Writer Spark: Business, Creativity, and the Craft of Writing

How to Build a Killer Writing Routine

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:
Importance of a Writing Routine:
Why having a routine is crucial for writers
How a routine helps you stay focused and reduce procrastination
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
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
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:
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.
Join the WriterSpark Community: Connect with fellow writers, share your progress, and get exclusive content by joining our Facebook Group.
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.
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!

Using Setting as a Character in Fiction Writing

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
 

From Fiction to Fact: The Intersection of True Crime and Fiction Writing

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. ✨
 
 
 
 
 
 

Tips for Writing Books with Magical Elements

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
 
 
 

Harness the Benefits of Process Writing to Unlock Creativity

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
 
 
 

Get a Glimpse Behind the Publishing Curtain

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

The Fundamentals of Marketing for Writers

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
 
 
 
 

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

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. 📝  ✨
 
 

Mining Your Life for Stories

Episode 42
 
In this episode, Melissa talks with Lynne Golodner, author of Woman of Valor and prolific creative nonfiction writer, about mining your life for stories. This is such a great topic and applicable to people who write (or want to write) memoirs, creative nonfiction, and fiction.
 
Enjoy!
 
Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Woman of Valor: https://amzn.to/3Ss64Tr
Lynne Golodner's Website: https://lynnegolodner.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.com/p/writing-your-memoir-master-class
 
✨ 📝  Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/)
 
Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!
 
Additional Resources
WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
Grab WriterSpark Swag! https://www.teepublic.com/stores/writerspark/share
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
Follow WriterSpark on Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/writersparkacademy/
 
 
✨ 📝  Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝  ✨

Literary Agents: What to think about and look for, and so much more!

Episode 41
 
In this episode, Melissa talks with Michael Griffo, who also writes at JD Griffo and Michael Falco. The topic is All About Agents: Do you need them? What to look for... But it ended up being so much more.
Enjoy!
 
Resources mentioned in this episode:
 
Books and Other Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Michael Griffo's Website: https://michaelgriffo.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/
Michael Falco's books: https://michaelgriffo.com/michael-griffo-books/
Melissa Bourbon's books: https://melissabourbon.com/bookshelf/
Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
Deep Point of View:
         Podcast: https://writersparkacademy.podbean.com/e/going-into-deep-point-of-view-by-adding-thought-emotion-action-and-decision-in-your-writing/
 
           YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfI59DkiLUk&t=56s
 
✨ Check out the Field Guide to Writing a Cozy Mystery Online course:  ✨ https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com/p/how-to-write-a-cozy-mystery-master-class ✨
 
✨ Check out the Ready, Set, WRITE! Online course to dig deeper into writing techniques:  ✨ https://writersparkwritingacademy.teachable.com ✨
 
✨ 📝  Get updates on business, creativity, and the craft of writing by following this podcast and subscribing to the WriterSpark newsletter (https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/)
 
Thanks for tuning in to The WriterSpark Podcast!
 
Additional Resources
WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
Grab WriterSpark Swag! https://www.teepublic.com/stores/writerspark/share
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
Follow WriterSpark on Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/writersparkacademy/
 
 
✨ 📝  Share the love! Forward this podcast to your writer friends. 📝  ✨