Podcasts have become a fantastic way for writers to find inspiration, tips, and encouragement. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, these audio shows can provide valuable insights into the writing world. Here’s a look at some of the best writing podcasts that can help you enhance your craft and overcome writer's block.

Key Takeaways

• Podcasts are a great source of inspiration for writers at any level.
• Listening to experienced authors can provide useful tips and techniques.
• These shows cover various aspects of writing, from storytelling to publishing advice.
• Podcasts can help you feel less alone in your writing journey.
• They offer practical exercises and discussions to improve your writing skills.

1. DIY MFA Radio

DIY MFA Radio is a fantastic resource for writers. Hosted by Gabriela Pereira, this podcast offers a unique approach to writing education without the hefty price tag of a traditional MFA programme. It’s designed for those who want to enhance their writing skills and understand the publishing world better.

Through engaging discussions and interviews with successful authors, listeners can explore various topics, from character development to literary tropes. Here are some key features of the podcast:

• Diverse Topics: The show covers a wide range of subjects, including:
• Expert Guests: Gabriela interviews award-winning writers, providing insights that are both practical and inspiring.
• Accessible Learning: Unlike traditional programmes, this podcast allows you to learn at your own pace, making it a flexible option for busy writers.

"Listening to DIY MFA Radio can be a game-changer for your writing journey."

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, DIY MFA Radio is a valuable tool to help you navigate the complexities of writing and publishing. Tune in to gain knowledge and inspiration without the burden of student debt!

2. Self-Publishing School Podcast

The Self-Publishing School Podcast is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to write and publish their first book. This podcast focuses on how to leverage your book to enhance your business, brand, or following. With numerous episodes featuring successful guests, listeners can gain valuable insights into the world of self-publishing.

One standout episode is titled "SPS 277: Building a Writing Empire", where Dean Graziosi shares his journey from a struggling entrepreneur to a bestselling author. This episode, along with over 280 others, provides a wealth of knowledge for aspiring writers.

Key Features of the Podcast:

• Expert Guests: The podcast features industry leaders like Robert Kiyosaki and Gary Vaynerchuk.
• Practical Tips: Each episode offers actionable advice for writers.
• Diverse Topics: From marketing strategies to personal branding, the podcast covers a wide range of subjects.

This podcast is perfect for those who want to turn their writing passion into a profitable venture. It’s not just about writing; it’s about building a career around your words.

In summary, the Self-Publishing School Podcast is an essential listen for anyone serious about self-publishing and growing their writing career.

3. The Writer Files

Overview

The Writer Files is a podcast that explores the habits and routines of successful writers. Hosted by Kelton Reid, it dives into the writing process, productivity, and creativity, often featuring interviews with various authors.

Key Episodes

Some notable episodes include:

• How to Write a Book in One Month
• 5 Things Only Serious Writers Do

These episodes provide insights into the writing journey and practical tips for aspiring authors.

Importance of Neuroscience

The podcast also touches on the role of neuroscience in writing. It challenges the idea that creativity is purely instinctual, suggesting that understanding the brain can enhance our writing skills. For instance, the episode featuring bestselling author Fred Waitzkin discusses how he approaches writing through the lens of productivity and creativity.

Conclusion

In a world where many writers feel pressured to produce, The Writer Files serves as a reminder that writing can be both a craft and a science. It encourages listeners to find their own path while learning from the experiences of others.

Writing is not just about the end product; it’s about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.

4. A Way With Words

A Way With Words is a delightful podcast that explores the world of language, linguistics, and the stories behind words. Hosted by Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett, this show features light-hearted conversations with callers from all over, discussing everything from new words to old phrases. The programme is produced by Stefanie Levine and typically runs for about an hour.

What to Expect

• Engaging Discussions: Each episode dives into various topics, including the language of current events, slang, and semantics.
• Historical Insights: The podcast often examines language through the lens of history and culture, making it both educational and entertaining.
• Listener Interaction: Callers share their thoughts and questions, adding a personal touch to the discussions.

Notable Episodes

1. Hidden Treasures: This episode uncovers old Civil War letters, providing a vivid portrait of everyday life and language during that time.
2. Goody Two-Shoes: Learn how to write a fitting epitaph for someone you love, blending creativity with emotion.

A Way With Words is not just about language; it’s about the stories that words tell and the connections they create. Tune in for a fun exploration of how we communicate!

5. Writing Excuses

Writing Excuses is a lively podcast that lasts about fifteen minutes per episode, making it perfect for those on the go. The show is hosted by a group of talented writers who share quick tips and insights on various aspects of writing. Each episode is packed with craft wisdom, helping listeners tackle different writing challenges.

Key Features:

• Short and Sweet: Each episode is designed to fit into your busy schedule.
• Diverse Topics: From character development to genre exploration, the podcast covers a wide range of subjects.
• Engaging Hosts: The dynamic between the hosts makes for entertaining and informative discussions.

Why You Should Listen:

• Actionable Advice: The hosts break down complex topics into easy-to-understand recommendations.
• Variety of Perspectives: With different genres and styles represented, there's something for every writer.
• Regular Episodes: New content is released frequently, keeping the material fresh and relevant.

Writing Excuses is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. The hosts' ability to make learning fun is truly commendable.

In summary, if you're looking for a podcast that offers a treasure trove of writing tips in a short format, Writing Excuses is definitely worth a listen!

6. I Should Be Writing

This award-winning podcast is hosted by the candid Mur Lafferty. The episodes vary in length but often feature interviews with authors who have recently published books. This podcast is a fantastic source of encouragement for aspiring writers, helping them to believe in their abilities and get started on their writing journey.

Key Episodes to Explore

• What does “No” mean?: Mur discusses how a rejection in the publishing world isn’t always the end.
• Tuckerization Dangers: This episode covers the tricky business of naming characters after real people who are still alive.

Why Listen?

• Gain insights from experienced authors.
• Receive motivation to overcome self-doubt.
• Learn about the realities of the writing process.

"Writing can be a lonely journey, but this podcast reminds you that you are not alone."

Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your craft, "I Should Be Writing" offers valuable advice and support for every writer.

7. Dead Robots’ Society

Overview

The Dead Robots’ Society is a lively podcast that dives into the world of writing and publishing. It features a group of passionate writers discussing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the writing journey. The show is known for its engaging conversations and practical advice, making it a favourite among aspiring authors.

Key Episodes

1. Ken Goldberg on Why Your Robot Butler Isn't Here Yet
   In this episode, roboticist Ken Goldberg shares insights on how far we are from a future filled with robot helpers. The discussion touches on the intersection of technology and creativity, providing a unique perspective for writers.
2. Writing Tips from Bestselling Authors
   The hosts often invite bestselling authors to share their secrets to success, offering listeners valuable tips on how to improve their craft.
3. Navigating the Publishing World
   This episode focuses on the ins and outs of getting published, including the challenges writers face and how to overcome them.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration: The podcast is filled with stories that motivate writers to keep pushing forward.
• Community: Listeners feel part of a supportive community that understands the struggles of writing.
• Practical Advice: Each episode is packed with actionable tips that can help writers at any stage of their journey.

The Dead Robots’ Society is not just a podcast; it’s a community where writers can find support and inspiration to pursue their dreams.

8. Portfolio Life By Jeff Goins

Jeff Goins, a well-known author, hosts this inspiring podcast that dives into the concept of a portfolio life. In this show, he discusses how to blend work and creativity to find what you truly love to do. The podcast encourages listeners to explore their passions and build a portfolio that reflects their unique skills and interests.

Key Themes

• Finding Your Passion: Goins shares insights on how to discover what you were meant to do.
• Creating a Portfolio: He discusses the importance of having a diverse portfolio that showcases your talents.
• Balancing Work and Life: The podcast offers tips on how to manage your time effectively while pursuing your passions.

Notable Episodes

1. Getting Paid to Pursue Your Passion in 48 Hours or Less: In this episode, Goins shares his own journey and how he turned his passion into a career.
2. The 3 Stages of an Artist’s Work: This episode breaks down the phases every artist goes through, helping listeners understand their own creative journey.

"A portfolio life is about embracing your creativity and finding ways to make it work for you."

Overall, "Portfolio Life" is a great resource for anyone looking to combine their passions with their professional life. Whether you're a writer, artist, or entrepreneur, this podcast can help you navigate your creative path and build a fulfilling career.

9. Beautiful Writers Podcast

The Beautiful Writers Podcast is a treasure trove of heart-centred encouragement, street-smart advice, and insider success stories for every writer and creative type. Hosted by Linda Sivertsen, this podcast features in-depth conversations with renowned authors like Elizabeth Gilbert and Brené Brown. Each episode is packed with personal anecdotes that reveal the biggest mistakes and best practises in the writing world.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration: Gain insights from successful authors.
• Practical Tips: Learn about the writing process and how to overcome challenges.
• Diverse Voices: Hear from a variety of writers across genres.

Notable Episodes

1. Gretchen Rubin discusses habits that spark creativity.
2. Joy Harjo, the first Native American Poet Laureate, shares her journey and reads from her memoir.

This podcast is a reminder that every writer has a unique path, filled with both triumphs and setbacks. Listening to these stories can ignite your own creativity and motivate you to keep writing.

10. StoryCorps

In this unique NPR podcast, StoryCorps captures the essence of human experiences through heartfelt conversations. Each episode features stories of the human heart, where two people engage in candid discussions about what truly matters in life: love, loss, family, and friendship.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration for Storytelling: While not a traditional writing podcast, it offers valuable insights into effective storytelling.
• Real Conversations: The unscripted nature of the dialogues provides a genuine look into personal narratives.

Notable Episodes

1. On The Brink Of Separation: A family grapples with the emotional weight of deportation.
2. A Little Bit Of Kindness: Heartwarming tales of small acts of kindness that make a big difference.

"Listening to these stories can spark your creativity and remind you of the power of personal narratives."

StoryCorps is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their writing by understanding the depth of human emotions and experiences.

11. The Literary Salon

In Damian Barr's Literary Salon, the world's top authors are invited to read from their latest works and share personal stories. This unique podcast creates an intimate atmosphere where listeners can experience literature in a live setting.

What to Expect

• Exclusive Readings: Authors often present new material, giving listeners a sneak peek into upcoming books.
• Personal Stories: Writers share their journeys, struggles, and triumphs, making the experience relatable and inspiring.

Notable Episodes

The Literary Salon is a wonderful opportunity for fans to connect with their favourite authors in a personal way, making literature feel alive and accessible.

12. Helping Writers Become Authors

Hosted by the award-winning author K.M. Weiland, this podcast is a fantastic resource for aspiring writers. Weiland provides valuable mentorship and practical advice aimed at those looking to publish their own novels.

Key Topics Covered

• Storytelling techniques
• Story structure
• Overcoming distractions

A great episode to start with is "4 Steps for How to Turn an Idea Into a Story That Rocks." This episode is packed with useful tips on how to set up personal systems to enhance your creativity. Another must-listen is "Creativity vs. Distraction: 13 Tips for Writers in the Age of the Internet," where Weiland shares strategies to help you focus and reclaim your creative energy.

"Learning to trust yourself as a writer is crucial."

Episode Highlights

This podcast is perfect for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills and gain confidence in their abilities. Tune in to discover how to become the author you've always wanted to be!

13. Longform Podcast

The Longform Podcast is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in writing. It features weekly interviews with nonfiction writers, diving deep into their work and personal philosophies. This podcast has been around since 2012 and has built a rich archive of conversations with notable authors.

Here are some key points about the podcast:

• Weekly episodes: Each episode lasts about an hour.
• Diverse guests: The show has featured writers like Gay Talese and Ta-Nehisi Coates.
• Focus on craft: Discussions often cover the art of writing and the challenges writers face.

The Longform Podcast published its final episode in June 2024. All 585 interviews will remain available on longform.org, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

This podcast is perfect for those who want to learn from the experiences of established writers and gain insights into the world of writing.

14. The Writer’s Voice

The Writer’s Voice is a unique podcast where writers from The New Yorker read their own stories. This gives listeners a special connection to the work, as they hear the words directly from the authors themselves. For nearly a century, The New Yorker has been a home for some of the best new fiction, featuring everything from short stories to novel excerpts.

What Makes It Special

• Intimacy: Hearing the author read their own work adds a personal touch.
• Quality: The prestige of The New Yorker means you’re listening to top-notch writers.
• Accessibility: You don’t need a subscription to enjoy these stories.

A Great Place to Start

If you’re new to the podcast, a fantastic episode to begin with is one featuring a well-known author discussing their latest work. This episode not only showcases their writing but also offers insights into their creative process.

Listening to authors read their own stories can inspire you to find your own voice in writing.

In summary, The Writer’s Voice is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary writing. It’s a wonderful way to experience new fiction and understand how today’s writers express their ideas.

15. The Career Author

Zach Bohannon and J. Thorn host this engaging podcast that started with the idea of sharing their discussions on self-publishing and writing. Since its launch in 2018, it has gained over 100,000 listeners, proving its popularity among aspiring writers.

Key Episodes to Explore

• The Mentorship Model for Authors: This episode dives into various types of mentorship and explains why they are essential for authors.
• Peer-to-Peer Feedback: Here, the hosts discuss the importance of feedback and the etiquette surrounding it, offering tips on how to ask for and give feedback effectively.

Why Listen?

• Gain insights into the writing and publishing world.
• Learn practical tips to improve your writing journey.
• Discover the value of community and support among writers.

The Career Author is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of a writing career. It’s like having a mentor in your pocket, guiding you through the ups and downs of the writing life.

Summary Table

16. Grammar Girl Quick And Dirty Tips For Better Writing

Every writer aiming to enhance their knowledge of the English language should definitely check out this podcast. Mignon Fogarty, known as Grammar Girl, offers short and friendly tips that can help you improve your writing skills. With her engaging style, she makes learning about grammar and storytelling enjoyable.

Key Features:

• Quick Tips: Each episode is packed with concise advice.
• Variety of Topics: From grammar rules to writing techniques, there’s something for everyone.
• Engaging Style: Mignon’s friendly approach makes learning fun.

Popular Episodes:

1. Top Ten Grammar Myths: Busts common misconceptions about grammar.
2. 4 Tips for Staying Motivated on Long Writing Assignments: Offers practical advice for writers facing lengthy projects.

Grammar Girl provides short, friendly tips to improve your writing and feed your love of the English language.

This podcast is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to refine their writing skills and gain confidence in their use of English. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, Grammar Girl has something valuable to offer!

17. Start With This

Start With This is a unique podcast that dives into the creative process of writing. Co-creators Jeffrey Cranor and Joseph Fink aim to help you put your ideas in motion. Each episode tackles a specific writing challenge, such as scene-setting or overcoming perfectionism. They also provide listeners with two practical tasks: one to consume and one to create.

Key Features:

• Practical Assignments: Each episode includes actionable tasks to help you apply what you've learned.
• Diverse Topics: From finding your voice to plotting, the podcast covers a wide range of writing aspects.
• Supportive Environment: The series encourages a regular writing practise, making it accessible for all.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration: The podcast is designed to motivate writers at any stage.
• Community: It fosters a sense of belonging among writers, helping you feel less isolated in your journey.

"This podcast is a great way to kickstart your writing journey and keep the momentum going."

With episodes totalling over a day and a half, Start With This is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you succeed in your writing endeavours.

18. In Writing With Hattie Crisell

In Writing with Hattie Crisell is a captivating podcast that dives deep into the world of writing. In these intimate and frank conversations, Hattie Crisell, a contributing editor at Grazia magazine, interviews various writers to explore their creative journeys. Each episode reveals insights on how they write, why they write, and what lessons they can share to help others improve their craft.

Crisell's engaging style makes her guests feel comfortable, allowing them to discuss the challenges of being a full-time writer, including the dreaded blank page. This podcast is perfect for anyone interested in writing, whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse Guests: From bestselling authors to comedians and songwriters, the podcast features a wide range of voices.
• Real Talk: Writers share their struggles and triumphs, making it relatable for listeners.
• Practical Advice: Each episode offers valuable tips that can be applied to your own writing journey.

"The journey of writing is filled with ups and downs, but every story shared can inspire and guide us along the way."

Whether you're looking for motivation or practical writing tips, In Writing with Hattie Crisell is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the written word.

19. Writing Class Radio

Writing Class Radio is a storytelling podcast that teaches you how to write your own stories. The hosts, Allison and Andrea, share their passion for storytelling and invite listeners into a writing class experience. They provide valuable insights and advice from experts, making it a great resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills.

Key Features:

• Engaging Discussions: Each episode features discussions that inspire creativity and help you find your voice.
• Expert Advice: The hosts often interview literary agents and authors, providing listeners with insider knowledge about the writing industry.
• Practical Tips: Episodes like "Get Out of Your Way and Write" focus on overcoming obstacles in the writing process.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration: The podcast encourages you to explore your own stories and develop your unique style.
• Community: It creates a sense of belonging among writers, reminding you that you are not alone in your journey.

"Writing Class Radio offers a welcoming space for writers to learn and grow, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling."

20. You’re Wrong About

This podcast is a fascinating exploration of how certain events and people are often misunderstood in our society. Journalists Sarah Marshall and Michael Hobbes dive into stories that have been misrepresented, shedding light on the truth behind popular misconceptions. From pop culture to serious crime, they tackle a variety of topics that keep listeners engaged.

Why Listen?

• Engaging Hosts: Sarah's voice and opinions are comforting, making it a great listen for anyone.
• Diverse Topics: Each episode covers different stories, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Fact-Checking Focus: The podcast emphasises the importance of verifying information, which is crucial for writers.

Notable Episodes

1. Kitty Genovese and Bystander Apathy: This episode examines a tragic event and the myths surrounding it.
2. The Disappearance of Chandra Levy: A deep dive into a case that captivated the nation.

This podcast is 100% my comfort pod. Sarah's voice, opinions, her laugh, they're all comforting to me. The guests are almost always perfectly engaging and have ...

21. The Writing University Podcast

The Writing University Podcast showcases recordings from the Eleventh Hour Lecture Series at the University of Iowa. This series features talks from talented writers, poets, and essayists who share their insights during the Iowa Summer Writing Festival.

A Great Place to Start

One episode to check out is "Mixed Feelings," which discusses how mixed emotions can convey deep truths in writing. Another must-listen is "Better Talky Talky – The Art and Craft of Strong Dialogue" featuring Kelly Dwyer, where you can learn how to create dialogue that captures attention.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration from established authors
• Practical tips for improving your writing
• Diverse perspectives on the craft

The Writing University Podcast is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills and gain fresh ideas from experienced writers.

Episode Highlights

This podcast is perfect for writers at any stage, offering valuable lessons and inspiration to help you on your writing journey.

22. The National Writing Centre’s The Writing Life

The Writing Life podcast is perfect for anyone who writes. Each episode features conversations with various writers and educators, sharing their experiences and tips to enhance your writing skills. From discussing themes and structure to exploring character development and genre-specific advice, this podcast covers a wide range of topics.

Key Features:

• Diverse Guests: The podcast has hosted notable authors like Margaret Atwood and Val McDermid.
• Variety of Topics: Episodes include advice for emerging writers, writing romantic comedies, and researching for fiction.
• Regular Episodes: New episodes are released every fortnight, ensuring a steady stream of insights.

Notable Episodes:

1. Advice for emerging writers with Benjamin Johncock & Megan Bradbury
2. Writing the ‘difficult second novel’ with Melissa Fu
3. Writing romantic comedies with PJ Ellis
4. Researching for fiction with Jon McGregor
5. Writing narrative non-fiction with Dan Richards & Edward Parnell

The podcast aims to inspire and guide writers at all stages of their careers, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their craft.

23. Between The Covers

Between the Covers is a captivating literary podcast hosted by David Naimon. This show features long, in-depth conversations with a variety of writers from different genres and backgrounds. Each episode often lasts over an hour, making it perfect for those who want to dive deep into the creative process behind impactful books.

The podcast is known for its exceptional curation of guests, which includes authors from fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Even if you are not familiar with the works being discussed, Naimon’s curiosity and knowledge will draw you in. It’s like attending a literary festival talk without the awkward Q&A session at the end.

Key Features:

• Fortnightly episodes that allow for a deeper exploration of topics.
• A focus on diverse voices in literature, making it a great starting point for anyone interested in high-brow literature.
• Special mini-series like "Crafting with Ursula," where writers discuss their craft alongside the works of Ursula Le Guin.

Why Listen?

• Gain insights into the creative processes of various authors.
• Discover new books and authors you might not have encountered otherwise.
• Enjoy a relaxed format that feels like a conversation rather than a lecture.

"This podcast is like the best writer’s festival talk you’ve ever been to, fitting in with your schedule and with no unedifying Q&A session at the end."

Whether you are a seasoned writer or just starting out, Between the Covers offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you on your writing journey.

24. The Underground Writing Podcast

The Underground Writing Podcast explores the deep connection between literature and personal change. This podcast is part of a creative writing programme that helps migrant, incarcerated, and at-risk groups in northern Washington. It shows how writing can make a positive difference in people's lives.

Why Listen?

• Inspiration: The podcast reminds us that writing can inspire hope and is for everyone, especially those facing challenges.
• Diverse Voices: It gives a platform to voices that are often overlooked, especially during tough times like the pandemic.
• Practical Tips: Each episode offers practical advice and insights to help writers improve their craft.

Writing is not just about creating stories; it’s about connecting with others and making a difference in the world.

The hosts, Matt Malyon and Alvin Shim, aim to show that you don’t need fancy degrees to write something meaningful. The podcast is a reminder that writing belongs to everyone. Whether you are a seasoned writer or just starting, this podcast can help you find your voice and share your story.

25. So You Want To Be A Writer?

In the podcast So You Want To Be A Writer?, J.P. shares his unique writing process and the methods he uses for research. He also discusses his experiences with adapting books into TV series, providing valuable insights on how to maintain the essence of a story while transitioning it to a different medium.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Writing Process: J.P. emphasises the importance of having a structured approach to writing.
• Research Methods: He shares tips on how to conduct effective research that enhances storytelling.
• Adapting Stories: Learn about the challenges and rewards of adapting written works into visual formats.

This podcast is a great resource for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of a writing career. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, making it easier to understand what it takes to succeed.

Why Listen?

• Gain insights from an experienced writer.
• Discover practical tips for your own writing journey.
• Get inspired by real-life experiences in the publishing world.

Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps in Writing

In conclusion, diving into the world of writing podcasts can be a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their craft. These shows not only offer valuable tips and insights but also create a sense of community among writers. Whether you’re stuck on a project or just seeking fresh ideas, there’s a podcast out there for you. So, plug in your headphones, find a comfy spot, and let these inspiring voices guide you on your writing journey. Remember, every great writer started somewhere, and with the right resources, you can too!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of writing podcasts?

Writing podcasts help writers learn new skills and find inspiration. They offer tips and stories that can motivate you to write.

Can listening to podcasts improve my writing?

Yes, podcasts can provide helpful advice and different perspectives on writing. They can inspire you and help you understand the writing process better.

Are these podcasts suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! Many of these podcasts are designed for all levels, including beginners. They often share basic tips and experiences that can help new writers.

How can I choose the right podcast for me?

Think about what you want to learn or improve in your writing. Try a few different podcasts to see which ones resonate with you.

Do I need to pay to listen to these podcasts?

Most podcasts are free to listen to. You can find them on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or their own websites.

How often are new episodes released?

It varies by podcast. Some release episodes weekly, while others might have a different schedule. Check the podcast’s page for details.