Summary In this episode of Pen to Pod, Mikayla Kimes explores the various aspects of overcoming writer's block. She categorizes writer's block into three types: mechanical, creative, and unmotivated blocks, and shares practical strategies for each. Takeaways There is no perfect answer for overcoming writer's block. Writing is an art, and the process is part of that art. Reading in your genre can help overcome mechanical blocks. Creative activities outside of writing can recharge...

Summary In this conversation, Rachel Kitch shares her journey on becoming a horror author, discussing her experiences in acrobatics, the influence of her cultural identity, and the importance of community in writing. She delves into her creative process, the themes in her work, and the significance of exploring uncomfortable dynamics in horror. Rachel also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers and emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the writing process.  *TW: THERE IS...

Summary In this episode, Mikayla Kimes delves into the concept of writer's voice, focusing on how it intertwines with tone in writing. She discusses the importance of tone in conveying mood and attitude, using examples from the short story collection 'Vampires Never Get Old.' Mik provides practical exercises for writers to explore and identify tone in their own work, emphasizing the impact of word choice and sentence structure on the overall writing style. Takeaways - Voice is the author...

Summary In this insightful episode, Mik and T.N. Vitus explore the multifaceted journey of writing, covering a range of topics from the transition between pantsing and meticulous outlining to the domino effect of world-building. They discuss the creation of complex characters and the development of a believable political landscape within their narratives. T.N. also shares the inspirations behind their work, Heirs of Destruction, and how they capture the classic fantasy feeling while...

SUMMARY In this episode of Pen to Pod, Mikayla Kimes delves into the concept of writer's voice, sharing insights from her experiences and others. She emphasizes the importance of discovering one's unique voice through reading and writing exercises, analyzing excerpts from short stories to illustrate how voice impacts storytelling. The episode also discusses the distinction between author voice and character voice, and how emotions can shape writing. Kimes provides practical exercises for...

Summary In this conversation, Mik and Kath Richards explore Kath's journey from New Mexico to Utah, her evolution as a writer, and the impact of her education on her craft. They discuss the nuances of genre fiction, the themes of connection and personal experience in writing, and the challenges of writing action sequences. Kath shares insights from her self-publishing journey and offers advice on marketing and building an author brand, all while promoting her debut novel, 'A Love Most...

As a writer, I am fascinated by other writer's processes. Whether it's how they approach worldbuilding or how they weave in thematic elements, I am always looking to dive a little bit deeper. On my YouTube Channel, Mik Writes, we talk about how there is no one set way to write a book, that the art is in the process itself. This podcast aims to really unravel the stories behind the stories these authors tell. To open up and share the intimate process of creating their art. PEN TO POD...