Creative Writing Wizard Podcast - Author Interviews

About Creative Writing Wizard Podcast - Author Interviews

Ever read a book and wish you could chat with the author about it? Me too! If you want to listen to authors and learn - About them as people - About their books - About their writing process This is the podcast for you! Find more resources for Authors: https://creativewritingwizard.com/ Looking for your next read? Check out the latest in Indie Books via the Indie Release Radar: https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/

Publisher

Glen Weatherhead

Category

arts

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Dec 2024

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   #17 - Writing Romance That Feels Believable

   Support Danika's Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/danikalynnbooks/sweet-temptationRead Danika’s books: https://danikalynnbooks.com/sweetbriar-romance-series/Monthly Writer Encouragement: https://creativewritingwizard.com/On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by romance author and artist Danika Rose Lynn, author of the Sweet Briar romance series, including her latest release, *Sweet Redemption*.We explore:* Her journey from artist and graphic designer to published romance author* Building an interconnected world where characters continue to live beyond their individual stories* Why she develops characters and their backstories before building the larger plot* Her chaotic “Franken drafting” approach to piecing a story together* Keeping characters distinct across an interconnected romance series* Writing flawed, believable characters instead of romantic stereotypes* Creating romance stories with deeper plots, conflict, humour, and character growth* Representing chronic illness and cultures outside your own with care and sensitivity readers* Writing convincing perspectives and experiences you haven’t personally lived* How *Sweet Redemption* challenged her with a longer timeline and slower relationship development* Why support systems are especially valuable for writers with ADHD* Balancing writing, publishing, marketing, artwork, and a full-time career* Her plans to expand the Sweet Briar world into fantasy and portal romanceDanika shares why believable characters are at the heart of her stories, how her characters often seem to develop lives of their own, and why romance can be about much more than two people falling in love.We also talk about the importance of writing what you genuinely care about, creating characters who make mistakes and grow, and building stories that can make readers feel seen.📚 Explore Danika’s books and *Sweet Redemption*https://danikalynnbooks.com/sweetbriar-romance-series/📸 Follow Danika on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/danikalynnbooks✨ Enjoy these conversations? Subscribe for more author interviews, writing craft deep dives, and indie publishing perspectives.💡 Join the Creative Writing Wizard community:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2026/01/13/dawn-of-the-creative-wizard-community/📖 Discover new indie book releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarKeywordsDanika, Sweet Redemption, Sweet Briar Romance, Romance Author Interview, Writing Romance, Writing Realistic Characters, Character Driven Romance, Writing Flawed Characters, Romance Writing Tips, Indie Romance Author, Writing Diverse Characters, Sensitivity Readers, Chronic Illness Representation, ADHD Writers, ADHD Author, Character Development, Franken Drafting, Immersive Storytelling, Indie Publishing, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, Glen WeatherheadRecorded March 2026

2. 

   15 Sept 2026

   #16 - The Power of Authentic Storytelling

   Read Nathan’s book, The UpSideDown Life: https://www.amazon.com/UpSideDown-Life-Nathan-Weselake/dp/1039101879/ Monthly Writer Encouragement: https://creativewritingwizard.com/On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by Nathan Weselake, author of The UpSideDown Life, longtime pastor, speaker, and storyteller whose writing experience includes roughly 1,000 sermons over 25 years.We explore:* How years of sermon writing shaped his approach to storytelling* Why stories can connect with people in ways information alone often cannot* Using storytelling to make nonfiction more engaging and accessible* Finding the balance between story, information, and clarity* Writing for readers who may not normally pick up a book* Using humour without distracting from the message* Responding to conflicting feedback from readers* Why staying true to your own creative voice matters* What he has learned through relationships with Indigenous communities and elders* Storytelling, land-based learning, and finding common ground* Choosing self-publishing and the creative freedom that can come with it* Why indie publishing doesn’t have to mean compromising on the story you want to tell* Rethinking creative success beyond sales, followers, and numbersNathan shares why people naturally connect through stories, how humour helped shape the voice of The UpSideDown Life, and why writers sometimes need to trust their own creative instincts even when readers respond differently.We also explore the freedom writers now have to put their work into the world without traditional gatekeepers and how success can ultimately be less about numbers and more about creating something authentic that connects with another person.📚 Explore Nathan Weselake’s book, The UpSideDown Lifehttps://www.nathanweselake.ca/🤝 Learn more about the Mitakuye Oyasin reconciliation initiativehttps://www.nathanweselake.ca/mitakuye-oyasin✨ Enjoy these conversations? Subscribe for more author interviews, writing craft deep dives, and indie publishing perspectives.💡 Join the Creative Writing Wizard community:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2026/01/13/dawn-of-the-creative-wizard-community/📖 Discover new indie book releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarKeywordsNathan Weselake, The UpSideDown Life, Nonfiction Author Interview, Writing Nonfiction, Storytelling in Nonfiction, Finding Your Writing Voice, Authentic Writing, Indie Publishing, Self Publishing, Writing With Humor, Writing Advice, Storytelling, Creative Success, Indigenous Storytelling, Author Interview, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, Glen WeatherheadRecorded 2026

3. 

   11 Aug 2026

   #15 - The Uphill Climb of the Author Journey

   Read Marc's latest book: https://iammarcavery.com/ Monthly Writer Encouragement: https://creativewritingwizard.com/ On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by Marc Avery, crime thriller author, indie-author advocate, and the author of Discipline, a gritty, action-packed thriller following two mismatched homicide detectives pursuing a serial killer across Philadelphia. We explore: * His journey from self-publishing to signing with an agent and publisher * Learning from failed launches, rejected queries, and missed publishing opportunities* How Discipline evolved as a story * Writing from the perspectives of both detectives and the killer they are pursuing * How he lets stories develop organically * The challenge of writing natural character dialogue * Bringing to life through an audiobook* What it's like to sell books at a conference * Why authentic connection has made Threads his most successful platform * Building discoverability without constantly telling people to “buy my book” Marc shares how failure pushed him to rethink his approach to publishing and social media, why authors need to get out from behind their computer screens, and how small moments of visibility can eventually lead to readers, bookstore orders, event attendance, and unexpected opportunities. 📚 Explore Marc Avery’s books and find Disciplinehttps://iammarcavery.com/ 🧵 Follow Marc Avery on Threadshttps://www.threads.com/@author_marc_avery 📸 Follow Marc Avery on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/author_marc_avery/ ✨ Enjoy these conversations? Subscribe for more author interviews, writing craft deep dives, and indie publishing perspectives. 💡 Join the Creative Writing Wizard community:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2026/01/13/dawn-of-the-creative-wizard-community/ 📖 Discover new indie book releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar 📈 Tips and Tricks for Growing on Threads https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/04/08/tips-and-tricks-for-writers-on-social-media/ K Keywords Marc Avery, Discipline, Crime Thriller Author Interview, Philadelphia Crime Thriller, Writing a Serial Killer, Writing Detective Fiction, Indie Author Marketing, Threads for Authors, BookCon Author, Selling Books at Events, Writing Natural Dialogue, Audiobook Publishing, Author Discoverability, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, Glen Weatherhead Recorded April 2026

4. 

   22 Dec 2025

   #14 - The Heart Behind Writing for Kids w/ Frances Wong

   Monthly Encouragement in your inbox:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2025/10/28/how-i-consistently-get-into-a-writing-flow/Join the Creative Wizard Community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizardOn this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by Frances Wong, children’s and middle-grade author, teacher, and indie publisher behind the Lexi Walker sci-fi adventure series and the holiday adventure Tasha’s Christmas Wish.We explore:- Her long road from discouraged young writer to confident indie author- Querying, self-publishing, and choosing the right publishing path- Why she edits with printed pages, pens, and a lot of Post-it notes- Using Save the Cat beats and flexible plotting for kidlit- Writing emotionally safe but high-stakes stories for children- Building resilience, agency, and relatability into young protagonists- How teaching shapes her storytelling and editing processFrances shares how a single image sparked the Lexi Walker series, why resilience is at the heart of all her stories, and how intentional storytelling can challenge young readers while still making them feel safe and supported.📚 Explore Frances Wong’s bookshttps://authorfranceswong.my.canva.site/home📸 Follow Frances Wong on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/author_frances_wong/✨ Enjoy these conversations? Subscribe for more author interviews, writing craft deep dives, and indie publishing perspectives.💡 Join the Creative Writing Wizard community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard📖 Discover new indie book releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarKeywordsFrances Wong, Lexi Walker, Children’s Sci-Fi, Middle Grade Author Interview, Indie Publishing, Save the Cat Writing, Plotting with Post-its, Writing for Kids, Resilience in Fiction, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, Glen Weatherhead

5. 

   16 Dec 2025

   #13 - How to Write Epic Fantasy w/ J.M. Testa

   Monthly Encouragement in your inbox: https://creativewritingwizard.com/2025/10/28/how-i-consistently-get-into-a-writing-flow/ Join the Creative Wizard Community: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizardOn this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by J.M. Testa. indie fantasy author of The Destined Road, book one of her trilogy rooted in classic, Tolkien-inspired storytelling with a modern heart.We explore:- How she went from nonprofit & corporate work to publishing epic fantasy- Her visual-first approach to building worlds- Creating new fantasy races- Developing an original Elven language (and how she built it)- Writing female-led fantasy without stereotypes- The freedom, and challenges, of the indie publishing path- Writer’s block, subconscious drafting, and trusting your brain to problem-solveJess shares her journey crafting a trilogy that blends classic fantasy vibes with modern themes of compassion, identity, and community, plus what she’s learned about writing in visual layers, discovering story mid-draft, and building languages that deepen world immersion.📚 Read The Destined Roadhttps://jtesta.com📸 Follow J.M. Testa on Instagramhttps://instagram.com/jmtesta✨ Enjoy these conversations? Subscribe for more author interviews, writing process deep dives, and indie fantasy spotlights.💡 Join the Creative Writing Wizard community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard📖 Explore new indie book releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarReferences & MentionsVulgarLang – language creation tool used for Elven structuresHarness Magazine interview with J.M. Testa - https://harnessmagazine.com/jess-testa/  @writermakesvideos  (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCbEyjRzucAU7cGExeU7m5Mg) - J.M. Testa on YouTubeKeywordsJ.M. Testa, The Destined Road, Indie Author Interview, Fantasy Trilogy, Worldbuilding, Elven Language, Map-Based Writing, Creative Writing, Indie Publishing, Classic Fantasy, Tolkien Inspired, Noblebright Fantasy, Women in Fantasy, Queer Fantasy, Writing Tips, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, Glen Weatherhead, BODY Novella

6. 

   12 Nov 2025

   Empowering Writers & The Founding of StoryForge

   Voices Like These, StoryForge's First Anthology: https://storyforge.com/anthology Encouragement for Your Writing Journey: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1wt_ImXMFeZCjaHfykdZYN0nEVDdzH8dIn this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by Sabrina Rucker, CEO and founder of StoryForge, a new publishing platform built to empower writers through community, transparency, and modern publishing tools.We explore:- Sabrina’s early journey as a writer and her challenges in traditional publishing- How those experiences inspired the creation of StoryForge- What makes StoryForge different from other indie platforms- The upcoming StoryForge Anthology Project and its purpose- The platform’s stance on AI in publishing and ethical considerations- Why community feedback is vital to writer growth- Sabrina’s advice for aspiring authors t- Sabrina shares her insights on building a community-first model for publishing, what’s next for StoryForge, and how writers can take control of their creative futures.📚 Explore StoryForge & updates: https://storyforge.com🎥 Follow StoryForge on YouTube:  @_storyforge  (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCoAPWNYmEJZuUVnmHieU8yQ) ✨ Like this conversation? Subscribe for more!💡 Support the Creative Writing Wizard efforts & indie author community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard📖 Discover more indie fantasy & creative writing content:https://creativewritingwizard.comChapters00:00 Introduction to StoryForgeand Sabrina Rucker01:29 Sabrina's Journey as a Writer04:58 The Birth of StoryForge06:54 How StoryForge Supports Writers09:37 The Anthology Project12:20 Future Publishing Paths with StoryForge15:15 Differentiating StoryForge from Traditional Publishing19:50 The Stance on AI in Publishing26:10 Advice for Aspiring Writers31:10:26 Future Developments and Closing Thoughts🎵 Intro & outro music written & recorded by Glen WeatherheadKeywordsStoryforge, Sabrina Rucker, Writing Community, Publishing, Indie Publishing, Writer Support, AI in Publishing, Anthology, Feedback, Creative Writing, Author Interview, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast

7. 

   30 Sept 2025

   From Indie Author to NYT Bestseller - J.D. Barker

   On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by J.D. Barker - New York Times and internationally bestselling author, co-writer of Dracul with Dacre Stoker, and a former ghostwriter turned thriller master.We dive deep into:- Going from ghostwriter & “book doctor” to bestselling author- How writing with James Patterson changed his process- Pantsing vs. plotting (and how blurbs guide his novels)- Lessons from Dracul, The Noise, and Flatliners: Resurrection- The rise of rapid-release publishing and hybrid author models- Advice from Dean Koontz on blending genres with a common threadJ.D. shares his journey from finance and 60+ hour workweeks to taking an all-in gamble on writing, plus what he’s learned about sustaining a creative career, paying it forward, and finding co-authors with the “storyteller gene.”📚 Explore J.D. Barker’s books & updates: https://jdbarker.com🎥 Watch more from J.D. on YouTube: @jdbarker_author✨ Like this conversation? Subscribe for more interviews with authors and writers! 💡 Support the Creative Writing Wizard efforts & indie author community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard📖 Discover more indie releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarReferences & MentionsFlatliners: Resurrection – upcoming reboot & publishing buzz:https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/30/3091166/0/en/J-D-Barker-s-FLATLINERS-RESURRECTION-Complete-and-Expected-to-Generate-Major-Bidding-War.htmlDracul (with Dacre Stoker) – interview via LAPL:https://www.lapl.org/collections-resources/blogs/lapl/interview-author-dacre-stoker-jd-barkerEarly career as a Ghostwriter/Book Doctor – Meet the Thriller Author:https://get.thrillingreads.com/jd-barker-interview/#:~:text=cover%20when%20I%20was%20working,a%20book%20on%20my%20ownWriting with Autism & blurb-first approach – The Art of Autism interview:https://the-art-of-autism.com/new-york-times-international-bestselling-author-j-d-barkers-insight-on-writing-autism/#:~:text=16,between%20thriller%2C%20suspense%2C%20and%20horrorRolling Stone article on Pantsers vs. Plotters:https://www.rollingstone.com/culture-council/articles/great-writing-divide-inside-creative-battle-between-plotters-pantsers-1235275412/@thecreativepenn Podcast – casting a wider net:https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2025/06/09/casting-a-wider-net-jd-barker/🎵 Intro & outro music written & recorded by Glen WeatherheadKeywordsJ.D. Barker, Creative Writing, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Writing Process, Outlining vs. Pantsing, James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Ghostwriter, Book Doctor, Dracul, Flatliners, Publishing Industry, Hybrid Author, Indie Publishing, Writing Tips, Storytelling, Character Development, Creative Career, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast

8. 

   9 Jun 2025

   #10 - Realizing the Author Dream w/ Shaye Wick

   Thriller author Shaye Wick discusses her rapid writing process and journey to becoming a published author at a young age in an interview on the podcast.

9. 

   12 May 2025

   From BJJ to Published Author w/ Drew Weatherhead

   On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I'm joined by author and BJJ Black Belt Drew Weatherhead to talk about his jump from philosophical nonfiction to epic fantasy fiction and how anime storytelling inspired his unique approach.We dive deep into:- How Attack on Titan influenced Drew’s epic fantasy debut- Blending philosophical themes with gripping storytelling- Creating morally complex scenarios inspired by real-world historyDrew shares insights into his writing process, from tackling imposter syndrome to surviving tough edits. Plus, learn how he incorporates unique narrative elements from Japanese storytelling traditions into his novels.Check out Drew’s epic debut novel, Fractures in Love, available now!https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F566GKWX Connect with Drew Weatherhead:Instagram (Author): https://www.instagram.com/drew.w.authorInstagram (Personal/Jiu-Jitsu): https://www.instagram.com/drew.weatherheadLike this conversation? Subscribe for more interviews with indie authors and creative minds!Support the Creative Writing Wizard efforts and the indie author community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizardDiscover more indie fantasy releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarIntro and outro music written & recorded by Glen Weatherhead (inspired by Attack on Titan) Key Words: Drew Weatherhead, Creative Writing, Fiction, Philosophy, Attack on Titan, Epic Fantasy, Writing Process, Storytelling Techniques, Author Journey, Podcast, writing, editing, author journey, publication, storytelling, moral dilemmas, perspectives, creativity, inspiration, self-worth

10. 

    14 Apr 2025

    From DM to Published Author - E. Scott Clevenger

    In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, we sit down with fantasy author E. Scott Clevenger, co-founder of Sainan Books, to talk about how a lifelong Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Master became a published novelist—and accidentally built a publishing house in the process. We dive deep into: - Co-writing War of Night - The balance between plotting vs pantsing - Crafting a queer normative world and layered magic systems - Lessons from self-publishing, failures along the way, and building a community - Lifting other indie authors along the way If you’re a writer, fantasy reader, or indie author, this one’s for you. 💬 Got questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments! 📚 Learn more about E. Scott and Sainan Books: 👉 https://sainanbooks.com/ 📖 Check out War of Night ✨ Available now in its stunning second edition! https://sainanbooks.com/books/ 🔗 Follow E. Scott on Threads and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sainanbooks/ Like this interview? Subscribe for more! Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead Keywords:Fantasy author, self-publishing, creative writing, indie books, writing podcast, author interview, queer fantasy, plotter vs pantser, magic systems, DnD to author, stephen king

11. 

    17 Mar 2025

    Writing Stories You Wish Existed w/ Ria Parisi

    Join me as I chat with YA Fantasy author Ria Parisi about her debut novel Wolves and Sags! We dive into her writing journey—from fanfiction and roleplaying to publishing her first book. Ria shares insights on her unique magic system, plus-size representation in fantasy, her experiences with querying, and how her background in cosplay influences her stories. Wolves and Stags releases soon—grab your copy here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208390290-of-wolves-and-stags Connect with Ria Parisi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riathewolfwrites/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@riathewolfwrites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@riathewolfwrites Web: https://www.riaparisi.com/ Like this interview? Follow for more! Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead Keywords:Writing Community, YA Fantasy, Indie Author, Enemies To Lovers, BookTok, Fantasy Books, Romantasy, Debut Author, Author Interview, Publishing Journey, Bookish, High Fantasy, Magic System, Diversity In Books, Women Writers

12. 

    3 Mar 2025

    #6 Courtney & Clarke Collins, In the Name of Honor

    In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, Glen Weatherhead discusses with Courtney Collins, and Clark Collins their journey as co-authors, the writing process, and the challenges of publishing and marketing their fantasy novel. Character development, the importance of editing, and the dynamics of co-authoring are a few of the insights within. The conversation also touches on their inspirations, the experience of working with a small press, and the their upcoming projects.Like this interview? Subscribe for more!Connect with Courtney & Clarke Collins - Web: https://collinsauthors.com/- IG: https://www.instagram.com/collins_authors/ - Threads: https://www.threads.net/@collins_authors - BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/collinsauthors.bsky.social Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen WeatherheadTimeline:03:28 Background and Early Influences06:35 The Journey to Co-Authorship09:33 The Dynamics of Writing Together12:29 Character Perspectives and Storytelling15:16 Publishing Experience and Challenges18:11 Marketing and Promotion Strategies28:41 Navigating the Social Media Landscape33:38 The Impact of Online Engagement36:04 Finding Your Audience in a Crowded Space41:10 Inspiration from Tolkien and Beyond49:20 Creating Unique Fantasy Elements55:35 Crafting Realism in Fantasy57:55 The Importance of Editing01:00:49 Embracing Criticism and Growth01:07:26 Progress on the Trilogy01:09:02 Anticipation for Book Two01:14:13 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude01:16:23 Special ThanksKeywords:creative writing, co-authors, fantasy books, writing process, publishing, marketing, author advice, character development, world-building, indie authors, Tolkien, Stephen King,

13. 

    17 Feb 2025

    #5 - K. Starling & Memories, Magic, and Mayhem

    In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, we talk to author K. Starling, who shares her journey from ghostwriting to publishing her own novels. K. discusses the challenges of self-publishing, the importance of character development, and her unique blend of fantasy and mystery set in the Regency era. She shares about the significance of strong female characters and the need for diverse stories in literature. The conversation also touches on the creative process, the role of humor in storytelling, and the impact of societal norms on character development. Like this interview? Subscribe for more! Connect with K. Starling - https://www.threads.net/@authorkstarling - https://bsky.app/profile/authorkstarling.bsky.social - https://authorkstarling.substack.com/ - https://tomebooks.com/user/authorkstarling Buy here new book here - https://www.authorkstarling.com/merch Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead References: - https://www.harnessmagazine.com/k-starling/ - https://thepeopledissent.substack.com/ Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Kay Starling 01:39 Navigating the Publishing World 04:10 Kay's Writing Journey and Ghostwriting Experience 10:12 The Freedom of Self-Publishing 14:55 Influences and Inspirations in Writing 17:32 Narrative Style and Humor 21:37 Incorporating Fantasy Elements 24:22 Fashion and Social Commentary 26:57 Gender Roles and Disguises 30:00 Mystery as a Central Theme 33:54 Cultural Nuances in Tea Drinking 35:01 The Importance of Content Warnings 37:15 Balancing Action and Cozy Vibes 40:50 Exploring Time Travel in Storytelling 47:13 Feminism and Historical Context in Literature 54:44 Empathy and Agency in Female Characters 01:00:11 Advice for Aspiring Authors 01:04:17 Future Plans and Series Development Keywords: Kay Starling, Creative Writing, Self-Publishing, Indie Authors, Ghostwriting, Regency Era, Fantasy, Feminism, Mystery, Book Launch, Jane Austen, Sherlock Holmes

14. 

    3 Feb 2025

    #4 - Annie Bennet & Somewhere New

    In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, we interview author Annie Bennett, who shares her journey as a self-published and traditionally published writer. Annie discusses her love for writing (cozy romance and crime novels, so far!), her unique approach to writing, and the how she mentors other writers. Annie also shares about her writing methods, including the 'don't look back' draft technique, and the inspiration behind her latest work, 'Somewhere New.' Like this interview? Subscribe for more! Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead Connect with Annie Bennet - https://www.instagram.com/anniethebennet/ - buy her book https://anniebennet.co.uk/ References: - Rejection Diaries with Write Mentor https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ytm7U6P8nM&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb - UK Crime Book Club https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NHV81OvFZQ&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb&index=2 - The Writing Community Chat Show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Frx8DnBZSA&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb&index=3 \ - Britton Book Geek https://www.youtube.com/@brittonbookgeek563 https://www.instagram.com/brittonbookgeek/ - The debut digest https://www.instagram.com/p/DD4dlyVM0P9/?img_index=3 - 'Drew a little picture and gave to artist' https://www.instagram.com/p/DDuHgTWgNkl/?img_index=1 Timeline 04:00 - The Role of Mentorship in Writing 06:08 - Navigating Feedback and Editing 08:51 - The Influence of Jane Austen 13:53 - Annie's Writing Journey 20:03 - The Process of Drafting and Editing 24:51 - Standalone vs. Series Writing 26:51 - Inspiration Behind 'Somewhere New' 33:13 - The Creative Process and Book Publishing 34:42 - Cover Design and Artistic Collaboration 38:49 - Writing from Different Perspectives 42:53 - The Challenge of Writing Diverse Characters 52:07 - Originality in Storytelling 56:47 - Romance Genres and Reader Expectations 01:01:03 - Content Warnings in Literature 01:11:44 - Crime Writing 01:16:29 - Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing Keywords Annie Bennett, creative writing, cozy romance, crime novels, mentoring, editing, Jane Austen, writing process, self-publishing, feedback, writing, perspectives, fan fiction, community, originality, romance, content warnings, emotional processing, publishing, indie authors, romantasy, fantasy romance, Anna Britton

15. 

    13 Jan 2025

    #3 - E.S. Raye, Perseid Prophecies & Gas Giant Gambit

    E.S. Raye, a multifaceted writer, editor, and screenwriter, shares his insights on screenwriting, outlining, and querying, offering valuable lessons for indie authors and writers.

16. 

    23 Dec 2024

    #2 - Sean M. Tirman & Hounds of Gaia

    Learn more about Sean M. Tirman as he discusses his Science Fiction book, Hounds Gaia! Like this interview? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Have an author you'd like me to interview? Let me know in the comments! 00:00 Introduction to Sean M. Tirman 01:47 The Journey of Becoming a Published Author09:50 Character Complexity and Moral Ambiguity 13:32 Creating a Unique Sci-Fi Universe 17:33 Humanity's Progression 21:24 Inclusivity and Representation in Storytelling 25:07 The Influence of Sean's Upbringing on his Writing 29:04 Music as a Creative Influence 32:48 Diverse Perspectives in Storytelling 47:51 Writing Process 51:37 Book Cover Evolution 55:19 Innovative Technology in Sci-Fi 01:07:42 Sneak Peek into the Next Book 01:12:26 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers 01:14:45 Exploring Horror and Emotion in Writing 01:24:21 Connecting with Characters and Themes References: https://literarytitan.com/tag/sean-tirman/ https://armedwithabook.com/hounds-of-gaia-book-excerpt https://www.infiniteworldsmagazine.com/infinite-horrors Keywords Sean M. Tirman, Writing Wizard podcast, indie author, science fiction, character development, world-building, inclusivity, writing process, horror, technology in fiction, start wars, The Expanse, Star Trek

17. 

    10 Dec 2024

    #1 - Amanda Maddison & Program 38: Sparks

    Amanda Madison shares her creative writing process and superhero genre experiences, offering insights into character development, world-building, and mental health representation in her novel Program 38: Sparks.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

26,548

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

43

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

32

Contact Creative Writing Wizard Podcast - Author Interviews

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.