Épisodes

  • How to Build a Killer Writing Routine

    How to Build a Killer Writing Routine
    Aug 3 2024

    Episode 50

    Welcome to The WriterSpark Podcast! I'm your host, Melissa Bourbon, a bestselling author, podcaster, teacher, and book cover designer. In this episode, we're diving into the essentials of building a killer writing routine that promotes consistency and productivity. Whether you're struggling to find time to write or looking for ways to stay motivated, this episode will give you practical strategies and tools to help you succeed.

    We'll discuss effective time management techniques, like the Pomodoro Technique and time blocking, and explore some of the best tools and apps to support your writing habits.

    Show Notes:

    Key Topics Covered:

    1. Importance of a Writing Routine:

      • Why having a routine is crucial for writers
      • How a routine helps you stay focused and reduce procrastination

    2. Time Management Strategies:

      • The Pomodoro Technique: Writing in focused bursts with breaks
      • Time blocking: Setting aside specific times for writing
      • Communicating your schedule to minimize interruptions

    3. Tools and Apps to Support Writing Habits:

      • Scrivener: Organizing your manuscript, research, and notes
      • Evernote: Jotting down ideas and organizing research
      • Trello and Notion: Goal setting and tracking progress
      • Focus@Will & Brain FM: Background music designed to improve concentration

    4. Real-Life Examples and Tips:

      • Setting small, achievable goals
      • Writing at the same time every day
      • Creating a dedicated writing space
      • Celebrating your progress

    Books Mentioned and/or Recommended:

    • Scrivener for Dummies by Gwen Hernandez
    • An Everyday Guide to Scrivener 3 for Mac by Mary Crawford
    • Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen
    • Living the Vida Lola
    • Facebook
    • Scrivener, Evernote, Trello, Notion
    Remember to:
    1. Subscribe to The WriterSpark Podcast: Don't miss out on future episodes packed with tips and inspiration for your writing journey. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, or your favorite podcast platform.
    2. Join the WriterSpark Community: Connect with fellow writers, share your progress, and get exclusive content by joining our Facebook Group.
    3. Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more writers like you.
    4. Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated with the latest episodes, writing tips, and more by following us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

    Thank you for tuning in! Keep sparking your creativity and igniting your passion for writing. Happy writing!
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    19 min
  • Using Setting as a Character in Fiction Writing

    Using Setting as a Character in Fiction Writing
    Jul 23 2024
    Episode 49 Delve into the idea of using setting as a character in fiction writing. This week, I'm thrilled to welcome my special guest Marjorie McCown, author of the Hollywood Mystery series, who expertly uses the Hollywood movie set and Los Angeles as 'characters' in her books. In this episode, Marjorie and I explore how a well-crafted setting can amplify elements of your story, adding depth and dimension that brings your narrative to life. Discover how to create settings that resonate with readers and become integral to your plot and characters. Tune in to learn: The role of setting in enhancing the mood and tone of your story.How setting can reflect and influence your characters' journeys.Tips for weaving setting seamlessly into your narrative. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, this episode shares insights that will inspire you to rethink how you use setting in your fiction. Subscribe to The WritersSpark Podcast! Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Visit Marjorie McCown's Website (https://marjoriemccown.com/) Buy Final Cut and Star Struck, books 1 & 2 in The Hollywood Mysteries (https://amzn.to/3WxFIS4) The Lola Cruz Mystery Series (https://amzn.to/3WAex96) The Bread Shop Mystery Series (https://amzn.to/4dbjSJn) The Book Magic Novels (https://amzn.to/46gjuae) Gone With the Wind, by Margaret Mitchell (https://amzn.to/3y6rn5J) Podcast with Katherine Ramsland on using Weather as an element in your fiction (https://writersparkacademy.podbean.com/e/how-and-why-weather-can-be-an-important-part-of-fiction-writing/) Additional Links: * Visit WriterSpark Academy: http://www.writersparkacademy.com * WriterSpark Book Cover Design: https://writersparkbookcovers.com/ * Learn about WriterSpark Course: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com ✨ Self-Paced Writing Courses: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/ ✨ Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter SIGN UP: https://writersparkacademy.com/https://writersparkacademy.com/newsletter-signup/ Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast! Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com ✨ Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. ✨ #FictionWriting #WritingTips #Podcast #MelissaBourbon #MarjorieMcCown #WritingCommunity #AuthorInterview #CreativeWriting
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    50 min
  • From Fiction to Fact: The Intersection of True Crime and Fiction Writing

    From Fiction to Fact: The Intersection of True Crime and Fiction Writing
    Jul 11 2024
    Episode 48 Have you ever thought about the parallels between writing True Crime and Fiction Writing? That is what this episode is all about. I had the opportunity to talk with investigative journalist and true crime writer Doug Kari to explore the similarities in writing these two genres and dig into his investigative process as he researched and wrote The Berman Murders. Doug’s meticulous research and storytelling techniques bring his true crime story to life. It also mirrors the narrative drive and character development in fiction. Whether you’re a fiction writer or a true crime enthusiast, this episode offers unique insights into the art of weaving fact into compelling narratives. Tune in to explore how the worlds of true crime and fiction converge, and gain valuable tips to enhance your own writing journey. Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Visit Doug Kari's website: https://www.dougkari.com/author/doug-kari/ Buy The Berman Murders: https://amzn.to/3XYVW7Z Eryk Pruitt's Something Bad Wrong: https://amzn.to/3VXDAS5 The Long Dance Podcast: https://longdance.libsyn.com/ The Legend Books: https://amzn.to/4cXq5IV Editing Services: https://writersparkacademy.com/copywriting-and-content-creation/freelance-editing-packages/ Additional Links: * Visit WriterSpark Academy: http://www.writersparkacademy.com * WriterSpark Book Cover Design: https://writersparkbookcovers.com/ * Learn about WriterSpark Course: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com ✨ Self-Paced Writing Courses: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/ ✨ Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter SIGN UP: https://writersparkacademy.com/https://writersparkacademy.com/newsletter-signup/ Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast! Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com ✨ Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. ✨
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    1 h et 8 min
  • Tips for Writing Books with Magical Elements

    Tips for Writing Books with Magical Elements
    Jun 8 2024

    Episode 47

    Tips for Writing Books with Magical Elements

    Welcome to The WriterSpark Podcast, the podcast that ignites your creativity and fuels your passion for storytelling. I'm your host, Melissa Bourbon, and today I have an enchanting episode you won't want to miss. I am thrilled to be joined by the bestselling author Barbara Davis, who is a true master at weaving magic into her novels. In this episode, Barbara shares her expert tips on writing books with magical elements.

    Barbara's Insights

    Barbara's insights range from creating immersive magical worlds with just enough enchantment to charm readers to developing complex and relatable characters. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your writing skills, this conversation is fun and inspiring.

    So, grab your favorite notebook and a cup of tea, and get ready to dive into the magical art of storytelling with the wonderful Barbara Davis. Let's spark your creativity and bring a little magic into your writing!

    Links for this Episode

    • ✨ Barbara Davis: https://barbaradavis-author.com/
    • ✨ Barbara's Books: https://amzn.to/3Vwy3mi
    • ✨ Susanna Kerarsely: https://amzn.to/3VuC3Uy
    • ✨ Emilia Hart: https://amzn.to/3ySm8qi
    • ✨ Alice Hoffman: https://amzn.to/3ySISq8
    • ✨ Adrienne Young: https://amzn.to/3z06fhk
    • ✨ Matt Haig: https://amzn.to/3Xf8Eiq
    • ✨ Sarah Addison Allen: https://amzn.to/4cc0ZWs
    • ✨ Erin Morgenstern (Weyward!): https://amzn.to/3KxYQZ9
    • ✨ Alix E. Harrow: https://amzn.to/3KAfXK4
    Learn More

    WriterSpark Book Cover Design ➤ https://writersparkbookcovers.com/

    Check out WriterSpark’s self-paced, online courses ➤ https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/

    Follow WriterSpark on Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/writersparkacademy/

    ✨ 📝 Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/)

    ✨ 📝 Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝 ✨

    Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!

    Resources
    • WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
    • Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
    • Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com
    • Subscribe to WriterSpark on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnKN2ZVZwjoAOeHlBO-cRIw/videos
    • Follow WriterSpark on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Instagram: http://instagram.com/bookishly_cozy and http://instagram.com/writer_spark
    • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookishly_cozy
    • Grab WriterSpark Swag! https://www.teepublic.com/stores/writerspark/share
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    56 min
  • Harness the Benefits of Process Writing to Unlock Creativity

    Harness the Benefits of Process Writing to Unlock Creativity
    May 17 2024

    Episode 46

    Story structure is at the heart of storytelling. Many writers use the Hero's Journey, the Three-Act Structure, the Snowflake Method, or Save the Cat, but there is another way to write a novel; Unlock your creativity with process writing and you'll harness amazing benefits.

    In this episode, Boo Trundle and I talk about process writing, its benefits, and ways to tap into your creativity.

    Links for this Episode

    Buy the Book The Daughter Ship https://www.bootrundle.com/ Cut Ups (new novel) https://www.instagram.com/reel/CyTlbHCLT2D/?igsh=MXZzajd4MzI5MWlkOA== Art Boo made while working on The Daughter Ship https://www.instagram.com/p/CvHqBzBO0nb/?igsh=bDExMnAybzdjc2tx Chakra outline (connected to clairvoyant healing) https://youtu.be/TI6qr_QGPjY?si=Bx3sccL8qI7a50ka

    Index cards in the dining room https://youtu.be/TI6qr_QGPjY?si=Bx3sccL8qI7a50ka

    _____

    Learn more about WriterSpark Book Cover Design ➤ https://writersparkbookcovers.com/

    Check out WriterSpark’s self-paced, online courses ➤ https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/

    Follow WriterSpark on Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/writersparkacademy/

    ✨ 📝 Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/)

    ✨ 📝 Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝 ✨

    Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!

    Resources

    • WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
    • Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
    • Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com
    • Subscribe to WriterSpark on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnKN2ZVZwjoAOeHlBO-cRIw/videos
    • Follow WriterSpark on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Instagram: http://instagram.com/bookishly_cozy and http://instagram.com/writer_spark
    • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookishly_cozy
    • Grab WriterSpark Swag! https://www.teepublic.com/stores/writerspark/share
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    1 h et 7 min
  • Get a Glimpse Behind the Publishing Curtain

    Get a Glimpse Behind the Publishing Curtain
    Apr 15 2024

    Episode 45

    Get a glimpse behind the publishing curtain from Shawn Reilly Simmons, co-founder of Level Best Books, a woman-owned and -operated boutique publisher. Whether you are a published or aspiring author, whether you are indie, traditional, or hybrid (published or not), learn from an expert in the industry.

    Learn more about Level Best Books ➤ https://www.levelbestbooks.us/

    Learn more about Shawn Rielly Simmons ➤ https://www.shawnreillysimmons.com/

    Learn more about WriterSpark Book Cover Design ➤ https://writersparkbookcovers.com/

    Check out WriterSpark’s self-paced, online courses➤ https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/

    Follow WriterSpark on Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/writersparkacademy/

    ✨ 📝 Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribe to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/)

    ✨ 📝 Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝 ✨

    Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!

    Resources

    • WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
    • Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
    • Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com
    • Subscribe to WriterSpark on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnKN2ZVZwjoAOeHlBO-cRIw/videos
    • Follow WriterSpark on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheWriterSpark
    • Instagram: http://instagram.com/bookishly_cozy and http://instagram.com/writer_spark
    • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookishly_cozy
    • Grab WriterSpark Swag! https://www.teepublic.com/stores/writerspark/share
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    1 h et 1 min
  • The Fundamentals of Marketing for Writers

    The Fundamentals of Marketing for Writers
    Apr 1 2024

    Episode 44

    Every author has two jobs, one as an author, and the other as a marketer. It's a necessary part of the writing life if you are in it to earn money. Nicolette Lemmon is an industry expert with experience in marketing. This episode taps into marketing fundamentals to help writers succeed in this part of the writing process.

    Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

    • The Author’s Marketing Playbook
    • Newsletter Ninja
    • Diane Kelly’s Paw Enforcement Series
    • The Magical Dressmaking Mystery Series
    • Wisconsin Quilt Show
    • Visit Nicolette Lemmon’s Website

    • Visit WriterSpark Academy: http://www.writersparkacademy.com
    • WriterSpark Book Cover Design: https://writersparkbookcovers.com/
    • Learn about WriterSpark Course: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com

    ✨ What's Your Story: Writing Your Memoir self-paced course:

    https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable

    ✨ Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/https://writersparkacademy.com/newsletter-signup/)

    Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!

    Learn more about the host, Melissa

    Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com

    ✨ Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. ✨

    *Some links may be affiliate links
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    1 h et 16 min
  • How to Tap into M.A.G.I.C. in your Writing

    How to Tap into M.A.G.I.C. in your Writing
    Mar 4 2024

    Episode 43

    We can all use a little MAGIC in our writing lives. In this case, I'm talking about the MAGIC from "Organisational Consultant and workplace mediator Sharon Darmody". In our conversation, we talked about how to apply her MAGIC framework to the writing life.

    Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this episode:

    * Work Your Magic*

    https://www.amazon.com.au/Work-Your-Magic-Business-Community/dp/1647425336

    * Sharon Darmody's Website: https://www.sharondarmody.com/

    *Visit Melissa Bourbon's Website: http://www.melissabourbon.com

    * Visit WriterSpark Academy: http://www.writersparkacademy.com

    * WriterSpark Book Cover Design: https://writersparkbookcovers.com/

    * Learn about WriterSpark Course: https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com

    * Melissa Bourbon's books: https://melissabourbon.com/bookshelf/

    ✨ What's Your Story: Writing Your Memoir self-paced course:

    https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable

    ✨ 📝 Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/https://writersparkacademy.com/newsletter-signup/)

    Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!

    Learn more about the host, Melissa

    Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com

    ✨ 📝 Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝 ✨
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    58 min