Ready Writer One: A LitRPG Podcast

About Ready Writer One: A LitRPG Podcast

Shane Allan Carlson created Ready Writer One as a weekly interview show for fans who love the worlds on the page and the people who build them. Through humor, honest questions, and RPG-inspired Character Sheets, each episode digs into the struggles, triumphs, and lived experiences that shape the stories we binge. Whether it is a one-on-one Author Interview, a Multiplayer session with a narrator or co-author, or a Blind Date with an Author special, Shane keeps the focus on connection over marketing. Less pitch deck. More party banter. When he is not recording, you will usually find him reading the next LitRPG rabbit hole, sketching episode questions, or rolling dice for fun.

Publisher

Shane Allan Carlson

Category

arts · comedy

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Aug 2026

Latest episode

20 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   20 Oct 2026

   The Good, The Bad, and the Fuzzy with Eric Ugland

   In this episode of ReadyWriter One, Shane Carlson interviews Eric Ugland, a prominent author in the LitRPG genre. They discuss the evolution of LitRPG, the influence of puppetry on storytelling, the challenges of writing long series, and the importance of community among authors. In this conversation, we explore the intricacies of networking, the impact of reviews, and the importance of community in the writing world. They also discuss their unique writing processes, future projects, and tackle some humorous and unconventional questions. Takeaways Community support is vital LitRPG genre is evolving Value relationships over criticism Embrace unique writing processes Chapters 00:00 Introduction to LitRPG and Eric Jugland 02:56 The Influence of Puppetry on Storytelling 06:07 The Evolution of LitRPG 08:56 Community and Collaboration Among Authors 11:59 Challenges of Long Series in Writing 14:55 First Person Narratives in LitRPG 17:54 World Building and Story Development 20:59 Survival Themes in Storytelling 23:54 The Journey of Becoming a Writer 27:01 Navigating Marketing and Reader Expectations 29:59 The Impact of Reviews on Authors 30:31 Building Relationships in Networking 32:15 Navigating Reviews and Criticism 34:34 Community and Generosity in Writing 36:51 The Challenge of Audience Reception 38:00 The Complexity of Writing Perspectives 40:38 The Art of Writing Tools and Techniques 48:22 Future Projects and Creative Ideas 51:50 Unhinged Questions and Creative Challenges

2. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Sweet Success with Tommy Kerper (SourpatchHero)

   In this episode of Ready Writer One, Shane Carlson interviews Tommy Kerper, also known as SourpatchHero, discussing his unique approach to writing in the LitRPG genre, his transition from law to full-time writing, and the supportive community surrounding LitRPG. The conversation explores themes of character development, the writing process, and the importance of community engagement in the literary world. The conversation explores the experiences of authors in the LitRPG genre, focusing on themes of community, representation, and the creative process. Tommy Kerper shares insights on his writing journey, the importance of diverse characters, and his upcoming projects. Takeaways Unique perspective on storytelling Importance of community support Community support is vital Diversity enriches storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sour Patch Hero 01:26 The Journey to Writing 04:35 Transitioning from Law to Writing 08:48 Community and Reader Engagement 12:10 The Impact of Conventions 15:51 Character Development Insights 20:00 Lessons Learned as an Author 24:56 Writing Process and Techniques 25:57 The Joy of Book Collecting 28:20 Creative Inspirations and Upcoming Works 32:07 Writing to Market vs. Writing for Passion 36:10 Working with Publishers and Audiobook Narration 40:37 World Building: A Discovery Process 41:42 Unhinged Questions and Character Dynamics 43:45 The Importance of Representation in Literature 49:32 Future Projects and Community Support

3. 

   11 Oct 2026

   BONUS EPISODE: Blind Date with an Author with Special Guest Dennis Meltser

   In this episode of Ready Writer One, Shane Carlson hosts Dennis Meltser, a LitRPG enthusiast, in a unique format called Blind Date with an Author. The conversation revolves around a mystery author's pitch for a dark, character-driven progression fantasy that explores themes of survival, revenge, and the brutal realities of an arena-based society. The conversation delves into the author's dark fantasy series, exploring themes of trauma, found family, and the intricacies of world-building. The discussion also touches on the author's upcoming physical book launch and the emotional weight of writing dark narratives. Takeaways Engaging author pitch format Exploration of dark themes Found family in dark settings World-building through character interactions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blind Date with an Author 01:17 The Book Pitch Begins 03:22 Discussion on Themes and Characters 05:10 Exploring the Dark Elements 07:24 The Arena and Slavery Dynamics 09:17 Magic System and Its Costs 11:11 Revenge and Survival Elements 12:53 Action and Character Development 14:30 Mentorship and Character Relationships 15:52 Emotional Impact and Reader Reactions 19:46 Decision Time: Will Dennis Read It? 20:34 Reveal of the Author's Identity 21:25 The Dark Journey Begins 23:59 Mentorship and World-Building 26:00 Grimdark Themes and Progression 27:58 Physical Launch Excitement 29:57 Trigger Warnings and Dark Content 33:05 Artistry in Darkness 34:50 Multiverse Connections and Lore

4. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Big Duck Energy with TJ Lombardi - Episode 6

   In this episode of Ready Writer One, host Shane Carlson interviews author TJ Lombardi, discussing his journey in writing, social media strategy, and the evolution of his book series, Golem Master. The conversation delves into Lombardi's military background, the therapeutic nature of writing, and the impact of personal connections in the literary community. The conversation explores the journey of author TJ Lombardi in the LitRPG genre, discussing his experiences, community building, and the importance of appreciation in both personal and professional contexts. Lombardi shares insights on mentorship, the evolution of his writing, and the significance of creating accessible content for a diverse audience. Takeaways Social media is crucial for authors Writing can be therapeutic for trauma Community over competition Value of appreciation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to TJ Lombardi 01:41 The Role of Social Media in Writing 05:55 Transitioning from Military to Writing 10:07 The Golemaster Series Overview 12:34 Exploring Themes in Golemaster 18:40 Writing as a Therapeutic Process 22:57 The Impact of Reader Connections 27:05 The Future of LitRPG and Independent Publishing 28:31 Meeting the Community 31:44 Building Connections and Mentorship 34:31 Navigating the Author Landscape 36:40 The Generosity of the LitRPG Community 38:25 Mainstream Appeal of LitRPG 41:45 Creating Accessible Content 44:05 Diversity in the Genre 45:55 Innovative World-Building 49:25 The Power of Appreciation 56:07 Humor and Creativity in Writing

5. 

   28 Sept 2026

   Climbing Mountains with Nicoli Gonnella - Episode 5

   The conversation covers the rise of the LitRPG community, the impact of audiobooks on reading habits, the writing process, and efficiency in writing. It also delves into LitRPG conventions, fan engagement, and the role of dictation in the writing process. The conversation covers a range of topics including mental health, diversity in readership, representation in books, writing process, character progression in fantasy, and upcoming projects and events. The discussion also delves into the balance between story and system in litRPG writing, the impact of empathy training through reading, and the significance of character progression in the genre. Takeaways LitRPG community has seen significant growth and engagement over the years. Audiobooks have had a substantial impact on reading habits and have influenced the writing process. Protecting mental health is crucial Diversity and representation in books are important for readership and the genre Chapters 00:00 The Rise of LitRPG Community 02:59 LitRPG Conventions and Fan Engagement 06:23 The Writing Process and Audiobook Narration 13:25 The Impact of Audiobooks on Reading Habits 19:26 The Role of Dictation in Writing Process 25:08 Efficiency in Writing Process 28:35 Protecting Mental Health 29:22 Excitement in the Genre 30:26 Diversity in Readership 32:00 Representation in Books 33:41 Empathy Training through Reading 34:11 New Series: Sovereign Sight 35:04 Different Universe, Same Author 36:26 Writing Process and Inspiration 37:06 The Mountain Story 38:56 Unhinged Questions from the Internet 45:43 Balancing Story and System 48:14 Reading and Writing in the Genre 51:36 Character Progression in Fantasy 55:11 Upcoming Projects and Events

6. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Grading on a Curve with Timothy Bonner - Episode 4

   Timothy Bonner, a high school English teacher and debut author, shares his journey to writing and publishing his book. He discusses the inspiration behind his book, the feedback and interaction on Royal Road, the writing process, and the importance of social media and community engagement in the author's journey. The conversation covers the journey of an author, influential authors and literary inspirations, the impact of audiobooks and meeting authors, fantasy literature and comfort reads, the prolific works of Brandon Sanderson, the importance of audiobooks and fan casting, advice for new writers, and book release and future hopes. Takeaways The importance of discipline and consistency in the writing process. The value of social media and community engagement in building an audience and connecting with like-minded individuals. The importance of taking action and doing the actual writing. The significance of finding joy in writing and sharing it with others. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Writing 03:08 The Book's Premise and Inspiration 06:55 Feedback and Interaction on Royal Road 10:53 The Writing Process and Discipline 20:06 Social Media and Community Engagement 25:34 The Journey of an Author 26:19 Influential Authors and Literary Inspirations 27:10 The Impact of Audiobooks and Meeting Authors 28:27 Fantasy Literature and Comfort Reads 30:41 The Prolific Works of Brandon Sanderson 36:20 Book Release and Future Hopes 39:15 The Importance of Audiobooks and Fan Casting 43:30 Advice for New Writers

7. 

   14 Sept 2026

   System Planning with Ryan Maxwell - Episode 3

   The conversation begins with an introduction of the guest and a discussion about the LitRPG Con experience, including meeting the author's dog. The author shares insights into their writing journey, challenges faced, and the process of working with narrators. The discussion also delves into character development, favorite characters to write, and the evolution of the author's writing style. The conversation delves into the writing process, exploring the transition from pantsing to plotting and the importance of world building in the context of writing. It also highlights the challenges and benefits of each approach, as well as the emotional and societal connections embedded in the world-building process. Takeaways LitRPG Con Experience Working with Narrators Pantsing vs. Plotting The Importance of World Building Chapters 00:00 Introduction and LitRPG Con Experience 02:03 Writing Journey and Challenges 13:00 Working with Narrators 26:01 Character Development and Writing Style 32:38 Pantsing vs. Plotting: Finding the Right Balance 40:16 The Art of World Building and Cultural Constructs This episode is brought to you by SpeakFiction - Dictation software built for fiction writers. Check it out at https://www.readywriter.one/sidequests/speakfiction (https://www.readywriter.one/sidequests/speakfiction)

8. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Fun & Games with Shami Stovall - Episode 2

   The conversation covers the journey from a legal career to becoming a full-time author, the transition from law to writing, the inspiration and creation of magic systems, the exploration of the Nexus Games and dimensional adventures, the incorporation of high-tech and magic in LitRPG, and the art of world-building and story planning. It also delves into philosophical and ethical considerations in fantasy elements, as well as the magic systems and game elements in LitRPG. The conversation delves into the reality of reality TV and the stakes involved, the impact of parenthood on the author's reading and writing habits, the exploration of genre hopping and artistic expression, and the humorous discussion of unhinged questions and book covers. Takeaways Transitioning from a legal career to writing involves a significant shift in focus and creative expression. The creation of magic systems and game elements in LitRPG requires careful planning and consideration of philosophical and ethical implications. The blurred lines between reality TV and real-life stakes The challenges and joys of parenthood and its impact on creativity and reading habits Chapters 00:00 The Journey from Law to Writing 03:02 Transitioning from Law to Writing Career 05:56 Inspiration and Creation of Magic Systems 09:05 Exploring the Nexus Games and Dimensional Adventures 12:00 Magic Systems and Game Elements in LitRPG 16:10 Philosophical and Ethical Considerations in Fantasy Elements 19:48 The Art of World-Building and Story Planning 23:56 Incorporating High-Tech and Magic in LitRPG 28:51 The Reality of Reality TV 36:34 The Impact of Parenthood 43:54 Genre Hopping and Artistic Expression 47:25 Unhinged Questions and Book Covers

9. 

   1 Sept 2026

   Deadly Craft with Chris Philbrook - Episode 1

   The conversation delves into the author's journey into the LitRPG genre, the supportive and welcoming nature of the LitRPG community, the rise of small publishing houses, the impact of COVID-19 on reading and gaming, the author's writing process and personal experiences, character development, and realistic character experiences within the genre. The conversation covers the inspiration behind the book 'Ananda Glitch,' the challenges of dealing with unsolicited advice and bad reviews, the importance of accessibility and engagement in book sales, the humorous inclusion of a giant rubber dildo in the story, and the significance of supporting local bookstores and authors. The discussion also emphasizes the impact of personal connections on book sales and the need for indie authors to maintain professionalism and engage with readers. Takeaways LitRPG genre and community Writing process and personal experiences Personal connections drive book sales Dealing with unsolicited advice and parasocial relationships Handling bad reviews and maintaining professionalism Accessibility and engagement with readers are essential for indie authors Chapters 00:00 Transition into LitRPG Genre 01:08 The Journey to LitRPG 03:07 Entering the LitRPG Community 05:22 The Welcoming LitRPG Community 07:01 The Growth of LitRPG Genre 08:13 The Supportive LitRPG Community 10:14 The Rise of Small Publishing Houses 14:13 The Impact of COVID-19 on Reading and Gaming 17:56 The Writing Process and Personal Trauma 25:03 Character Development and Emotional Processing 29:58 Realistic Character Experiences 30:44 The Inspiration Behind Ananda Glitch 36:01 Dealing with Unsolicited Advice and Bad Reviews 39:32 The Role of Accessibility and Engagement in Book Sales 47:26 The Giant Rubber Dildo in Writing 55:25 Supporting Local Bookstores and Authors

10. 

    4 Aug 2026

    Episode 0: Introducing Ready Writer One

    Welcome to Ready Writer One - A LitRPG podcast focused on talking to your favorite LitRPG Authors, Narrators and other key folks in the industry. Check out the podcast and go to the website to sign up to get notified first about new episodes, weekly giveaways and more. Episodes are being recorded and will be launching soon!

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