story, she believes, is one way to get people interested in issues, such as wildlife preservation, that have big impacts on the real world.

In this fun conversation, Polly and Alice Henderson talk about the importance of setting in building suspense, how she threads her personal interests together to create a writing career, and how to write in a tent when there is no electricity.

Find more about Alice Henderson and her work at AliceHenderson.com

And find out more about Polly Campbell, crafting a writing career and living a writer's life at Simply Write at https://simplywrite. substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2246 no 128. Study the Market To Publish More https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite When Polly started her freelance career, she didn't sell a whole lot. At least not at the beginning. But then she took the advice of an established magazine writer and teacher and spent time at the front end studying potential markets for her ideas. Polly scrutinized the magazine pages and masthead, evaluated the list of editors, and contributors against the bylines she saw in the mags, and even looked at the advertisements to get a feel for the audience. Since she started studying markets, Polly's been selling and publishing regularly ever since. In this episode Polly breaks it down, explaining how to study a market, shape your idea to the market you want to write for and create a pitch that editors can't refuse. Looking for more about crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 15 May 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Study the Market To Publish More full 1 28 Polly Cambell | Electracast Study the publications to understand what editors are looking for. When Polly started her freelance career, she didn't sell a whole lot. At least not at the beginning. But then she took the advice of an established magazine writer and teacher and spent time at the front end studying potential markets for her ideas. Polly scrutinized the magazine pages and masthead, evaluated the list of editors, and contributors against the bylines she saw in the mags, and even looked at the advertisements to get a feel for the audience. Since she started studying markets, Polly's been selling and publishing regularly ever since. In this episode Polly breaks it down, explaining how to study a market, shape your idea to the market you want to write for and create a pitch that editors can't refuse. Looking for more about crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When Polly started her freelance career, she didn't sell a whole lot. At least not at the beginning. But then she took the advice of an established magazine writer and teacher and spent time at the front end studying potential markets for her ideas. Polly scrutinized the magazine pages and masthead, evaluated the list of editors, and contributors against the bylines she saw in the mags, and even looked at the advertisements to get a feel for the audience. Since she started studying markets, Polly's been selling and publishing regularly ever since.

In this episode Polly breaks it down, explaining how to study a market, shape your idea to the market you want to write for and create a pitch that editors can't refuse.

Looking for more about crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com

Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2185 no 127. Success Secrets From Freelancer Jen A. Miller https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Jen A. Miller has been freelancing for decades and continues to make a six-figure income. How? Marketing savvy, hard work, and good writing. In this episode, Miller talks with Polly about how she started her freelance career and the approach she takes to keep her writing business thriving. Hint, you don't have to work longer days to make more money, but Miller does market her work and skills, manages her budgets, and meets her deadlines and commitments. Those are the things that keep clients coming back. Miller has also written a series of ebooks that will answer your freelancing questions and help you launch your own freelance career. Find her Notes From a Hired Pen, https://jenamiller.com/notes-from-a-hired-pen/. In this talk on Simply Write w/Polly Miller and Polly talk about the importance of supporting and encouraging other writers in the freelance community. One way Miller does that is through her newsletter which you can access for free here https://jenamiller.com/ If you want to establish your freelance business, writing well is only part of the job. Today, we'll discuss other things that will help writers get their businesses rolling. Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 08 May 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Success Secrets From Freelancer Jen A. Miller full 1 27 Polly Cambell | Electracast The veteran freelancer explains how to weather the ups and downs of a writing life. Jen A. Miller has been freelancing for decades and continues to make a six-figure income. How? Marketing savvy, hard work, and good writing. In this episode, Miller talks with Polly about how she started her freelance career and the approach she takes to keep her writing business thriving. Hint, you don't have to work longer days to make more money, but Miller does market her work and skills, manages her budgets, and meets her deadlines and commitments. Those are the things that keep clients coming back. Miller has also written a series of ebooks that will answer your freelancing questions and help you launch your own freelance career. Find her Notes From a Hired Pen, https://jenamiller.com/notes-from-a-hired-pen/. In this talk on Simply Write w/Polly Miller and Polly talk about the importance of supporting and encouraging other writers in the freelance community. One way Miller does that is through her newsletter which you can access for free here https://jenamiller.com/ If you want to establish your freelance business, writing well is only part of the job. Today, we'll discuss other things that will help writers get their businesses rolling. Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Jen A. Miller has been freelancing for decades and continues to make a six-figure income. How? Marketing savvy, hard work, and good writing. In this episode, Miller talks with Polly about how she started her freelance career and the approach she takes to keep her writing business thriving. Hint, you don't have to work longer days to make more money, but Miller does market her work and skills, manages her budgets, and meets her deadlines and commitments. Those are the things that keep clients coming back.

Miller has also written a series of ebooks that will answer your freelancing questions and help you launch your own freelance career. Find her Notes From a Hired Pen, https://jenamiller.com/notes-from-a-hired-pen/.


In this talk on Simply Write w/Polly Miller and Polly talk about the importance of supporting and encouraging other writers in the freelance community. One way Miller does that is through her newsletter which you can access for free here https://jenamiller.com/

If you want to establish your freelance business, writing well is only part of the job. Today, we'll discuss other things that will help writers get their businesses rolling.

Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2341 no 126. Better Blogging https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Blogs look different than they did more than a decade ago when Polly Campbell started blogging but they still provide a great opportunity to improve your writing, connect with readers and editors, and write about things that matter to you. Corporations, associations, and nonprofits also look to bloggers to help them build brand recognition, raise funds, connect with clients, and develop community partnerships. Blogging can be part of a solid writing business, as long as you do it well. In this episode, Polly shares some insights to help you build a better blog and grow your blogging business. Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com Scott Chow has some easy-to-follow and good info if you are ready to launch your own blog, check it out here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 01 May 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Better Blogging full 1 26 Polly Cambell | Electracast Blogs aren't what they used to be--they are even better, and writers have to be better too. Blogs look different than they did more than a decade ago when Polly Campbell started blogging but they still provide a great opportunity to improve your writing, connect with readers and editors, and write about things that matter to you. Corporations, associations, and nonprofits also look to bloggers to help them build brand recognition, raise funds, connect with clients, and develop community partnerships. Blogging can be part of a solid writing business, as long as you do it well. In this episode, Polly shares some insights to help you build a better blog and grow your blogging business. Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com Scott Chow has some easy-to-follow and good info if you are ready to launch your own blog, check it out here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Blogs look different than they did more than a decade ago when Polly Campbell started blogging but they still provide a great opportunity to improve your writing, connect with readers and editors, and write about things that matter to you. Corporations, associations, and nonprofits also look to bloggers to help them build brand recognition, raise funds, connect with clients, and develop community partnerships. Blogging can be part of a solid writing business, as long as you do it well. In this episode, Polly shares some insights to help you build a better blog and grow your blogging business.

Looking for more of the inside scoop on crafting a writing career and living a writer's life? Check out the Simply Write column writing here on https://simplywrite.substack.com

Contact Polly Campbell at www.pollycampbell.com

Scott Chow has some easy-to-follow and good info if you are ready to launch your own blog, check it out here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2159 no 125. Agents and Writers: The Scoop from Agent Kate McKean https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite Polly Campbell talks with writer and agent Kate McKean, vice-president of Howard Morhaim Literary Agency talks about how agents choose books to represent, the intangibles that result in a sale--or not, and how she works with writers. Instead of playing to trends Kate says to write the book you want to write and give her the book "I don't know I need." "I want to help create a book that exemplifies the author's goals," Kate says. And when it comes to writing and selling that nonfiction proposal Kate says to consider these questions: Why does the reader care about this book? What problem does the reader have that your book will solve? Then write that thing. But whatever you do "don't kill the dog," Kate says. In this episode, we cover the ins and outs of how agents work and what they are looking for from authors. Learn more and join the Simply Write community for tips and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com Comment and connect with Polly at www.pollycampbell.com and please leave a review and share this podcast. Thank you for listening. *We apologize for the wonky sound in the episode but Kate is fabulous and this episode is filled with helpful information so we hope you stay tuned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Agents and Writers: The Scoop from Kate McKean full 1 25 Polly Cambell | Electracast Undeerstand how agents work Polly Campbell talks with writer and agent Kate McKean, vice-president of Howard Morhaim Literary Agency talks about how agents choose books to represent, the intangibles that result in a sale--or not, and how she works with writers. Instead of playing to trends Kate says to write the book you want to write and give her the book "I don't know I need." "I want to help create a book that exemplifies the author's goals," Kate says. And when it comes to writing and selling that nonfiction proposal Kate says to consider these questions: Why does the reader care about this book? What problem does the reader have that your book will solve? Then write that thing. But whatever you do "don't kill the dog," Kate says. In this episode, we cover the ins and outs of how agents work and what they are looking for from authors. Learn more and join the Simply Write community for tips and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com Comment and connect with Polly at www.pollycampbell.com and please leave a review and share this podcast. Thank you for listening. *We apologize for the wonky sound in the episode but Kate is fabulous and this episode is filled with helpful information so we hope you stay tuned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly Campbell talks with writer and agent Kate McKean, vice-president of Howard Morhaim Literary Agency talks about how agents choose books to represent, the intangibles that result in a sale--or not, and how she works with writers. Instead of playing to trends Kate says to write the book you want to write and give her the book "I don't know I need."

"I want to help create a book that exemplifies the author's goals," Kate says.

And when it comes to writing and selling that nonfiction proposal Kate says to consider these questions: Why does the reader care about this book? What problem does the reader have that your book will solve? Then write that thing.

But whatever you do "don't kill the dog," Kate says.

In this episode, we cover the ins and outs of how agents work and what they are looking for from authors.

Learn more and join the Simply Write community for tips and feedback at https://simplywrite.substack.com

Comment and connect with Polly at www.pollycampbell.com and please leave a review and share this podcast.

Thank you for listening.



*We apologize for the wonky sound in the episode but Kate is fabulous and this episode is filled with helpful information so we hope you stay tuned.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2244 no 124.. Developing Description Too much and you'll lose the reader. Too little, well, that doesn't work either. We need the Goldilocks approach to descriptive writing. When done right descriptive language can build emotional resonance, develop character, create memorable settings, and elevate your writing in a way that has editors, readers, and publishers, clamoring for more. But if you come in heavy-handed or use cliche your work will flounder. In this episode Polly Campbell, talks about how to create descriptive writing, covering techniques like strong verbs, imagery, specific language, and the use of objects that will elevate the story not overwhelm it. And why it's important to use descriptive language in both nonfiction and fiction work. Tune in to Simply Write w/ Polly and join the substack community at https://smplywrite.substack.com or find out more about Polly and her books at https://pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Developing Description full 1 24 Polly Cambell | Electracast The right amount of description will elevate your work. Too much? The writing suffers. Here's how to get it just right. Too much and you'll lose the reader. Too little, well, that doesn't work either. We need the Goldilocks approach to descriptive writing. When done right descriptive language can build emotional resonance, develop character, create memorable settings, and elevate your writing in a way that has editors, readers, and publishers, clamoring for more. But if you come in heavy-handed or use cliche your work will flounder. In this episode Polly Campbell, talks about how to create descriptive writing, covering techniques like strong verbs, imagery, specific language, and the use of objects that will elevate the story not overwhelm it. And why it's important to use descriptive language in both nonfiction and fiction work. Tune in to Simply Write w/ Polly and join the substack community at https://smplywrite.substack.com or find out more about Polly and her books at https://pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Too much and you'll lose the reader. Too little, well, that doesn't work either. We need the Goldilocks approach to descriptive writing. When done right descriptive language can build emotional resonance, develop character, create memorable settings, and elevate your writing in a way that has editors, readers, and publishers, clamoring for more. But if you come in heavy-handed or use cliche your work will flounder. In this episode Polly Campbell, talks about how to create descriptive writing, covering techniques like strong verbs, imagery, specific language, and the use of objects that will elevate the story not overwhelm it. And why it's important to use descriptive language in both nonfiction and fiction work.

Tune in to Simply Write w/ Polly and join the substack community at https://smplywrite.substack.com or find out more about Polly and her books at https://pollycampbell.com

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]]> 2156 no 123. Author Donald Altman and How the Writing Process Changes Polly Campbell talks with the award-winning nonfiction author of Simply Mindful and other books, Donald Altman, about how his writing process changed when he began writing his first novel The Travelers. Donald has written screenplays, short films, kids' television, and more than 20 nonfiction books after leaving behind a career as an electrician decades ago. In 2023 Donald launched his first novel and now talks with Simply Write about how his writing process has changed from a more structured approach utilizing outlines and research to create his personal-development books to a more organic way of writing in this novel The Travelers. And if you want a career in writing and publishing, subscribe now to SimplyWrite.substack.com for weekly tips, essays, and inspiration from writing pros like Donald and Polly whose new book You, Recharged is now available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0000 123. Author Donald Altman and How the Writing Process Changes full 1 Polly Cambell | Electracast 123. Author Donald Altman talks abou the challenges of writing nonfiction and novels. Polly Campbell talks with the award-winning nonfiction author of Simply Mindful and other books, Donald Altman, about how his writing process changed when he began writing his first novel The Travelers. Donald has written screenplays, short films, kids' television, and more than 20 nonfiction books after leaving behind a career as an electrician decades ago. In 2023 Donald launched his first novel and now talks with Simply Write about how his writing process has changed from a more structured approach utilizing outlines and research to create his personal-development books to a more organic way of writing in this novel The Travelers. And if you want a career in writing and publishing, subscribe now to SimplyWrite.substack.com for weekly tips, essays, and inspiration from writing pros like Donald and Polly whose new book You, Recharged is now available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly Campbell talks with the award-winning nonfiction author of Simply Mindful and other books, Donald Altman, about how his writing process changed when he began writing his first novel The Travelers. Donald has written screenplays, short films, kids' television, and more than 20 nonfiction books after leaving behind a career as an electrician decades ago. In 2023 Donald launched his first novel and now talks with Simply Write about how his writing process has changed from a more structured approach utilizing outlines and research to create his personal-development books to a more organic way of writing in this novel The Travelers.

And if you want a career in writing and publishing, subscribe now to SimplyWrite.substack.com for weekly tips, essays, and inspiration from writing pros like Donald and Polly whose new book You, Recharged is now available.

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]]> 2177 no 122. Author Tara Laskowski Talks Writing Short and Long Polly talks with award-winning novelist and flash fiction writer Tara Laskowski about the importance of prioritizing the writing in your schedule and how she relies on spooky settings to build her novels. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Tara Laskowski and her work, including her newest novel set for release in December here: https://taralaskowski.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Author Tara Laskowski Talks about Writing Short and Long full 122 Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with award-winning novelist and flash fiction writer Tara Laskowski about the importance of prioritizing the writing in your schedule and how she relies on spooky settings to build her novels. Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Tara Laskowski and her work, including her newest novel set for release in December here: https://taralaskowski.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with award-winning novelist and flash fiction writer Tara Laskowski about the importance of prioritizing the writing in your schedule and how she relies on spooky settings to build her novels.

Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://SimplyWrite.substack.com

Find Tara Laskowski and her work, including her newest novel set for release in December here: https://taralaskowski.com/

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]]> 1946 no 121. Find Your Writing Voice https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Polly Campbell talks about the intangible power of voice and the importance of technique and faith when it comes to developing yours, and some ways we can find our voice in every piece we write. Voice is that unique quality that elevates your work and draws readers in. In this episode, Polly explains how it works. Also, be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Find Your Writing Voice full 1 21 Polly Cambell | Electracast Your unique narrative voice is one element that will make your writing a reader magnet. Polly Campbell talks about the intangible power of voice and the importance of technique and faith when it comes to developing yours, and some ways we can find our voice in every piece we write. Voice is that unique quality that elevates your work and draws readers in. In this episode, Polly explains how it works. Also, be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly Campbell talks about the intangible power of voice and the importance of technique and faith when it comes to developing yours, and some ways we can find our voice in every piece we write. Voice is that unique quality that elevates your work and draws readers in. In this episode, Polly explains how it works.

Also, be sure to join our Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

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]]> 1958 no 120. Essay Writing with Amy Paturel https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Polly talks with renowned writer Amy Paturel about her writing process the must-have components of publishable essays. Signup for Amy's essay writing class and learn more about their work here: https://www.amypaturel.com/ For more about the writing process, the writer's mindset, and creating a writing career, join our Simply Write substack community at https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0000 Essay Writing with Amy Paturel full 1 20 Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with renowned writer Amy Paturel about her writing process the must-have components of publishable essays. Signup for Amy's essay writing class and learn more about their work here: https://www.amypaturel.com/ For more about the writing process, the writer's mindset, and creating a writing career, join our Simply Write substack community at https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with renowned writer Amy Paturel about her writing process the must-have components of publishable essays.

Signup for Amy's essay writing class and learn more about their work here: https://www.amypaturel.com/

For more about the writing process, the writer's mindset, and creating a writing career, join our Simply Write substack community at https://simplywrite.substack.com/

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]]> 2138 no 118. Author Christopher Coake Gets Personal in Fiction Polly talks with fiction writer and MFA Director Christopher Coake about the process and the personal aspects of writing fiction. Find Christopher Coake and his newest collection of short stories, You Would Have Told Me Not To at https://www.christophercoake.info/ Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com or find her newest books at pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 27 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Author Christopher Coake Gets Personal in Fiction full 1 118 Polly Cambell | Electracast Polly talks with fiction writer and MFA Director Christopher Coake about the process and the personal aspects of writing fiction. Find Christopher Coake and his newest collection of short stories, You Would Have Told Me Not To at https://www.christophercoake.info/ Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com or find her newest books at pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly talks with fiction writer and MFA Director Christopher Coake about the process and the personal aspects of writing fiction.

Find Christopher Coake and his newest collection of short stories, You Would Have Told Me Not To at https://www.christophercoake.info/

Join Polly and the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com or find her newest books at pollycampbell.com

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]]> 2313 no Ep. 117 Writing Through the Hard Times Polly goes inside the writer's mind and talks about how to keep writing even when life throws emotionally hard hurdles in our path. The writing might just be the thing to help us through. for more join, Polly's Simply Write substack community at https://Simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 20 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0000 Writing Through Hard Times full 1 17 Polly Cambell | Electracast Writing requires calm focus. What do we do when we don't have it? Polly goes inside the writer's mind and talks about how to keep writing even when life throws emotionally hard hurdles in our path. The writing might just be the thing to help us through. for more join, Polly's Simply Write substack community at https://Simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Polly goes inside the writer's mind and talks about how to keep writing even when life throws emotionally hard hurdles in our path. The writing might just be the thing to help us through.

for more join, Polly's Simply Write substack community at https://Simplywrite.substack.com

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]]> 1987 116. Three Things to Improve Your Finished Piece https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 Add these strategies to your writing and revision process and you will create better work and publish more often. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Three Things to Improve Your Finished Piece full 1 16 Polly Cambell | Electracast Write, chill, read. Add these strategies to your writing and revision process and you will create better work and publish more often. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Add these strategies to your writing and revision process and you will create better work and publish more often.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2014 no 115. Crime Fiction Writer Art Taylor and the Short Story Award-winning novelist and short-story author, Art Taylor, talks about process, inspiration, and the six-sentence story method. For more on Taylor's process and bonus materials and tip sheets subscribe and join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com Find Art Taylor at https://arttaylorwriter.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Crime Fiction Writer Art Taylor and the Short Story full 1 15 Polly Cambell | Electracast Art Taylor, recursive revision and getting something down. Award-winning novelist and short-story author, Art Taylor, talks about process, inspiration, and the six-sentence story method. For more on Taylor's process and bonus materials and tip sheets subscribe and join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com Find Art Taylor at https://arttaylorwriter.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Award-winning novelist and short-story author, Art Taylor, talks about process, inspiration, and the six-sentence story method.

For more on Taylor's process and bonus materials and tip sheets subscribe and join the Simply Write community at simplywrite.substack.com

Find Art Taylor at https://arttaylorwriter.com/

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]]> 2282 no 114. Starting at the End https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM6237431525 A good ending will keep readers engaged in your story long after they put it down. The best serve-up and combination of interesting details or information while creating powerful feelings that will linger with the reader. In this episode, Polly shares some strategies for writing solid endings. Join us at simplywrite.substack.com. Paid subscribers get access to comments and feedback as well as Tip Sheets and bonus materials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Starting at the End full 1 114 Polly Cambell | Electracast Give readers an ending that will linger A good ending will keep readers engaged in your story long after they put it down. The best serve-up and combination of interesting details or information while creating powerful feelings that will linger with the reader. In this episode, Polly shares some strategies for writing solid endings. Join us at simplywrite.substack.com. Paid subscribers get access to comments and feedback as well as Tip Sheets and bonus materials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices A good ending will keep readers engaged in your story long after they put it down. The best serve-up and combination of interesting details or information while creating powerful feelings that will linger with the reader. In this episode, Polly shares some strategies for writing solid endings.

Join us at simplywrite.substack.com. Paid subscribers get access to comments and feedback as well as Tip Sheets and bonus materials.

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]]> 2033 no 113. Author Wendi Aarons Talks the Serious Side of Writing Comedy https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/simplywrite?selected=ECM3709163283 Wendi Aarons, author of I'm Wearing Tunics Now, Ginger Mancino Kid Comedian is here to talk about crafting comedy and the serious side of writing humor. Wendi Aarons: https://www.wendiaarons.com/ Join our https://SimplyWrite.substack.com for writing tip sheets, essays, and info to help you publish your work and create a writer's career and life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0000 Author Wendi Aarons Talks the Serious Side of Writing Comedy full 1 13 Polly Cambell | Electracast Wendi Aarons, author of I'm Wearing Tunics Now, Ginger Mancino Kid Comedian is here to talk about crafting comedy and the serious side of writing humor. Wendi Aarons: https://www.wendiaarons.com/ Join our https://SimplyWrite.substack.com for writing tip sheets, essays, and info to help you publish your work and create a writer's career and life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wendi Aarons, author of I'm Wearing Tunics Now, Ginger Mancino Kid Comedian is here to talk about crafting comedy and the serious side of writing humor.

Wendi Aarons: https://www.wendiaarons.com/

Join our https://SimplyWrite.substack.com for writing tip sheets, essays, and info to help you publish your work and create a writer's career and life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1780 no Ep. 112 Starting Strong with a Good Opening Openings, ledes, beginnings, whatever you call them they better be compelling and hook your reader. In today's episode, we talk about some ways to do it and Polly goes off on one her favorites for the In the Desk segments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 16 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Starting Strong with a Good Opening full 1 12 Polly Cambell | Electracast Openings, ledes, beginnings, whatever you call them they better be compelling and hook your reader. In today's episode, we talk about some ways to do it and Polly goes off on one her favorites for the In the Desk segments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Openings, ledes, beginnings, whatever you call them they better be compelling and hook your reader. In today's episode, we talk about some ways to do it and Polly goes off on one her favorites for the In the Desk segments.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1792 no 111. Screenwriter, Novelist Wendall Thomas Screenwriter, consultant, and novelist Wendall Thomas, author of Foged Off, and other Cyd Redondo novels, talks about optioning scripts, writing comic novels, and managing multiple projects. Find Wendall Thomas at https://www.wendallthomas.com/ Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0000 Screenwriter, Novelist Wendall Thomas full 1 11 Polly Cambell | Electracast The one thing creenwriter, novelist Wendall Thomas says writers must focus on first Screenwriter, consultant, and novelist Wendall Thomas, author of Foged Off, and other Cyd Redondo novels, talks about optioning scripts, writing comic novels, and managing multiple projects. Find Wendall Thomas at https://www.wendallthomas.com/ Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Screenwriter, consultant, and novelist Wendall Thomas, author of Foged Off, and other Cyd Redondo novels, talks about optioning scripts, writing comic novels, and managing multiple projects.

Find Wendall Thomas at https://www.wendallthomas.com/

Join the Simply Write community at https://simplywrite.substack.com

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]]> 2102 no 108. Content Marketing Writer Jennifer Goforthh Gregory Learn about what content marketing writing is and how you can cultivate clients and develop a lucrative career from Jennifer GoForth Gregory, author of The Freelance Content Marketing Writer. Join our substack and SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Jennifer at www.jennifergregorywriter.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:00:00 -0000 Content Marketing Writer Jennifer Goforthh Gregory full 1 8 Polly Cambell | Electracast Content Marketing Writer explans how content marketing can make Learn about what content marketing writing is and how you can cultivate clients and develop a lucrative career from Jennifer GoForth Gregory, author of The Freelance Content Marketing Writer. Join our substack and SimplyWrite.substack.com Find Jennifer at www.jennifergregorywriter.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn about what content marketing writing is and how you can cultivate clients and develop a lucrative career from Jennifer GoForth Gregory, author of

The Freelance Content Marketing Writer.

Join our substack and SimplyWrite.substack.com

Find Jennifer at www.jennifergregorywriter.com

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]]> 2236 no 107. Find Your Focus and Form The clearer you are about what your story is about, the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers. Assignment: Hone your focus. Want feedback? Join the Simply Write community as a paid subscriber and leave a comment with your thoughts and questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 05 Dec 2022 18:00:00 -0000 Find Your Focus and Form full 1 7 Polly Cambell | Electracast Get clear about what your story is about. Here's how to do it. The clearer you are about what your story is about, the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers. Assignment: Hone your focus. Want feedback? Join the Simply Write community as a paid subscriber and leave a comment with your thoughts and questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The clearer you are about what your story is about, the clearer your writing will be and that's good for you and the readers.

Assignment: Hone your focus.

Want feedback? Join the Simply Write community as a paid subscriber and leave a comment with your thoughts and questions.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1743 no 106 Picture Book Author and Novelist Katie Otey She was flat on her back in the hospital room and started working on the idea that became her first published picture book Every Other Christmas. Author Katie Otey talks about her process, juggling projects, and why it's important to tell your story. Jjoin the Simply Write community for more from Katie Otey about why she created a publishing company and the first point of entry for picture books. https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Find Katie at www.katieoteywrites.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:00:00 -0000 Picture Book Author and Novelist Katie Otey full 1 6 Polly Cambell | Electracast How one author drew from personal experience to publish a children's book She was flat on her back in the hospital room and started working on the idea that became her first published picture book Every Other Christmas. Author Katie Otey talks about her process, juggling projects, and why it's important to tell your story. Jjoin the Simply Write community for more from Katie Otey about why she created a publishing company and the first point of entry for picture books. https://simplywrite.substack.com/ Find Katie at www.katieoteywrites.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices She was flat on her back in the hospital room and started working on the idea that became her first published picture book Every Other Christmas. Author Katie Otey talks about her process, juggling projects, and why it's important to tell your story.


Jjoin the Simply Write community for more from Katie Otey about why she created a publishing company and the first point of entry for picture books.

https://simplywrite.substack.com/

Find Katie at www.katieoteywrites.com

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]]> 1889 no 104. Lori Rader-Day, Award-Winning Mystery Author Talks Writing Process https://www.pollycampbell.com Agatha-award-winning author Lori Rader-Days shares her writing process, explains when she knew it was time to quit her office job (bad boss), and how she deals with self-doubt (craft books), and much more. If you love to talk writing and aspire to write a novel, this show with authors Polly Campbell and Lori-Rader day is for you. Check out Death at Greenway (loved it) and her other books here: www.Loriraderday.com Get bonus material, other writing info, and discounted access to upcoming writer's workshops by becoming a paid subscriber at www.simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 14 Nov 2022 12:00:00 -0000 Lori Rader-Day, Award-Winning Mystery Writer Talks Process full 1 4 Polly Cambell | Electracast Crime writer Lori Rader-Day talks about writing rules, revision, and dealing with self-doubt Agatha-award-winning author Lori Rader-Days shares her writing process, explains when she knew it was time to quit her office job (bad boss), and how she deals with self-doubt (craft books), and much more. If you love to talk writing and aspire to write a novel, this show with authors Polly Campbell and Lori-Rader day is for you. Check out Death at Greenway (loved it) and her other books here: www.Loriraderday.com Get bonus material, other writing info, and discounted access to upcoming writer's workshops by becoming a paid subscriber at www.simplywrite.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Agatha-award-winning author Lori Rader-Days shares her writing process, explains when she knew it was time to quit her office job (bad boss), and how she deals with self-doubt (craft books), and much more. If you love to talk writing and aspire to write a novel, this show with authors Polly Campbell and Lori-Rader day is for you.

Check out Death at Greenway (loved it) and her other books here: www.Loriraderday.com

Get bonus material, other writing info, and discounted access to upcoming writer's workshops by becoming a paid subscriber at www.simplywrite.substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2274 no 102 Fiction Powerhouse Jacquelyn Mitchard Joins Polly on Simply Write Her debut Deep End of the Ocean became Oprah's first book club pick, now 22 books later, Jacquelyn Mitchard talks about dedication, commitment to writing, and creating emotionally complex characters on Simply Write w/Polly Campbell. Pick up Jaquelyn Mitchard's newest The Good Son and be sure to sign up for The Gasp. for behind-the-scenes details and a deep dive into the craft and quirks of living a writer's life, join our subscriber community here: www.simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 02 Nov 2022 01:15:00 -0000 Fiction Powerhouse Jacquelyn Mitchard Joins Polly Campbell on Simply Write full 1 2 Polly Cambell | Electracast Jacquelyn Mitchard is known for writing emotionally complex characters, here's how she does it. Her debut Deep End of the Ocean became Oprah's first book club pick, now 22 books later, Jacquelyn Mitchard talks about dedication, commitment to writing, and creating emotionally complex characters on Simply Write w/Polly Campbell. Pick up Jaquelyn Mitchard's newest The Good Son and be sure to sign up for The Gasp. for behind-the-scenes details and a deep dive into the craft and quirks of living a writer's life, join our subscriber community here: www.simplywrite.substack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Her debut Deep End of the Ocean became Oprah's first book club pick, now 22 books later, Jacquelyn Mitchard talks about dedication, commitment to writing, and creating emotionally complex characters on Simply Write w/Polly Campbell.

Pick up Jaquelyn Mitchard's newest The Good Son and be sure to sign up for The Gasp.

for behind-the-scenes details and a deep dive into the craft and quirks of living a writer's life, join our subscriber community here: www.simplywrite.substack.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1845 no 101. Beginnings & Backstories https://www.pollycampbell.com Pro-writer Polly Campbell shares her origin story and offers tips on how to create your own writing business to do the work you love and love the work you do. Polly created a life plan to create both a writing business and a lifestyle she wanted to live. She shares how she did it and some of the things you can do that may help you create an income from your writing. Assignment #1: Determine your why. Write down the specific reasons you want to write and publish your writing. Know why you want to earn an income from your writing. Want some bonus tips, insights, Q&As from bestselling authors, access to the mailbag, and even feedback on your assignments? Join our subscriber community of serious writers at www.simplywrite@substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Mon, 24 Oct 2022 11:00:00 -0000 Beginnings & Backstories full 1 1 Polly Cambell | Electracast Setting up your writer's shop and launching your writing career Pro-writer Polly Campbell shares her origin story and offers tips on how to create your own writing business to do the work you love and love the work you do. Polly created a life plan to create both a writing business and a lifestyle she wanted to live. She shares how she did it and some of the things you can do that may help you create an income from your writing. Assignment #1: Determine your why. Write down the specific reasons you want to write and publish your writing. Know why you want to earn an income from your writing. Want some bonus tips, insights, Q&As from bestselling authors, access to the mailbag, and even feedback on your assignments? Join our subscriber community of serious writers at www.simplywrite@substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Pro-writer Polly Campbell shares her origin story and offers tips on how to create your own writing business to do the work you love and love the work you do. Polly created a life plan to create both a writing business and a lifestyle she wanted to live. She shares how she did it and some of the things you can do that may help you create an income from your writing.

Assignment #1: Determine your why. Write down the specific reasons you want to write and publish your writing. Know why you want to earn an income from your writing.

Want some bonus tips, insights, Q&As from bestselling authors, access to the mailbag, and even feedback on your assignments? Join our subscriber community of serious writers at www.simplywrite@substack.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2091 no Introducing: Simply Write w/Polly Campbell https://www.pollycampbell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000 Introducing Simply Write w/ Polly Campbell trailer 1 Polly Cambell | Electracast Want to write, publish, and create a writing career? This show is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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]]> 155 no