The Write Atmosphere: A Podcast for Writers

#56 Writing Through Grief: Healing, Memory, and Personal Essays with Fredricka R. Maister

On this episode of Write Atmosphere, I’m joined by Philadelphia-based writer and author Fredricka R. Maister, whose personal essays and articles explore the full spectrum of human experience—from everyday moments to life-altering events. Her work has appeared in publications including The Baltimore Sun, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Chicago Tribune, HuffPost, The Writer, Brevity Blog, and many others. We discuss her debut book, Three Times a Mourner: Personal Essays on Grief and Healing, and the deeply personal process of writing about loss. Fredricka shares how she transformed grief into meaningful storytelling, the challenges of revisiting painful memories on the page, and the healing power of personal essays. Our conversation explores vulnerability, resilience, and what writers can learn from documenting their most difficult experiences. Whether you're navigating grief yourself, writing memoir or personal essays, or interested in the ways storytelling helps us make sense of life's hardest moments, this episode offers thoughtful insights and inspiration. Learn more about Fredricka and her work at fredrickamaister.com. Subscribe to the Atmosphere Press YouTube Channel for Notifications! https://www.youtube.com/@atmospherepress Sign up for the Newsletter to stay in the know! https://atmospherepress.com/newsletter/

#55 All Things Editing: How to Find an Editor and What to Expect with Rachel Velsher

Finding the right editor can be one of the most important decisions a writer makes—but many authors aren't sure where to start or what to expect from the process. In this episode, I'm joined by a professional writer and editor for an in-depth conversation about all things editing. We discuss the different types of editing, how to know when your manuscript is ready for an editor, where to find qualified professionals, and what makes a strong writer–editor relationship. Whether you're working on your first book or preparing your next manuscript for publication, you'll gain practical insights into the editing process, learn what questions to ask before hiring an editor, and discover how the right editorial support can help elevate your work. If you've ever wondered what editors really do—or how to find the right one for your project—this episode is for you. Subscribe to the Atmosphere Press YouTube Channel for Notifications! https://www.youtube.com/@atmospherepress Sign up for the Newsletter to stay in the know! https://atmospherepress.com/newsletter/

#54 How Authors Can Sell More Books: A Conversation with Tal Renfro

Writing a great book is only part of the journey. In this episode, Tal joins us to discuss what comes next: marketing, sales, and getting your book into readers' hands. Drawing on his experience in entertainment, sales, and training, Tal breaks down the step-by-step process authors can follow to promote their work, explore different marketing options, and build a strategy that fits their goals. Whether you're preparing for your first release or looking to expand your reach, this conversation offers practical insights for authors navigating the business side of publishing. Subscribe to the Atmosphere Press YouTube Channel for Notifications! https://www.youtube.com/@atmospherepress Sign up for the Newsletter to stay in the know! https://atmospherepress.com/newsletter/

#53 Behind the Book: Linda Fifer on Writing, Publishing, and Perspective

In this episode, we talk with author Linda Fifer about her writing process, publishing journey, and the realities of bringing a book to life. Linda shares insights from her transition from a 44-year career in healthcare to becoming a full-time author, along with lessons she's learned through writing and publishing multiple novels. We also discuss her upcoming release, Jesus Lemonade, and what aspiring authors can expect on their own publishing path. See more from Linda at https://lsfiferauthor.com/

#52 Inside the Writing Process: Fiction, Nonfiction & Essays with Award Winning Author Gary A. Keith

On this episode, we’re joined by Gary A. Keith. Author, essayist, and longtime Austin observer, for a conversation about the writing process behind fiction, nonfiction, and essays. We talk about where ideas come from, how stories take shape, and the differences between writing novels, political nonfiction, and personal essays. Gary is the author of Austin Blues and The Mansions on Woodlawn Boulevard, and previously wrote extensively on Texas politics, including his award-finalist biography Eckhardt: There Once Was a Congressman from Texas. He also writes essays and poems on Substack and lectures on democracy and civic life. Gary Keith ATX https://garykeithatx.com/ Gary’s Substack https://garykeith.substack.com/ Subscribe to the Atmosphere Press YouTube Channel for Notifications! https://www.youtube.com/@atmospherepress Sign up for the Newsletter to stay in the know! https://atmospherepress.com/newsletter/