You’ve finally got it. A story idea you’re so excited about that you throw the covers off, jump out of bed in the middle of the night, and start scribbling down the words formulating in your head before they slip away.
You have a clear idea of the plot, you can envision your characters, and you have the perfect ending already mapped out.
But even if the first draft of your story goes that smoothly (which it rarely does), is that enough?
Regularly checking-in with helpful writing resources can open your eyes to new techniques you may not have considered before (story arcs, showing v. telling, scheduled writing v. binge-writing).
These tips and tricks will help you polish up your million-dollar idea into a well-considered, three-dimensional narrative that isn’t riddled with plot holes or cringe-worthy cliches.
Here is our pick of 5 essential writing podcasts and vlogs that will help you refine your skills and master your craft:
1) The Writer Files
Hosted by Kelton Reid, The Writer Files ‘studies the habits, habitats, and brains of a wide spectrum of renowned writers’.
Not only does the podcast comprise interviews with critically-acclaimed authors of fiction and nonfiction, journalists, content marketers, and freelancers, The Writer Files also investigates the neuroscience behind writing and productivity.
The Writer Files is an engaging, informative, easy-listening podcast with unique insights into the writing process and the minds of some of the world’s most prolific writers.
Start with: The Best of ‘The Writer’s Brain’ Part One: Creativity
2) iWriterly
Meg LaTorre hosts YouTube channel iWriterly where she shares tutorials on how to plan and execute your novel writing, approach literary agents, and write pitches and synopses.
iWriterly is your ‘go-to resource for all things writing with an entrepreneurial spin’ and covers a spectrum of different topics from literary techniques to the business of writing.
Whether you need help with character development, plot, dialogue, or story arcs, Meg has created a handy library of resources that take you step-by-step through some of the most complex and daunting aspects of writing.
Start with: How to Start Writing a Novel in 9 Easy Steps
3) Writing with Jenna Moreci
Writer and vlogger Jenna Moreci’s corner of the internet adds some comic relief to the sweet misery of writing.
On Writing with Jenna Moreci is a great vlog on the intricacies of writing and editing. With videos on topics such as first-person vs. third-person, the worst fantasy tropes ever, and 10 tips on pacing your book, this channel offers writers’ practical advice and great tips to take away.
If you have just finished your first full draft of a story and you’re looking for new ways to tighten up your narrative, head over to Jenna’s channel. Her videos will encourage you to look at your story with fresh eyes and consider editing techniques that will help you get your draft ready for publication.
Start with: Writing First Person vs. Third Person POV
4) The Story Studio
Sterling and Stone presents The Story Studio is a podcast dedicated to conversations surrounding how we can all tell our stories better.
The Story Studio preaches that ‘in our crowded world, “knowing your story” cuts through the noise so you can make your mark — whether you want to sell more books, increase profits, or just make a difference. At Sterling & Stone, Story is our business.’
If you’re looking for an insightful, thought-provoking listen on topics such as great villains, how our childhoods inform our storytelling, and even storytelling in video games, this podcast is the one for you.
Start with: Adapting a Story for Film and TV
5) The Script Shop
Hosted by Allyson West and Jack Crumley, Script Shop delves into the world of writing for stage and screen.
Allyson and Jack believe ‘all writers have a true human connection to their work. We highlight this connection by featuring a different script and talking shop with its screenwriter each week.’
This great podcast hosts an impressive line-up of scriptwriters, well-versed in writing powerful dialogue and creating multidimensional productions.
Exploring topics including the human nature behind writing, theme inspiration, and visual storytelling through set design, photography, and cinema, Script Shop is a must listen for aspiring scriptwriters.
Start with: Our Dirty Laundry | Kimberly Solimin | Script Shop Episode 060
Do you listen to any of these podcasts? Let us know what you think in the comment section below.
Silk + Smoke 