The First Draft Club

S08 E10 How Much Can You Make in Foreign Rights - My Story (with Actual Dollar Amounts!) Feb 12, 2025

How much can you actually make from your book? Should you consider foreign rights or just stick to the US? What can you expect to make after your advance? In the season finale, Mary gets personal and answers your questions.

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E09 Special Guests! Welcome, the Podcast is a Gameshow Now Feb 05, 2025

Mary invited two fellow novelists and colleagues in The Book Incubator, Harrison and Autumn, to join her for a game she made up! Meet The Feedback Game: What would you do with X feedback? Revise? Move on? Freak out?

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E08 Is Revision Sucking? Two Strategies to Make It Joyful Again Jan 29, 2025

In this episode, Mary breaks down her two best tips for making the revision process as fun as the writing process.

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E07 Killing Your Non-Darlings in Revision Jan 22, 2025

Have you wondered why you have trouble making revisions even when you know it's necessary? Mary explores this phenomenon and shares her own struggles with loss aversion.

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S08 E03 How to Fix an 80% Good Book Getting Rejections: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-xqce2-1750a3c

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E06 How to Write a Timeless Book (Whatever That Means) Jan 15, 2025

In the first episode of 2025, Mary reveals that the best way to write a timeless book is to not try to make it timeless.

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E05 All the Numbers in Publishing No One Talks About Dec 18, 2024

What are the actual sales numbers for authors who get book deals versus authors who self-publish? Mary gets into the data—yep, hardcore math—to help you weigh the pros and cons (financially) of the two major publishing paths.

-Free training on how much you can make on your book: https://www.thebookincubator.com/free-training
-Blog post summary: https://maryadkinswriter.com/blog/how-much-do-authors-make

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E04 My Top 5 Books of 2024 as a Writer Dec 11, 2024

Mary shares the novels and memoirs that came out in 2024 that left her with the memorable reading experiences from a craft and writing perspective—ones that taught her something about writing or showed her something new about what literature can do. The books are (in no particular order):

- The Wedding People by Alison Espach

- Molly by Blake Butler

- Old Enough by Haley Jakobson

- Grief is for People by Sloane Crosley

- Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker

She wants you to know that Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe (a Kirkus Prize finalist this year) was recused because Rufi teaches with Mary in The Book Incubator, but it's an incredibly instructional novel from a craft perspective (and just a fantastic book).

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E03 How to Fix an 80% Good Book Getting Rejections Dec 04, 2024

In the last episode, Mary talked about how a 90% great book will get rejections 100% of the time. How do you make up the difference? Whether it's a 40% gap you need to close or a 5% gap, Mary shares her recommendations.

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E02 Why You Can Write an Amazing Book That Doesn't Get Published Nov 27, 2024

Mary talks about why a 90% great book will get rejected 100% of the time...and how to tell if that's what's happening from the rejections you're getting. She:

- Shares a sample (real) rejection letter

- Discusses examples of a 10% gap between good and great

- Talks about why this means you shouldn't give up, you should revise

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S08 E01 The Black List: The new publishing shortcut for aspiring novelists Nov 20, 2024

We're back for Season 8! Mary talks about a newcomer to publishing—The Black List—and shares costs, benefits, and how it could potentially save you months (or even years) in your publishing journey. If you dream of publication but dread the long, uncertain querying process, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

In this episode, I cover:· What is The Black List? Learn how this groundbreaking platform, originally created for Hollywood screenwriters, works—and why it’s now disrupting the world of fiction publishing.
· How it works for novelists: I’ll break down how you can use The Black List to host your manuscript, receive professional evaluations, and get noticed by literary agents and publishers.
· Is it worth the investment? I’ll share costs, benefits, and why I think it could save you months (or even years!) in your publishing journey.

Why I was skeptical—and why I changed my mind: My honest take on whether publishing needed a tool like this and why it might be a game-changer for early adopters. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the slow query process or wondered how to get professional feedback on your manuscript without waiting months, this episode has the answers you’ve been looking for.

Resources Mentioned:

The Black List Fiction Submissions: https://blcklst.com/fiction
The Author’s Guild Membership: https://authorsguild.org/membership/

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Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@maryadkins

S07 E12 3 Things to Know about Copyright & a Scam to Avoid if You’re Self-Publishing Jun 13, 2024

Don't fall for anyone offering you "global copyright" for a bunch of money. Here's what you need to know about copyright as an author and how to file.

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Alessandra Torre Ink: https://ati.mykajabi.com/fearlessly-publish

S07 E11 Should You Hire a Book Publicist? May 30, 2024

Authors are hiring their own publicists—but how do you know if a publicist is worth the cost? Mary shares the questions she'd ask.

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PublicityxChristina: https://www.publicityxchristina.com/

S07 E10 How Much I Was Paid for My First Novel & Why I Don't Think Big Publishing is Dead May 16, 2024

Mary takes on the recent buzz around "Big 5" publishing being a waste of time for authors by sharing her own story and how she views authorial success.

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Mary's Blog: https://maryadkinswriter.com/blog/in-defense-of-big-publishing

The Elysian Article: https://www.elysian.press/p/no-one-buys-books

S07 E09 The #1 Resource for When You're Querying May 02, 2024

How do you find the right literary agents or publishers to query? There's one resource that's worth every penny (and this isn't sponsored content): Publisher's Marketplace. Here's why, and how to use it.

S07 E08 The Lean-In Method for Assessing Feedback Apr 18, 2024

How do you get feedback without letting it derail you? The risk is real. Mary shares the single criterion she uses in deciding whether or not to take a piece of feedback.

S07 E07 The Real Secret to Writing Your Best Possible Book Apr 04, 2024

In this short and sweet episode, Mary shares the secret to writing a book that's smarter than you (with some helpful words from George Saunders and Rufi Thorpe).

S07 E06 Rufi Thorpe (with Mary) on How to Control Your Reader's Mind Mar 28, 2024

In this sneak peek into the private podcast inside The Book Incubator, Mary and Rufi discuss what they label "Newtonian Narratology" (you think we're kidding!), a.k.a. why it's better for your characters to try not to cry than to cry, and why you might not need to learn how to write that one emotion you struggle to write, after all.

S07 E05 Interview with Psychologist & Author Joe Sanok on How to Get Your Book Written Mar 21, 2024

Author of Thursday is the New Friday, Joe Sanok speaks with Mary about the neuroscience findings that can help aspiring authors finally finish their drafts.

S07 E04 3 Publishing Myths that Are Making Me Mad Mar 14, 2024

There are people online selling solutions you don't need to problems that don't exist. As a writer aspiring to be published, it pays to be savvy. Mary unpacks 3 of these myths so you can avoid traps.

S07 E03 Here it is...the Novel-Writing Tool I Invented in 2023! Mar 07, 2024

In this episode, Mary shares the origin story of her newest tool "A Novel in 52 Prompts" and shares the first 3 prompts so you can knock out your first 5,000 words.

S07 E02 The 2 Ways Playwright Tom Stoppard Changed My Creative Life Feb 29, 2024

Mary shares two stories about what Tom Stoppard the playwright taught her about life and creativity.

S07 E01 My Current Daily Routine as a Novelist (While Running a Business & Parenting) Feb 22, 2024

We're back for Season 7! In this first episode of the season, Mary walks us through her current daily writing routine as she balances a new novel, work, and parenting.

Live with Debut Novelist & Book Incubator grad Gayle Brown on her pub day! Dec 14, 2023

We interrupt this post-season break to bring you a chat between Mary and Gayle Brown, an alum of The Book Incubator whose debut novel that she wrote in the program is out this week. Learn about her writing journey, what pub day feels like, and what advice she has for getting a literary agent.

You can buy A Deadly Game at Amazon (https://shorturl.at/gsvE3) or Barnes and Noble (https://shorturl.at/nyF18), or leave a review on Goodreads (https://shorturl.at/eopsG).

S06 E09 3 New Tips for Writing Better Dialogue Nov 09, 2023

In this episode, Mary builds on the 5 tips for writing stronger dialogue she shared back in the first episode of Season 5. These 3 strategies will help improve your dialogue further.

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Season 5, Episode 1: https://thefirstdraftclub.podbean.com/e/how-to-write-compelling-diagloue/

S06 E08 What Makes a Book ”Good” Isn’t What You Think—It’s This Nov 02, 2023

What actually makes us call a book "good" is something Mary recently completely changed her view on. Here's how she thinks of a "good book" now, and why.

S06 E07 Should You Write a Memoir or a Novel Based on Your Life? Oct 19, 2023

Mary shares the 3 questions she'd ask herself if deciding whether to write a true personal story or a fictionalized version based on real events. Also, join our 10,000-Word Challenge starting next week!

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Join Mary's (FREE!) 10,000-Word Challenge starting Monday, Oct. 23rd, and write the first 10,000 words of your novel or memoir in 10 days! Visit https://maryadkinswriter.com/10k-challenge-live to get started.

S06 E06 Why Creative Writing Classes Are So Bad Oct 12, 2023

In this episode, Mary gets very real about why most creative writing classes make you feel discouraged and directionless, and how to handle such a class.

S06 E05 What IS Upmarket Fiction? How to Write a Novel that Appeals to the Widest Audience Oct 05, 2023

What makes a novel count as “literary fiction?” How is it different from “upmarket” fiction? And are they both better than commercial fiction? Mary defines these categories and discusses why she believes upmarket is your sweet spot as a new novelist.

S06 E04 My Hot Take: Why AI is Going to Make Good Writers MORE Valuable, Not Less Sep 28, 2023

In this episode, Mary takes on the threat of AI to professional writing and discusses why she believes it will never replace human storytellers.

S06 E03 On Literary Snobbery: How to Recognize It, Understand It, and Handle it Sep 21, 2023

There's an undercurrent of literary snobbery that pervades many creative writing spaces. In this episode, Mary names it, shares personal stories of what it looks like, and talks about why it can be destructive.

S06 E02 Live with a Literary Agent Sep 14, 2023

Literary agent Marisa Corvisiero chats with Mary about what contract terms she tries to negotiate for her clients, why she thinks it's savvy for authors to publish both traditionally and independently, and how un-agented and self-publishing authors can get help with their contracts.

Check out Marisa's Authorpreneur Workshop HERE (https://www.corvisieroagency.com/writers-workshop.html).

First Draft Club listeners get 15% off with the code FIRSTDRAFT2024.

S06 E01 What I’ve Been Writing & Why I Abandoned My Latest Novel Sep 07, 2023

In this first episode of Season 6, Mary shares what she's been working on during this long break between seasons and why she set aside her latest novel, never to return to it.

Trigger warning: Pregnancy loss is mentioned.

WE’RE BACK! Aug 24, 2023

After a long break, Mary is back for season 6 with more writing tips and some fun new episodes!

S05 E10 Should you get an MFA in Creative Writing? The Pros & Cons Oct 13, 2022

Mary applied for MFA programs 3 times and was accepted twice, but never went. In this episode, she shares her story, as well as what she sees as the pros and cons of an MFA in Creative Writing.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/c4VV9HX-jdQ

S05 E09 3 Things No One Tells You About Getting a Literary Agent Oct 06, 2022

Literary agents: no one really knows the secret to getting one or everything they do for you once you have one. Here, Mary shares the 3 things she didn't know about getting a literary agent and working with one (until she did).

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/Snvvn5As2M4

S05 E08 The 3 Most Common Unfounded Fears of Writers Sep 28, 2022

There's plenty for writers to worry about without worrying about the things we DON'T need to be concerned by. In this episode, Mary discusses the three fears writers often have that they don't need to have.

Check out more on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNkf-ON2jDRU1IdB2sb03Jw/featured

S05 E07 5 Steps to Getting a Literary Agent Sep 21, 2022

Getting a literary agent was, for Mary, the hardest part of becoming a published author. Here, she breaks down the process into actionable steps.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/tt871Fqw8_s

S05 E06 After You’re Published: 5 Surprises Sep 14, 2022

Publishing your first book mostly feels amazing, but there are a few surprises you may not expect. In this episode, Mary shares 5 of those surprises.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/45eLaVuDC7g

S05 E05 How to Write Your Book in 45 Minutes a Day Sep 07, 2022

Writing a book—and not just any book, but a good book—doesn't have to take over your life or take forever. You can write a solid draft in 45 minutes a day, 5 days a week, over just a few months. Here's how.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/rS6lgWjMXhs

S05 E04 How to Decide What Comes Next in Your Novel Aug 31, 2022

You've started writing...but at 10 or 40 pages in, how do you decide what happens NEXT in your story? In this episode, Mary shares 4 favorite strategies.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/lzr2tPx-zSE

S05 E03 How to Write a Novel (The Complete, Proven Guide) Aug 24, 2022

Here it is—Mary's entire process for writing a publishable novel, broken down into 7 steps. You won't want to miss this one.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDIhmteyHSU&ab_channel=MaryAdkins

S05 E02 How I Wrote My First Book (My Personal Journey) Aug 17, 2022

It took Mary 99 years to write her first book (well, 6). In this episode, she shares the 3 biggest mistakes she made that she doesn't want you to make...and what to do instead.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJxT-ffg_5k&ab_channel=MaryAdkins

S05 E01 How to Write Compelling Dialogue Aug 10, 2022

Does your dialogue sound like a third-grade play? You'll want to get these strategies for writing better dialogue. Here's how Mary makes sure to write the way people actually talk.

Check out the video of this episode on the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9aWlbH3vQY&ab_channel=MaryAdkins

Big News from Mary! Aug 03, 2021

Mary's novel PALM BEACH is out! Order the book to get free access to a private workshop only for book purchasers—listen to this mini-episode for details.

Check out maryadkinswriter.com. Stay tuned for Season 5 coming THIS FALL!

Big News from Mary! Aug 02, 2021

This episode originally aired on 8/3/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary's novel PALM BEACH is out! Order the book to get free access to a private workshop only for book purchasers—listen to this mini-episode for details.

Check out maryadkinswriter.com. Stay tuned for Season 5!

10 Hacks for Just Getting Started May 07, 2021

The first blank page is the hardest one to take down. In this episode, Mary offers original 10 hacks for overcoming your demons and getting your book draft underway.

hacks.maryadkinswriter.com

S04 E09 10 Hacks for Just Getting Started [Reissue] May 06, 2021

This episode originally aired on 5/7/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

The first blank page is the hardest one to take down. In this episode, Mary offers original 10 hacks for overcoming your demons and getting your book draft underway.

hacks.maryadkinswriter.com

Your Best Writing Goals Based on Your Enneagram Type Apr 30, 2021

Mary breaks down the 9 Enneagram types and evaluates different writing goals for each one. If you loathe the term "writing goals," you need to listen—you may just need a different kind.

https://tests.enneagraminstitute.com
goals.maryadkinswriter.com

S04 E08 Your Best Writing Goals Based on Your Enneagram Type [Reissue] Apr 29, 2021

This episode originally aired on 4/30/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary breaks down the 9 Enneagram types and evaluates different writing goals for each one. If you loathe the term "writing goals," you need to listen—you may just need a different kind.

https://tests.enneagraminstitute.com
goals.maryadkinswriter.com

How to Overcome Resistance Apr 23, 2021

Here's the pep talk—and a bonus assignment—that will help you overcome resistance, if not once and for all, at least for this week.

S04 E07 How to Overcome Resistance [Reissue] Apr 22, 2021

This episode originally aired on 4/23/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Here's the pep talk—and a bonus assignment—that will help you overcome resistance, if not once and for all, at least for this week.

The Four Notebooks Method Apr 16, 2021

See the Reissue episode for updated information on The Four Notebooks Method.

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Mary teaches you her signature method for handwriting your novel or memoir—The Four Notebooks Method—and tells you how you can pre-order her notebook and corresponding system. Check out www.freedownload.maryadkinswriter.com.

S04 E06 The Four Notebooks Method [Reissue] Apr 15, 2021

This episode originally aired on 4/16/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary teaches you her signature method for handwriting your novel or memoir—The Four Notebooks Method—and tells you how you can download her notebook template for free. Check out www.freedownload.maryadkinswriter.com.

Let me guess: the idea was better in your head? Apr 09, 2021

How do we deal with the fact that our stories, once on paper, are never as good as they were in our minds? Mary offers 3 strategies for handling this situation.

S04 E05 Let me guess: the idea was better in your head? [Reissue] Apr 08, 2021

This episode originally aired on 4/9/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

How do we deal with the fact that our stories, once on paper, are never as good as they were in our minds? Mary offers 3 strategies for handling this situation.

How to Write Act 3 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 4 of 4) Apr 02, 2021

Mary wraps up a four-episode series on the 3-act structure with a breakdown of her favorite of the three acts, Act 3, and talks about how to find the magic of it in your own writing.

S04 E04 How to Write Act 3 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 4 of 4) [Reissue] Apr 01, 2021

This episode originally aired on 4/2/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary wraps up a four-episode series on the 3-act structure with a breakdown of her favorite of the three acts, Act 3, and talks about how to find the magic of it in your own writing.

How to Write Act 2 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 3 of 4) Mar 26, 2021

Mary talks all things Act 2—and, most importantly, gets into why Act 2 isn't a formula but a personal challenge for you, the author.

S04 E03 How to Write Act 2 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 3 of 4) [Reissue] Mar 25, 2021

This episode originally aired on 3/26/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary talks all things Act 2—and, most importantly, gets into why Act 2 isn't a formula but a personal challenge for you, the author.

How to Write Act 1 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 2 of 4) Mar 19, 2021

In the second of four parts on the 3-act structure, Mary dives into what we mean by Act 1 and how to break it down into a manageable tool.

S04 E02 How to Write Act 1 of the 3-Act Structure (Part 2 of 4) [Reissue] Mar 18, 2021

This episode originally aired on 3/19/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In the second of four parts on the 3-act structure, Mary dives into what we mean by Act 1 and how to break it down into a manageable tool.

My Least Annoying and Most Usable Breakdown of the 3-Act Structure (Part 1 of 4) Mar 12, 2021

In the first episode of Season 4, Mary kicks off a four-episode series breaking down the 3-act structure...in a way that won't terrify you, turn you off, or make you feel like you're supposed to be writing by formula.

S04 E01 My Least Annoying and Most Usable Breakdown of the 3-Act Structure (Part 1 of 4) [Reissue] Mar 11, 2021

This episode originally aired on 3/12/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In the first episode of Season 4, Mary kicks off a four-episode series breaking down the 3-act structure...in a way that won't terrify you, turn you off, or make you feel like you're supposed to be writing by formula.

How to Choose a Point of View for Your Novel Feb 25, 2021

Choosing a point of view is a critical early step in the novel-writing process. In this episode, Mary talks about how to choose a point of view, and what to look out for in third person. (Video link: https://youtu.be/5Z9l7_YFKMU)

S03 E08 How to Choose a Point of View for Your Novel [Reissue] Feb 24, 2021

This episode originally aired on 2/25/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Choosing a point of view is a critical early step in the novel-writing process. In this episode, Mary talks about how to choose a point of view, and what to look out for in third person. (Video link: https://youtu.be/5Z9l7_YFKMU)

How to Choose a Book Writing Coach Feb 18, 2021

There are a lot of book writing coaches out there these days. What should you look for in one? (Video link: https://youtu.be/sfLpylT_x38)

S03 E07 How to Choose a Book Writing Coach [Reissue] Feb 17, 2021

This episode originally aired on 2/18/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

There are a lot of book writing coaches out there these days. What should you look for in one? (Video link: https://youtu.be/sfLpylT_x38)

4 Signs You're Ready to Hire a Book Writing Coach Feb 11, 2021

When is a good time to hire a book writing coach? Here's how to know that it's the right call. (Video link: https://youtu.be/OL1SAbCriaY)

S03 E06 4 Signs You’re Ready to Hire a Book Writing Coach [Reissue] Feb 10, 2021

This episode originally aired on 2/11/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

When is a good time to hire a book writing coach? Here's how to know that it's the right call. (Video link: https://youtu.be/OL1SAbCriaY)

What does a book writing coach do? Feb 04, 2021

I had never heard the term "book writing coach" until I became one. What does a book writing coach do, and how might one benefit you? (Video link: https://youtu.be/7aK7hKUntAo)

S03 E05 What does a book writing coach do? [Reissue] Feb 03, 2021

This episode originally aired on 2/4/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

I had never heard the term "book writing coach" until I became one. What does a book writing coach do, and how might one benefit you? (Video link: https://youtu.be/7aK7hKUntAo)

How to Get a Literary Agent: 5 Don't's Jan 28, 2021

You have to get a literary agent to sell your book, and for me, this was the hardest part of getting published. Here are the 5 big mistakes to avoid. (Video link: https://youtu.be/LQJQyeIAXo8)

S03 E04 How to Get a Literary Agent: 5 Don’t’s [Reissue] Jan 27, 2021

This episode originally aired on 1/28/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

You have to get a literary agent to sell your book, and for me, this was the hardest part of getting published. Here are the 5 big mistakes to avoid. (Video link: https://youtu.be/LQJQyeIAXo8)

The Writing Generator for People Who Aren't in 7th Grade Jan 21, 2021

Ever want a writing prompt but not one written for a 12-year-old working on a Halloween story? This writing prompt generator is the only one you'll ever need to jog you out of a stuck place. (Video link: https://youtu.be/_EbYSgRlMGU)

S03 E03 The Writing Generator for People Who Aren’t in 7th Grade [Reissue] Jan 20, 2021

This episode originally aired on 1/21/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Ever want a writing prompt but not one written for a 12-year-old working on a Halloween story? This writing prompt generator is the only one you'll ever need to jog you out of a stuck place. (Video link: https://youtu.be/_EbYSgRlMGU)

How much can an author expect to make on a book? Jan 14, 2021

What's a book advance, how is it paid out, and how do you get a really big one? Mary covers the last taboo in publishing: money. (Video link: https://youtu.be/gcgLvai4wYk)

S03 E02 How much can an author expect to make on a book? [Reissue] Jan 13, 2021

This episode originally aired on 1/14/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

What's a book advance, how is it paid out, and how do you get a really big one? Mary covers the last taboo in publishing: money. (Video link: https://youtu.be/gcgLvai4wYk)

Can anyone write a book? Jan 07, 2021

The 3 things you absolutely must have in order to write a book—at least a decent one. (Video link: https://youtu.be/kdoRLY27Too)

S03 E01 Can anyone write a book? [Reissue] Jan 06, 2021

This episode originally aired on 1/7/2021. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

The 3 things you absolutely must have in order to write a book—at least a decent one. (Video link: https://youtu.be/kdoRLY27Too)

Can I write a whole novel draft on my phone? Dec 18, 2020

Can you write a whole novel draft on the Notes app on your phone? Sure—Gertrude Stein basically did.

S02 E12 Can I write a whole novel draft on my phone? [Reissue] Dec 17, 2020

This episode originally aired on 12/18/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Can you write a whole novel draft on the Notes app on your phone? Sure—Gertrude Stein basically did.

What's a book auction? Dec 11, 2020

Mary covers all aspects of selling your book, from getting a literary agent to signing the contract.

S02 E11 What’s a book auction? [Reissue] Dec 10, 2020

This episode originally aired on 12/11/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary covers all aspects of selling your book, from getting a literary agent to signing the contract.

When—and from whom—should I solicit feedback? Dec 04, 2020

Feedback is critical, but not until the right time. Ask too early, and it can derail you. In this episode, Mary covers when, who, and how to ask for feedback on your book draft.

S02 E10 When—and from whom—should I solicit feedback? [Reissue] Dec 03, 2020

This episode originally aired on 12/4/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Feedback is critical, but not until the right time. Ask too early, and it can derail you. In this episode, Mary covers when, who, and how to ask for feedback on your book draft.

How do I write a solid first draft? Nov 27, 2020

Revising is necessary, but not a hundred times. In this episode, Mary talks about how to nail a solid first draft so that revising isn't a nightmare.

S02 E09 How do I write a solid first draft? [Reissue] Nov 26, 2020

This episode originally aired on 11/27/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Revising is necessary, but not a hundred times. In this episode, Mary talks about how to nail a solid first draft so that revising isn't a nightmare.

How many literary agents am I going to have to query? Nov 20, 2020

To publish with a publisher, you'll likely have to get a literary agent, which requires querying them. This episode has some bad news and some good news (you're not alone).

S02 E08 How many literary agents am I going to have to query? [Reissue] Nov 19, 2020

This episode originally aired on 11/20/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

To publish with a publisher, you'll likely have to get a literary agent, which requires querying them. This episode has some bad news and some good news (you're not alone).

How do I know when my draft is done? Nov 13, 2020

In this episode, Mary talks about how to know when a draft is done, and how even after a book is published, she keeps editing.

S02 E07 How do I know when my draft is done? [Reissue] Nov 12, 2020

This episode originally aired on 11/13/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this episode, Mary talks about how to know when a draft is done, and how even after a book is published, she keeps editing.

How do I effectively use the devices Red Herrings and Macguffins? Nov 06, 2020

Ever heard of these writing devices? If not, don't worry—you'll learn in this episode.

S02 E06 How do I effectively use the devices Red Herrings and Macguffins? [Reissue] Nov 05, 2020

This episode originally aired on 11/6/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Ever heard of these writing devices? If not, don't worry—you'll learn in this episode.

How do I write when I feel so insecure? Oct 30, 2020

Mary gets trolled, feels insecure, and talks about what insecurity means...and what it doesn't.

S02 E05 How do I write when I feel so insecure? [Reissue] Oct 29, 2020

This episode originally aired on 10/30/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary gets trolled, feels insecure, and talks about what insecurity means...and what it doesn't.

How accurate do the real-world places in my novel need to be? Oct 23, 2020

In this episode, Mary navigates the murky world of balancing fact and fiction when your fiction is set in a world like our own.

S02 E04 How accurate do the real-world places in my novel need to be? [Reissue] Oct 22, 2020

This episode originally aired on 10/23/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this episode, Mary navigates the murky world of balancing fact and fiction when your fiction is set in a world like our own.

When should I hit "pause" on writing to research more? Oct 16, 2020

Mary shares her inverted pyramid guide to researching for a novel and talks about why she does all her best research after 3 p.m.

S02 E03 When should I hit “pause” on writing to research more? [Reissue] Oct 15, 2020

This episode originally aired on 10/16/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Mary shares her inverted pyramid guide to researching for a novel and talks about why she does all her best research after 3 p.m.

Is it bad to start a new book before I finish writing this one? Oct 09, 2020

In this episode, Mary talks about juggling projects, following creativity's lead, and The Bachelorette.

S02 E02 Is it bad to start a new book before I finish writing this one? [Reissue] Oct 08, 2020

This episode originally aired on 10/9/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this episode, Mary talks about juggling projects, following creativity's lead, and The Bachelorette.

Help! How do I write good dialogue? Oct 02, 2020

The trick to writing believable dialogue is to remember a key thing about humans: we're bad at it.

S02 E01 Help! How do I write good dialogue? [Reissue] Oct 01, 2020

This episode originally aired on 10/2/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

The trick to writing believable dialogue is to remember a key thing about humans: we're bad at it.

Let's recap our season takeaways. Aug 27, 2020

All the questions answered during Season 1 in one quick-to-digest episode!

S01 E12 Let’s recap our season takeaways [Reissue] Aug 27, 2020

This episode originally aired on 8/28/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

All the questions answered during Season 1 in one quick-to-digest episode!

Do I need an antagonist? Aug 20, 2020

If you have to have a protagonist, you must need an antagonist, right? No. What you do need is more interesting.

S01 E11 Do I need an antagonist? [Reissue] Aug 20, 2020

This episode originally aired on 8/21/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

If you have to have a protagonist, you must need an antagonist, right? No. What you do need is more interesting.

How do we include background without boring the reader? Aug 13, 2020

All stories have a history. How much of that history you share with the reader, and where you bring it in, can determine whether that reader sticks with your book or not. In this episode, we discuss a rule of thumb for incorporating backstory into your novel or memoir.

S01 E10 How do we include background without boring the reader? [Reissue] Aug 13, 2020

This episode originally aired on 8/14/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

All stories have a history. How much of that history you share with the reader, and where you bring it in, can determine whether that reader sticks with your book or not. In this episode, we discuss a rule of thumb for incorporating backstory into your novel or memoir.

What if I don't know what it is I'm writing? Aug 06, 2020

Am I writing a short story or a novel? Am I ready to write my memoir? Mary addresses how to decide, and when the right time is to make the call.

S01 E09 What if I don’t know what it is I’m writing? [Reissue] Aug 06, 2020

This episode originally aired on 8/7/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Am I writing a short story or a novel? Am I ready to write my memoir? Mary addresses how to decide, and when the right time is to make the call.

How do I make it through the murky middle? Jul 30, 2020

Every writer struggles with the middle. In this episode, Mary shares her favorite tactic for making it through.

S01 E08 How do I make it through the murky middle? [Reissue] Jul 30, 2020

This episode originally aired on 7/31/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

Every writer struggles with the middle. In this episode, Mary shares her favorite tactic for making it through.

When will I feel like a "real" writer? Jul 23, 2020

A writer asks when writing her book will start to feel like a real project, and not like a side hobby she may or may not finish.

S01 E07 When will I feel like a “real” writer? [Reissue] Jul 23, 2020

This episode originally aired on 7/24/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

A writer asks when writing her book will start to feel like a real project, and not like a side hobby she may or may not finish.

To outline, or not to outline? Jul 16, 2020

That is the question.

S01 E06 To outline, or not to outline? [Reissue] Jul 16, 2020

This episode originally aired on 7/17/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

That is the question.

What is an inciting incident? Jul 09, 2020

A writer asks about that terrifying term "the inciting incident," and Mary gets real in her answer.

S01 E05 What is an inciting incident? [Reissue] Jul 09, 2020

This episode originally aired on 7/10/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

A writer asks about that terrifying term "the inciting incident," and Mary gets real in her answer.

When and how should I think about chapters? Jul 02, 2020

In this episode, Mary talks everything chapters: yes or no, how long, how many, and what about parts?

S01 E04 When and how should I think about chapters? [Reissue] Jul 02, 2020

This episode originally aired on 7/3/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this episode, Mary talks everything chapters: yes or no, how long, how many, and what about parts?

Should I revise as I go, or write, THEN revise? Jun 25, 2020

This week, a writer asks, should I revise as I go, or wait? Mary has a very strong opinion on this question.

Why can't I finish a draft of my book? Jun 25, 2020

In this episode, Mary tackles the question of what to do when you just can't finish a &%$ draft. If you have six half-written books in your home, this episode is for you.

How long should it take to write my book? Jun 25, 2020

In this inaugural episode of The First Draft Club, Mary answers a writer's question about how long it should take to write a first draft of a book and how long one should expect to revise.

S01 E03 Should I revise as I go, or write, THEN revise? [Reissue] Jun 25, 2020

This episode originally aired on 6/26/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

This week, a writer asks, should I revise as I go, or wait? Mary has a very strong opinion on this question.

S01 E02 Why can’t I finish a draft of my book? [Reissue] Jun 25, 2020

This episode originally aired on 6/26/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this episode, Mary tackles the question of what to do when you just can't finish a &%$ draft. If you have six half-written books in your home, this episode is for you.

S01 E01 How long should it take to write my book? [Reissue] Jun 25, 2020

This episode originally aired on 6/26/2020. Due to a technical issue with Apple Podcasts deleting our episodes, this is a repost. New episodes will not have this notice.

In this inaugural episode of The First Draft Club, Mary answers a writer's question about how long it should take to write a first draft of a book and how long one should expect to revise.

Welcome to The First Draft Club! - Trailer Jun 24, 2020

A podcast to help you overcome resistance and write with more joy, clarity, and confidence. If you’re working on a novel or memoir, stick around. Whether you haven't written a word since your 5-paragraph essay days or you have an MFA in Creative Writing, this weekly podcast is now your favorite writing companion on your journey to finish your first draft.

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