
#badasswriters
By Kathleen Foxx
Welcome to the #badasswriters podcast! You'll find writing tips and how-to's to take your writing from good to great. There are interviews with fabulous guest authors and industry professionals to help writers in the community build their confidence and go from brand new to badass! All kinds of writing topics are covered, there are Q&As with agents and other professionals, plus pitch critiques, listener questions, recorded listeners' book recommendations, and recorded shoutouts from authors. Please reach out on Twitter @_badasswriters and on my website at kathleenfoxx.com/badasswriters-podcast

S6E4 #AskAgent with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
S6E4 #AskAgent with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
#badasswritersMar 28, 2023
00:00
59:07

S6E4 #AskAgent with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
S6E4 #AskAgent with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
In today’s special #AskAgent episode, Kat chats with Westwood Creative Artists literary agent Emmy Nordstrom Higdon about how and why they got involved in agenting, what’s grabbing their attention right now, how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of publishing, what they like to see in a query letter, grammar in query letters and sample pages, their desert island books (see below for titles/authors), choosing between agents at the same agency, re-querying rewritten manuscripts (and how to do it right), if WattPad or Kindle Vella counts as a debut, what makes them pass on a full manuscript, pet peeves about queries, anonymous authors, and pen names.
Titles and Authors Mentioned by Emmy:
Emma Hooper’s Our Homesick Songs, Helen Oyeyemi (White is for Witching) The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende.
Find Emmy on Twitter @emmy_of_spines, Instagram @emmy_of_spines and their websites: http://www.emmy.ooo and www.wcaltd.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are kathleenfoxx.comfoxxeditorial.com, kathleenfoxxagent.com, and moodpitch.org.
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
For questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings paused for a short time and are currently by referral only. The podcast is booked solid until November 2023. WOW! As Kat may be starting to take on clients at that time, she needs to ensure a schedule that will work and can still include the podcast. Hang tight for more details over the coming months!
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io)
Mar 28, 202359:07

S6E3 Ancestry and Adventure Writing | Judith Turner Yamamoto | Meghan J. Ward
S6E3 Ancestry and Adventure Writing | Judith Turner Yamamoto | Meghan J. Ward
In today's episode Kat covers two interviews. The first is with Judith Turner Yamamoto, author of Loving the Dead and Gone, covering how reader’s own experiences are brought into the story, how she became an ‘accidental’ historical novelist, her research and drafting process, finding a treasure trove of 19th century ancestral ‘stuff’ to help with research, winning the Petrichor Prize, publishing with Regal House, the found family feeling of small publishers, her article writing and world travelling, working with her husband who’s a visual artist, teaching at writing conferences, sense memory and how it can transport us and open up our creativity, ‘hiraeth’ and nostalgia, and advice for writers of historical fiction.
Find Judith online at turneryamamoto.com, on Twitter @jturneryamamoto, and on Instagram @jturneryamamoto
Following this is Meghan J. Ward, author of the memoir Lights to Guide Me Home, covering the inspiration behind the book, how moving from Ontario to BC sparked this journey, how she remembered everything she ultimately included in the book, how social media helped uncover lost memories, a writer’s ‘second brain,’ where her interest in travel comes from, culture shock vs reverse culture shock, re-visiting places to fully immerse yourself in a culture and society, how travelling with kids differs from travelling alone, publishing books with her adventure photographer Paul Zizka, how she began adventure writing, giving a talk about crafting the perfect pitch at the Adventure Writing Workshop (part of the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival), her drafting process, writing out of order, and tips for travelling with kids.
Megan can be found online at meghanjoyward.com, on Twitter @meghanjward, and on IG @meghanjward (and check out hubby Paul Zizka's incredible travel photos on Instagram @paulzizkaphoto!)
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are kathleenfoxx.com foxxeditorial.com, kathleenfoxxagent.com, and moodpitch.org.
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
For questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are currently by referral only. The podcast is booked solid until October 2023. WOW! As Kat may be starting to take on clients at that time, she needs to ensure a schedule that will work and can still include the podcast. Hang tight for more details over the coming months!
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Ask Me When by Mica Emory (epidemicsound.com)
Mar 21, 202301:07:51

S6E2 Announcement || Pitch Critique | Author Amy Tector
S6E2 Announcement || Pitch Critique | Author Amy Tector
In today's episode, Kat has a special announcement! Then, a pitch critique for a lister. After, she chats with returning guest Amy Tector, author of SPEAK FOR THE DEAD, out today! Kat talks with Amy about her Dominion Archive series, publishing three books in one year, going to her sister for research on a coroner’s career, incorporating authorial voice into stories and layering in character voice, her newsletter, marketing and publicity, virtual vs in-person events, incorporating themes, advice for weaving clues into mysteries, and using Scrivener to help with clues and red herrings.
Catch up with Amy: www.amytector.com Twitter: @amy_tector Instagram: @amytectorwrites
Kat's socials: Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com www.kathleenfoxxagent.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Don't Look Back by Dream Cave (epidemicsound.com)
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
For questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are paused. The podcast is booked solid until October 2023. WOW! As Kat may be starting to take on clients at that time, she needs to ensure a schedule that will work and can still include the podcast. Hang tight for more details over the coming months!
Mar 14, 202338:07

S6E1 || Sherlock Holmes || Crime Clubs || Author Julie Carrick Dalton
S6E1 || Sherlock Holmes || Crime Clubs || Author Julie Carrick Dalton
In today's episode, hear about how Sherlock Holmes came to live and the Crimes Club that Arthur Conan Doyle started. Then, Kat chats with Julie Carrick Dalton, author of Waiting for the Night Song and The Last Beekeeper (out today!). They cover what climate fiction is, how themes come into writing, the impacts of climate change and how it simmers in her mind and becomes her stories, the nostalgic hook in her book, how she got her agent and how she knew she was ready to query, the importance of getting industry feedback, the cost of industry feedback and how to get support, paying it forward and good literary citizenship, publicity, public speaking, the why’s in fictional characters, her writing craft articles, and getting inside your villain’s head.
Julie's socials: www.juliecarrickdalton.com, Twitter: @juliecardalt Instagram: @juliecdalton
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
For questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are paused. The podcast is booked solid until October 2023. WOW! As Kat may be starting to take on clients at that time, she needs to ensure a schedule that will work and can still include the podcast. Hang tight for more details over the coming months!
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, The Lotus Tree by Jerry Lacey, Cold Nights by Kikoru, and Closed Book by Dream Cave (epidemicsound.com)
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Mar 07, 202347:13

S5E12 Pitches | Walter Tevis | Author Jessica Hatch
S5E12 Pitches | Walter Tevis | Author Jessica Hatch
In today's episode, Kat critiques two listeners' pitches, then talks about Walter Tevis in literary history and how writers weave themes drawn from their own experiences into their stories. After, Kat chats with Jessica Hatch, author of HOW TO KEEP A HUSBAND FOR TEN DAYS and MY BIG FAKE WEDDING, about:
Why she doesn’t over-outline her stories
Winning a pitch slam
The structure of a novel
Creating creativity from constraint
Including Covid in your manuscripts and the disadvantages of not including it
Deciding which writing workshops or conferences to attend and how to afford international ones
Her freelance editing services
Editing tips
Dealing with imposter syndrome
Jessica's socials and websites mentioned: www.JessicaHatch.com Affording international writing workshops, Common Editorial Mistakes she sees, Part 1 of 5, on Twitter: @JessicaNHatch and on Instagram: jessicanhatch.
Kat's socials: Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until November 2023.
Music from uppbeats.io and epidemicsound.com.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Feb 28, 202344:13

S5E11 Erma Bombeck || Speculative Fiction with Serena Straus
S5E11 Erma Bombeck || Speculative Fiction with Serena Straus
In today's literary history segment, Kat talks about humour author Erma Bombeck and writing conferences. Then, she chats with lawyer and sci-fi author Sarena Straus about:
The “what if” in stories
Nonfiction proposals
Having her book optioned for tv
Speculative and science fiction
How she brings her legal career into her stories
The complexities of world building
Pitch competitions
Finding the right publisher for your story
Juggling all the things as a writer, wife, mother, lawyer
Sarena's socials: sarenastraus.com, Twitter @SarenaStraus and Instagram @sarenastraus
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites and lots of other things are on linktr.ee.
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details here. Please note interview bookings are now full until October 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, This Was Fun by Gavin Luke, and As a Gift by Francis Wells (epidemicsound.com).
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Feb 21, 202336:14

S5E10 | Universality in Poetry, Memoir, and Fiction | A. M . Klein | Tetyana Denford
S5E10 | Universality in Poetry, Memoir, and Fiction | A. M . Klein | Tetyana Denford
In today's episode, Kat highlights the life and work of Jewish-Canadian poet, A.M. Klein in literary history, discusses how powerful articulating universal thoughts and feelings in poetry, memoirs, and fiction can be, and then chats with Ukrainian-American author and poet, Tetyana Denford about:
How her writing journey began
Imposter syndrome
Digging for stories in your own family tree
Titles
The business of being an author
Self-publishing and working with Bookouture
Her next novel
“Conversation books”
Self-publishing courses
The powerful impact of poetry, flash fiction, and music
Tetyana's socials: Websites: tetyanadenford.com and thecraftandbusinessofbooks.com Instagram: @tetyanawrites Twitter: TetyanaWrites and YouTube.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites and lots of other things are on linktr.ee.
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here.
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details here. Please note interview bookings are now full until October 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, From Stardust and Across Land and Sea, both by Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen, and Fugacious by Gavin Luke (epidemicsound.com).
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Feb 14, 202345:14

S5E9 || Pitches || AA Milne || Anastasia Zadeik
S5E9 || Pitches || AA Milne || Anastasia Zadeik
In today's episode, Kat critiques two listeners' pitches and talks about A.A. Milne and Winnie the Pooh in today's literary history segment. Then, she chats with Anastasia Zadeik, author of the psychological thriller Blurred Fates, about
How her debut came together,
Finding your voice
Writing triggering content in a sensitive way
Mental health in stories
Having her book read by three therapists to ensure accuracy
Reaching readers on a deep level
Research
Pantsers vs plotters
Plot twists
Titles
Patience in publishing
Her experience with hybrid publishing
Querying
Cover design
Marketing and publicity
How readers want to know about the author, not just the book
Not taking things personally as an author
Infusing emotionality into your writing
Anastasia's socials: website Twitter FaceBook Instagram
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here!
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until Oct/Nov 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, This Was Fun by Gavin Luke, Micro Evolution by Howard-Harper-Barnes, and Balance by Amaranth Cove (epidemicsound.com)
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Jan 31, 202355:46

S5E8 Pitches || Edith Wharton || Historical Fiction with Teri Brown
S5E8 Pitches || Edith Wharton || Historical Fiction with Teri Brown
In today's episode, Kat talks about Edith Wharton, born on this day in 1862 (who shares a birthday with Kat's grandmother! Happy birthday Grandma!). Then, she chats with returning author Teri M. Brown about her new novel, An Enemy Like Me, which launches today, Jan 24, 2023.
What makes an enemy?
How war changes people and families
The inspiration behind the story
The process behind writing the book
Research for historical authenticity
Book cover design
Advice for those writing more than one POV or timeline
Natural transitions
The importance of WHY
The importance of pre-launch marketing
The editing process with Atmosphere Press
How to ensure each POV character has an arc
What historical fiction she’s working on next
Teri can be found at www.terimbrown.com, on Facebook @TeriMBrownAuthor, Twitter @TeriMBrown1, and IG @TeriMBrown_Author.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat’s newsletter here and register for the Query + Synopsis webinar here!
For guest inquiries, listener questions, book recs, or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat’s website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until October 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, A Sophisticated Affair by Gavin Luke, and Elevated Consciousness by Amaranth Cove (epidemicsound.com).
To submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Jan 24, 202350:05

S5E7 True Crime, Nonfiction Novels, and Character Motivations || Quill and Cup's Ania Ray
S5E7 True Crime, Nonfiction Novels, and Character Motivations || Quill and Cup's Ania Ray
Today Kat talks about Truman Capote's In Cold Blood, plus nonfiction novels and character motivations. (CONTENT WARNING: family murders, execution by hanging: skip to 8:21 if needed). Then, I chat with the lovely Ania Ray from Quill and Cup! We discuss:
What Quill and Cup is
Giving yourself permission to create
What a prickle is
How the community can help you avoid procrastinating!
Webinars, educational prickles, a sense of community, accountability
Ania’s own writing journey
The discomfort of first drafts
Her Cromwell Rules series
Writing a damned good book!
Her publishing journey
Her excellent advice to writers about mindset
Ania can be found at www.quillandcup.com, on Instagram @quillandcup, and on YouTube.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for Kat's newsletter here and register for the Query + Synopsis webinar here!
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on Kat's website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until October 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), The Tall Man, The Collector, and Evil Tendencies, all by Farrell Wooten (epidemicsound.com)
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Jan 17, 202345:27

S5 BONUS || James Joyce || Bookseller Shelley Macbeth
S5 BONUS || James Joyce || Bookseller Shelley Macbeth
In today's bonus episode, Kat talks about James Joyce in the #lithist segment; stream of consciousness, how his life events impacted his writing, and book banning. Then I chat with bookseller Shelley Macbeth of Blue Heron Books in Uxbridge, Ontario! We cover:
How she became involved with Blue Heron Books
Winning Best Bookstore awards—twice
What she gets the most joy out of at Blue Heron
Connections and the social side of bookselling
Events they do in support of authors
The Book Drunkard Festival
How Lucy Maud Montgomery fits into it all
Selecting books for the store
The impact of geographical location on a bookstore’s sales
Partnering with other businesses in the community
How TikTok and other social media sites are affecting trends in bookselling
The environmental impacts of paper books vs e-books
And of course, book recommendations!
Blue Heron Books is @BlueHeronBooks on Twitter and @BlueHeronBooks on Instagram.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for my newsletter here and register for the Query + Synopsis webinar here!
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on my website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until October 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, Celtic Dream by Trabant 33, Country Soil by View Points, Up in the Hills by Bonnie Grace, and Old Vienna by Leni Leimoti (epidemicsound.com).
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Jan 13, 202345:18

S5E6 Screenwriting vs Novel Writing || Mark Grenside
S5E6 Screenwriting vs Novel Writing || Mark Grenside
In today's episode, Kat talks about Robert Stone in #lithist who died on this day in 2015. He wrote the novel Dog Soldiers in the 1970s which went on to be adapted for film into Who'll Stop the Rain starring Nick Nolte. She talks about screenplays vs novel writing and then has a great conversation with thriller author and film industry aficionado Mark Grenside! Topics include:
his newest Thriller, Fallout
how filmmaking influences how he writes novels
imagery, dialogue, and entering a scene as late as possible
the three-act paradigm
the fundamental error he made when he first tried to get published
characters who bring out interesting traits in each other
being a member of Crime Writers of Canada
working with Jim Henson
travelling all over the world to film Fraggle Rock
his blog andanotherthing.com
the fearless activities Mark and his wife do and how they serve as writing inspiration
Mark can be found on his website at mngrenside.com, on Twitter @mngrenside, on Instagram @mngrenside, and on Facebook @mgrenside.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
Signup for my newsletter here and register for the Query + Synopsis webinar here!
For guest inquiries, questions for the podcast (to be answered in an episode), book recommendations or shoutouts to those who've helped on your path to publication, see details on my website here. Please note interview bookings are now full until September 2023.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Devil's Little Helper by Pip Monday, and Evangelish by Ondalut (epidemicsound.com)
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Jan 10, 202348:30

S5E5 J.R.R. Tolkien || Marion Lougheed || Jennifer Mariani
S5E5 J.R.R. Tolkien || Marion Lougheed || Jennifer Mariani
Today is the first episode of 2023! Hear about Tolkien, who was born on this day in Literary History, then Kat chats with two authors: Marion Lougheed (who's also the EIC at Off Topic Publishing) and Jennifer Mariani. We cover:
Off Topic Publishing—how Marion got started with it
Monthly poetry boxes
Marion's editing processes
What Marion likes about writing poetry, fiction, and nonfiction
How poetry can help refine your prose
Pros and cons of being a writer and editor and publisher
Getting feedback on submissions
Writing retreat in Banff, Alberta, Canada in 2023
Jennifer's chapbook, All Forgotten Now
Jennifer reads us her favourite poem, Song of Home
How Jennifer writes her incredible lines
How Jennifer became involved with Off Topic Publishing
What Jennifer's working on next
Writing about extremely personal, difficult topics
Advice to writers in dealing with challenges, acceptance, and burnout
Marion: Twitter: @MarionLougheed & @OffTopicPub. Facebook: @Marion Lougheed's Writing Page & @Off Topic Publishing. IG: @themerryonion & @offtopicpub
Jennifer: Twitter: @zimballerina IG: @zimballerina
Kat: Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial & @moodpitchers. IG @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial & @moodpitchers. Websites: www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com & www.moodpitch.org
Guest inquiries: please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until September 2023.
To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, please fill out this form.
To recommend a book, or to give a shoutout to someone, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details here.
Sign up for my newsletter here.
Music: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io), Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, The Great Unknown by Hampus Naeselius, and Allegro Sotto Le Stelle by Trevor Kowalski.
Jan 03, 202351:39

S5 BONUS || Lit Hist: Mercer Mayer || Year-End Wrap-Up || Kathleen Marple Kalb
S5 BONUS || Lit Hist: Mercer Mayer || Year-End Wrap-Up || Kathleen Marple Kalb
In the last episode of 2022, Kat talks about Mercer Mayer who was born On This Day in Literary History. Then she wraps up the year with book recommendations, books she can't wait to read in 2023, a reflection on two things that every writer should do going forward, and then she chats with author and radio anchor Kathleen Marple Kalb about:
Her recent three-book deal
Querying advice
Launching her debut during the pandemic
Short stories
Writing for radio shows
Pivoting back to fiction
Her various mystery books
How her role in radio inspired some stories
A killer first line
Pen names
Juggling writing two series
You can find Kathleen on her website at www.kathleenmarplekalb.com, on Twitter @KalbMarple and @NikkiKnightVT, and on Instagram @kathleenmarplekalb. She's also on Facebook @KathleenMarpleKalb and @NikkiKnightAuthor.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
For guest inquiries: please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until Sep 2023.
To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, please fill out this form.
To recommend a book or give a shoutout to someone who helped you on your writing journey, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details here.
Signup for my newsletter here.
Music: Head Up (Sixteen Wheelers), Twenty Eleven (Rocket Jr.), Overtaken by Kids (Mac Taboel) (epidemicsound.com), Bathtime Funk (All Good Folk) (uppbeat.io)
Dec 30, 202244:31

S5E4 || Literary History || Using Strange Experiences in Writing || Author MK Brownlow
S5E4 || Literary History || Using Strange Experiences in Writing || Author MK Brownlow
In today's episode, we take a look at a very popular book that was published by Lewis Carroll On This Day in Literary History. Then, Kat chats with PB, YA, and Adult author MK Brownlow about:
Having an all-agent agent
Being an author/illustrator vs one or the other
Illustrating a book for American Idol contestant and musician Crystal Bauersocks
How the publishing aspect works for picture books
Getting stuck on her YA novel for a decade and how she got out of it
Staying in the right mindset for each genre you’re writing in
Nailing the voice for YA characters
Getting writing time in as a stay-at-home-mom
How she got her agent
Advice for the query trenches
Including illustrator notes (or art notes) in a picture book query letter
What a book dummy is
You can connect with Michelle on Twitter @MK_Brownlow, Instagram @mk_brownlow_author, and her website at michellekemperbrownlow.blogspot.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
For guest inquiries: please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until September 2023.
To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, please fill out this form.
To recommend a book, or to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely on your path to publication, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here.
Signup for my newsletter here.
Music in this episode: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io). Lit Hist segment: Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers, The Best Way Out is Through by Trevor Kowalski, Gaze Into the Mirror by The Fly Guy Five, and Lucky Guess by Trevor Kowalski.
Dec 27, 202252:25

S5 BONUS || Lit Hist Norman McLean || Books to Film || Author Mark Tedesco
S5 BONUS || Lit Hist Norman McLean || Books to Film || Author Mark Tedesco
In today's bonus episode, Kat answers a listener question, talks about Norman McLean in This Day in Literary History, and chats with author Mark Tedesco about:
Themes or beliefs brought into relationships and how that analysis inspired some of his writing
How people can relate to universal themes in books regardless of their backgrounds or current situations
Moving to Italy and his experience with community and relationships
How his book, Stories From Pulgia, immerses the reader into a word of culture and community, past and present
How he gets his students interested in history lessons by bringing creativity and art into the classroom
Going from idea to draft to publishing
Self-criticism
His experience with publishing
Pros and cons of North American publishers vs UK publishers
His blog on living in Italy and how it helps his book sales
What he’s working on next
His advice to writers
Mark can be found on his website at marktedesco.com, @MarkTedesco5 on Twitter and @markftedesco on Instagram.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, please fill out this form.
Signup for my newsletter here.
To recommend a book, or to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely on your path to publication, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! Details here.
Music in this episode: Intro and exit: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io). This Day in Literary History intro/exit: Head Up by Sixteen Wheelers. During Lit Hit segment: Solstice Meander by American Legion (both from epidemicsound.com)
Dec 23, 202201:05:50

S5E3 || Literary History || Controversial Themes in Writing || Author Linda L. Richards
S5E3 || Literary History || Controversial Themes in Writing || Author Linda L. Richards
This Day in Literary History: John Steinbeck. Kat discusses controversial books and themes. Then, she chats with author Linda Richards about:
How her Noir at the Bar readings inspired her to turn her short story into a novel
How that novel turned into a series
How research for her nonfiction children’s book inspired the backdrop for her fourth novel in her current series
Drafting longhand and then transcribing it
How journalism has helped her fiction writing
The “what if” in writing
Having her book optioned for film
Giving your reader the tools to actively participate in your story
January Magazine
The secret to writing a bestselling novel—as told by the experts
Her path to agents and publication
What’s changed in her writing process over time
Listen to your agent!
The secret to successfully publishing
Advice for writers
Linda can be found at her website: www.lindalrichards.com, as well as on Twitter @lindalrichards, Instagram @lindalrichards, and Facebook @lindalrichardsauthor.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
For guest inquiries: please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until the end of August 2023.
To submit a question to be answered on the podcast, please fill out this form.
To recommend a book, or to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely on your path to publication, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here.
Music in this episode: Intro and exit: Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeats.io). Throughout This Day in Literary History segment: Dust Bowl and Heads Will Roll by Walt Adams.
Dec 20, 202244:04

S5 BONUS: This Day in Literary History || Author Mark Schorr
S5 BONUS: This Day in Literary History || Author Mark Schorr
Today is a special day in literary history! Listen to a new brief segment on the pod: This Day in Literary History! Then, catch Kat's convo with author Mark Schorr about:
His path to writing
Drawing from real-life experiences
Research
Going “incognito” to do internet searches
How federally-funded ESP experiments in the 1970s inspired his newest novel, The Mastermind
Getting nominated for an Edgar Award for his first book, Red Diamond Private Eye
The process of nominations and picking an Edgar winner
Getting followed and questioned by the FBI
The entire process of having novels optioned for film (and the payment that comes with it!)
What he’s working on next
Advice for writers
Boiling your book down to one word!
Connect with Mark on Twitter @schorrm and on his website at markschorr.com
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
Submit a question to the podcast: click here.
Recommend a book or give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely or to your readers in general: record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here.
Submit an interesting literary fact for This Day in Literary History: click here.
Music credits: Intro and Exit music and in between segments is Bathtime Funk by All Good Folks (uppbeat.io). Music during This Day in Literary History: A Ten-Course Banquet by David Celeste (epidemicsound.com)
Dec 16, 202242:38

S5E2 || John Byrne Barry || Jill Culiner
S5E2 || John Byrne Barry || Jill Culiner
Today's episode features two authors: John Byrne Barry and Jill Culinar, who share their fascinating writing and publishing experiences and amazing tips.
John and I discuss:
When I Killed My Father: An Assisted-Suicide Family Thriller
Putting humour into difficult subjects
The importance of having hard conversations with your family
The necessary components of a good book blurb
Having the setting accomplish more than one thing
Character voice: what it is and how to get it right
Tips for crafting stories that deal with controversial or difficult topics
Jill and I discuss:
Being a member of writing organizations in various places around the world, such as Crime Writers of Canada
How living in different countries has played a part in her writing
A Contrary Journey, published in 2021 and A Room in Blake’s Folley, published in 2022
Writing romance to counterbalance the serious nature of her nonfiction writing
Telling music and travel stories on Radio France
Her incredible photography exhibition and how she uncovered forgotten and buried truths in history
Her critical art in her “chaotic and strange” museum-house
The storytelling podcast she hosts
Advice for writers incorporating history or travel into their stories
John: http://www.johnbyrnebarry.com Twitter @johnbyrnebarry Facebook: johnbyrnebarryauthor
Jill: http://www.jill-culiner.com Blog: https://jewish-histories.over-blog.com Storytelling Podcast: https://soundcloud.com/j-arlene-culiner
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
If you're a writer or reader who wants to recommend a book, or if you're an author who wants to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely or to your readers in general, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here
Dec 13, 202253:50

S5 BONUS || Writing Group Shoutout || Listener Synopsis Question || Author Patty Tavormina
S5 BONUS || Writing Group Shoutout || Listener Synopsis Question || Author Patty Tavormina
Today Kat shouts out to her new writing group and answers a listener's question about synopses. Then, she chats with scientist-turned-author Patty Tavormina about:
Worldbuilding
Building an historical world set in the future
Pivoting into writing after retirement
How teachers can damage a child’s creativity
Her experiences with self-publishing
Marketing and promotion tips
Pulling her career in science into her writing
Putting a spin on genre expectations and elements
Writing groups
Advice for putting something unique into a genre
Patty can be found at www.pltavormina.com, on Twitter @pltavormina, and on IG @pltavormina.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until August/September 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
If you're a writer or reader who wants to recommend a book, or if you're an author who wants to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely or to your readers in general, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here
Dec 09, 202241:01

S5E1 || Knowing Your Genre || Author Henry Corrigan
S5E1 || Knowing Your Genre || Author Henry Corrigan
We're starting Season 5! Today I talk about knowing your genre, why it's important, and what to do if you haven't figured it out. Then, I chat with author Henry Corrigan about:
What the American Dream is and how it’s been skewed by society
How his nightmares inspired his novel, A Man in Pieces
His publication experience with Dark Stroke Books
How hybrid publishing works
Having a book that sits in different genres
How to juggle drafting in different genres/categories
Meeting genre expectations, trope expectations, etc.
How writing has helped him with his mental health
His advice on the process of writing through mental health issues
Accepting the idea that failure is inevitable, but never let it stop you from trying again the next day
You can find Henry online at www.henrycorrigan.blogspot.com, Twitter @HenryCorrigan, and Facebook @henry.corrigan.35.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
If you're a writer or reader who wants to recommend a book, or if you're an author who wants to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely or to your readers in general, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here
Dec 06, 202258:08

BADASSWRITERS TRAILER
BADASSWRITERS TRAILER
Oh, hi! It's me! I'm just plopping this here so new listeners can get an idea of what the #badasswriters podcast is all about. :)
Thanks for listening!
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
If you're a writer or reader who wants to recommend a book, or if you're an author who wants to give a shoutout to someone who helped you immensely or to your readers in general, record a short voice memo and email it to badasswriters@kathleenfoxx.com, and I'll air it on the pod! More details on my website here.
Nov 30, 202203:28

S4E12 || ONE YEAR PODIVERSARY EPISODE!
S4E12 || ONE YEAR PODIVERSARY EPISODE!
It has been ONE YEAR since the #badasswriters podcast began! Can you believe it? Today, I tell you how this all got started and answer some questions ya'll have asked me including who I am, how I got here, why I do what I do, how I find the time, what I'm working on, plus dedications and thank yous and what I'm looking forward to in 2023.
Then, I highlight advice from a few of the past year's episodes, including:
the importance of the writing community (author Hannah Sharpe, S1E5)
how to prepare for a debut book launch (author Jessica Payne, S1E6)
elevator pitches and the author + agent relationship (literary agent Cece Lyra, P.S. Literary, S2 Bonus)
comps (literary agent Claire Harris, P.S. Literary, S2 Bonus)
book distribution, marketing, and diversity in publishing (CEO Alex Brown of Rising Action, S3E1)
top five tips for writing flash fiction (author and lit mag editor Tommy Dean, S2E3)
nerding out about archival research (author Amy Tector, S2 Bonus)
opening pages and chapter endings (international bestselling thriller author Hannah Mary McKinnon, S2 Bonus)
advice for younger writers (poet Joseph Fasano, S2 Bonus)
when to insert info, worldbuilding, and line-level writing (bestselling author Bianca Marais, S3E10)
nailing first lines and writing what you fear (author S. M. Freedman, S4E6)
trends in bookselling and finding comps at bookstores (bookseller and author Jan Scott, S4E11)
I wish I could highlight something from all the amazing authors I've had on the pod! Thank you all so much for joining me, whether as a guest or a listener. I wouldn't be here without any of you!
Episodes are booked until summer, at which point I'll be taking a break to spend time with my kids, and I'm already booking for late August interviews!
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
Regular Episode Music: Bathtime Funk - All Good Folks (uppbeat.io)
Other Episode Music: Sad News - Emily Rubye || Violet Sky (Instrumental Version) - Phello || The Clearing - Golden Anchor || Dron SSFX Whisper - SFX Producer || Elimination Round - Philip Ayers (all from epidemicsound.io)
Nov 29, 202201:16:10

S4 BONUS || Patreon & First Page Listener Questions || Indie Author Patrick Scott
S4 BONUS || Patreon & First Page Listener Questions || Indie Author Patrick Scott
In today's bonus episode, Kat answers two listeners' questions about Patreon and writing the first page. Then she chats with indie author Patrick Scott about:
The two series he’s working on with Atmosphere Press
Recent titles Big Beasts and Unburied
His experience with hybrid publishing
The importance of getting input in your cover
The entire process of hybrid publishing from start to finish
The passion he has for writing stories
Flow state—what it is and how to achieve it
His advice for writers in any genre
The book that Patrick mentions is Daily Rituals: How Artists Work and the app he mentions is Focus @ Will.
Patrick can be found on his website at www.patrickscottbooks.com. His Amazon author page is here.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are now full until mid-August 2023.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
Nov 25, 202249:06

S4E11 || Indie Bookstores || Author & Bookseller Jan Scott
S4E11 || Indie Bookstores || Author & Bookseller Jan Scott
Today's exciting episode is all about indie bookstores! Kat chats with author and bookseller Jan Scott, owner of Betty's Bookshelf in a cute little town called St. Mary's in Southwestern Ontario. You'll learn all kinds of things about:
How she decided to open up Betty’s Bookshelf
The book selection process
Comp titles
Indie bookstore author events
How she supports local self-published authors
Trends in the book industry
How geographic area may affect book sale trends
Collaborating with local businesses
Curating social media posts
The inspiration behind her bookstore’s name, Betty’s Bookshelf
The inspiration behind her cookbooks
Food fiction
How she got her agent, Carly Watters (do we gush about her? yes we do!)
You can find out more about Jan, her books, and Betty's Bookshelf on websites www.janscott.ca and www.bettysbookshelf.com. On Instagram, she's @jannisescott1 and @bettysbookshelf.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are about 6-7 months in advance.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
Nov 22, 202244:41

S4 BONUS || Author Fran Hawthorne
S4 BONUS || Author Fran Hawthorne
In today's bonus episode, Kat chats with award-winning non-fiction and fiction author, Fran Hawthorn. Topics covered include:
Her newest book, I Meant to Tell You, published Nov 15/22
Writing a four-generation family saga
How writing twice as many characters as you need in a multi-generational novel can help inform the present story
How her Jewish ancestry inspired her debut novel, The Heirs
The two defining moments in her writing career
Learning and improving with every book you write
The story behind Finish This Story, published in a contest at 8 years old
Advice for historical fiction writers on researching
Fran can be found on her website at www.hawthornewriter.com, on Twitter @hawthornewriter, and on Instagram @hawthornewriter.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are about 6-7 months in advance.
If you’d like to submit a question to the podcast, please fill out this form.
Nov 18, 202235:09

S4E10 || Writing Organically || Listener Q's || Phil Rowlands
S4E10 || Writing Organically || Listener Q's || Phil Rowlands
In today's episode, Kat goes over how to weave elements into your story organically with some examples and a craft book recommendation. Then, she answers two listeners' questions sent in via the submission form (link below), covering exposition (which turned into a bit of a mini-course on showing vs. telling) and comps from debut authors. Afterward, she chats with author, screenwriter, actor, producer, and publishing house exec, Phil Rowlands. Topics covered include:
his newest novel, Time Slip
His pivot into novel writing
Differences between screenwriting and novel writing
The inspiration behind his thrillers
Writing from a character of the opposite sex
The embryo of a story
Benefits of belonging to writing organizations
“Funky Medics”
How humour can help drive home an important message
Why writers do what we do
Projects he’s currently working on
Starting up Diamond Crime indie publishing house
Having eggs in many baskets and how to give each the focus it needs to succeed
You can connect with Phil on Twitter @PhilRowlands2 and @diamond_crime, on IG @diamond_crime_publishing, and on the websites www.philrowlandswriter.com and www.diamondcrime.uk.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are about 6-7 months in advance.
If you would like to submit a question to be answered on the show, please fill out this form.
Nov 15, 202201:07:21

S4E9 || Beta Readers || Author and Screenwriter Josh Senter
S4E9 || Beta Readers || Author and Screenwriter Josh Senter
In today's episode, Kat talks a bit about what beta readers are (as well as what critique partners do) and why it's so important to have them. Are you participating in NaNo? Line up some beta readers for when you're finished drafting! Then, she chats with Golden Globe Winner, Emmy Award-nominated writer, and novelist Joshua Senter about:
His new book, Still The Night Call
What led him to write this novel
Societal impacts on men's mental health and how desperation turns into radicalization
Writing complex characters
How writing for Desperate Housewives carried into everything he writes
Going back to his Missouri roots to write stories
Breaking the rules of storytelling in self-published books
The opportunities arising out of the changing landscape of the publishing industry
Making stories personal
The differences between writing for the screen and writing novels
Distancing yourself from your work to come back at it with a fresh perspective
How getting an agent is like a marriage
Having different outlets for your creativity
You can find out more about Josh on Instagram @joshua_senter and GoodReads. His website is www.joshuasenter.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please note interview bookings are about 6-7 months in advance.
Nov 08, 202250:41

S4 BONUS || Book Coach Megan Clancy || Editor Jenny Hubert
S4 BONUS || Book Coach Megan Clancy || Editor Jenny Hubert
Today Kat chats with Book Coach Megan Clancy and then Freelance Editor Jenny Hubert. Topics covered include:
How Megan became an Author Accelerator Book Coach
What she offers her clients
A typical book coach-client relationship
Brainstorming!
Plotting vs. Pantsing
How travelling helped her write
Staying on track with writing your story
Thinking counts as writing
Dealing with rejections
Writing processes
Showing your kids you’re chasing your passions
Fave craft books and editing books
The Book Editor Matchmaker, Jenny's book
The biggest reason that an editor-client relationship doesn’t work out
Red flags and green flags when looking for an editor
Myths about the editing process
Jenny’s background as an editor and the services she provides
The difference between ghostwriting and book doctoring
TikTok presence
Editors need editors, too
Looking for patterns in feedback
Biggest piece of advice for writers looking for an editor
Megan can be found at www.meganaclancy.com, on Twitter @mclancyauthor and on Instagram @mclancyauthor.
Jenny can be found at jennyhubertedits.com, on Instagram @grammarwithjenny, and on TikTok @sweeter_than_fiction.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. (Please note: interview bookings are about 6-7 months in advance)
Nov 04, 202257:02

S4E8 || Notes on NaNoWriMo || Author Ed Di Gangi
S4E8 || Notes on NaNoWriMo || Author Ed Di Gangi
In today's episode, Kat talks about NaNoWriMo; what it is, how to do it, and some tips to set yourself up for success. Then she interviews author Ed Di Gangi, who tells a fascinating story of how he found his birth mother, who she turned out to be, and how he turned her story into a book. Topics cover include:
How he discovered who his birth mother was and how it became a book
His path to publication for The Gift Best Given
How adoption is represented in his book
Writing groups
Editing processes
What he learned about writing and publishing that he will change the next time around
Starting the marketing well before the book comes out
Meeting some people who knew his birth mother
His next project
Not being afraid to reach out and ask people for information
You can find Ed on his website, on Facebook, and on Instagram @digangiauthor.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Note that Kat is currently booking about 6-7 months in advance for interviews.
Nov 01, 202248:13

S4 BONUS || 2 Pitches || Author Nick Holmberg
S4 BONUS || 2 Pitches || Author Nick Holmberg
In today's bonus episode, Kat critiques two pitches, which wraps up the pitches in the submission inbox. It'll be left open for a little longer, but as major pitch events are coming to a close after #MoodPitch next week, it will be temporarily closing as well, but reopening next year for more critiques. After that, she chat with author Nick Holmberg about:
His debut, The Emergent
Research
Having beta readers help with sensitive areas
Second-person POV
The process of applying for book awards/contests
Winning an award and celebrating
How this book came to life after 19 years of working on it
Cutting from 170K > 80K words
How his writing changed over time and with his travels and as life happened
The secret to making writing work
How music helps him write
His blog, www.nickholmbergwrites.com
The hybrid publishing process
Raising money for editing and publishing through https://publishizer.com
Connecting with other creatives
“Light outlining”
Nick can be found on his website at www.nickholmbergwrites.com. He's on Instagram @nickholmbergwrites and Facebook @nickholmbergwrites.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form. Please know that in most cases, interviews are booked about six months in advance.
Oct 28, 202254:34

S4E7 || Pitch Critiques || Author Rus Wornom
S4E7 || Pitch Critiques || Author Rus Wornom
Today Kat critiques three pitches, then chats with author Rus Wornom about:
Where (or who!) the idea for Ghostflowers came from
Classic rock ’n’ roll in books
Researching for historical fiction
The “sculpting” part of drafting
How he got his agent
Staying in touch with the market
Novels with graphics, etc.
His (yet) unpublished book, The Enigma Club
Recommendations for craft books: Dean Koontz’ How to Write a Bestselling Book. Danse Macabre by Stephen King
How creating art and books is similar
Writing workshops
The worst piece of writing advice
You can follow Rus on Twitter @RusWornom and on IG at @ruswornom. His website is www.ruswornom.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
#MoodPitch WEBINAR REGISTRATION: https://moodpitch.org/november2022-moodpitch-webinar-registration/
Oct 25, 202251:49

S4E6 || 4 Pitch Critiques || Author S. M. Freedman
S4E6 || 4 Pitch Critiques || Author S. M. Freedman
In today's episode, Kat critiques four pitches and then chats with Vancouver-based psychological thriller author S.M. Freedman about:
her new book, out today: Blood Atonement
the unlisted area in BC that helped inspire this story
her research on FLDS and psychological disorders
reaching out to people for personal experiences
nailing that first line
excavating your story
prologues
how to decipher your research and know what to cut and what’s important to the story
how training as a P.I. and in acting helped her understand the psychology behind people’s motivations
the submission process
what she’s working on next
pivoting from adult to YA
focusing on what you can control instead of dwelling on what you can’t
the querying process and what her experiences have been
the agent-author relationship
her excellent advice to authors of thrillers
S.M. Freedman can be found on her website at www.smfreedman.com. She is on Twitter @SMFreedman and Instagram @smfreedmanauthor.
The article by Jane Friedman that Kat mentions is at https://www.janefriedman.com/how-to-find-compelling-comps-for-your-book/
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Registration for the #MoodPitch Live Query Critique and #AskAgent Webinar with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon can be found on our website (SOON) at https://moodpitch.org/november2022-moodpitch-webinar-registration/. (If the link doesn't work it's because we are in the process of updating it with the registration information and link as soon as it's live; please check back in a few hours.)
Oct 18, 202247:27

S4 BONUS || Pitches || Karen Heenan || Garon Whited
S4 BONUS || Pitches || Karen Heenan || Garon Whited
Today's bonus episode features three pitch critiques. Then I chat with authors Karen Heenan and Garon Whited!
Karen and I cover:
her new book, Coming Apart
re-discovering her own town from the Depression era
the differences between writing in various eras of historical fiction
writing linked standalones
her Tudor series
ensuring you’re creating well-rounded characters
choosing the right POV
creating fictional characters vs creating fictionalized characters based on real figures
advice for writers particularly in historical fiction (but in any genre, really!)
how tv and film can be helpful in writing
a good reason to analyze and re-write the beginning of your draft
Garon and I chat about:
his newst book, Pheobe’s Tale: From His Shadow
his Nightlord series
his short stories
differences between writing the big stuff and writing the smaller stuff
“inspiration particles”
interconnected series vs. standalones in a series
tips and tricks for worldbuilding
the natural evolution of a character’s development
Karen can be found at www.karenheenan.com. She's also on Twitter @karen_heenan, IG @karen.heenan, and FB @karenheenanwriter.
Garon can be found at www.garonwhited.com. He's also on Twitter @garonwhited, IG @garonwhited, and FB @author.garon.whited.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Oct 14, 202201:11:05

S4E5 || 4 Pitches || Gary Goldstein
S4E5 || 4 Pitches || Gary Goldstein
Today I critique four pitches as I'm trying to get to as many as I can before #PitDark and #MoodPitch, both of which are coming up fast. Then, I chat with author, screenwriter, stageplay writer, and journalist, Gary Goldstein. We talk about:
his newest book, The Mother I Never Had, and the inspiration behind it
relationships between parents and children
the “what if” ideas
keeping loved ones alive in our memories and in stories
his experience with publishing during the pandemic
committing to writing a page or two a day to help get the first draft done
the difference between writing for tv/film and writing novels and screenplays
his author influences
his career in journalism, screenplays, stageplays, and novels and how they all inform each other
not comparing yourself to your peers
bridging the seed of the idea, the trajectory of the story, and the final product
being open to feedback
small steps in publishing
You can connect with Gary on his website at www.garygoldsteinLA.com, on Twitter @GaryGoldsteinLA and on Instagram @garygoldsteinla.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Oct 11, 202201:02:20

S4 BONUS || Phil M Williams
S4 BONUS || Phil M Williams
We cover so much in today's #badass bonus interview with multi-genre author Phil M. Williams!
why people keep turning pages
relatability with the good, bad, and ugly in people
inspiration behind his thrillers
running a permaculture farm and writing a children’s book about it
teaching children through books
the benefits of gardening for writers
writing authentic sociopathic characters
the one trait that all sociopaths share
the book that can help a writer understand how a sociopath operates
using personal experience to enhance the realism of fiction
having empathy for where you’re drawing story inspiration from
the hero archetype and how to get it right
his drafting process
the publishing process
marketing as an author
using Kindle Vella
Stanley Milgram experiments and how they inspired one of his books
his new thrillers coming out
advice to writers re: one genre or multi-genres
Follow Phil on Twitter @PhilWBooks, Instagram @philwilliamsauthor, and his website at www.philwbooks.com. The book he mentions that's an excellent resource for learning how sociopaths operate is The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Oct 07, 202257:33

S4E4 || Sensory Details || Pitches || Jowita Bydlowska
S4E4 || Sensory Details || Pitches || Jowita Bydlowska
Fair warning: There are a few f-bombs dropped in today's episode in case you have little ears listening! Kat talks about the importance of adding sensory details to your writing and how to do it. Three listeners' pitches are critiqued. Then, author Jowita Bydlowska joins Kat to talk about:
her newest book, Possessed
tying in important themes
how the dating scene inspired this novel
writing linearly vs piecing bits of the story together
working from even a simple outline to help not get lost in the work
research rabbit holes
telling the best story you can by doing thorough research
using creepy real-life experiences in your story
adding in sensory details that you've experienced while travelling to the setting of your story (or anywhere!)
writing believable characters so your readers can connect emotionally
empathy in writing
finding joy in writing
digesting feedback
her path to publication including three agents and publishing with Dundurn Press
what an agent can do for an author
pros and cons of working with bigger and smaller publishers
the importance of jiving with your agent and editor
You can find more information about Jowita on her website at www.jowitabydlowska.com. She's on Twitter @happynotsad1 and Instagram @polaroidvirus.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Oct 04, 202239:27

S4 BONUS || Memoir, Fiction, and Indie Publishing || Susan Dennis
S4 BONUS || Memoir, Fiction, and Indie Publishing || Susan Dennis
In today's bonus episode, I chat with indie author Susan Dennis, who published a memoir about her life with her late photographer husband, Charles Dennis, and who also now writes fiction. We chat about:
her newest book, The Secret Field
having aging characters in a story
her fascination with buried treasures in history
the depths of research
knowing the backstory even if it’s not on the page
her memoir, The Swing
how she decided she wanted to write and share her memoir with the world
the book doctors
Shimmering Images by Lisa Dale Norton as a memoir craft resource
adding humour into your memoir
writing a memoir that is not sad, but has sadness in it
the most challenging aspect of crafting a memoir
how to pack 25 years' worth of story into a single book
how to get your reader to feel what you’re feeling and understand why you’re writing the memoir
the importance of finding a good editor to make your story glow
You can find more information about Susan, her books, and Charles' photography at www.susandennisauthor.com. She's on Instagram @_susandennis_.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Sep 30, 202230:17

S4E3 || Writing Retreats || TSNOTYAW Thank you || Pitches || Daniel Paisner
S4E3 || Writing Retreats || TSNOTYAW Thank you || Pitches || Daniel Paisner
In today's episode, I talk about how amazing writer retreats and conferences are, how important it is to keep learning all you can about your craft, and I give a huge shoutout to The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast hosts for putting together such a terrific weekend retreat for us. Then I move on to this week's pitch critiques. After, I talk with "the world's most prolific ghost," Daniel Paisner, ghostwriter of 70+ books, 17 of which have been bestsellers. His new novel, Balloon Dog, came out this past summer. We chat about:
books that “take off” and which ones don’t
what inspired the novel
capturing the voices of the tellers of stories as a ghostwriter vs capturing the voices of his own fictional characters
monetizing your writing skills
the pivot point of a writer
the life of a ghostwriter
embracing the term “ghostwriter”
working with the celebrities he’s writing for
his podcast, As Told To: The Ghostwriting Podcast
his advice to newer writers who want to monetize their passion for stories
Daniel can be found on his website at www.danielpaisner.com, Twitter @DanielPaisner, and Facebook at DanielPaisnerBooks.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Sep 27, 202246:09

S4E2 || On Stephen King || Bev Vincent
S4E2 || On Stephen King || Bev Vincent
Especially for fans of Stephen King, today's episode first covers two pitch critiques sent in by listeners. Then, I chat with Canadian author Bev Vincent about the books he's written on King and his works, meeting and working with King, being approached by a publisher to work on a book, how memorable characters connect us with stories, the "why now" in publishing, nonfiction vs. fiction writing, what catapulted Bev into his career, the benefits of being a member in writing organizations, what he's working on now, music while writing and revising, and advice for writers.
Bev's newest book, THE STEPHEN KING ULTIMATE COMPANION: A COMPLETE EXPLORATION OF HIS WORK, LIFE, AND INFLUENCES, launched on Sep 13/22.
You can find out more about Bev and his work via his website at www.bevvincent.com. He's also on Twitter @BevVincent.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Sep 20, 202240:22

S4 BONUS || Killer First Lines || C.S. O'Cinneide
S4 BONUS || Killer First Lines || C.S. O'Cinneide
Today I talk a little bit about why it's so important to have a killer opening line. Then, I chat with Canadian Edgar-nominated author C.S. O'Cinneide about:
her newest novel, Eve’s Rib
how she researched for writing a teenage girl
how to nail the opening line to a novel
writing themes into your story
indie publishing with Dundurn Press
her Edgar nomination experience in NYC
her blog, She Kills Lit
writing and publishing during the pandemic
her experience walking the Camino de Santiago and how it inspired her first published book, Petra's Ghost
her recommendation for writing a structure that will make readers keep turning the pages—whether you’re a pantser or a plotter
Kat answers Carole’s question: “Why badass writers?”
moving around in genres
signing with no agent, then getting an agent after getting a book deal
getting reviews from readers
You can connect with Carole on Twitter @SheKillsLit, on Instagram @ocinneide1, and on her website, www.shekillslit.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On Instagram, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Sep 16, 202246:05

S4E1 Pitches and Critiques || Less BS & More Joy with Author Rachael Amarante
S4E1 Pitches and Critiques || Less BS & More Joy with Author Rachael Amarante
In E1 of my fourth season, I officially start with my pitch critique segments. First, I cover the essential parts of a pitch, then I break down the trailer and premise for the movie YESTERDAY (which was really fun!) and create a Twitter-sized pitch out of the trailer version. Then, I critique two pitches sent in by two writers. After, I chat with author, coach, motivational speaker, and mother of four, Rachael Amarante. We talk about:
society’s expectations of women and mothers
how our successes in all facets of life stem from how we view ourselves and the world from the inside out
choosing to move forward instead of always looking back to what was “normal”
collaborating with other authors on a project
working on her memoir
not pigeonholing yourself into any one genre
allowing yourself to “winter” to figure out what your goals are and make a plan to reach them
how “me time” is a necessity
looking for and recognizing joy in your everyday life
advice for mom writers who struggle to stay on course with their writing goals
using writing sprints and writing prompts to help your creativity
the bs part of motherhood
book recommendations
The book Rachael mentions about writing proposals is called How to Write a Book Proposal (5th edition) by Jody Rein and Michael Larsen.
You can connect with Rachael on IG @rachael_amarante, Twitter @RachaelAmarante, and her website at www.theawakeningmotherhoodproject.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and @moodpitchers. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com and www.moodpitch.org
If you're interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out this form.
If you would like to submit a pitch for critique on the show, please fill out this form.
Sep 13, 202201:04:52

S3E12 || Music and Literature || Christy Alexander Hallberg
S3E12 || Music and Literature || Christy Alexander Hallberg
Today's episode is all about the blend of music and literature, what these two mediums have in common, and why rock fiction should be more of a thing! Then, Kat chats with author Christy Alexander Hallberg about:
her book, Searching for Jimmy Page
how we use myth and art to create our own personal narratives
the power music has to create emotional experiences
the inspiration behind the book
how grief and a pilgrimage led to her writing Searching for Jimmy Page
how in-person location research can help sharpen the details in the writing
letting the characters tell the writer where they need to go
outlining vs. not outlining
the most challenging part about writing
the editing process
fast drafting vs taking years to write a book
her publishing experience
how to sift through feedback
the new #RockisLit podcast
rock fiction recommendations
having song lyrics in a manuscript
advice to writers who are writing about music or are including it in any way in their manuscripts
Christy can be found on her website at www.christyalexanderhallberg.com. She's on Twitter @ChristyHallberg and Instagram at @christyhallberg.
Kat can be found on Twitter @_badasswriters @kfoxx_writes @FoxxEditorial and on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Sep 06, 202250:03

S3E11 || Updates || Ruhi Parikh
S3E11 || Updates || Ruhi Parikh
Today's episode begins with some housekeeping items, such as pitch submissions for critique on the podcast, what a pitch is, MoodPitch details, podcast interview booking information, editing packages, and what YOU would love to hear covered on the podcast. Then, I talk with teen debut author Ruhi Parikh about:
her debut novel, Subversion, a YA dystopian story
what made her decide to publish this story now
how important it is to have supporters to champion you and your books
her next book, Conversion, coming out 09/20/22!
learning your strengths and weaknesses
finding the time to write as a student
her writing style and favourite elements to write in stories
most challenging element to write and how she works through it
her experiences with publishing
writing on WattPad and how it inspired her to explore writing more books and begin publishing them
what is WattPad?
how and why she started a TikTok account and how it can help authors
advice for teen writers who are embarking on a writing career
You can find Ruhi on TikTok @writingwithruhi.
Kat is on Twitter @_badasswriters, @kfoxx_writes, and @FoxxEditorial. On IG, she's @badasswriters_podcast, @kathleenfoxxwrites, and @FoxxEditorial. Websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com, www.foxxeditorial.com, and www.moodpitch.org.
Aug 30, 202223:23

S3E10 || Epistolary Content || Bianca Marais
S3E10 || Epistolary Content || Bianca Marais
It's the episode we've all been waiting for! Today I'm so honoured to feature an interview with the inimitable Bianca Marias about her new book, THE WITCHES OF MOONSHYNE MANOR, out today! We cover so many topics, such as:
the premise and inspiration behind TWOMM
writing in multiple genres—and why
her unique writing process with TWOMM and her agent’s feedback
being the right kind of ally and championing relevant social issues in the right way by getting sensitivity readers
calibrating your manuscript according to readers’ reactions in a collaborative process of writing
her transition to Cece Lyra as her agent
knowing when to reveal information in your story
how to properly introduce a huge ensemble cast
worldbuilding tips and tricks to make your story and characters believable
a special article written for Harper Collins about her characters (that's also out today!)
what she’s working on next
what her author goals are
her teaching plans
helping others edit their own work and seeing stories come alive
the most underestimated (and probably the most important!) piece of advice for writers
So much to cover! I also talk a little bit about epistolary content in fiction writing.
Bianca can be found on Twitter @BiancaM_author and @TSNOTYAW and on Instagram @biancamarais_author and @the_shit_about_writing. Her website is www.biancamarais.com and The Shit No One Tells You About Writing website is www.theshitaboutwriting.com, where you can find the episodes, information about courses, their upcoming virtual writer's retreat, and more. (P.S. If you haven't registered for the writer's retreat in September, this is your encouragement to do so--it's going to be AMAZING!)
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial. On Instagram, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.FoxxEditorial.com. For more information about the aforementioned #MoodPitch Twitter pitch event, check out www.moodpitch.org and @moodpitchers. The tweet with the google form to submit your pitch for feedback on the show is here.
Aug 23, 202243:33

S3E9 || Writing Memoirs with author Debi Lewis
S3E9 || Writing Memoirs with author Debi Lewis
Today's episode features memoirist and novelist Debi Lewis, where we talk about her newly released memoir, Kitchen Medicine: How I Fed My Daughter out of Failure to Thrive. We also chat about:
why she wrote a memoir about her daughter’s struggles with eating
the unique research she used to help draw an accurate roadmap not just for herself and her family but to share with other families
important things you must consider when writing a memoir
having good and bad in your villains
the hardest part about writing a memoir
her path to publication
switching gears—and agents—for fiction
the differences between submitting proposals and writing query letters and what to include in a query when you’ve already had rep/published a book
her fiction series in progress
the three questions that must be answered in a memoir proposal and tips for writing them
recording your own audiobook
You can connect with Debi on Twitter @growthesunshine and on Instagram @growthesunshine. Her website is www.debilewis.com.
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial. On Instagram, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxxwrites.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Aug 16, 202240:44

S3E8 Content Warnings and Writing Difficult Subjects || Narrative Non-Fiction with Arnie Bernstein
S3E8 Content Warnings and Writing Difficult Subjects || Narrative Non-Fiction with Arnie Bernstein
First, Kat discusses how to write difficult subject matter into your fiction or non-fiction manuscripts and the importance of putting a content warning on any of your work that might have something triggering for your readers. Then, listen as she chats with nonfiction author, teacher, editor, and coach, Arnie Bernstein. Topics covered include:
what drew him to writing about these forgotten stories in America’s history
how he structured his book, Bath Massacre
the research process for his narrative nonfiction
interviewing survivors
how he knew this was a story he could and should tell
writing a “fake” villain vs. writing a real one
his love of typewriters
the writing craft book he can’t live without
his blog series on how to do research for narrative nonfiction writing
tips on writing narrative nonfiction
Please note there is talk of some of the subject matter covered in some of his books, including America's first school bombing/mass killing, and some German-American history/swastikas/nazism.
Arnie can be found on Twitter @realarnieb and his website is www.arniebernstein.com.
Kathleen is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial. On Instagram, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Aug 02, 202201:00:25

S3E7 || Voicey-ness || Aleksandra Tryniecka
S3E7 || Voicey-ness || Aleksandra Tryniecka
In today's episode, Kat covers the difference between authorial and character voice and explains some of the things that can help you establish both. Then, she chats with Polish author Aleksandra Trynieka about her newly published children's book, BUNKY AND THE WALMS. Topics discussed include:
how she started with writing, constructing a reality and adding magic to it
how having a stuffed animal from a novel can help a child feel connected to the character(s)
what was important to her when looking for a publisher
her historical work-in-progress and the research that comes with it
writing to a word count and following a routine vs. writing spontaneously
reading children’s books to keep the child alive in all of us and as a way to introduce beauty into the reality we live in
the responsibility of a writer
advice for writers who are writing and illustrating their books, or who are wondering about illustrating their own books
Aleksandra can be found on Instagram and Twitter, and her website is www.aleksandratyniecka.com. The first installment of BUNKY AND THE WALMS can be found here.
Kathleen is on Twitter and Instagram, and her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com. Foxx Editorial is on Twitter and Instagram, and the website is www.foxxeditorial.com. Connect with #badasswriters on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more info here.
Jul 26, 202226:22

S3E6 || 11 Essential Elements for Killer Opening Pages || Author Allie Reynolds
S3E6 || 11 Essential Elements for Killer Opening Pages || Author Allie Reynolds
Check out these 11 essential elements needed to create killer opening pages! I'll go over the things you should ensure are in your first chapter(s) as well as give some examples on what to include (and not include!) in dialogue. Then I chat with Allie Reynolds, author of Shiver and The Bay/The Swell, which is out TODAY, July 19/22 in North America! We talk about:
writing novels set in interesting places, i.e., dangerous natural environments and how being cut off from civilization can give us true insights into who the characters really are at their cores
her writing journey, how she got her agent, and how publishing has gone for her
how she ended up with two titles for the same book
the difference between writing on your own time and writing to a deadline with a book deal
how the writing community has helped in her career
going from pantsing for 20 years to plotting and how it changed her life as a writer
tricks she uses to build characters and plots
craft book recommendations
how to make sure you’ve got the right #wip idea before you start writing it
elements she enjoys writing and those she finds challenging
You can connect with Allie on Twitter @AuthorAllieR and on Instagram @authorallier or on her website at https://allie-reynolds.com.
Kathleen is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial, and on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
MoodPitch can be found on Twitter @moodpitchers, on Instagram @moodpitchers, and on their website at www.moodpitch.org.
Background music courtesy of tracks found on Pixabay.
Jul 19, 202250:47

S3E5 Genealogy and Fiction || J. D. Edwards
S3E5 Genealogy and Fiction || J. D. Edwards
In today's episode, you'll hear about how you can use genealogy research to mine for stories, characters, etc. Then, catch my chat with award-winning author of genealogical papers and of fiction, J. D. Edwards. You'll hear about some really interesting things, like:
how he got started in writing
winning multiple awards for his published genealogical papers
using genealogical research and applying it to fictional writing
his editing process and tips to ensure your writing will go smoother
“research the publisher before you sign that contract.”
what happens when a vanity publisher taints your book
advice on working with Amazon if you’re self-publishing
using flash fiction to bridge the gap between two series
crucial things to do when worldbuilding
You can connect with J. D. on his website at http://faerierealm.50megs.com/, on Twitter @FaerieRealms, and on Instagram @Twyrch.
Kathleen can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial. On Instagram, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Jun 28, 202243:11

S3 BONUS || Anna Willett
S3 BONUS || Anna Willett
Today's bonus episode is an interview with bestselling Australian author Anna Willett. Her newest thriller (fifteenth so far!) is Lost to the Lake, which was released earlier this year. In our chat, you'll hear about:
how she knows where to start her stories
starting with plot or character
the inspiration behind Lost to the Lake
what’s changed in her writing process between her first book to her fifteenth
how she approaches research
writing strong female characters
being approached by another publisher
advice for developing believable characters in thrillers
sprinkling in backstory and character development
You can find out more about Anna, Lost to the Lake, and her other novels at www.annawillett.info. She's on Twitter @AnnaWillett9.
Kathleen can be found at www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com. On Twitter, find her @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial. On IG, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial.
Jun 24, 202222:41

S3E4 Jack Lelko || Bailey Gee
S3E4 Jack Lelko || Bailey Gee
Today's episode features two guests: Jack Lelko, author of the forthcoming Christmas Bitch, and Bailey Gee, author of three poetry books: The Many Personalities of Me, Linear, and The Joys of Being Alive. Jack and I talk about the self-publishing process, the inspiration behind his debut novel, writing quirky characters, his writing process, and more. Bailey and I discuss how to write poetry, where her inspiration comes from, using beautiful language to express feelings and process emotions, and more.
Connect with Jack on his website at neurdotically.wordpress.com, on Twitter @neurdotically, and on Instagram @neurdotically_writes. His art can be viewed and purchased here.
Connect with Bailey on Twitter @BaileyGeePoetry and Instagram @baileygeepoetry. Her books are available on Amazon here.
Connect with Kathleen on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial, and on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Jun 21, 202249:06

S3E3 || COMPS || Jessica Payne
S3E3 || COMPS || Jessica Payne
What are comps? Why do we need them? Kat talks about this part of the querying and publishing process and how to use them properly. Then she welcomes back to the show author Jessica Payne, who just launched her debut thriller, Make Me Disappear, last month. Topics covered are:
how her debut launch went
getting tagged in negative reviews
the changes a manuscript goes through from offer of rep to launch
having to write the nice part of evil characters
launch teams—what they are and how to organize them (thanks to Peyton!)
how to organize your time for marketing
using social media channels to build your community
how she created her sociopathic antagonist
writing authentic characters
Lisa Cron’s Third Rail
how to make time for new projects while doing a book launch
co-writing with a friend
imposter syndrome tips
the most challenging and most enjoyable parts of debuting as an author
Follow Jess on social media: Twitter @authorjesspayne Instagram @jessicapayne.writer and her website is www.jessicapayne.net. Join in the #momswritersclub chats on Twitter every other Wednesday at 6pm PT/9pm ETT (next one is this Tuesday, June 15!).
Kat is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial and Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial and her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com. #PromptsandComps chats are on Twitter every three weeks on Tuesday evenings at 9pm ET (next one is June 21!).
Jun 14, 202254:29

S3 BONUS || Campfire Writing, Map Building, and Kat Gets Interviewed, too! || Adam Bassett
S3 BONUS || Campfire Writing, Map Building, and Kat Gets Interviewed, too! || Adam Bassett
How many of you like to organize all your manuscript stuff (research, notes, maps, character workups, images, etc.) in one place? Adam Bassett joins me for today's bonus episode to tell you how Campfire can help you do just that and so much more! Plus, he talks about building maps for people, writing projects, interacting with the writing community, his work with the Campfire blog and Worldbuilding magazine, and his interviews with some pretty rad people. Then he switches it up and asks Kat some questions about her daily writing questions and character development!
Links:
Adam can be found on Twitter @adamcbassett. Campfire Writing can be found at www.campfirewriting.com.
Kathleen can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters and @foxxeditorial, on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast and @foxxeditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com
Jun 10, 202247:38

S3E2 || Relatable, Authentic Characters || Hannah Orenstein
S3E2 || Relatable, Authentic Characters || Hannah Orenstein
How do you keep your readers turning those pages? They need to feel connected to your characters so they care about them and what they're going through in the story. Characters need to be relatable and authentic, and I'll talk a bit about that today. Then, I chat with author Hannah Orenstein about her fourth book, Meant to be Mine, which is out today, June 7/22! We talk about the book, creating authentic characters, where she draws inspiration from, how to make your readers cry!, how she's celebrating the launch, and general advice for writing romcoms.
You can find out more about Hannah on her website at www.hannahorenstein.com. She's on Twitter @hannahorens and Instagram @hannahorens. Be sure to check out her Instagram for info on her exciting new newsletter, which is mentioned in today's episode.
You can find Kathleen on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters and @FoxxEditorial. On Insta, she's @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast and @FoxxEditorial. Her websites are www.kathleenfoxx.com and www.foxxeditorial.com.
Jun 07, 202229:21

S3 BONUS: Infusing Humour into Tough Topics with Comedy Writer, Voice Actor, and 4x Cancer Survivor Glenn Rockowitz
S3 BONUS: Infusing Humour into Tough Topics with Comedy Writer, Voice Actor, and 4x Cancer Survivor Glenn Rockowitz
Today's bonus episode features an interview with Glenn Rockowitz. We talk about his two memoirs about his experiences with cancer and how it's impacted his life. We also cover:
bringing comedy to the living rooms of terminally ill people with The Best Medicine Group
dealing with reviews on personal stories in memoirs
having his first memoir optioned for film and his noot-so-great experiences with that
writing comedy for Saturday Night Live and how it prepared him for the worst-case scenario in writing
writing stand-up comedy
his voice acting career
how the landscape of publishing has changed in the last decade
the downside of Kindle Unlimited as an author
advice on how to infuse humour into subjects that are emotionally challenging to write about
Glenn's socials: Twitter: @justaride Facebook: Glenn Rockowitz Author Page
Kat's socials: Twitter: @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial Instagram: @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial Websites: www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com
Jun 03, 202242:30

S3E1 || Q&A with Alex Brown of Rising Action Publishing Collective
S3E1 || Q&A with Alex Brown of Rising Action Publishing Collective
You sent in questions, we have answers! Join Alex and me as she tackles questions sent to me by the writing community over the last few weeks. We had a lot to get through, but it's all super interesting and great for authors curious about the indie publishing industry! We cover these topics:
how RA got started
how distribution works with indie bookstores and libraries
how marketing works
bringing more diversity into publishing, which is great for indie publishers who are more likely to take on those really unique books than the Big 4/5 are
turning to social media to see what trends readers are looking for
transparency in publishing
how many books they’re taking on and what genres they’re looking for
shoutout to the Godmother of Podcasts, Bianca!
partnering with indie pub Blackbird from South Africa to get their author’s books distributed in Canada
what the author-editor/publisher relationship is like
working with outside/freelance editors
indie publishing after self-publishing
some super-specific stories she’d love to see in her query inbox
where “Collective” comes from in their name
agented vs unagented authors working with an indie press
comps
nonfiction writers using comps and being comfortable putting yourself and your truth out there
content warnings in query letters
revise & resubmits
a huge shoutout to all their authors!
I hope you love it and learn from it! There are lots of great points here even for authors looking for rep by an agent. Rising Action is a wonderful indie pub that is doing great things and going places. They are hands-down NOT a hybrid or a vanity press but as you'll hear, we can't say the same thing about a possible cult. 😂 (KIDDING!) Keep your eye on them, and if you're considering submitting, DO IT! :)
Alex's socials: Twitter @alexandriab_11 @RAPubCollective Instagram @risingactionpublishingco Website: www.risingactionpublishingco.com
Kat's socials: Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial Websites: www.kathleenfoxx.com www.foxxeditorial.com
May 31, 202201:11:37

S2 BONUS || Hannah Mary McKinnon LAUNCH DAY
S2 BONUS || Hannah Mary McKinnon LAUNCH DAY
Ever wonder how suspense and thriller authors come up with their evil characters? Or how they do the research to ensure they're authentic? Check out my interview with the lovely Hannah Mary McKinnon, author of several bestsellers including NEVER COMING HOME, her newest suspense that hits the shelves TODAY. We chat about all kinds of writerly things in this fun episode, covering things like interviewing your characters, how to make unlikeable characters likeable, getting inside the minds of criminal characters, interesting ways to do research, switching from one genre to another and switching publishers, what "digital first" means in publishing, two new books coming out, virtual events, First Chapter Fun, and tips for building and maintaining suspense in your novels!
Hannah's info: www.hannahmarymckinnon.com @hannahmarymckinnon on Instagram and @hannahmmckinnon on Twitter
First Chapter Fun: www.firstchapterfun.com @firstchapterfun on Instagram and @firstchapterfun on Facebook (Tune in Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30pm ET to hear the first chapter of new books!)
Kathleen and #badasswriters: @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @foxxeditorial on Twitter, @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast and @foxxeditorial on Instagram. www.kathleenfoxx.com
May 24, 202201:02:22

S2 BONUS: Poetry, Fiction, and Marketing with Shelby Leigh and Joseph Fasano
S2 BONUS: Poetry, Fiction, and Marketing with Shelby Leigh and Joseph Fasano
Today's bonus episode features two poets who also happen to write fiction. First I chat with Shelby Leigh who runs monthly poetry workshops and assists authors with poetry book editing and marketing strategies. We talk about her poetry, fiction writing, how poetry can help with fiction, her publishing experiences, how she decides what poems to include in a collection, tips for writing poetry, and tips for marketing--especially when you're nervous to do so. Then, I chat with Joseph Fasano about his living poem--which is catching a lot of media attention as of late--his Poem for You series, the difference between writing poetry and fiction novels, his writing process, and tips for new and/or younger writers who are trying to figure out where their strengths lie.
Shelby's socials: www.shelbyleigh.co @shelbyleighpoet (Twitter) @shelbyleighpoetry (Instagram and TikTok)
Joseph's socials: www.josephfasano.net @stars_poem @joseph_fasano_ (Twitter)
Kat's socials: www.kathleenfoxx.com @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial (Twitter) @kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @FoxxEditorial (Instagram)
May 20, 202252:29

S2E12 || Preparing for Interviews || Ashley Dugger
S2E12 || Preparing for Interviews || Ashley Dugger
If you've never done an author interview before, you may be nervous. In today's episode, I walk you through the process so you know what to expect. Interviews are part of a successful author's marketing plan. Dip your toes in on the #badasswriters podcast! If you're a seasoned author or industry professional who has done many interviews, let me know if you want to hang out on Zoom and talk books and publishing! Then, I chat with writer Ashley Dugger about how her career in journalism prepared her for fiction writing, switching from pantser to plotter, the benefits of writing a query and synopsis before the draft, what she's working on now, her writing plan and publishing goals, why skipping a step or rushing the process isn't going to bode well, the power of writing groups, a shoutout to TSNOTYAW, and more!
Ashley can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
Kat is on Twitter at @_badasswriters @kfoxx_writes and @FoxxEditorial, and on Instagram @badasswriters_podcast @kathleenfoxxwrites and @FoxxEditorial.
Her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com.
May 17, 202244:17

S2E11 || Jennifer K. Morita & Cassandra Yorke
S2E11 || Jennifer K. Morita & Cassandra Yorke
In today's episode, I chat with author Jennifer K. Morita about how she got her agent, how a journalism career helped prepare her for a career in writing, sitting on a book idea for twenty-five years, pitch contests, the Twitter writing community, joining writing associations, becoming the VP of Capitol Crimes, hybrid writing events, tips for mystery writers, and more.
Then, I chat with author Cassandra Yorke about the inspiration behind her debut novel, using personal trauma to fuel writing and help heal, writing a series, genre blending, listening to your story and characters in order to write it, finding a writing community, and more.
Jennifer can be found on Twitter @jenniferkmorita and Instagram @jenniferkmorita.
Cassandra can be found on Twitter @cassieyorke87 and Instagram @cassieyorke1921.
Kat and Badasswriters socials:
Twitter @_badasswriters @kfoxx_writes @FoxxEditorial
Instagram @badasswriters_podcast @kathleenfoxxwrites @FoxxEditorial
Website: www.kathleenfoxx.com
May 10, 202201:02:17

S2E10 Character Development || Jillean McClory
S2E10 Character Development || Jillean McClory
In today's episode, I go over some interesting ways to help develop characters. Then, I chat with Canadian author Jillean McClory about why editors need editors, too, her writing journey, writing dialogue, her experience with traditional publishing during the pandemic, her blog, writing a series and avoiding redundancies, turning off your "editor brain" and focusing on getting words on the page, layering in story elements, things that developmental editors will look for and help with in shaping your story, tips for writers who are in the self-editing stage, and more!
Websites mentioned in today's episode are: www.enneagraminstitute.com, www.myersbriggs.org, www.cafeastrology.com, www.astro.com and www.janefriedman.com/tell-your-story-with-3-tarot-cards.
Jillean can be found on her website at www.jilleanmcclory.com and on Instagram @jilleanmcclory.
Kathleen is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @foxxeditorial. Her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com.
May 03, 202258:10

S2 BONUS || Historical Fiction, Hybrid Publishing, and Cross-Country Biking with Teri M. Brown
S2 BONUS || Historical Fiction, Hybrid Publishing, and Cross-Country Biking with Teri M. Brown
Today's guest is a wonderfully inspiration author who's just released her debut historical fiction novel, Sunflowers Beneath the Snow. It's very timely, considering what's happening in the Ukraine these days. It's a poignant novel that follows three generations of Ukranian women and how the decision of one man has a ripple effect on future generations, and how views of politics can differ based on one's own experiences. It shows how, even in the face of adversity, hope, love, and humanity still exist.
Teri and I chat about hybrid publishing, her experiences with Atmosphere Press, knowing when you're the right person to tell a story, the stunning inspirations behind her stories--both fiction and non-fiction, finding your own style and process, editing, using dialogue to help move a story forward, writing a NF book about how her travels across the US on a tandem bike helped heal her and show her how much she didn’t need things—both material and otherwise, plus she has a list of ten fabulous historical fiction books that SHOULD be bestsellers and that will make you cry!
Teri can be found on Twitter @TeriMBrown1 and Instagram @terimbrown_author. Her website is www.terimbrown.com.
Kathleen can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @FoxxEditorial, and on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @FoxxEditorial. Her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com.
Make sure you hit the subscribe button and if you love the podcast, go ahead and give it a rating! This can really help me grow it and let it be seen by other writers who may enjoy the writing advice and interviews offered here! :)
Apr 29, 202257:16

S2E9 || LB Harpdog
S2E9 || LB Harpdog
Today's episode features erotic paranormal fantasy author LB Harpdog. We chat about writing through emotions, how his personal experiences inspired him to write a 5-book series (as well as other works), infusing your own emotions into characters, capturing the mind, heart, and body of your reader, the importance of finding good writing partners, tips for self-publishing, seeing authors as your peers--not your competition, and that writers should never be afraid to reach out and network!
LB can be found on Twitter @HarpdogLb and Instagram @lbharpdog45.
Kathleen can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @foxxeditorial and on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @foxxeditorial. Her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com.
Apr 26, 202230:33

S2 BONUS: #AskAgent w/ Claire Harris
S2 BONUS: #AskAgent w/ Claire Harris
After such a great reception of my first #AskAgent session with CeCe Lyra, I decided to do another one to help writers get more questions answered about querying and publishing. Today, I'm joined by P.S. Literary Agent Claire Harris for a fabulous chat. We even wore matching space buns for the occasion! We cover quite a few questions, including querying ethically, the importance of using comps, what her favourite moments of agenting are, having tiers of agents on your query list, important things in a client-agent relationship, and so much more!
Claire Harris can be found on Instagram @claire_m_harris, Twitter @Claire_m_harris and the P.S. Literary Agency's website.
Kat's website is www.kathleenfoxx.com. You can find her mostly on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters and @foxxeditorial. She's also on Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @foxxeditorial.
If you have suggestions for future episodes, please let Kat know here!
Apr 22, 202201:13:57

S2E8 | The Importance of Pursuing Your Passions | Jackie Amsden
S2E8 | The Importance of Pursuing Your Passions | Jackie Amsden
In today's episode I talk a little bit about finding time to pursue your writing passion and protecting that time, how the writing community can help you get there. When you're a parent and you write, finding this time is usually challenging but it's also crucial to reaching your writing and publishing goals. After, I talk to fellow mom, writer, and host of the These Mums Write podcast, Jackie Amsden. A former teen model, she got her inspiration for her first book while modelling in the Tokyo modelling industry. She self-published her first book, The Tokyo Cover Girls, and is now working on her next project. She lives in British Columbia, Canada, and recently began her podcast with the goal of connecting with other mom writers to share with and learn from, and to celebrate and recognize the unique challenges that mom writers face.
We chat about:
how she became a writer
her modelling career inspiring her first book
unrealistic expectations new writers have about publishing
building up a community before you publish
writing a MomCom!
how she got started with These Mums Write podcast and what her goals are
mom guilt and finding the time to dedicate to your writing
thinking of yourself as a business and using platforms to build relationships
incorporating meditation into your daily routine
Jackie can be found on Instagram @jackieamsden and Facebook @jackieamsden.
Kat can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes, @_badasswriters, and @foxxeditorial. She's also on IG @kathleenfoxxwrites, @badasswriters_podcast, and @foxxeditorial. Her website is www.kathleenfoxx.com.
Apr 19, 202259:57

S2E7 Ami Maxine Irmen || Santita D'Anjou
S2E7 Ami Maxine Irmen || Santita D'Anjou
In today's episode I talk with two guests, both of whom are teachers. First, Ami Maxine Irmen is a creative writing instructor at a community college. Ami has also been involved in teaching how to write memoirs to young women at the Jane Adeny Memorial School in Kenya, and she's been heavily involved in the bringing together of a very special project: a book full of memoirs written by the young women she taught. Proceeds from the sale of every book, called Voice of Jane Adeny Memorial School, will go towards funding scholarships so that more of these girls can attend school, which is no easy feat in Kenya, as you'll hear in my interview with Ami.
The book is available now and the link to purchase it is https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XLPYLW9/.
Ami can be found on her website at www.amimaxine.com. You can find out more information about the school on her website here. She's also on Twitter @Ami_Maxine and on Instagram @ami.maxine. To learn more about the school and find out how you can help, click here.
Next up we have Santita D'Anjou. We chat about her special writing projects which tackle difficult themes that teens struggle with. Santita wants to reach teens who are going through difficult times and give them a voice, make sure they know they're not alone. She's been inspired by her students, and she also inpires her many middle school aged students in a different creative way: theatre! *** There is a content warning for my interview with Santita for mention of suicide. ***
Santita's website is https://www.santitadanjoubooks.com, and she can be found on Instagram @santitadanjou.books.
Follow Kathleen on Twitter at: @_badasswriters @kfoxx_writes @FoxxEditorial and @MoodPitchers.
Kat's website is www.kathleenfoxx.com where you can find out information about the podcast, her editing services, and her writing projects. Moodpitchers website is www.moodpitchers.org.
Apr 12, 202253:38

S2E6 Encouraging Creativity in Kids || JoAnn Conner
S2E6 Encouraging Creativity in Kids || JoAnn Conner
In today's episode, I talk for just a few minutes about how important it is to inspire and encourage creativity in kids--whether that's your own kids or someone else's, we should all take every opportunity to help enrich kids' lives--and our own--with creativity. Then, I chat with author JoAnn Conner about publishing a children's book with her granddaughter, creating a book to help kids process when a parent has cancer, different methods of research, what an "author book" is and why it's important to use one, the difficulties in marketing and publishing, and tips for writers when doing research. She also mentions how great podcasts are and how important it is to embrace your fellow writers, which is something I'm often talking about.
JoAnn's socials:
Her website is on Facebook.
Email: jconnerbooks@gmail.com
Instagram: j.connerbooks
Kathleen's socials:
Websites: www.kathleenfoxx.com www.anchor.fm/kathleen-foxx www.moodpitch.org
@kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @FoxxEditorial @moodpitchers on Twitter
@kathleenfoxxwrites @badasswriters_podcast @moodpitchers on IG
Apr 05, 202241:28

S2 BONUS EPISODE || Amy Tector
S2 BONUS EPISODE || Amy Tector
Today's fabulous bonus episode is an interview with debut author Amy Tector where we get to nerd out about research and archives! Amy's novel, THE HONEYBEE EMERALDS, released this week, and I got to chat with her a couple months ago. We talk about her work as an archivist and how it has helped her writing career, how archival research is like a tangible connection to history, her journey to publication, signing a 3-book deal after her debut, the importance of having a critique group, sensitivity readers, giving yourself permission to be the writer you are, and yes, we even talk about finding the bones of a whale ear in her archive work!
THE HONEYBEE EMERALDS is available now. Inquire at your local indie bookstore! You can also order a Kindle version here.
Amy can be found at her website at www.amytector.com, Twitter at @amy_tector and Instagram at @amytectorwrites.
Kathleen can be found at www.kathleenfoxx.com and previous episodes are available at www.anchor.fm/kathleen-foxx. She's on Twitter every day @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters and @FoxxEditorial. Moodpitchers is at www.moodpitch.org at @moodpitchers on Twitter and Instagram.
Apr 01, 202248:54

S2E5 #MoodPitch Info || H.S. Dilazak
S2E5 #MoodPitch Info || H.S. Dilazak
Today I go over just a few basic guidelines about our upcoming #MoodPitch Twitter pitch event. If you're a querying writer and haven't heard of the #MoodPitch contest, head over to our website at www.moodpitch.org where Jaimie Hunter, Lula Lockwood and I have been hard at work organizing a brand new Twitter pitch event to help you get connected with agents and publishers! After which I chat with horror author H.S. Dilazak about how she got into writing, exploring the darker elements of character, leaning on experiences with mental health, nature, and social issues, figuring out where your strengths and weaknesses are, engaging with the writing community to help hone your skills, and tips for those who want to write in the horror genre and for people who want to get into writing but just aren't sure how.
Socials
Get in touch with H.S. Dilazak on Twitter @Dilazak_HS29
Kathleen is on Twitter @kfoxx_writes @_badasswriters @moodpitchers and @FoxxEditorial
www.moodpitch.org
www.kathleenfoxx.com
www.anchor.fm/kathleen-foxx for all the previous badass episodes
Mar 29, 202234:23

S2E4 Author Websites || Becca Day
S2E4 Author Websites || Becca Day
Are you unsure about building an author website or what to include on it? Check out today's episode where I talk a little bit about why you should have one and what you should start out with. Then, I chat with debut thriller author Becca Day, whose book launches TODAY! The Girl Beyond the Gate is being celebrated with a free virtual launch party, which I'll post the link to below. Becca and I chat about her debut, how she got her dream agent, how her previous career inspired her love of crime fiction, marketing efforts prior to a book launch, what's in the works, author websites, and more!
Socials:
Becca's website is www.beccaday.com
Twitter: @AuthorBeccaDay IG: @authorbeccaday
The free virtual book launch party, where she's joined by special guests Alexa Donne, TM Logan, Sarah Pearse, and Lauren North, is happening TODAY, March 22/22 at 8pm London time, which is 3pm EST. The link for that is: https://tinyurl.com/ythufmsf
Badasswriters: www.anchor.fm/kathleen-foxx
Twitter: @_badasswriters IG: @badasswriters_podcast
Kathleen can be found at: www.kathleenfoxx.com
Twitter: @kfoxx_writes IG: @kathleenfoxxwrites
Foxx Editorial: www.kathleenfoxx.com/editing-services
Twitter: @FoxxEditorial
Moodpitchers: www.moodpitch.org
Twitter: @moodpitchers IG: @moodpitchers
Mar 22, 202229:25

S2E3 Flash Fiction || Tommy Dean
S2E3 Flash Fiction || Tommy Dean
Do you write flash fiction or other short forms of fiction? Are you interested in learning more about it? Today's blog segment is all about flash fiction, how I discovered it, and why it's so wonderful. But don't just take it from me! I called in an expert, Tommy Dean, author of some pretty rad flash fiction and editor of Fractured Lit and Uncharted Mag. Tommy's full flash collection, Hollows, just released on March 14/22. We talk all about different forms of flash, what works and what doesn't, what to focus on, and so much more. This episode is a little longer than usual because I had so many questions, and Tommy's so insightful!
Tommy's socials:
www.tommydeanwriter.com
Twitter: @TommyDeanWriter
Fractured Lit: @FracturedLit
Uncharted Mag: @uncharted_mag_
Buy Tommy's newest collection, Hollows, here: https://tinyurl.com/yr5vtd4d
Kathleen's and #Badass Socials:
www.kathleenfoxx.com
@kfoxx_writes and @_badasswriters on Twitter
@kathleenfoxxwrites and @badasswriters_podcast on IG
The story that Kat mentions by Eric Scott Tryon can be found here: http://leonliteraryreview.com/issue-7-eric-scot-tryon/
Kat also mentions Kathy Fish @kathyfish on Twitter
Mar 15, 202201:15:27

S2E2 || Taking the High Road in Social Media || C.M. Quinn
S2E2 || Taking the High Road in Social Media || C.M. Quinn
In this episode, I talk about nasty messages that you can get on social media and how to handle them. Then, I chat with self-published Australian author, C.M. Quinn. We cover topics such as learning how to improve your mind space when getting feedback on your writing, writing a series, publishing with Ingram Sparks and Amazon, avoidable stress in self-publishing, learning from your mistakes, and her top five tips for authors who want to self-publish.
C.M. can be found on Twitter @CM_Quinn21 and her website is www.cmquinnauthor.com.
Follow @_badasswriters on Twitter, or on Instagram @badasswriters_podcast. Kathleen's website is www.kathleenfoxx.com, and she can be found on Twitter @kfoxx_writes and Instagram @kathleenfoxxwrites.
Mar 08, 202257:01

BONUS EPISODE: #AskAgent with Cece Lyra
BONUS EPISODE: #AskAgent with Cece Lyra
Comps and queries and slush piles, oh my! Get the answers to some burning publishing questions by literary agent Cecilia Lyra of P.S. Literary in this first instalment of #AskAgent on the podcast! Questions were sent via Twitter in a previous call out. During the Q&A, you'll hear Cece mention a couple of things to provide in the show notes. They are:
1. This quick read provides results of the Bowker Study that shows more adults are reading YA: https://www.shelf-awareness.com/issue.html?issue=1827#m17466
2. The name of the author who self-published, then traditionally published, then went back to self-publishing is K.A. Tucker, and you can catch her interview with Bianca Marais on The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-shit-no-one-tells-you-about-writing/id1530250126?i=1000499455239
Also note author Jayne Allen (Black Girls Must Die Exhausted) originally indie published her debut and then was approached for traditional publishing. You can catch that interview with Bianca here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-shit-no-one-tells-you-about-writing/id1530250126?i=1000543701481
Hope you enjoy the episode! Watch my Twitter page for my next call for #AskAgent questions! @_badasswriters
Mar 04, 202255:22

S2E1 Rejections || Chantal Corcoran
S2E1 Rejections || Chantal Corcoran
Welcome to my second season! Rejection is something that every writer deals with. I talk about how to move through it and past it and continue on your journey. Then I chat with author Chantal Corcoran about her writing journey, writing short vs. long fiction, why she's moved from non-fiction to fiction, her querying process, taking your writing seriously, and more. Then I announce the WINNER of the #badass giveaway I ran in Feb 2022! P.S. The fan was going crazy on my laptop again so I apologize for the noise during the blog segment and at the very end!
Mar 01, 202242:04

BONUS EPISODE: Pitch Critiques Feb 2022
BONUS EPISODE: Pitch Critiques Feb 2022
Today's bonus episode is full of pitch critiques! A whole bunch of you sent in your pitches to me to be critiqued on the podcast, and I got to as many as I could within about an hour. So sit back, grab a notebook and a pen, and take some notes about your own pitch as well as about others. If you didn't send in a critique for this round, don't worry! I'm planning to do this again in the future, so keep your eyes peeled for that. There's still plenty to learn from today's pitches that you can apply to your own. If you sent yours in for critiquing, I will be sending out an email with written feedback, so watch for that in your inboxes.
Feb 23, 202201:07:02

S1E12 Story Prompts || John Steiner
S1E12 Story Prompts || John Steiner
Do you use story prompts? Find out more about them and why you should use them in today's blog segment. Then, catch my convo with sci-fi, fantasy, and horror author John Steiner. We chat all about writing in those genres, what happens when an indie press gets bought out by another indie press, story prompts, the importance of diving deep into research, and more!
Feb 22, 202245:60

S1E11 Using Social Media the *Right* Way || P.L. Stuart
S1E11 Using Social Media the *Right* Way || P.L. Stuart
How to use social media as a tool in your writing journey - the RIGHT way. Plus, hear me chat with self-published fantasy author P.L. Stuart about writing a series, self-publishing, blogging, using social media to help launch your writing career, celebrating successes, and tips to get that writing in any way you can. And, find out how you can enter the #badasswriters giveaway during the month of February!
Feb 15, 202241:40

S1E10 Writing the Story You Want to Write || Huck Beard
S1E10 Writing the Story You Want to Write || Huck Beard
Today I talk about writing the story you want to tell, using your passion to do it, and not turning your story into something unrecognizable to fit what someone else wants. Then, I chat with author + friend Huck Beard about his writing journey, how his agent found him, how his dog Humphrey helped him draft his debut, being out on submission, writing sprints, the importance of the writing community, and more!
Feb 08, 202249:55

S1E9 - The Line Between Fact and Fiction || Kiersten Marcil
S1E9 - The Line Between Fact and Fiction || Kiersten Marcil
Let's talk about the line between fact and fiction in historical fiction! We'll look at ways to infuse facts into your story, when to deviate from history and take a different path for your fiction, and how to do the research. Then I chat with Kiersten Marcil, author of historical romance/fantasy and fellow avid researcher. We talk about her experience with indie publication, her historical series, and research process. She gives us tips for writing in the historical fiction genre and some advice for writing a series. PLUS, a recap on a very special announcement about a new upcoming event for the writing community!
Feb 01, 202258:39

Imposter Syndrome and Writer's Block || Joseph D. Slater
Imposter Syndrome and Writer's Block || Joseph D. Slater
Today's episode is all about overcoming imposter syndrome and learning different ways you can kick that annoying writer's block to the curb. Then, I chat with author Joseph D. Slater about those two topics, using feedback to improve your writing, challenges of self-publishing, hiring a book cover designer, and changing genres to write something your kids can read and love. The blog post can be found at https://kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/25/writers-block-and-imposter-syndrome/
Jan 25, 202201:00:18

Betas, CPs, and Dealing with Criticism || Jenna Morrison
Betas, CPs, and Dealing with Criticism || Jenna Morrison
Find out what the next step is after you've finished writing your first draft. What's the difference between a beta reader and a critique partner? What do you do if you don't have a critique partner or want a deeper dive into your manuscript? How do you deal with criticism? Top 5 tips for this stage of your writing journey. After which I chat with author Jenna Morrison about self-publishing at a young age, using writing to help process grief, indie publishing, getting negative feedback, her writing journey, and her debut novel, A BROTHER'S TRUTH, launching Feb 4! The blog post can be found at https://kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/18/betas-cps-and-criticism/
Jan 18, 202241:44

Pantsing vs. Plotting || Jessica Payne
Pantsing vs. Plotting || Jessica Payne
What's the difference between pantsing and plotting, and what's a plantser? Find out on today's episode, after which I'll be chatting with thriller author and #momswritersclub host, Jessica Payne. We'll be talking about taking risks in writing, the importance of the writing community and the right way to join it, believing in yourself, having a social media presence as an author, #momswritersclub, plus her path to publication and writing process, and a little bit about her debut novel coming May 16, 2022, MAKE ME DISAPPEAR. The blog post can be found at https://kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/11/pantsing-vs-plotting/
Jan 11, 202255:51

S1E5 The Wonderful Writing Community || Hannah Sharpe
S1E5 The Wonderful Writing Community || Hannah Sharpe
Happy New Year! In this episode, I get to do my first writer interview with the lovely Hannah Sharpe. We discuss how important the writing community is, juggling writing with family and work responsibilities, how the querying process has been, writing shorter fiction to help tighten up writing, difficult and rewarding aspects of the writing journey, and advice for newer writers. The corresponding blog post is available at www.kathleenfoxx.com/2022/01/04/writing-community.
Jan 04, 202234:24

Infusing Emotion Into Your Writing
Infusing Emotion Into Your Writing
Today I put my storytelling hat on and show you ways you can infuse emotion into your writing by drawing on your own emotional experiences! The blog post is available at www.kathleenfoxx.com/12/14/2021/emotions-in-writing.
Dec 14, 202117:10

Writing Your Synopsis
Writing Your Synopsis
Everything you need to know about the basics of writing your synopsis in about 15 minutes! Many think it's hard to do, but with these tips, you can change your mindset about this crucial piece to your query package. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/22/the-art-of-synopses/
Dec 07, 202116:04

The Art of Querying: Blurbs + Pitches + Synopses—PART II
The Art of Querying: Blurbs + Pitches + Synopses—PART II
Officially my first podcast "episode" where I talk all about PITCHES. Learn how to craft your perfect pitch with real examples and exercises. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/15/the-art-of-pitching/
Nov 30, 202119:06

AUDIO: The Art of Querying: PART I (Query Blurbs)
AUDIO: The Art of Querying: PART I (Query Blurbs)
All about querying and composing the back cover copy or "book blurb!" Tips, examples and exercises to help you hone this important skill. This episode is also available as a blog post: http://kathleenfoxx.com/2021/11/12/the-art-of-querying/
Nov 30, 202119:14