Are you looking to enhance your writing skills? Writing podcasts might be just what you need! These podcasts offer inspiration, knowledge, and creativity at the press of a button. Whether starting your first novel or polishing your work for publication, you’ll find valuable insights from the writing and publishing world, along with practical advice and motivational stories.
Ready to discover the best podcasts to improve your writing? Check out our top 20 best podcasts about writing that every writer should listen to!
The Value of Writing Podcasts
Writing podcasts have become an essential resource in the busy world of self-improvement and creativity. Whether you’re a new writer or an experienced one, these digital shows provide inspiration, motivation, and practical storytelling advice.
Inspiration and Motivation
Writing can often feel like a solitary pursuit, with each creator dancing to the tune of their creative process. This loneliness can sometimes stifle inspiration, leaving writers stranded in the desert of writer’s block. Here, podcasts become a lifeline—a comforting voice in the silence that offers both motivation and camaraderie.
Listening to the journeys of successful authors can be incredibly motivating. Hearing about their struggles, trials, and triumphs helps writers understand that the path to creative fulfillment is rarely a straight line. Each episode you listen to can feel like a mini-pep talk, pushing you to conquer your internal “why should I?” with a strong “why not?”.
Writing podcasts also ignites creativity by discussing various writing topics and offering up exercises that challenge your usual thinking patterns. They inspire new ideas by exploring intriguing themes such as story development, character arcs, and plot engineering. Listening to diverse perspectives on writing can open the gateways of imagination, making those lonely evenings just a little less daunting and a lot more inspiring.
Craft Techniques and Strategies
Beyond just sparking ideas, writing podcasts delves deeply into the craft itself, providing an essential toolkit for any writer seeking to hone their skills. The nuanced discussions around grammar, style, and structure often serve as practical workshops that instruct novice and experienced writers alike in refining their art.
If you’re interested in the mechanics of language, you’ll find invaluable insights on everything from sentence construction to the subtleties of dialogue and narrative pacing.
Furthermore, podcasts frequently feature authors, editors, and educators who share their expert tactics and strategies for successful writing. Topics like overcoming writer’s block, creating compelling characters, and plotting masterful stories are explored in depth.
Podcasts dissect these components with an analytical approach that’s both engaging and educational, thus offering balanced, actionable advice that writers can apply directly to their works-in-progress.
20 Best Writing Podcasts
Now that you’re convinced of their value, let’s dive into some of the top podcast recommendations that can enhance your writing journey. Each of these podcasts shines in its unique way, serving up content that is both educational and entertaining.
1. Writing Excuses
Hosted by Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, and other renowned authors, “Writing Excuses” is your go-to podcast for a bite-sized, in-depth discussion on writing. Each episode is a swift 15-minute exploration of a specific topic, making it perfect for writers looking for quick yet thorough insights. Whether it’s world-building or polishing dialogue, “Writing Excuses” is an actionable resource for anyone striving to elevate their craft.
2. The Writer Files
For those obsessed with productivity, neuroscience, and the creative process, “The Writer Files” hosted by Kelton Reid is a perfect fit. Reid interviews accomplished authors about their routines and mental strategies, offering a fascinating look into how single-minded focus and the right habits turn creative vision into reality.
3. I Should Be Writing
If you’re grappling with imposter syndrome or feeling stuck, “I Should Be Writing” hosted by Mur Lafferty is a balm for the creative soul. This Hugo Award-winning podcast provides a realistic take on the emotional ups and downs of being a writer, delivering comfort and encouragement to forge ahead.
4. The Creative Penn Podcast
Joanna Penn’s “The Creative Penn Podcast” blends interviews with industry insights in a format that thrills and educates in equal measure. It goes beyond writing to cover marketing and publishing, equipping writers with the tools necessary for succeeding in a digitally dominated world.
5. Helping Writers Become Authors
K.M. Weiland’s “Helping Writers Become Authors” is a thorough exploration of narrative structures and character development. Each episode zeroes in on crafting compelling stories, making it an excellent guide for those who love to dissect the finer elements of storytelling.
6. Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
Understanding grammar and style is crucial for clear communication, and Mignon Fogarty’s podcast, “Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing,” offers digestible advice on the English language. This Podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to fine-tune their technical skills with a sprinkle of etymological fun.
7. The Bestseller Experiment
A unique gem in the world of writing podcasts, “The Bestseller Experiment” attempts to answer one intriguing question: can you create a bestseller in one year? The hosts embark on this bold journey with wit and humor, offering you a backstage pass to the creative process.
8. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
Hosted by Bianca Marais, Carly Watters, and CeCe Lyra, “The Shit No One Tells You About Writing” tackles the messy, unglamorous sides of writing and publishing. Each episode uncovers industry secrets, critiques query letters, and offers guidance on navigating the elusive literary market.
These podcasts are not just passive content to consume—they are catalysts, provocateurs, and companions on the winding road of writing discovery. Each episode you listen to brings you one step closer to becoming the writer you aspire to be. So grab your headphones, take a deep breath, and dive into the brilliant, insightful world of writing podcasts. Happy Listening!
Diverse Perspectives and Genres
When it comes to writing, there’s no universal formula that works for everyone. That’s why exploring diverse perspectives and genres can be incredibly enriching. Here are some podcasts that celebrate different voices and stories, offering you a plethora of ideas and inspiration, no matter your niche.
1. Dead Robots’ Society
If speculative fiction or science fiction is your jam, “Dead Robots’ Society” is the podcast for you. This lively podcast is hosted by passionate writers who explore different aspects of writing within speculative genres.
They dive into discussions on world-building, character creation, and plot development, always with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities presented by speculative fiction. The hosts’ camaraderie and enthusiasm make the show both informative and entertaining.
2. Write Now with Sarah Werner
Finding the balance between life and writing can be a real challenge. Sarah Werner’s “Write Now” podcast is a delightful blend of motivational insights and practical writing advice. Sarah, along with her creative guests, tackles the hurdles of finding time to write amidst daily life’s demands.
With episodes touching on everything from battling self-doubt to creating meaningful writing habits, Sarah’s friendly and soothing voice is perfect for writers who need a gentle nudge toward their writing goals.
3. How Story Works
For those interested in deep-diving into narrative construction, “How Story Works” provides comprehensive insights into storytelling mechanics. The episodes break down elements such as story structure, themes, and character arcs, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced writers.
By examining popular stories and exploring why they resonate, this podcast offers invaluable guidance for crafting compelling narratives that captivate readers.
4. The Writer’s Voice
Listening to authors read their own work is a unique experience, and “The Writer’s Voice” podcast offers just that. Each episode features a contemporary author reading a piece of their own fiction, originally published in The New Yorker.
This intimate format provides listeners with an extra layer of understanding and appreciation of the text. It’s a fantastic way to explore different writing styles and discover new authors, helping writers tune their ears to the nuances of voice and tone.
5. The Beautiful Writers Podcast
“The Beautiful Writers Podcast” is where literature and mindfulness meet. Host Linda Sivertsen invites bestselling authors and thought leaders to discuss the intersection of creativity and consciousness.
With conversations revolving around the craft, inspiration, and life as a writer, listeners will find themselves immersed in discussions that go beyond just word count goals. Featuring luminaries like Elizabeth Gilbert and Cheryl Strayed, this podcast is perfect for writers seeking soulful inspiration and creative wisdom.
6. Story Grid Podcast
Whether you’re plotting a new novel or revising a first draft, the “Story Grid Podcast” has got you covered. Hosted by editor Shawn Coyne and writer Tim Grahl, this podcast demystifies the story editing process.
It covers the principles of story form, scene construction, and the methodology behind creating content that grips your audience. Each episode is a mix of practical advice and thoughtful analysis, making it an essential listen for anyone serious about upping their story game.
Insights into the Publishing Industry
Understanding the ins and outs of the publishing industry is crucial for every writer aiming to navigate their way to publication. Thankfully, these podcasts provide not just industry insights but also advice on how to align your writing craft with professional success.
1. The Self-Publishing Show
Dive into the world of independent publishing with hosts Mark Dawson and James Blatch on “The Self-Publishing Show.” This podcast is a treasure trove of actionable advice for authors seeking to self-publish effectively.
Mark shares wisdom from his own bestselling career, offering tips on marketing strategies and platform building. Episodes often feature interviews with other successful indie authors, providing diverse perspectives on the self-publishing journey.
2. The Manuscript Academy Podcast
Looking to peek behind the curtains of the publishing world? “The Manuscript Academy Podcast” offers insights straight from industry insiders. With enlightening dialogues featuring agents, editors, and published authors, the podcast explores the journey from manuscript to publication.
Listeners can gain an understanding of what agents look for in submissions, common pitfalls in querying, and how to make a manuscript stand out.
3. The Writer’s Digest Podcast
Ideal for writers at various stages of their careers, “The Writer’s Digest Podcast” provides a broad scope of insights into both the craft of writing and the business of publishing. Featuring interviews with a mix of seasoned authors, editors, and industry professionals, the episodes touch on themes of inspiration, technique, and trends within the literary market.
This podcast is an invaluable resource for writers who want a comprehensive view of what it takes to succeed in today’s publishing landscape.
4. The Writing University Podcast
From the heart of a prestigious writing community, “The Writing University Podcast” gives listeners access to lectures and panel discussions from The University of Iowa’s notable programs. Renowned for its esteemed writing workshops, this podcast includes recordings from the International Writing Program, offering educational content on various aspects of writing and publishing. It’s like a front-row seat to some of the most intellectually stimulating conversations in the literary world without the tuition fees!
By embracing diverse perspectives and staying informed about the publishing industry, writers can greatly enrich their craft and expand their opportunities for success. Tune into these podcasts, and let them be your companions on your writing journey, offering a mix of inspiration, education, and professional insight to fuel your creative aspirations.
Community and Emotional Support
For every writer, the journey can often feel like a solitary quest. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By writing podcasts, you can find a community of like-minded creatives and gain valuable emotional support to fuel your craft. Tuning into these insightful podcasts can be akin to gathering around a virtual campfire, sharing tales, tips, and a dose of camaraderie.
1. Write-minded
One standout podcast in fostering a supportive community for writers is Write-minded. Hosted by Brooke Warner of She Writes and Grant Faulkner, executive director of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), this weekly podcast provides a heartening blend of inspiration and practical advice. Each episode offers an interview with a writer or publishing industry professional, delving into creative inspiration and industry insights alike.
Write-minded takes listeners on a journey through various aspects of writing, focusing on both the craft and the business of being a writer. It tackles topics such as dealing with rejection, honing the skills of characterization, and understanding the latest trends in publishing.
The podcast is particularly appealing because it’s not just about the technical side of writing but also about building a strong, supportive writing community. Listeners walk away with the feeling that they are not alone in their writing struggles or triumphs.
2. The Writing Coach Podcast
Another excellent resource for emotional support and community building is The Writing Coach Podcast. Hosted by writer and coach Kevin T. Johns, this podcast targets writers who are seeking guidance and structure in their writing processes. With a focus on helping writers achieve their creative goals, the podcast covers everything from productivity tips to the psychology behind setting and reaching writing ambitions.
Johns emphasizes the importance of aligning personal dreams with practical steps, encouraging writers to push past self-doubt. Listeners will find discussions about overcoming challenges, whether it’s battling procrastination or finding the perfect writing routine that fits into a busy life.
The Writing Coach Podcast is like having a motivational coach cheering in your corner, reminding you that the journey to publication is not just about writing the perfect story but also about nurturing one’s mental and emotional resilience.
Final Words
Here is our list of great podcasts for writers who want to be more creative, improve their writing, and learn more about the changing world of writing. Whether you want to write your first novel, sharpen your skills, or understand the publishing world, these podcasts offer useful information, inspiration, and a sense of community.
Remember, writing can be a lonely experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Listening to these podcasts can help you feel connected, give you helpful tips, and encourage you to keep going.
So, put on your headphones and enjoy the podcasts. Let them guide you on your journey to becoming a great storyteller. Happy listening and happy writing!
