Why Your Story Isn't Working: Fixing Weak Openings and Tension

Why Getting Published Doesn't Fix Your Writing Career | YA Fantasy Author Dana Swift

Use code WOW10 for 10% off the Brick! https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10 [https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10] Also, we'd love to critique your pages! We review genres of all kinds. Please send 1-10 pages and a synopsis of what the chapter/read is about to witchesofworkshop@gmail.com [witchesofworkshop@gmail.com]. In this episode, we sit down with YA Fantasy Author Dana Swift to talk about what it really takes to build a writing career beyond the page. Dana shares her experience publishing her debut novel during the pandemic and how that unexpected timing shaped her path as an author. We dig into the lessons she learned about author marketing, building a writing platform and finding readers in a crowded publishing landscape, along with the reality of what it means to promote your work as a debut author. Dana also breaks down how she developed a stronger understanding of story structure and plot, and why those craft foundations became essential to her growth as a writer. Beyond craft and publishing, we explore the importance of writing community, critique partners and attending writing conferences, and how connecting with other writers can accelerate learning, career opportunities and long-term success. Whether you’re working on your first novel or trying to grow your author career, this conversation offers insight into publishing a debut, improving your storytelling and navigating the modern writing industry. Tune in for a candid look at the intersection of writing craft, publishing and the often-overlooked community behind successful authors.

Why Plotting Vs. Pantsing DOESN'T MATTER: Our In-Progress Writing Processes

Use code WOW10 for 10% off the Brick! https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10 [https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10] Also, we'd love to critique your pages! We review genres of all kinds. Please send 1-10 pages and a synopsis of what the chapter/read is about to witchesofworkshop@gmail.com. In this episode, we're sharing our current writing processes, the writing advice we've embraced (and ignored), and why what works for one author might not work for another. We kick things off with life updates, including new hobbies, fitness adventures, and the latest progress on our writing projects. Then we dive into the craft of writing: word count goals, plotting vs. pantsing, finding inspiration, and the ongoing process of refining a writing routine that actually works. We also discuss the books we've loved—and abandoned—our thoughts on DNFing books, the writing tools we use to stay organized, and how reading influences everything from our stories to our dream character casts. Whether you're a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, this episode is packed with insights on writing processes, productivity, creativity, and building habits that support your writing life.

Do Authors Need to be Influencers Now? | Querying, Going Viral & Burnout ft. Kate Khavari

In this episode, we’re joined by Kate Khavari to talk about the realities of building an author career in today’s publishing industry. From going viral on Threads to navigating burnout, querying with a sales record, and balancing an online presence with actually writing books, Kate shares an honest look at what being an author really feels like in 2026. We discuss Kate’s journey from science teacher to bestselling historical mystery author, why writing communities and group chats matter more than ever, and how conferences like the Historical Novel Society conference can change your career. We also get into the pressure modern authors face online, the importance of social media for discoverability and book sales, and why so many writers are feeling burned out right now. Whether you’re querying, publishing, marketing your books online, or trying to recover your creativity after burnout, this episode is packed with candid publishing conversations, author advice, and behind-the-scenes insights into the modern writing life. Topics discussed: * Going viral on Threads as an author * Querying in today’s publishing industry * Author burnout and taking creative breaks * Building a writing community online * Historical mystery writing and the appeal of the 1920s * The pressure of social media for authors * Writing conferences and networking * Balancing productivity, creativity, and rest * Transitioning from teaching to publishing For 10% off Brick, use our code: https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10 [https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10] To have your pages critiqued on the podcast, just email 1-10 pages and a synopsis of the read to witchesofworkshop@gmail.com [witchesofworkshop@gmail.com].

Why Your Story Isn't Working: Fixing Weak Openings and Tension

For 10% off the Brick, go to: https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10 [https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10] The podcast episode features a live and anonymous critique of a historical crime mystery called 'The Sinners of Shoreline Drive.' The hosts also discuss their writing updates, life experiences, and the challenges of rewriting and refining their stories. They share insights on the process of self-critique, the importance of marketability, and the evolving nature of story setup. The conversation revolves around a detailed critique of two chapters from a book, focusing on what worked and what didn't work. The discussion covers the tone, suspense, character development, and storytelling techniques. The hosts also share their reading preferences and methods for coping with stress. Takeaways * Rewriting and refining a story can be a challenging and iterative process. * The setup of a story is crucial and often evolves over time, requiring flexibility and adaptation. Suspense and tension need to build gradually to create an engaging reading experience. * Character development and relatable protagonists are essential for reader engagement.

How Writers Get Better Ideas (Romance, Structure & Creativity) | RomCom Author Rebecca Seifert

The Witches of Workshop sit down with rom-com author Rebecca Seifert to talk about the writing journey, romance novels, critique groups, and what it really takes to grow as a writer. From finding creative inspiration at a writers retreat to learning how workshops and feedback shape stronger stories, Becca shares honest insights into writing contemporary romance and building a sustainable creative life. The conversation dives into favorite romantic comedies, beloved romance tropes, story structure, pacing, character chemistry, and why community is essential for aspiring authors. Whether you write romance, fantasy with romantic elements, literary fiction, or you simply love behind-the-scenes conversations about publishing and storytelling, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement for writers at every stage. Topics include: • Writing romance and romantic tension • How critique groups improve your writing • Story structure and crafting compelling characters • Favorite rom-com books and movies • Writers retreats and creative inspiration • Advice for aspiring authors and new writers • Finding your voice as a storyteller • The importance of writing community Chapters: 00:00 – The Writing Journey 07:53 – How Workshops Shape Better Writers 13:26 – Favorite Rom-Coms and Romance Tropes 29:34 – Advice for New Romance Writers