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Date
Titre
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28 Jan 2024
Welcome to the Steps to Story podcast
00:03:47
Welcome! I started this podcast because while I believe there’s never been a better time to be a writer… I also know that taking the steps to getting the story out of your head and onto the page is one that requires support. As an author and certified book coach, I want to deliver an approachable sense of craft, community, and coaching, so fiction writers like YOU can make good progress on your novel manuscript.
I'll be here each week sharing essential steps and strategies, so you can get clear on your big story idea, complete your manuscript, and follow your novel writing dreams. I'd love it if you listened to my inaugural episode and hit the follow button!
06 Feb 2024
1. How to Go From Idea to Action
00:10:16
Every book begins with an idea, a spark of inspiration. I always say if you go to bed thinking about your story each night, and can’t stop thinking about your plot, character, or setting, you’re ready to write you story. But how do you take that initial spark and turn it into a fully-fledged concept for a novel?
In this episode, we're diving into the essential steps to go from a mere story idea… to concrete action, when embarking on your novel writing journey. LINKS:
2. What Happens When You Tell People You're Writing a Book?
00:09:20
There’s a kind of internal struggle authors face when deciding to share their writing endeavors with others.
As writers, we at some point find ourselves in the honeymoon phase of crafting a book, one where we’re excited, motivated and inspired about being a storyteller. It’s also one where we find ourselves in the creative flow and, that euphoria, makes us want to shout from the rooftops!
In today's episode I'll be covering:
The decision to share
Dealing with reactions
Navigating different scenarios
An author's support system
It's a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and unexpected twists. Let's dive in!
3. Is Your Work Worthy? How to Measure Your Writing.
00:08:46
Today I'm talking about the difficult question of whether or not your work is worthy. As a book coach whose worked with so many different types of writers over the years, I get asked this question all the time. And as an author, I’ve been there too. So I get it!
The number one thing writers come to me wanting to know is whether or not their story idea is unique enough, whether their writing is good enough, and whether or not they have what it takes to get published.
Here’s the truth…
My answer is always the same: If your story is one that you care about, it is absolutely worthy! Instead, It’s the structure – the way in which you’re telling it – that might need strengthening.
In other words, it’s not about what you’re creating, it’s about how you’re creating it.
Let’s dive into why this is and ways you might measure your writing work.
4. Unlocking the Power of Creative Community: A Roundtable Discussion
00:22:50
Welcome back to this very special episode of Steps to Story. I'm so excited about this episode because I had an opportunity to do a roundtable discussion with five of my small group writing clients.
You'll be hearing from them today about: 1) How they went from idea to action with their novel manuscripts 2) What's working in their writing process and what's not 3) The powerful impact of community and what benefits being in a small group has had on their writing work and also their author mindset.
Timestamps & Key Topics:
[00:02:50] Asking five writers how they went from idea to action in their novel writing.
[00:07:08] Asking the five writers about one thing that's worked in their manuscript writing process and what's one thing that definitely has not.
[00:12:27] What has building a creative community meant to each writer, and why it's so important to the writing process.
[00:17:53] All of the writers sharing one thing they would tell their earlier selves who were just about to put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. What's one bit of advice?
[00:21:38] What's one thing each writer in the roundtable discussion would like to tell emerging authors that have never put pen to paper? What do you want to tell them today? LINKS:
In today's episode, we're diving deep into the key elements of crafting a novel. Whether you're just starting out on your novel writing journey or on manuscript draft number three, understanding these elements is essential for crafting a compelling and unforgettable story.
This includes taking a look at: Creating memorable characters Imaginative world-building The importance of plot and structure Crafting believable dialogue Revisions vs. perfectionism
There's also a bonus tip and an exciting announcement!
In today's episode of Steps to Story, we're looking into the crucial aspect of accountability in novel writing.
Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, staying accountable can make all the difference in reaching your writing goals.
I first encourage you to acknowledge that the business of life has a natural ebb and flow, so in this regard none of us are perfect when it comes to accountability. But! There are helpful ways to bring a stronger element of this into our novel writing.
So, let's explore how to not only get but also maintain accountability in our writing practice.
7. Top Three Story Questions You Should Be Asking Yourself
00:07:51
Today we're tackling a crucial aspect of storytelling: the top three story questions you should be asking yourself as a writer.
This includes taking a deeper look at: Your story's unique message Your intention for how your want your reader to feel Better understanding the arc of change that occurs
And I'm sharing resources!
Need some help with crafting your story arc? Good news! I’ve created a mini-course for you on this very subject.
Hop over to stepstostory.com/mapyourstory to find out how to create your custom story arc so you can get back to writing forward in your novel manuscript with clarity & confidence.
In this episode of Steps to Story, I'm talking about practices that can fuel our writing process and propel us forward.
I’m sharing my top ten list of things that can elevate your writing habits.
This includes: 1. Consistency & productivity 2. Mental & emotional well-being 3. Goal achievement 4. Quality of writing work 5. Overcoming challenges 6. Writing community & support 7. Long-term sustainability in writing 8. Creativity & exploration 9. Professional growth in your writing world 10. Having a holistic approach to writing
Inside this episode of Steps to Story, we discuss why knowing your protagonist on a deeper level allows you to create a more engaging and relatable story.
When you understand your character's hopes, dreams, fears, and flaws, you can craft a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level.
Tune in to discover an exercise to help you identify the "why" behind your character's decisions and actions in your novel manuscript.
If you've been second-guessing yourself and letting doubt hold you back from your writing goals, this episode is for you!
As a book coach, I have writers come to me and admit they have a nice story outline with all kinds of good research and prep work complete…yet they just can’t find a way to get words onto the page.
So, today I want to talk about something that comes up in different phases of our writing process and that is the subject of roadblocks.
Inside this episode, I'm breaking down writing roadblocks into four different categories.
Writer's block
Plot holes
Character development
Perfectionism
Let's first identify them and then talk about ways to overcome them.
11. Do You Have Kitchen Sink Syndrome in Your Writing?
00:07:38
In this episode, we'll be delving into the art of restraint in novel writing. Specifically, we'll discuss why it's crucial for writers to resist the temptation to throw in everything but the kitchen sink into their novel manuscript.
Otherwise known as kitchen sink syndrome.
It’s something I see often in my book coaching and developmental editing business – writers find themselves stuck and second guessing their story, and as a result, they tend to throw far too many characters, plot points, & twists and turns into an already packed story, for fear of not hooking their reader.
Tune in to find out why this is and how to fix it!
Today’s episode is meant to be a gentle reminder for anyone who is feeling perplexed or frustrated with certain elements of the writing and publishing journey.
While some elements of the publishing world may be out of a writer's control, there are SO many things that aren't.
My number one recommendation is to take time to focus on the craft. Because in this, there are five wonderful things you can have control over.
Crafting a strong opening scene is crucial for grabbing the reader's attention and setting the tone for the entire novel.
As writers, we know this on some level, and yet when it comes to crafting that important opening chapter, we sometimes forget which elements to include.
So, in today’s episode, I'm discussing key elements that writers need to know when creating the opening to their novel.
16. The Road to Publication: A Roundtable Discussion with Jeanne Blasberg & Susie Orman Schnall
00:50:26
I'm having an inspired conversation with two of my sisters in publishing for our books releasing this spring and summer. And there's a giveaway!👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻
Together with authors Jeanne Blasberg and Susie Orman Schnall, we're breaking it down and talking about the real, real behind:
The writing process
The publishing industry
What it took to get our books out into the world
THERE'S ALSO A GIVEAWAY!!📚 To enter a giveaway of 10+ new releases in fiction: 1) Leave a rating for this podcast 2) Take a screenshot of your rating 3) Email it to me at nicole@nicolemeier.com
U.S. residents only. Must be 18 yrs and over to enter. One winner will be chosen at random by May 28, 2024.
Welcome to a special month of podcast episodes! Because this is my book launch month (CITY OF BOOKS releases May 28th📚), I’m taking my podcast from solo episodes to interviews. Today, I'm talking with Jennie Nash. Inside this episode, we're talking about why mentors matter. We're uncovering what happens when someone shines a light on our creative path, to reveal what's possible.
Join us for an honest and thoughtful conversation around the topics of:
Today is my book's birthday! CITY OF BOOKS is now out in the world. And in celebration, I want to do something a little different today. I'm going to pull back the curtain and share parts of my author journey with you.
Inside this episode, I'm sharing the Top Ten Things I've Learned in my author career.
18. Do This ONE Thing to Transform Your Novel Writing
00:10:43
In this episode, I'm talking about ONE crucial strategy for novel writers: the idea of leaning into your wins. I believe this practice can be a key tool for overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals. Especially when it comes to your writing and publishing journey. Tune in to find out how you can start incorporating this one thing into your writing practice in order to turn things around and follow your novel writing dreams. Website | Instagram | Programs | My New Book!📚
11 Jun 2024
19. Flat Characters, Flat Story: Breathing Life into Your Cast
00:10:22
Are flat characters killing your story? It's something I see all too often in my book coaching and developmental editing business.
In this episode of Steps to Story, I'm breaking down the WHY, HOW, and WHAT when it comes to breathing new life into your novel's cast of characters. Let's give your novel manuscript the attention it deserves! Tune in to learn more! Website | Instagram | Programs | My New Book!📚
18 Jun 2024
20. Your Burning Questions Answered!
00:24:32
I sent out a CTA to my followers asking their burning questions about their writing and publishing journeys. I got a great response and am happy to say that the questions sent back to me have a nice range of topics. This episode of Steps to Story is all about answering those questions! Inside this episode, I'm covering topics such as:
21. Beta Readers vs. Developmental Editors: What Writers Need to Know
00:12:26
In today's episode, we're going to dive into a hot topic in the novel writing process: Beta readers versus developmental editors. If you're a novelist looking to take your work to the next level, stay tuned, because we're about to uncover why beta readers and developmental editors are your secret weapon.
22. From Manuscript to Market: Trends I'm Seeing in my Book Coaching
00:12:30
I have the privilege of getting to know fiction writers and their stories because of the work that I do. And lately, I've been noticing some trends. Today's episode is all about the list of trends that are unique to my corner of the world. Tune in to the episode to learn: 1) The types of "smart stories" coming across my desk 2) Risks and payoffs of genre-blending and going indie 3) The authentic and unapologetic ways writers are showing up 4) Misadventures of story structure and more! Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Amplify Character Story Self-Paced Course | Small Group Program WAITLIST🚀
09 Jul 2024
23. Summer Boost: 3 Ways to Stay in the Writing Flow Right Now
00:07:21
Small but consistent efforts will keep you connected to your work this summer. Tune into today's short but sweet episode to learn three quick ways to keep your writing flow moving in the right direction this summer. Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST🚀
16 Jul 2024
24. Sidestep These 4 Novel-Writing Pitfalls for Success
00:10:48
Today I'm diving into four crucial mistakes to avoid when writing your novel. While there is no wrong way to write your book, because your writing process should be your own, I can tell you that there are certain mistakes to be avoided in your process. Today I'm covering topics such as:
Not having a roadmap
Rushing the process
Writing as if someone is looking over your shoulder
25. How to Know if Your Story Premise Will Fill a Whole Book
00:08:47
Today I’m tackling a question that every novelist faces at some point: "How do I know if my story premise will fill a whole book?" If you’re excited about your idea but hesitant to dive into writing, this episode is for you. I’m going to break it down into 3 simple steps to help you confidently take action with your novel. Tune in to learn more. Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST🚀
30 Jul 2024
26. Six Ways to Avoid Overwhelm When Crafting Your Novel
00:09:11
Inside this episode, I'm diving into a topic that most writers are not immune to: project overwhelm. Sound familiar? I’m guessing the answer is yes. Because Whether you're a seasoned novelist or just starting your first manuscript, the weight of writing can sometimes feel like too much. There are so many elements of story structure to learn, so many demands on keeping up a writing routine, and so many good authors to compare ourselves to. I’m sharing six ways to avoid overwhelm and keep your creative spirit riding high. Tune in to learn what they are! Website | Instagram | Free Novel Writing Guide | Small Group Program WAITLIST🚀
06 Aug 2024
27. Four Signs Your Novel Manuscript Isn't Hanging Together
00:13:29
Today's episode is all about story craft! I’m diving into the red flags that signal your novel manuscript might need a tune-up.
Writing a book is a massive undertaking, and with so many moving parts, it's easy to lose sight of crucial structural elements along the way.
28. How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your Novel Writing
00:10:29
Here’s the tough truth, I often see writers (myself included at one time) who are so excited about their story idea that they rush through the process and forget to establish a strong foundation for their novel.
The result is a writer who hits the midpoint with no idea how they got there or where they’re going next.
The pages suddenly don’t seem to hang together and both the character and story arcs are lacking. I don’t want this for you!
That's why today I'm sharing four steps to building your foundation:
29. Five Powerful Mindset Habits to Adopt Before You Write Forward
00:11:51
Those who adapt a healthy mindset from the start are usually the ones who follow through with their novel writing dreams. That's why I'm breaking down some key mindset habits for writers inside today's episode.
30. Inside Steps to Story: Real Talk From Writers in My Program
00:23:52
You're going to hear a special episode today.
It's a replay where five of my past students get together and talk about their experiences inside the Steps to Story program. Hopefully it will give you insight into my Steps to Story group novel writing program, but also some good motivation for your own work in progress.
31. [MASTERCLASS] How to Go From Idea to Action in Your Novel Writing
00:23:05
If you didn't get a chance to attend my free webinar on August 27th, which was titled: How to Go From Idea to Action in Your Novel Writing; the good news is, I'm sharing the content again here inside this episode in the form of a free mini-masterclass. Inside this mini-masterclass, I'll be sharing four steps: 1) Identifying your story message 2) Determining whether you have enough to fill a whole book 3) Creating your novel's roadmap 4) Moving through obstacles For those who want to go deeper, head to stepstostory.com/program
33. Recovering From Creative Burnout with Emily Golden & Rachel May
00:49:18
Do you know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of creative burnout? The state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion that affects your creative work? Are you feeling like you need to step back and refill your creative well? 🎙️✨In this week's episode of Steps to Story, I'm diving deep into this topic with Emily Golden and Rachel May of Tenacious Writing. It's a thoughtful conversation that acts as a balm to my overworked senses. I invite you to tune in as the three of us discuss everything from perfectionism to hustle culture when it comes to the writing life. Tune in to hear more! Find Emily Golden here. Find Rachel May here. Find Tenacious Writing here. To find more on Nicole - Website | Instagram | Free Guide
24 Sep 2024
34. [✨Big Announcement!] Author Platforms with Gretchen Schaffer
00:22:37
Are you an emerging author who's starting to think about your author platform? Or perhaps you're just dipping your toe into the world of publisher pitches and agent queries. 📚 And let's be real, it can be a complicated journey. Right? Because writing the book's only half the equation. These days, not only do authors need to be storytellers, they're also expected to be the CEO's of their own brand. From building your author platform to querying agents, it's tough to know where to kick things off. Join Gretchen Schaffer and me as we dive into all things author platforms on this week's episode of the Steps to Story podcast. Plus, we've got an exciting announcement! 🎙️✨
36. Level Up Your Thriller, Mystery & Suspense with Samantha Skal & Kerry Savage
00:45:41
Suspense, mysteries and thrillers, oh my! Welcome to spooky season! Inside this episode of Steps to Story I'm talking with book coaches Samantha Skal and Kerry Savage about:
The ideation of twists
Knowing your villain
Character POV
The power of creativity community
Managing your WIP
And so much more!
You can Samantha Skal here. You can find Kerry Savage here. You can find Shadows & Secrets here. To find more on Nicole - Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨
01 Oct 2024
35. Embrace the Drift: How Distraction Can Help Your WIP
00:13:01
Today I'm exploring how you can strategically allow yourself to be distracted and how those moments can open up new avenues in your novel writing.
I'm uncovering six strategies that will not only give your brain a creative break, but allow you to bring fresh insights into your work in progress.
37. Strengthening Your Story's Bones: Customized Support for Story Structure
00:10:59
In today's episode of Steps to Story, we're diving into one of the most crucial aspects of storytelling, your story's structure. For those of you who follow me, you'll know that my mission is to help you blend story structure with the story that's on your heart. Because as many of us know, it's not typically the actual story idea that needs work. It's the structure, the way in which we're telling it that often requires strengthening. I'll be covering two related topics: 1) Strengthening the bones of your story 2) Getting personalized coaching that will empower you to go deeper Tune in to learn more. Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨
22 Oct 2024
38. Writing Retreats: Five Reasons Why They Can Be a Game Changer
00:10:29
Today I'm diving into one of my all time favorite topics: writing retreats. What makes them such a transformative experience for authors and how can they benefit our writing? I'm talking about solo retreats, group retreats, and everything in between. If you've been feeling stuck, uninspired, or just overwhelmed by the day to day hustle, tune in because this episode will help you see how a retreat can not only recharge your creativity, but propel you forward in your writing journey. Visit BookWorks.co for retreat info! Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨
29 Oct 2024
39. Are You Relying on Tactics or Strategy in Your Novel Writing?
00:12:18
In today's episode, I'm diving into a crucial question for novel writers. Are you relying on tactics or strategies to move your work and progress forward? This is a subtle but essential distinction, and getting clear on it can make all the difference in your writing process. Today, I'll walk you through three key questions to ask yourself when it comes to your work in progress. Plus, I'll also give tips on how to shift from reactive tactics to purposeful strategies...and how to balance both! Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨
12 Nov 2024
40. Real Answers for Real Writing Struggles
00:23:39
Today is another Ask Me Anything! Inside this episode I'm answering these five questions: 1) How to tell if you're over-revising your novel manuscript. 2) What to do if you've hit a wall and can't move forward. 3) How to consider social media and your author platform. 4) What to do when you're feeling sick of reading your own work. 5) How to tackle self-doubt.
43. Behind-the-Scenes of Self-Publishing a Debut Novel with Saleema Ishq
00:29:58
Ever wish you could go behind-the-scenes and ask an author how they went from idea to finished manuscript, how they overcame writing challenges, and how they went about the business of self-publishing their first book? Good news, I'm doing that today with author Saleema Ishq. Please join me as we dive into Saleema's journey from short story writer to debut novelist! You can find more about Saleema and her book at fearlessphrases.com To find Nicole: Website | Instagram | Free Guide✨
26 Nov 2024
42: Three Ways to Go From Force to Flow in Your Novel
00:10:32
Feeling stuck in your writing? There’s a difference between forcing a story and letting it flow. With the New Year approaching, it’s easy to feel the pressure to “just get it done.” But sometimes, the best progress happens when we lean into flow. In today’s episode, I’m sharing three ways to know when to push and when to let go: 1️⃣ Write from intention, not tension. 2️⃣ Build habits that invite ease, not strain. 3️⃣ Approach your story with curiosity, not pressure. Tune in to learn more. Website | Instagram | Free Guide | BOOK WORKS RETREAT!📚
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