<![CDATA[The Write Note]]>06744889-f13e-545f-bd9c-ca6d81ed2237Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:54:42 +0000Captivate.fmJ Ryan Fenzelhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/7d99ab0c-eb39-4bc4-a71a-374e582b95e8/X8uMrWGvBh8BFg31Zwkc51rf.jpgThe Write NoteJ Ryan FenzelJ Ryan FenzelYou don’t have to be an author to enjoy the entertaining and informative discussions on THE WRITE NOTE. Through tips, tricks, picks, reviews, and recommendations we explore all aspects of writing, storytelling, and the written word’s impact on pop culture. Hosted by indie authors J Ryan Fenzel and Keira F Jacobs, THE WRITE NOTE delivers a wide-ranging slate of writing topics and author conversations, all enhanced by the father/daughter, GenX/GenZ, male/female, seasoned/newbie perspectives of the hosts. The Write Note drops new episodes on the first Wednesday of each month. https://the-write-note.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastShakespeare's Enduring ImpactShakespeare's Enduring ImpactIn this episode we hail The Bard himself, William Shakespeare, and celebrate the enduring impact his writing has had on Western literature and entertainment for over 400 years.

Highlights:

01:30 The Titan of Western Literature

04:45 Character is King: Shakespeare Edition

12:03 Shakespeare in Led Zeppelin - Merchant of Venice (Act 2, Scene 7)

14:28 Shakespeare in Wonka - Romeo and Juliet (Act 2, Scene 2)

16:20 We happy few - Henry V (Act 4, Scene 3)

17:18 Something Good from Nothing - King Lear (Act 1, Scene 1)

20:53 Double Double - Macbeth (Act 4, Scene 1)

22:46 The Undiscovered Country - Henry V (Act 3, Scene 1)

26:48 To be, or not to be (performed poorly by J Ryan Fenzel)

]]>In this episode we hail The Bard himself, William Shakespeare, and celebrate the enduring impact his writing has had on Western literature and entertainment for over 400 years.

Highlights:

01:30 The Titan of Western Literature

04:45 Character is King: Shakespeare Edition

12:03 Shakespeare in Led Zeppelin - Merchant of Venice (Act 2, Scene 7)

14:28 Shakespeare in Wonka - Romeo and Juliet (Act 2, Scene 2)

16:20 We happy few - Henry V (Act 4, Scene 3)

17:18 Something Good from Nothing - King Lear (Act 1, Scene 1)

20:53 Double Double - Macbeth (Act 4, Scene 1)

22:46 The Undiscovered Country - Henry V (Act 3, Scene 1)

26:48 To be, or not to be (performed poorly by J Ryan Fenzel)

]]>6446d8fe-8392-4559-8b49-c902288766d8Wed, 04 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -050028:17falsefull3939The Goldberg Prompt (A Writing Exercise)The Goldberg Prompt (A Writing Exercise)In this episode we share a creative writing exercise that teaches authors how to avoid the predictable and unleash the vivid.

Episode Highlights:

01:27 The Goldberg Prompt

02:42 Setting up the exercise

03:30 An example run-through

04:23 Resulting verb-driven sentences

]]>In this episode we share a creative writing exercise that teaches authors how to avoid the predictable and unleash the vivid.

Episode Highlights:

01:27 The Goldberg Prompt

02:42 Setting up the exercise

03:30 An example run-through

04:23 Resulting verb-driven sentences

]]>f94e4dbc-7faf-4889-b65c-e02de764b00dWed, 11 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -050005:45falsefull3838Smashing Writer's BlockSmashing Writer's BlockIn this episode we take on writer’s block and share tried & true strategies to break through the wall and get those words flowing again.

Episode Highlights:

01:44 Character is King: Communication Problem Edition

08:45 The 4 types of Writer’s Block

12:42 Level 1 Treatment: Overcoming the variants

18:45 Level 2 Treatment: Manage the writing process

24:00 Set a clear intent for your writing session

26:23 Movement is medicine

30:51 Level 3 Treatment: Kickstarters

31:08 Develop a character

33:16 Start in the middle

36:22 Genre swapping

39:22 Caffeine

]]>In this episode we take on writer’s block and share tried & true strategies to break through the wall and get those words flowing again.

Episode Highlights:

01:44 Character is King: Communication Problem Edition

08:45 The 4 types of Writer’s Block

12:42 Level 1 Treatment: Overcoming the variants

18:45 Level 2 Treatment: Manage the writing process

24:00 Set a clear intent for your writing session

26:23 Movement is medicine

30:51 Level 3 Treatment: Kickstarters

31:08 Develop a character

33:16 Start in the middle

36:22 Genre swapping

39:22 Caffeine

]]>fdc2dee4-db45-41a8-8fbc-eb55b705d4e8Wed, 21 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -050043:23falsefull3737Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 6: Yuletide TraditionsLyrically Speaking, Vol. 6: Yuletide TraditionsIt's our annual Christmas Special! Join us as we unwrap a Yuletide edition of our Lyrically Speaking series to discuss the lyrics of classic Christmas songs and the stories behind the music.

Highlights:

01:38   What is the oldest Christmas Song?

05:35   Character is King: Yuletide Tradition Edition

11:40   Somewhere in My Memory

16:09   The Man with the Bag

21:04   ‘Zat You, Santa Claus?

25:14   The Snow Miser/Heat Miser Song

31:53   The Christmas Song

36:49  Underneath the Tree

]]>It's our annual Christmas Special! Join us as we unwrap a Yuletide edition of our Lyrically Speaking series to discuss the lyrics of classic Christmas songs and the stories behind the music.

Highlights:

01:38   What is the oldest Christmas Song?

05:35   Character is King: Yuletide Tradition Edition

11:40   Somewhere in My Memory

16:09   The Man with the Bag

21:04   ‘Zat You, Santa Claus?

25:14   The Snow Miser/Heat Miser Song

31:53   The Christmas Song

36:49  Underneath the Tree

]]>1402f4c6-7f60-4015-8aca-65f0ee8a9d79Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -050041:14falsefull3636Anatomy of the Short StoryAnatomy of the Short StoryIn this episode we examine the key elements that make up a great short story, and we share a collection of classic tales to illustrate the power of the format.

Episode Highlights:

01:30  What a short story does best

03:27  Character is King: Short Story Edition

10:08  Six key literary elements of the short story

17:44  A training ground for the writer’s “long game”

22:10  Story Example 1: A Good Man is Hard to Find

26:45  Story Example 2: Trace

30:07  Story Example 3: The Telltale Heart

33:10  Story Example 4: The Star

35:40  Story Example 5: A Rose for Emily

40:20  Story Example 6: The Open Window

]]>In this episode we examine the key elements that make up a great short story, and we share a collection of classic tales to illustrate the power of the format.

Episode Highlights:

01:30  What a short story does best

03:27  Character is King: Short Story Edition

10:08  Six key literary elements of the short story

17:44  A training ground for the writer’s “long game”

22:10  Story Example 1: A Good Man is Hard to Find

26:45  Story Example 2: Trace

30:07  Story Example 3: The Telltale Heart

33:10  Story Example 4: The Star

35:40  Story Example 5: A Rose for Emily

40:20  Story Example 6: The Open Window

]]>0c2f8c66-53f4-4afb-83ee-a7ce9b4471aaWed, 05 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -050046:00falsefull3535Conspiracies of Literature & FilmConspiracies of Literature & FilmIn this episode we expose weird and whacky conspiracy theories from the literary, film, and music worlds and reveal the secrets “they” don’t want you to know.

Episode Highlights:

02:55   “Paul is Dead” catches fire

06:47   Character is King: Conspiratorial Edition

12:45   Theory 1 - She doesn’t exist

15:12   Theory 2 - Witches Boo

18:10   Theory 3 - It’s not her, it’s him

21:26   Theory 4 - Who’s your daddy?

24:40   Theory 5 – Lennon and the King

28:18   Theory 6 – Back to the North Pole

]]>In this episode we expose weird and whacky conspiracy theories from the literary, film, and music worlds and reveal the secrets “they” don’t want you to know.

Episode Highlights:

02:55   “Paul is Dead” catches fire

06:47   Character is King: Conspiratorial Edition

12:45   Theory 1 - She doesn’t exist

15:12   Theory 2 - Witches Boo

18:10   Theory 3 - It’s not her, it’s him

21:26   Theory 4 - Who’s your daddy?

24:40   Theory 5 – Lennon and the King

28:18   Theory 6 – Back to the North Pole

]]>ecbbbe8f-bca0-4464-a8d2-976f11a57dddWed, 01 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -050034:28falsefull3434More Idioms, More OriginsMore Idioms, More OriginsIn this episode we present a new collection of classic idioms and share the histories and origins that made them timeless expressions of speech.

Episode highlights:

03:00              Coffee badging and three sheets

06:15               Character is King: Idiomatic Expression Edition

12:03               A very southern idiom

14:40               Lost in translation

17:19               Born of a Scottish proverb

21:00               Benson Boone and Rick Springfield

23:25              The Thatched Roof Theory

26:20              Novel uses of a bullet

29:06              Honorable Mentions

]]>In this episode we present a new collection of classic idioms and share the histories and origins that made them timeless expressions of speech.

Episode highlights:

03:00              Coffee badging and three sheets

06:15               Character is King: Idiomatic Expression Edition

12:03               A very southern idiom

14:40               Lost in translation

17:19               Born of a Scottish proverb

21:00               Benson Boone and Rick Springfield

23:25              The Thatched Roof Theory

26:20              Novel uses of a bullet

29:06              Honorable Mentions

]]>b8e77a49-5d0f-4c89-a593-10c1125b2406Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -050033:47falsefull3333Beach Read BlueprintBeach Read BlueprintIn this episode we break down the elements and genres that make up a great beach read novel, and we share our Top 5 list of titles that pair perfect with sun and sand.

Episode highlights:

01:40               Choose your Beach Read wisely

02:10               Character is King: Beach Edition

11:14               The Blueprint: 6 Key Elements & 3 Prime Genres

16:07               Top 5 List of Great Beach Read Novels

22:12               The 48-hour book

26:57              A prime beach read

]]>In this episode we break down the elements and genres that make up a great beach read novel, and we share our Top 5 list of titles that pair perfect with sun and sand.

Episode highlights:

01:40               Choose your Beach Read wisely

02:10               Character is King: Beach Edition

11:14               The Blueprint: 6 Key Elements & 3 Prime Genres

16:07               Top 5 List of Great Beach Read Novels

22:12               The 48-hour book

26:57              A prime beach read

]]>8f806226-a73d-48e7-8f0d-22a98c38df07Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -050029:00falsefull3232Talkin' TaglinesTalkin' TaglinesIn this episode we take a close look at taglines. From big business to blockbusters to books we discuss how these brief blurbs of exposition just might be the most valuable marketing tool ever devised and share key tips to on how to craft an effective tagline for your novel.

Episode highlights:

02:08             What is a tagline?

04:25             Novel examples

08:55             The key to writing a tagline for a book

12:40              Character is King: Tagline Edition

17:16               Tagline Tag

21:05              Early morning aliens

]]>In this episode we take a close look at taglines. From big business to blockbusters to books we discuss how these brief blurbs of exposition just might be the most valuable marketing tool ever devised and share key tips to on how to craft an effective tagline for your novel.

Episode highlights:

02:08             What is a tagline?

04:25             Novel examples

08:55             The key to writing a tagline for a book

12:40              Character is King: Tagline Edition

17:16               Tagline Tag

21:05              Early morning aliens

]]>4ba3d049-129a-431f-bcec-7f1cdadc37bcWed, 02 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -050026:26falsefull3131Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 5: The MusicalLyrically Speaking, Vol. 5: The MusicalIn this episode we roll out Volume 5 of our Lyrically Speaking series and celebrate the musical. Join us as we explore the lyrics of classic showtunes from Broadway and beyond in this fun retrospective.

Episode highlights:

02:56              What makes a musical?

07:22               Character is King: The Musical Edition

14:52               Brown paper packages

19:05               The greatest negotiation

23:38               Sit down!

30:49               Minutes turn to hours

35:35               Tell me more

41:20               Three meals a day

]]>In this episode we roll out Volume 5 of our Lyrically Speaking series and celebrate the musical. Join us as we explore the lyrics of classic showtunes from Broadway and beyond in this fun retrospective.

Episode highlights:

02:56              What makes a musical?

07:22               Character is King: The Musical Edition

14:52               Brown paper packages

19:05               The greatest negotiation

23:38               Sit down!

30:49               Minutes turn to hours

35:35               Tell me more

41:20               Three meals a day

]]>33eb9455-7dec-4450-a917-861e163fe3d4Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -050047:19falsefull3030Chasing MacGuffins with The Write NoteChasing MacGuffins with The Write NoteIn this episode we examine the MacGuffin, its history, popularization, and use in modern storytelling. We also share our Top 5 list of all-time great MacGuffins.

Episode highlights:

01:29               What is a MacGuffin?

08:27              Character is King: MacGuffin Edition

13:15               The Top 5 list of all-time great cinema MacGuffins

14:39               I know something you don’t

18:09               It’s all in the plans

21:00               To infinity…

23:50              The stuff that dreams are made of

26:00              Like an addiction

]]>In this episode we examine the MacGuffin, its history, popularization, and use in modern storytelling. We also share our Top 5 list of all-time great MacGuffins.

Episode highlights:

01:29               What is a MacGuffin?

08:27              Character is King: MacGuffin Edition

13:15               The Top 5 list of all-time great cinema MacGuffins

14:39               I know something you don’t

18:09               It’s all in the plans

21:00               To infinity…

23:50              The stuff that dreams are made of

26:00              Like an addiction

]]>429f179d-0205-41f9-915a-458599bc225dWed, 09 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -050030:40falsefull2929Happily Ever After with Carrie Anne NobleHappily Ever After with Carrie Anne NobleIn this episode YA fantasy author Carrie Anne Noble joins us to discuss folklore, fairy tales, and how she finds new stories to tell. Carrie reveals behind-the-book details about her new novel THE SPRINGBORN, and shares the impact that her debut novel, THE MERMAID’s SISTER, had on her life. And for a little bonus content, Keira and I discuss the path she took to get her novel KEEPER OF THE LIGHT from publisher signing to pub date.

Episode highlights:

02:33          Keira’s fairy tale: Publishing KEEPER OF THE LIGHT

11:20            Character is King: Enchanted Edition

18:17            Welcome Carrie Anne Noble

20:27          The life-changing impact of THE MERMAID’S SISTER

23:15           The fairy tale vibe of THE SPRINGBORN

25:35          How THE GINGERBREAD QUEEN became a sequel

27:48          Carrie’s fresh figurative language

33:00          The inspiration of Pennsylvania

]]>In this episode YA fantasy author Carrie Anne Noble joins us to discuss folklore, fairy tales, and how she finds new stories to tell. Carrie reveals behind-the-book details about her new novel THE SPRINGBORN, and shares the impact that her debut novel, THE MERMAID’s SISTER, had on her life. And for a little bonus content, Keira and I discuss the path she took to get her novel KEEPER OF THE LIGHT from publisher signing to pub date.

Episode highlights:

02:33          Keira’s fairy tale: Publishing KEEPER OF THE LIGHT

11:20            Character is King: Enchanted Edition

18:17            Welcome Carrie Anne Noble

20:27          The life-changing impact of THE MERMAID’S SISTER

23:15           The fairy tale vibe of THE SPRINGBORN

25:35          How THE GINGERBREAD QUEEN became a sequel

27:48          Carrie’s fresh figurative language

33:00          The inspiration of Pennsylvania

]]>e0b14e9a-d9ab-493b-9c25-07f705f85c63Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -050036:27falsefull2828Action, Integrity, and Taylor S NewportAction, Integrity, and Taylor S NewportIn this episode Christian author Taylor S Newport joins us to discuss her debut into the thriller genre, the perfect balance of action and integrity, and the potential to be prolific.

Episode highlights:

02:56               Astounding accomplishments of youth

04:25               Character is King: Exceptional Youth Edition

10:45               Welcome Taylor S Newport

12:53               Thrills and integrity

17:13               Writing fast and crafting a cliffhanger

20:11               A writing editor or an editing writer?

26:20               Being somewhat prolific

]]>In this episode Christian author Taylor S Newport joins us to discuss her debut into the thriller genre, the perfect balance of action and integrity, and the potential to be prolific.

Episode highlights:

02:56               Astounding accomplishments of youth

04:25               Character is King: Exceptional Youth Edition

10:45               Welcome Taylor S Newport

12:53               Thrills and integrity

17:13               Writing fast and crafting a cliffhanger

20:11               A writing editor or an editing writer?

26:20               Being somewhat prolific

]]>f07d2d77-28b8-424e-990d-7a44c65dae6cWed, 05 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -050028:58falsefull2727Writing & Resolution: The Top 5 Resolutions for Writers in 2025Writing & Resolution: The Top 5 Resolutions for Writers in 2025In this episode we ring in the New Year with a Top 5 list of resolutions for writers to engage and improve their craft in 2025.

 Episode highlights:

02:41               Who originated the idea of New Year’s Resolutions?

05:58              Character is King: Great Resolve Edition

12:25               The Top 5 list of resolutions for writers

13:10               Correspondence course

15:30               Own it!

18:05               Life gets in the way

22:12               Immersive days

23:49              The REAL reward of writing

]]>In this episode we ring in the New Year with a Top 5 list of resolutions for writers to engage and improve their craft in 2025.

 Episode highlights:

02:41               Who originated the idea of New Year’s Resolutions?

05:58              Character is King: Great Resolve Edition

12:25               The Top 5 list of resolutions for writers

13:10               Correspondence course

15:30               Own it!

18:05               Life gets in the way

22:12               Immersive days

23:49              The REAL reward of writing

]]>5b8c77c2-3a4b-4f8a-91cf-ebb897037a46Wed, 15 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -050027:14falsefull2626Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 4: Christmas Again!Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 4: Christmas Again!In this episode we bask in the glow of the holiday season and explore the lyrics of a collection of classic Christmas songs and share the untold stories behind the music.

Episode highlights:

02:00              How many Christmas songs are there?

05:27              Character is King: Special Christmas Edition

11:06               A merry little song

16:02               Keira’s intro to Christmas

20:37              The hymn once banned by the Catholic Church

26:33              Christmas wrapped up in a bow

31:20               A stolen song and A Very Special Christmas

36:41               A Broadway Christmas tune

42:17               Merry Christmas from The Write Note

]]>In this episode we bask in the glow of the holiday season and explore the lyrics of a collection of classic Christmas songs and share the untold stories behind the music.

Episode highlights:

02:00              How many Christmas songs are there?

05:27              Character is King: Special Christmas Edition

11:06               A merry little song

16:02               Keira’s intro to Christmas

20:37              The hymn once banned by the Catholic Church

26:33              Christmas wrapped up in a bow

31:20               A stolen song and A Very Special Christmas

36:41               A Broadway Christmas tune

42:17               Merry Christmas from The Write Note

]]>60238fe9-ebba-43f4-9d64-60c39941cf25Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -050042:40falsefull2525Past Perfect with Diana RubinoPast Perfect with Diana RubinoIn this episode Amazon Bestselling author Diana Rubino joins us to discuss how a love for history has inspired her to write nearly 20 historical romance and biographical novels.

Episode highlights:

01:17               Past is more than prologue

04:41              Character is King: Historic Edition

14:00              Welcome Diana Rubino

19:22               Finding comfort in biographies

23:22              Who killed President Kennedy?

28:55              Love conquers all

35:54              Feeling the weight of history

40:50              Around the World in 80 Meals

45:02              Josephine Earp: Sassy Lady of History

]]>In this episode Amazon Bestselling author Diana Rubino joins us to discuss how a love for history has inspired her to write nearly 20 historical romance and biographical novels.

Episode highlights:

01:17               Past is more than prologue

04:41              Character is King: Historic Edition

14:00              Welcome Diana Rubino

19:22               Finding comfort in biographies

23:22              Who killed President Kennedy?

28:55              Love conquers all

35:54              Feeling the weight of history

40:50              Around the World in 80 Meals

45:02              Josephine Earp: Sassy Lady of History

]]>bfda348e-09df-495a-9a0f-25985a47e037Wed, 06 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -050047:36falsefull2424Keira's Breaking NewsKeira's Breaking NewsIn this special episode Keira shares big news about her writing career.

 

Episode highlights:

01:19   Keira’s big news

02:51   A Smyth’s Quill – The story that landed a contract

04:24   Oliver-Heber Books: The Terms

07:05   Writing under a deadline

08:30   The best part of OHB (so far)

 

]]>In this special episode Keira shares big news about her writing career.

 

Episode highlights:

01:19   Keira’s big news

02:51   A Smyth’s Quill – The story that landed a contract

04:24   Oliver-Heber Books: The Terms

07:05   Writing under a deadline

08:30   The best part of OHB (so far)

 

]]>e551e497-19ce-4baa-b8d2-1622eed068b7Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -050010:46falsefull2323Judging by the Cover with Dineen MillerJudging by the Cover with Dineen MillerIn this episode author and graphic artist Dineen Miller joins us to discuss creating the perfect book cover and shares the allure of writing romantic comedies.

Episode highlights:

01:10               Judging a book by the cover

05:57             Character is King: Artistic World Edition

11:29               Welcome Dineen Miller

13:40              The evolution of graphic art technology

17:14               Cover market awareness is vital

20:48             Weighing in on AI

26:30             What is the job of your book cover?

33:39             The allure of writing romantic comedies

39:06             Moments Matter – Laughter Lingers

42:15              Writing from a male perspective

]]>In this episode author and graphic artist Dineen Miller joins us to discuss creating the perfect book cover and shares the allure of writing romantic comedies.

Episode highlights:

01:10               Judging a book by the cover

05:57             Character is King: Artistic World Edition

11:29               Welcome Dineen Miller

13:40              The evolution of graphic art technology

17:14               Cover market awareness is vital

20:48             Weighing in on AI

26:30             What is the job of your book cover?

33:39             The allure of writing romantic comedies

39:06             Moments Matter – Laughter Lingers

42:15              Writing from a male perspective

]]>1771d8d2-5605-4897-899c-047540d9fd54Wed, 02 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -050052:31falsefull2222It Was All A Dream (or Was It?)It Was All A Dream (or Was It?)In this episode we examine the most controversial story-ending trope ever devised. It was all a dream…or was it?  We look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of employing this trope and play a game of “Neat” or “Cheat” with some famous dreamy endings.

 

Episode highlights:

01:35               Nailing the end of a story

02:40              It was all a dream…or was it? - The controversial trope

09:46              Character is King: Dreamy Edition (or is it?)

13:26               Neat or Cheat

13:58               A dream-sharing masterpiece

18:18               Was Dickens deceptive?

20:41               The great escape…or was it?

26:40              A train, a bell, and a hole in a pocket

31:37               The midnight twist

35:25              Honorable mention

]]>In this episode we examine the most controversial story-ending trope ever devised. It was all a dream…or was it?  We look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of employing this trope and play a game of “Neat” or “Cheat” with some famous dreamy endings.

 

Episode highlights:

01:35               Nailing the end of a story

02:40              It was all a dream…or was it? - The controversial trope

09:46              Character is King: Dreamy Edition (or is it?)

13:26               Neat or Cheat

13:58               A dream-sharing masterpiece

18:18               Was Dickens deceptive?

20:41               The great escape…or was it?

26:40              A train, a bell, and a hole in a pocket

31:37               The midnight twist

35:25              Honorable mention

]]>7da1ecfa-52a2-4c44-9212-f79d9024262fWed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -050036:18falsefull2121Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 3: Summerween SongsLyrically Speaking, Vol. 3: Summerween SongsIn this episode we celebrate Summerween with a creepy collection of songs and the stories that made them scary. From the Stones to the X-files. From a gypsy to a howling crooner, we cover some spooky, cooky, ground.

Episode highlights:

01:25 Keira Returns!

01:55 What is Summerween?

06:00 Character is King: Summerween Edition

10:55 From a certain perspective

14:18 A gypsy, a potion, and a cop

16:33 A wonderful song with a creep X-factor

21:15 A paranoid song

25:00 A happy song made creepy

30:07 Screaming a song to death

]]>In this episode we celebrate Summerween with a creepy collection of songs and the stories that made them scary. From the Stones to the X-files. From a gypsy to a howling crooner, we cover some spooky, cooky, ground.

Episode highlights:

01:25 Keira Returns!

01:55 What is Summerween?

06:00 Character is King: Summerween Edition

10:55 From a certain perspective

14:18 A gypsy, a potion, and a cop

16:33 A wonderful song with a creep X-factor

21:15 A paranoid song

25:00 A happy song made creepy

30:07 Screaming a song to death

]]>72d3b09b-03f8-4564-8d98-7efa22f7611fWed, 14 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -050035:52falsefull2020Getting Psyched with Kara QuinnGetting Psyched with Kara QuinnIn this episode we welcome author and poet Kara Quinn to discuss the long and winding path she took to find a literary agent. Kara also shares the challenges she faced when she took on the all-consuming task of writing a psychological thriller.

Highlights:

01:35               Kara’s Poem

03:02              Character is King: Poetic Edition (abbreviated)

04:55              Welcome Kara Quinn

05:57              The long path to find an agent

11:00               Query tools and tips

13:15               Good rejections

17:10               St. Augustine & the chemical structure of Serotonin

21:35               What Happened to Vivian Bell – The elevator pitch.

28:27               Kara the creepy weirdo

34:03               A cherished writing exercise

38:19               Writing poetry vs writing a novel

44:16               The nostalgia of A Gold Chain

47:52               How to drink like an author

]]>In this episode we welcome author and poet Kara Quinn to discuss the long and winding path she took to find a literary agent. Kara also shares the challenges she faced when she took on the all-consuming task of writing a psychological thriller.

Highlights:

01:35               Kara’s Poem

03:02              Character is King: Poetic Edition (abbreviated)

04:55              Welcome Kara Quinn

05:57              The long path to find an agent

11:00               Query tools and tips

13:15               Good rejections

17:10               St. Augustine & the chemical structure of Serotonin

21:35               What Happened to Vivian Bell – The elevator pitch.

28:27               Kara the creepy weirdo

34:03               A cherished writing exercise

38:19               Writing poetry vs writing a novel

44:16               The nostalgia of A Gold Chain

47:52               How to drink like an author

]]>664b1963-1b27-435c-82cb-fc2c6acd780eWed, 07 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -050052:26falsefull1919The Long-Lost Art of the JingleThe Long-Lost Art of the JingleIn this episode we examine the long-lost art of writing advertising jingles and recognize the copywriters and creative directors who crafted the most memorable songs from commercial advertising’s golden era. Along the way, we revisit classic commercial tunes.

Episode highlights:

01:20    From song to sonic tagline

03:38    A jingle that went to Billboard’s No. 2

06:14    Nutty

07:13    Broadway Branding

08:11    It does it all in 30 seconds

09:17    Insidious tune

10:19    The unity of sweet effervescence

]]>In this episode we examine the long-lost art of writing advertising jingles and recognize the copywriters and creative directors who crafted the most memorable songs from commercial advertising’s golden era. Along the way, we revisit classic commercial tunes.

Episode highlights:

01:20    From song to sonic tagline

03:38    A jingle that went to Billboard’s No. 2

06:14    Nutty

07:13    Broadway Branding

08:11    It does it all in 30 seconds

09:17    Insidious tune

10:19    The unity of sweet effervescence

]]>5476e223-8930-4974-9102-1c516e53ab6aWed, 03 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -050014:29falsefull1818The Importance of PremiseThe Importance of PremiseIn this episode J Ryan and Keira discuss the importance of creating an engaging premise when crafting a story and share their Top-3 list of story examples having an awesome premise.

Episode highlights:

01:25         What if?

02:53        The components of a great premise

04:50        Character is King: Clever Premise Edition

10:35          Amazing amber idea

12:59          Rewarding heroics

16:08          Strange

19:40          Boarding

22:13          A bunch of firsts

24:39         Again and again

27:10           Fun fact

]]>In this episode J Ryan and Keira discuss the importance of creating an engaging premise when crafting a story and share their Top-3 list of story examples having an awesome premise.

Episode highlights:

01:25         What if?

02:53        The components of a great premise

04:50        Character is King: Clever Premise Edition

10:35          Amazing amber idea

12:59          Rewarding heroics

16:08          Strange

19:40          Boarding

22:13          A bunch of firsts

24:39         Again and again

27:10           Fun fact

]]>d3a08613-e44a-4883-8cfc-45dc477121b9Wed, 08 May 2024 06:00:00 -050029:57falsefull1717The Origins of IdiomsThe Origins of IdiomsThis episode is a horse of a different color as J Ryan and Keira take a deep dive into idioms. Join their exploration of how these beloved expressions of speech have permeated our culture and day to day lives and learn the amazing history and origin of some of their favorites.

Episode highlights:

01:55 What is an idiom?

03:50 Our verbal culture (Tribal Knowledge)

05:35 Character is King: Idiom Edition

12:50 Let it whip

16:25 The “All” of something

18:35 Siriusly?

21:10 Couldn’t be more different

22:38 Boxing, jumping, acting, or sailing?

25:16 You’re not worthy 

]]>This episode is a horse of a different color as J Ryan and Keira take a deep dive into idioms. Join their exploration of how these beloved expressions of speech have permeated our culture and day to day lives and learn the amazing history and origin of some of their favorites.

Episode highlights:

01:55 What is an idiom?

03:50 Our verbal culture (Tribal Knowledge)

05:35 Character is King: Idiom Edition

12:50 Let it whip

16:25 The “All” of something

18:35 Siriusly?

21:10 Couldn’t be more different

22:38 Boxing, jumping, acting, or sailing?

25:16 You’re not worthy 

]]>c6a28ab8-9eb0-434b-aba7-1a413e479966Wed, 10 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -050028:29falsefull1616Unraveling Fate with Kara DouglasUnraveling Fate with Kara DouglasIn this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome romance & fantasy author Kara Douglas to discuss the tropes of love, unraveling fate, and making magic. Kara also shares her key to social media book promotion and how she gets advanced copies of her books into readers hands.

Episode highlights:

01:20               Blending Genres

03:45              Character is King: Mixed Genre Edition

09:59              Welcome Kara Douglas

10:47               Lunaria’s theme

13:35               Fitting in the fantasy

17:05               Inspiration in Ireland

21:50               Pantser vs Plotter

26:15               Why Alice In Wonderland?

29:05              Kara’s social media advice

35:55              Unraveling the ARC process

]]>In this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome romance & fantasy author Kara Douglas to discuss the tropes of love, unraveling fate, and making magic. Kara also shares her key to social media book promotion and how she gets advanced copies of her books into readers hands.

Episode highlights:

01:20               Blending Genres

03:45              Character is King: Mixed Genre Edition

09:59              Welcome Kara Douglas

10:47               Lunaria’s theme

13:35               Fitting in the fantasy

17:05               Inspiration in Ireland

21:50               Pantser vs Plotter

26:15               Why Alice In Wonderland?

29:05              Kara’s social media advice

35:55              Unraveling the ARC process

]]>72d32247-e192-4b56-ace5-2443f9091f40Wed, 06 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -050041:42falsefull1515One Conversation with Luana EhrlichOne Conversation with Luana EhrlichIn this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome USA Today bestselling thriller and suspense author Luana Ehrlich to discuss the secret of being a prolific writer, the challenge of juggling multiple series characters, and the art of intertwining faith with thrills and chills.

Episode highlights:

01:15               What makes a prolific author?

05:45             Character is King: Long Running Series Edition

11:17               The lost era of appointment TV

13:43               Welcome Luana Ehrlich

17:45               It blew their minds

20:01               The origin of Titus Ray

26:02              Weaving in the faith

30:54              The pros, cons, and humor of First Person POV

36:45              Finding a voice for your hero (in audiobooks)

40:54              Keeping characters distinct

45:10               A day in the life of Luana Ehrlich

53:35              Reflections of life in Michigan



]]>In this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome USA Today bestselling thriller and suspense author Luana Ehrlich to discuss the secret of being a prolific writer, the challenge of juggling multiple series characters, and the art of intertwining faith with thrills and chills.

Episode highlights:

01:15               What makes a prolific author?

05:45             Character is King: Long Running Series Edition

11:17               The lost era of appointment TV

13:43               Welcome Luana Ehrlich

17:45               It blew their minds

20:01               The origin of Titus Ray

26:02              Weaving in the faith

30:54              The pros, cons, and humor of First Person POV

36:45              Finding a voice for your hero (in audiobooks)

40:54              Keeping characters distinct

45:10               A day in the life of Luana Ehrlich

53:35              Reflections of life in Michigan



]]>a0d86a26-16f5-4105-b1b4-cf931312237bWed, 07 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -050059:17falsefull1414Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 2: Christmas SongsLyrically Speaking, Vol. 2: Christmas SongsIn this second installment of the Lyrically Speaking series, J Ryan and Keira shine a festive light on classic Christmas songs and explore the lyrics that make the holidays bright. Along the way, they share not-so-well-known stories behind these beloved tunes and reveal a 400-year-old mystery surrounding one cherished Christmas carol.

Episode highlights:

02:14               Holiday inspiration and irony

03:24              Character is King: Christmas Edition

09:20              A picture postcard of Christmas—with morbid edges?

13:20               What other type of Christmas is there?

17:47               A toe-tapping celebration of Santa Claus

22:37               An ancient manuscript recorded by a King

28:28               The exuberance of youth…and an elf

32:28               It captures Christmas Eve so well

37:48               Our own Scrooge moment

]]>In this second installment of the Lyrically Speaking series, J Ryan and Keira shine a festive light on classic Christmas songs and explore the lyrics that make the holidays bright. Along the way, they share not-so-well-known stories behind these beloved tunes and reveal a 400-year-old mystery surrounding one cherished Christmas carol.

Episode highlights:

02:14               Holiday inspiration and irony

03:24              Character is King: Christmas Edition

09:20              A picture postcard of Christmas—with morbid edges?

13:20               What other type of Christmas is there?

17:47               A toe-tapping celebration of Santa Claus

22:37               An ancient manuscript recorded by a King

28:28               The exuberance of youth…and an elf

32:28               It captures Christmas Eve so well

37:48               Our own Scrooge moment

]]>22e9d200-51e6-4696-8fc0-862c5a0cb9c8Wed, 06 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -050039:29falsefull1313Breaking Down Pixar's 22 Rules of StorytellingBreaking Down Pixar's 22 Rules of StorytellingIn this episode, J Ryan and Keira take a deep dive into Pixar Studio's 22 Rules of Storytelling, examining each rule and sharing examples of how they are executed in popular films and in their own writing projects. They also unveil Pixar's unique corporate creative process, "The Pixar Braintrust," and discuss how it came to be.

Episode highlights:

03:33               George Lucas, Steve Jobs, ILM & the birth of Pixar

05:59               The Pixar Braintrust

08:06               Character is King: Pixar Edition

14:53               Diving into the 22 Rules of Storytelling

18:07               When do you see the theme in your work?

24:17               The End is the beginning…and the middle

27:40               Learn what you like, then use it

31:26               An obvious way to surprise yourself

36:54              Keeping it real…no matter the circumstance

41:55               It’s such a waste, or is it? (Even after 14 years)

47:17               Exercise: Fix a broken story

]]>In this episode, J Ryan and Keira take a deep dive into Pixar Studio's 22 Rules of Storytelling, examining each rule and sharing examples of how they are executed in popular films and in their own writing projects. They also unveil Pixar's unique corporate creative process, "The Pixar Braintrust," and discuss how it came to be.

Episode highlights:

03:33               George Lucas, Steve Jobs, ILM & the birth of Pixar

05:59               The Pixar Braintrust

08:06               Character is King: Pixar Edition

14:53               Diving into the 22 Rules of Storytelling

18:07               When do you see the theme in your work?

24:17               The End is the beginning…and the middle

27:40               Learn what you like, then use it

31:26               An obvious way to surprise yourself

36:54              Keeping it real…no matter the circumstance

41:55               It’s such a waste, or is it? (Even after 14 years)

47:17               Exercise: Fix a broken story

]]>e9e3ef9f-696f-486a-abd6-e3a6409ff4a3Wed, 01 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -050051:57falsefull1212Just the Facts and a Little Faith with Dony JayJust the Facts and a Little Faith with Dony JayIn this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome author Dony Jay to discuss writing action-packed spy thrillers from a Chistian perspective. Dony also shares his insights into police procedurals, and how his 20-year career as a police investigator has prepared him to write his new crime thriller series.

Episode highlights:

01:52               How much of ourselves do we put in our fiction?

07:20              FRAK!

09:40             Character is King: Law Enforcement Edition

16:37               Welcome Dony Jay

17:56               Fiction with Conviction

21:18               Breaking the curse (word)

24:56              What do crime & mystery authors get wrong?

33:12               Writing facts vs writing fiction

37:45              Dony’s secret to character development

45:35              The challenge of independence

51:08               Book trailers and marketing


]]>In this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome author Dony Jay to discuss writing action-packed spy thrillers from a Chistian perspective. Dony also shares his insights into police procedurals, and how his 20-year career as a police investigator has prepared him to write his new crime thriller series.

Episode highlights:

01:52               How much of ourselves do we put in our fiction?

07:20              FRAK!

09:40             Character is King: Law Enforcement Edition

16:37               Welcome Dony Jay

17:56               Fiction with Conviction

21:18               Breaking the curse (word)

24:56              What do crime & mystery authors get wrong?

33:12               Writing facts vs writing fiction

37:45              Dony’s secret to character development

45:35              The challenge of independence

51:08               Book trailers and marketing


]]>69e91f07-7296-4681-97b4-5a3d4ab7e1d5Wed, 04 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -050057:22falsefull1111Thrillin' Out with Jack ArborThrillin' Out with Jack ArborIn this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome thriller author Jack Arbor to discuss his action & espionage series The Russian Assassin, the weight of Cold War history, and the challenge of crafting a lovable anti-hero. The conversation also delves into the business side of independent publication and the benefits of cultivating an extensive Beta Reader network.

Episode highlights:

02:58             Growing up during the Cold War – A brief history

07:48             Did you feel the doom? - Anxieties of a new generation

10:06              Character is King: Cold War Edition (Technicality ahead!)

17:22               Welcome Jack Arbor

20:04             Creating Max Austin

24:20             The flavor of a place

35:10              The art of Product Market Fit

40:58             The best sketch artists

46:14              Who would play your main character?

48:00             Jack’s Beta Reader process

54:32             Getting the world right in Book-1

59:44             Bourbon or beer?

1:03:14            Makin’ Coffee

]]>In this episode, J Ryan and Keira welcome thriller author Jack Arbor to discuss his action & espionage series The Russian Assassin, the weight of Cold War history, and the challenge of crafting a lovable anti-hero. The conversation also delves into the business side of independent publication and the benefits of cultivating an extensive Beta Reader network.

Episode highlights:

02:58             Growing up during the Cold War – A brief history

07:48             Did you feel the doom? - Anxieties of a new generation

10:06              Character is King: Cold War Edition (Technicality ahead!)

17:22               Welcome Jack Arbor

20:04             Creating Max Austin

24:20             The flavor of a place

35:10              The art of Product Market Fit

40:58             The best sketch artists

46:14              Who would play your main character?

48:00             Jack’s Beta Reader process

54:32             Getting the world right in Book-1

59:44             Bourbon or beer?

1:03:14            Makin’ Coffee

]]>25f2c659-2dd6-4dbb-b6bf-a9b8617b3f63Wed, 06 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -050001:05:09falsefull1010Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 1Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 1In this episode, hosts J Ryan and Keira dive into the world of music to discuss how the structure and conventions of the modern pop song provides fertile ground for excellent writing, and they share their favorite examples of stellar lyrics from songs over the past 70 years.

Episode highlights:

02:41                    Structure, constraints, and good writing

05:36                   Character is King: Music Edition

12:55                    A masterclass of concise writing

17:30                    Wait, the song is about that?

21:29                    A band transforms

24:40                   Correcting the record on a tortured artist

28:05                   A self-deprecating character study

32:50                   The song is the same, you’re the one who changed

]]>In this episode, hosts J Ryan and Keira dive into the world of music to discuss how the structure and conventions of the modern pop song provides fertile ground for excellent writing, and they share their favorite examples of stellar lyrics from songs over the past 70 years.

Episode highlights:

02:41                    Structure, constraints, and good writing

05:36                   Character is King: Music Edition

12:55                    A masterclass of concise writing

17:30                    Wait, the song is about that?

21:29                    A band transforms

24:40                   Correcting the record on a tortured artist

28:05                   A self-deprecating character study

32:50                   The song is the same, you’re the one who changed

]]>e8306a25-7cb5-4437-8c84-3a2171020d6dSat, 05 Aug 2023 08:15:00 -050037:31falsefull99Globetrotting with Kristy Lynae MooreGlobetrotting with Kristy Lynae MooreIn this episode contemporary romance novelist Kristy Lynae Moore joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about travel adventures, life on a ranch, and a fascination for a particular Kingsman. Kristy also discusses how she discovered and fell in love with the art of typography, and shares her biggest challenge with independent publishing.

Episode highlights:

01:25                    Do you like to travel?     

02:57                   Overselling the Mona Lisa

05:11                    Character is King: Travel Edition

09:31                    Welcome Kristy Lynae Moore     

11:27                    What to leave in, what to leave out

15:57                    Splitting time between writing, typography, and motherhood

17:32                    Immortalizing the Exs

19:33                    Crushing on the Kingsman

24:00                   Discovering a love for typography

29:23                   Handling critiques

33:31                    The hardest part of publishing

36:12                    Can you elaborate on the ranch?

]]>In this episode contemporary romance novelist Kristy Lynae Moore joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about travel adventures, life on a ranch, and a fascination for a particular Kingsman. Kristy also discusses how she discovered and fell in love with the art of typography, and shares her biggest challenge with independent publishing.

Episode highlights:

01:25                    Do you like to travel?     

02:57                   Overselling the Mona Lisa

05:11                    Character is King: Travel Edition

09:31                    Welcome Kristy Lynae Moore     

11:27                    What to leave in, what to leave out

15:57                    Splitting time between writing, typography, and motherhood

17:32                    Immortalizing the Exs

19:33                    Crushing on the Kingsman

24:00                   Discovering a love for typography

29:23                   Handling critiques

33:31                    The hardest part of publishing

36:12                    Can you elaborate on the ranch?

]]>808aa426-0eb2-4611-91d7-92ff156b4508Wed, 05 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -050041:59falsefull88A Twist of Teenage Romance with Nicole AdairA Twist of Teenage Romance with Nicole AdairIn this episode YA novelist Nicole Adair joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about the twists and turns of teenage angst, the work of writing, and the unifying power of Taylor Swift. Nicole also discusses the purpose and importance of her social media posts, and the awesome yet terrifying world of independent publishing.

Episode highlights:

01:20                    What makes a YA novel “YA”?     

05:57                   Anatomy of a rivalry

07:20                   Character is King: Rivals Edition

15:25                    Welcome Nicole Adair   

18:38                    Discovering character development

23:39                   The Taylor Swift connection

26:57                   The Twist

31:30                    Write something every day

38:00                   Doing the work

41:10                    Write Nicole Write: Confessions of a YA author

46:07                   Independence and growth

51:52                    Why are indie rock stars cool?


]]>In this episode YA novelist Nicole Adair joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about the twists and turns of teenage angst, the work of writing, and the unifying power of Taylor Swift. Nicole also discusses the purpose and importance of her social media posts, and the awesome yet terrifying world of independent publishing.

Episode highlights:

01:20                    What makes a YA novel “YA”?     

05:57                   Anatomy of a rivalry

07:20                   Character is King: Rivals Edition

15:25                    Welcome Nicole Adair   

18:38                    Discovering character development

23:39                   The Taylor Swift connection

26:57                   The Twist

31:30                    Write something every day

38:00                   Doing the work

41:10                    Write Nicole Write: Confessions of a YA author

46:07                   Independence and growth

51:52                    Why are indie rock stars cool?


]]>b8780dd1-153d-4abc-90d2-e80c73723fecWed, 07 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -050058:14falsefull77ConfidenceConfidenceHosts J Ryan and Keira discuss the importance of building confidence in your writing, and how to go about doing it. Confidence is nurtured through hard work and experience, but it can come from other surprising places as well.

Episode highlights:

01:45                   Character is King              

06:20                  Are you confident in your writing?

08:35                  On a scale of 1 to 10

12:15                    What is “knowing”?

14:15                    Honesty is the best policy

17:20                   What makes a good Beta?

21:22                   Acknowledgments

23:00                  Learning how not to make a light bulb

26:35                  When is confidence a bad thing?

30:50                  The olden days of telephones



]]>Hosts J Ryan and Keira discuss the importance of building confidence in your writing, and how to go about doing it. Confidence is nurtured through hard work and experience, but it can come from other surprising places as well.

Episode highlights:

01:45                   Character is King              

06:20                  Are you confident in your writing?

08:35                  On a scale of 1 to 10

12:15                    What is “knowing”?

14:15                    Honesty is the best policy

17:20                   What makes a good Beta?

21:22                   Acknowledgments

23:00                  Learning how not to make a light bulb

26:35                  When is confidence a bad thing?

30:50                  The olden days of telephones



]]>b15634ea-9596-4aed-b13c-c313e63828edWed, 03 May 2023 06:00:00 -050032:44falsefull66Inside the Writing Workshop of San FranciscoInside the Writing Workshop of San FranciscoIn this episode hosts J Ryan and Keira take you inside the Writing Workshop of San Francisco. Having participated in this year’s event, Keira provides a debrief and exploration of the 2-day workshop, including session offerings, an overview of the literary professionals in attendance, and a detailed look at the book pitch process. Along the way she shares an exciting bit of news as well.

Episode highlights:

01:05                    Our embedded correspondent  

02:10                    What is the Writing Workshop of San Francisco?

04:00                   Breaking News!

07:00                   And here’s the pitch…

13:00                    So how did it end?

15:05                    Info-dumping and queries

17:30                    Writers Got Talent

19:50                    Your first paragraph

21:10                    The particulars of the workshop


]]>In this episode hosts J Ryan and Keira take you inside the Writing Workshop of San Francisco. Having participated in this year’s event, Keira provides a debrief and exploration of the 2-day workshop, including session offerings, an overview of the literary professionals in attendance, and a detailed look at the book pitch process. Along the way she shares an exciting bit of news as well.

Episode highlights:

01:05                    Our embedded correspondent  

02:10                    What is the Writing Workshop of San Francisco?

04:00                   Breaking News!

07:00                   And here’s the pitch…

13:00                    So how did it end?

15:05                    Info-dumping and queries

17:30                    Writers Got Talent

19:50                    Your first paragraph

21:10                    The particulars of the workshop


]]>d5e4d7e9-7216-498f-b5f1-a8b97e57b6faWed, 26 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -050024:31falsebonus55Romancing The Write Note with Bitsy YatesRomancing The Write Note with Bitsy YatesIn this episode romance novelist Bitsy Yates joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about how the Massachusetts landscape and a mandated quarantine inspired her to write her debut novel Unapologetically Yours. Along the way, they discuss the power of social media, writing while being a mom, hybrid publishing, and the challenges and opportunities of writing a romance story in the midst of a global pandemic.  

Episode highlights:

01:14                    Podcast Shout-Out of the Month              

02:07                  Character is King

10:51                    Welcome Bitsy Yates

16:30                   Love, life, and Plan-B

21:10                    The inspiration of Salem

25:47                  Writing between naps

31:10                    The scoop on hybrid publishing

34:21                   Marketing then and now

37:46                  Career building

41:33                   A peek into Bitsy’s next book


]]>In this episode romance novelist Bitsy Yates joins J Ryan and Keira to talk about how the Massachusetts landscape and a mandated quarantine inspired her to write her debut novel Unapologetically Yours. Along the way, they discuss the power of social media, writing while being a mom, hybrid publishing, and the challenges and opportunities of writing a romance story in the midst of a global pandemic.  

Episode highlights:

01:14                    Podcast Shout-Out of the Month              

02:07                  Character is King

10:51                    Welcome Bitsy Yates

16:30                   Love, life, and Plan-B

21:10                    The inspiration of Salem

25:47                  Writing between naps

31:10                    The scoop on hybrid publishing

34:21                   Marketing then and now

37:46                  Career building

41:33                   A peek into Bitsy’s next book


]]>ecfa9497-9924-4c7a-92a6-ce2dedb361c2Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -050046:37falsefull44Movie Lines That TranscendMovie Lines That TranscendHosts J Ryan and Keira have a fun discussion about lines from movies that are so well written and executed they become ingrained in popular consciousness, regardless of if you've seen the movie or not. And they explore how these lines provide a lesson to authors in how to write dialogue for their own characters.

Episode highlights:

01:17                    Shout-out: Parents Who Write / Writing Momentum       

03:10                   Character is King

08:50                  What do these bits of dialogue have in common?

12:00                   You may not have seen it, but you know it

14:38                   What’s so funny about facing your fears?

16:36                   Work with me here

19:04                   How do you know that!!

20:45                  A moment of defeat

22:58                  Where is that from?

24:47                  Stay true to your characters

26:00                  Info dumps – Be on guard

]]>Hosts J Ryan and Keira have a fun discussion about lines from movies that are so well written and executed they become ingrained in popular consciousness, regardless of if you've seen the movie or not. And they explore how these lines provide a lesson to authors in how to write dialogue for their own characters.

Episode highlights:

01:17                    Shout-out: Parents Who Write / Writing Momentum       

03:10                   Character is King

08:50                  What do these bits of dialogue have in common?

12:00                   You may not have seen it, but you know it

14:38                   What’s so funny about facing your fears?

16:36                   Work with me here

19:04                   How do you know that!!

20:45                  A moment of defeat

22:58                  Where is that from?

24:47                  Stay true to your characters

26:00                  Info dumps – Be on guard

]]>0205397b-7a72-4a4d-9147-c42c7945b848Wed, 01 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -050030:21falsefull33The Testimony of Keira F JacobsThe Testimony of Keira F JacobsHosts J Ryan and Keira discuss how injecting non-standard character struggles, traits, and relationships into a genre novel can strengthen the story. And they delve into the questions an author must consider before going independent.

Episode highlights:

02:47                 What is a Whim?             

06:25                 A story of choices

11:10                    Character struggles – A writer’s therapy

13:28                  Relationship development in Tarsha (feet up)

16:21                   The joy of dialogue

19:14                   The subtle art of messaging

20:50                 Going independent: Control

23:15                  Going independent: The Numbers

25:44                 Going independent: Unexpected Challenges

27:04                 Going independent: One Crucial Thing to Know

30:16                  Going independent: Social Marketing Fun

]]>Hosts J Ryan and Keira discuss how injecting non-standard character struggles, traits, and relationships into a genre novel can strengthen the story. And they delve into the questions an author must consider before going independent.

Episode highlights:

02:47                 What is a Whim?             

06:25                 A story of choices

11:10                    Character struggles – A writer’s therapy

13:28                  Relationship development in Tarsha (feet up)

16:21                   The joy of dialogue

19:14                   The subtle art of messaging

20:50                 Going independent: Control

23:15                  Going independent: The Numbers

25:44                 Going independent: Unexpected Challenges

27:04                 Going independent: One Crucial Thing to Know

30:16                  Going independent: Social Marketing Fun

]]>4b82e7ed-4e16-4685-a43e-662c9c00bf9bWed, 22 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -050034:22falsefull22Welcome to The Write NoteWelcome to The Write NoteWrite Note hosts J Ryan Fenzel and Keira F Jacobs introduce themselves, give a little bit of their background stories, and discuss why they decided to start a writing podcast focused on independent authors.

Episode highlights:

00:39        Why we’re doing a podcast         

03:55        You are my daughter

05:48        What is your origin story?

13:26          The world in a trunk

14:52          Arsenic and inspiration

17:34          Bendigo’s elevator pitch .......................

]]>Write Note hosts J Ryan Fenzel and Keira F Jacobs introduce themselves, give a little bit of their background stories, and discuss why they decided to start a writing podcast focused on independent authors.

Episode highlights:

00:39        Why we’re doing a podcast         

03:55        You are my daughter

05:48        What is your origin story?

13:26          The world in a trunk

14:52          Arsenic and inspiration

17:34          Bendigo’s elevator pitch .......................

]]>73b3b582-a922-4132-94df-2c90e1475debWed, 22 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -050021:41falsefull11Who should listen to The Write Note?Who should listen to The Write Note?The Write Note is a podcast for independent authors by independent authors.

Topic-of-the-month episodes focus on key elements of creative writing and storytelling. Interview episodes delve into the writing life with indie authors or explore the path to book production with industry professionals.

The Write Note is hosted by 20-year indie author J Ryan Fenzel and his daughter, Keira F Jacobs, a newbie just getting started on the writer's road.

dEHt6YVoGgRVFIc9L6h8

]]>The Write Note is a podcast for independent authors by independent authors.

Topic-of-the-month episodes focus on key elements of creative writing and storytelling. Interview episodes delve into the writing life with indie authors or explore the path to book production with industry professionals.

The Write Note is hosted by 20-year indie author J Ryan Fenzel and his daughter, Keira F Jacobs, a newbie just getting started on the writer's road.

dEHt6YVoGgRVFIc9L6h8

]]>74b00cce-bac3-41b4-9490-b9762b37731eThu, 09 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -050001:31falsetrailer