The Writing Community Chat Show

In this episode of The Writing Community Chat Show, we are joined by the incredible Melanie Blake for a must-listen conversation. We pull back the curtain on the book world, unpacking recent publishing drama with a professional, candid lens, and exploring what it really takes to navigate the industry.As if that wasn't enough, we also have all the exciting details on an unbelievable 100k necklace giveaway!In this episode, we dive into:A candid look at the latest publishing drama and industry dynamics.Behind-the-scenes insights from Melanie Blake's incredible career.Everything you need to know about the massive 100k necklace giveaway.Actionable advice and inspiration for writers navigating the modern publishing landscape.Whether you are actively drafting your next novel, querying, or simply love hearing the incredible stories behind the books, this conversation delivers invaluable insights you won't want to miss.Buy Vengeful Women for your chance of winning here!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

How do you write a future that feels real? We sit down with environmental scientist and war correspondent Paul E Hardisty to discuss the conclusion of his “The Forcing” trilogy and why literacy is our last defense against a new feudalism.The Road to Writing: From 5-Year-Old Typist to Front-Line Witness.Paul E Hardisty didn’t take the traditional path to becoming a critically acclaimed novelist. Though he began typing stories at age five, he hit a wall at eighteen. Inspired by Hemingway’s advice to “Write what you know,” Paul realized he didn’t know anything yet.He spent the next 30 years gaining that knowledge as an environmental scientist and journalist, reporting from dangerous regions like Yemen, Ethiopia, and most recently, the battlefields of Ukraine.“I want to write fiction that comes as close to truth—conveying essential truth—as possible. I think that is the purpose of literature.” — Paul E Hardisty.Confronting “The Hope”: A Vision of 2082.The interview centers on the release of The Hope, the explosive conclusion to a trilogy that started with The Forcing and The Descent.Set in a windswept, contracted world where the global population has plummeted below a billion, The Hope introduces us to Boo, a 16-year-old with a photographic memory living in a society where books are illegal and literacy has vanished.BUY IT HERE.Writing Advice: The Iceberg Principle.For the writers in our community, Paul shares his “anti-course” philosophy. Having never taken a creative writing class, he advocates for:* Finding your own path: “Be yourself, because everyone else is already taken.”* The Iceberg Principle: Focus on immediacy—sights, smells, and tactile feelings—rather than being didactic.* Biting on the Nail: Inspired by Hemingway, Paul’s Substack name refers to the discipline of getting up and doing the hard work of writing, no matter what happened the night before.Key Themes from the Episode:* The Science of Fiction: Paul explains how he used robust IPCC climate projections to build a plausible 2082, focusing on “refugia”—pockets of the planet that remain habitable.* The New Feudalism: A chilling warning about how plummeting literacy rates and the rise of the smartphone era could mirror the dark ages, making society easier to dominate.* Authenticity in Action: Paul discusses his three trips to Ukraine (with a fourth planned) and how bearing witness to trauma and stoicism informs the emotional core of his work.🎧 Watch the Full Interview!For more on Paul’s experiences as a pilot, his favourite Ukrainian borscht, and why he chose a blue fist for his final book cover, watch the full episode here: From Ukraine to The Great Barrier Reef: Writing Truth in Fiction with Paul E Hardisty📚 Where to Find Paul’s Work* Book Release: The Hope is available January 29th, 2026. Paul encourages supporting local independent bookstores.* Substack: Subscribe to Bite on the Nail (no paywall!) for weekly essays on conflict, the environment, and short stories. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

The Writing Community Chat Show is back for 2026, and we are kicking off Season 17 with a masterclass in humor. Whether you’re writing a laugh-out-loud sitcom or looking to inject a bit of levity into a dark thriller, this guest is the person who quite literally “wrote the book” on the subject.We were joined by the legendary Dave Cohen. a founding member of the Comedy Store Players, a BAFTA-winning songwriter for Horrible Histories, and a writer for iconic shows like Spitting Image and Not Going Out.Dave shared his incredible journey from Leeds to the heart of the UK comedy scene, offering invaluable advice for writers at every level.Key Takeaways from the Interview.* Comedy is Character: Dave emphasizes that the best jokes aren’t just one-liners; they are born from character. In comedy, the obstacle isn’t just an external “baddie”—it’s often the character themselves looking in the mirror.* The “Momentary Removal of Sympathy”: Referencing comedy guru Dennis Norden, Dave explains that we laugh at characters like Stan and Ollie or Basil Fawlty because of a brief break in our sympathy, only to reconnect with their humanity moments later.* Humor in Genre: You don’t have to be writing a “funny novel” to use comedy. Dave discusses how writers like Mark Billingham use humor to provide a necessary change of pace and relieve tension in even the grimmest thrillers.* The Shakespeare Mindset: Dave gave us a sneak peek into his brand new project, The Shakespeare Mindsetpodcast. He explores how Shakespeare was essentially writing “sitcom” elements into his deepest tragedies and why the Bard is the ultimate guide for navigating the complexities of modern life.* Finish the First Draft: A vital tip for all writers: use a different “brain” for each draft. The first draft is for getting it down without judgment; the third or fourth draft is where you start “punching up” the jokes.Connect with Dave Cohen.Dave is passionate about building a community for comedy writers. If you’re looking for a writing group or want to hone your craft, you can find his courses, his novels, and his new podcast at davecohen.org.uk.Watch or Listen Below.You can watch the full interview right here or head over to YouTube to join the conversation in the comments. The Writing Community Chat Show is also available on all major podcasting platforms. Our Spreaker Prime Show.Watch it right here:The WCCS is a live-streaming YouTube podcast featuring interviews with NYT best-sellers, celebrities, and indie authors. We were recently ranked #3 in the Top 10 writing podcasts in the UK for 2025.Together as one, we get it done!Support Our Non-Profit CICAs many of you know, The Writing Community Chat Show is now officially a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC). Our mission is to support authors and creatives through interviews, workshops, competitions, and community projects.Running the show takes time, effort, and resources — from live streaming and editing, to event hosting and outreach. If you enjoy what we do and want to help us continue providing a platform for authors, please consider donating directly to our PayPal. Every contribution goes right back into growing the show and supporting the writing community.Donate here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/TheWCCSEven the price of a coffee makes a difference in helping us keep the lights on, the mics live, and the conversations flowing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

We were thrilled to welcome back acclaimed psychological thriller author and Richard & Judy Bestseller, Lizzy Barber, to the show. Lizzy is the author of several gripping novels, including Be Mine, and has a knack for cutting right through the polished facade of the author life to reveal the messy, chaotic, and often hilarious reality.As The Writing Community Chat Show, recently ranked among the top 10 writing podcasts in the UK, we’ve interviewed over 360 authors, from NYT best-sellers to indie superstars. Few, however, have been as candid as Lizzy about the sheer struggle of creative output when life throws everything at you.This conversation is essential listening for anyone who feels they are running out of time, energy, or hope while chasing their writing dreams.1. The Real Cost of ‘The Slow Draft.’Lizzy shared that her current novel, her fifth, has been the slowest to write, a process she describes as being “on ice.” This wasn’t due to a lack of ideas but due to life: the birth of her daughter, dealing with family loss, and major personal hardships.The interview kicked off with a major truth bomb about managing expectations. Lizzy, who is working on this novel while juggling motherhood and dealing with family issues, admitted she has learned to accept a 500-word-a-day target.“I have worked out that for me that has meant 500 words a day. And I’m comfortable with that. And some days I will write a thousand and think, ‘what a great day.’ And then the next day I might write two.”She argues against the perceived hierarchy in the writing community that values speed and high word counts. While some authors happily “splurge 4,000 words a day,” Lizzy opts for quality, slow progress, where her 500 words are likely to be “500 really good words that won’t get cut up or replaced.”This is a powerful reminder: the goal is the finished product, not the speed of the first draft.2. Navigating Publishing: Big Five vs. Indie.Lizzy has the unique experience of having worked with both ‘Big Five’ publishing houses and an indie publisher (Dura). She offered a rare, side-by-side comparison of the two models:3. The Uncomfortable Question: Imposter Syndrome.Perhaps the most resonant part of the conversation for aspiring and established writers alike was Lizzy’s raw honesty about self-doubt.When discussing the draft she just completed after two years, she was upfront about her inner turmoil: “There is a part of me that thinks that this might not actually work as a book and that I might junk it.”This is imposter syndrome at its highest level - the doubt that creeps in after hundreds of hours of work. For Lizzy, this feeling is exacerbated by an “uneven publishing experience” and the anxiety of never finding a constant publisher “home.”“The worst thought is this kind of awareness of never being published again—that you’re kind of you’re done... That’s the kind of constant fear that you kind of live on the highwire of as an author.”Her advice for surviving this? Focus solely on the writing, because that is the only thing you can control. Don’t chase trends, and don’t let external noise or sales charts dictate your self-worth.4. The Author Brand: Be Yourself. (Even If You’re ADHD)Lizzy, who recently started to explore the possibility that she has undiagnosed ADHD, spoke about how she manages her time and how her personality informs her public persona.She admits she is good at jumping into pockets of time but “can’t write around the chaos.” She needs to compartmentalize her writing time, a vital lesson for any busy creative.On building an author brand, her advice is simple: Be authentic.If you are an introvert who hates reels and being on camera, don’t force it, it won’t feel fun or look genuine. But if you, like Lizzy, are comfortable debating, answering difficult questions, and being visible:“I love being on camera. I trained as an actress... I like the sound of my own voice. I don’t mind being silly. I don’t mind being filmed. I say [to my publisher] use me for that. I’m very comfortable to kind of debate and be asked hard questions.”Find your niche, whether it’s through newsletters, blogs, or public appearances, and commit to it. But whatever you do, avoid the pressure to join the “5 a.m. writer’s club” just because it sounds productive. Prioritize your sleep and your process.Watch the Full Interview.Lizzy’s interview is full of crucial, honest advice for writers at every stage of their career. We cover everything from the psychological complexities of her thrillers to the magic of the Harrogate Crime Writers Festival.Watch the full episode below (or listen to the podcast audio):Connect with Lizzy Barber:* Instagram: @byLizzyBarber* Buy Her Books: Available on Amazon, the Dura website, and all good bookstores.Join our brand new community on our Stanstore! After conducting 360 plus interviews, we have compiled digital products to help your writing. Plus, community members get access to our live writing sprints where we write with you, keep you accountable, and give you free access to our 1-on-1 video coaching. There are forum like tabs in our community group where you can post work and receive advice, plus, much more. Join here: https://stan.store/TheWCCSSupport Our Non-Profit CIC.As many of you know, The Writing Community Chat Show is now officially a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC). Our mission is to support authors and creatives through interviews, workshops, competitions, and community projects.Running the show takes time, effort, and resources — from live streaming and editing, to event hosting and outreach. If you enjoy what we do and want to help us continue providing a platform for authors, please consider donating directly to our PayPal. Every contribution goes right back into growing the show and supporting the writing community.Donate here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/TheWCCSEven the price of a coffee makes a difference in helping us keep the lights on, the mics live, and the conversations flowing.Featured on these blog posts as one of the best writing podcasts:Number 7 in the top 11 writing podcasts of 2025 by Million Podcasts. com https://millionpodcasts.com/author-interview-podcasts/…Number 3 in the top 10 best writing UK podcasts of 2025.https://podcast.feedspot.com/uk_writing_podcasts/The 10 best writing podcasts of 2024, No1 The Writing Community Chat Show - 10 Best UK Writing Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024 (feedspot.com) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

The Writing Community Chat Show is proud to bring you insights from the writers dominating the charts. We recently sat down with Pip Landers-Letts, the winner of the prestigious 2025 Kindle Storyteller Award, to discuss her incredible journey from a 15-year career in retail banking to winning one of the UK’s biggest literary prizes.The £20,000 Leap of Faith.For fifteen years, Pip Landers-Letts navigated the structured world of retail banking. But underneath the suits and spreadsheets, a powerful story was waiting to be told. Pip’s shift from the stability of a corporate career to the uncertainty of a full-time author is the epitome of the creative leap many writers dream of—and fear.In our interview, Pip shared the pivotal decision to step away from the bank, admitting she didn’t know who she was without that career. Writing, however, quickly became the spark she needed.“I owed it to myself to invest in the thing that brought me back to life.”This commitment to her craft—spending nine months meticulously rewriting and learning the rules after a fast first draft—is a vital lesson for anyone considering the pivot to professional writing.Choosing Indie: The Power of Creative Control.Pip’s success story isn’t just about winning an award; it’s a monumental win for self-publishing. She made a conscious decision to forego the traditional route, choosing instead to publish independently via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).For Pip, this choice was essential for maintaining creative control and ensuring authentic representation. Her book, Pyg, is a queer retelling of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion. Having grown up feeling a “drought of sapphic representation in mainstream media,” self-publishing provided the direct platform she needed to share nuanced, relatable stories without waiting for permission from traditional “gatekeepers.” This path champions the idea that diverse voices don’t need validation from the establishment to find their audience.Pyg and the Art of Reclaiming Your Life.The winning novel, Pyg, is a high-heeled burst of chaos and transformation. Inspired partly by her own life milestone and the feeling of being lost when you’re supposed to have it figured out, Pip describes the book as a story about “getting a grip of your life—letting go of the bad stuff to create space for the good.” It explores themes of kindness, compassion, and radical self-acceptance.Pip credits the success of Pyg partly to the lessons learned while writing her first novel, where she realized the necessity of mastering the craft. The resulting work captivated readers and judges alike, leading to the unprecedented success of winning the £20,000 prize.Buy PYG here.The Validation of a Lifetime.The £20,000 Kindle Storyteller Award celebrates the best self-published book of the year, blending bestseller rankings and reader reviews with the opinions of a distinguished judging panel. For Pip, the award served as a powerful antidote to a common affliction: imposter syndrome.“Winning the Kindle Storyteller Award has given me a huge shot of validation... What an honour to be recognised for the thing I love doing the most—writing!”The prize money itself is earmarked as a crucial investment in her burgeoning writing career, securing her place in the industry she was always meant to join. Her story proves that investing in yourself, trusting your voice, and choosing the path of creative independence can lead to the highest level of industry recognition.Watch or Listen to the Full Interview!Don’t miss the full conversation with Pip Landers-Letts on her award, her book, and her tips for aspiring authors.The Writing Community Chat Show is ranked in the top 10 writing podcasts in the UK, bringing you over 360 interviews with bestsellers, celebrities, and indie authors.Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:Podcast LinkListen to the full audio episode wherever you get your podcasts:Listen on Spreaker (The Writing Community Chat Show Podcast)Join our brand new community on our Stanstore! After conducting 360 plus interviews, we have compiled digital products to help your writing. Plus, community members get access to our live writing sprints where we write with you, keep you accountable, and give you free access to our 1-on-1 video coaching. There are forum like tabs in our community group where you can post work and receive advice, plus, much more. Join here: https://stan.store/TheWCCS This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

The latest episode of The Writing Community Chat Show was an absolute masterclass in grit, psychology, and the art of crafting a killer thriller. We had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Nikki Allen, the brilliant mind behind the Apple Books Thriller of the Month, The Hideaway.Nikki isn’t just an author; she’s a BACP-registered therapist, and her deep understanding of the human psyche shines through every twist and turn of her novels. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or just a fascinating peek into a unique writing journey, you’re in the right place.Key Takeaways & What We Explored:Our chat with Nikki was packed with insights, from her unique background to the practicalities of being a published author. Here are some of the highlights:* The Therapist’s Edge in Thriller Writing: How does a professional understanding of human behavior translate into creating compelling, sometimes morally ambiguous characters and nail-biting suspense? Nikki shared how her therapy background is both a “blessing and a curse” for her plotting!* From Harrogate to Pan MacMillan: Nikki walked us through the pivotal steps of her writing journey, detailing how an interview at the Harrogate Crime Writers Festival was just one stop on her road to securing a major publishing deal with Pan MacMillan. Her advice on targeting agents is a must-hear for aspiring authors.* The Hideaway: Behind the Scenes: We explored the inspiration behind her debut, a chilling destination thriller set in a remote Costa Rican wellness retreat. Nikki discussed balancing the allure of a tranquil setting with the dark undercurrents of murder and deception, and how the book subtly critiques modern wellness culture.* Navigating Writing with ADHD: This segment was incredibly powerful. Nikki openly discussed how her ADHD impacts her writing process, offering invaluable tips and strategies for fellow neurodivergent writers. It’s a candid look at how ADHD can be both a challenge and a superpower for creativity, enabling her to craft three novels in just two years.* What’s Next? Below The Deck! Get an exclusive sneak peek into Nikki’s highly anticipated second novel, Below The Deck, a destination thriller set on a superyacht in French Polynesia. Get ready for more intrigue, stunning locales, and, no doubt, plenty of psychological twists!Why You Should Read The HideawayIf you haven’t picked up The Hideaway yet, now is the time. It’s a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Named Apple Books Thriller of the Month, it’s a testament to Nikki’s skill in weaving complex plots and unforgettable characters.Connect with Nikki Allen* Website: https://nikkiallen.co.uk/about* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkiallenauthor/* Find The Hideaway: https://amzn.to/3JpInJCListen to the Podcast Episode (Audio)For those who prefer to listen on the go, you can catch the full audio of our conversation with Nikki Allen right here.Watch the Full Interview (Video)Dive deep into the discussion and watch our full interview with Nikki Allen on YouTube:Thank you to Nikki Allen for such an engaging and insightful conversation!“Together as one, we get it done.”Join our brand new community on our Stanstore! After conducting 360 plus interviews, we have compiled digital products to help your writing. Plus, community members get access to our live writing sprints where we write with you, keep you accountable, and give you free access to our 1-on-1 video coaching. There are forum like tabs in our community group where you can post work and receive advice, plus, much more. Join here: https://stan.store/TheWCCS This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

We had the pleasure of hosting USA Today Bestselling Author Sharon M. Peterson. If you’re a fan of witty romantic comedies, an aspiring writer looking for a shot of inspiration, or anyone navigating the creative process with ADHD, this is an interview you absolutely don’t want to miss.Sharon’s journey to becoming a beloved rom-com author is nothing short of extraordinary. Imagine receiving 107 rejections for your first novel. Most of us would have packed it in. Not Sharon. Her story is a powerful testament to the fact that perseverance truly is “90% of it.”Why We Need Laughter (Especially Now.)As a former middle school teacher, Sharon found her calling in humor. She explained that she writes romantic comedies because, in her words, “laughter is hopeful.” In a world that often feels heavy, her books offer a delightful escape—a chance to find joy and cope with life’s stresses through heartwarming stories and genuine belly laughs.The Unspoken Chapter: Writing with ADHD.One of the most candid and impactful parts of our conversation revolved around Sharon’s adult diagnosis of ADHD. This realization was a turning point, shedding light on why external deadlines were always crucial for her focus and productivity. She also highlighted the often-misunderstood representation of ADHD, especially in women, and shared her own “aha!” moment connecting with others who navigate similar challenges.This discussion wasn’t just personal; it was packed with actionable advice. Sharon generously shared her top tips for maintaining focus and boosting productivity—strategies that resonate deeply whether you have ADHD or simply juggle a busy life:* The Brain Dump Before Bed: A simple yet powerful technique to clear your mind and reduce anxiety by writing down all your next-day tasks before you sleep.* The 20-Minute Alarm: Turn writing into a game! Set a timer for 20 minutes and challenge yourself to beat your previous word count. It’s a fantastic dopamine boost.* Minimize Distractions: Utilize focus modes on your word processor, eliminate distracting tabs, and even turn off the word count display to stay immersed in your story.Diving into The Fix Up.We also shone a spotlight on Sharon’s latest novel, The Fix Up. This “grumpy sunshine” forced-proximity rom-com introduces us to Ellie, a single mom, and Gil, a secret grandson, who are forced to co-inherit a property in charming Two Hearts, Texas.Sharon revealed a personal connection to Ellie—her protagonist also has adult-diagnosed ADHD, making this book a particularly challenging but rewarding one to write. And for those who love practical life hacks, you’ll be fascinated by Ellie’s unique Sticky-Note System for managing her “chaotic brain”—a system divided into “Now,” “Soon,” and “In the Future” tasks.Beyond the Books: Poodles, Success, and What’s Next.From her hilarious confession about a lifelong poodle phobia (it’s a “fight or flight” response, she assures us!) to her heartfelt definition of success—making people smile and laugh—Sharon offered a glimpse into the person behind the pages. And for those eagerly awaiting more, she teased an exciting new book in the Two Hearts series, featuring the character Iris!This interview was truly a masterclass in resilience, a deep dive into the craft of writing, and a touching conversation about embracing one’s unique brain. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting your writing journey, there’s so much wisdom to gain from Sharon M. Peterson.Listen to the full podcast or watch the interview here:Don’t forget to check out Sharon M. Peterson’s fantastic rom-coms wherever books are sold, and let us know your biggest takeaway from this inspiring interview in the comments below!Support Our Non-Profit CICAs many of you know, The Writing Community Chat Show is now officially a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC). Our mission is to support authors and creatives through interviews, workshops, competitions, and community projects.Running the show takes time, effort, and resources — from live streaming and editing, to event hosting and outreach. If you enjoy what we do and want to help us continue providing a platform for authors, please consider donating directly to our PayPal. Every contribution goes right back into growing the show and supporting the writing community.Donate here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/TheWCCSEven the price of a coffee makes a difference in helping us keep the lights on, the mics live, and the conversations flowing.Featured on these blog posts as one of the best writing podcasts:Number 7 in the top 11 writing podcasts of 2025 by Million Podcasts. com https://millionpodcasts.com/author-interview-podcasts/…Number 3 in the top 10 best writing UK podcasts of 2025.https://podcast.feedspot.com/uk_writing_podcasts/The 10 best writing podcasts of 2024, No1 The Writing Community Chat Show - 10 Best UK Writing Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024 (feedspot.com) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.

This week, the writing community chat show hosted former Navy Seal, MMA fighter, and American football player, Tom Hruby & seasoned author James Promerantz.The authors of the explosive thriller, The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak Novel.If you are looking for an inspiring story of determination, or simply want the secrets behind writing high-stakes, authentic action, you cannot miss this episode.Tom Hruby’s life reads like a blockbuster movie: a decorated Navy SEAL Breacher who served four combat deployments, an undefeated MMA fighter, and a walk-on Northwestern Wildcats Linebacker in the Big Ten—all before becoming a successful author.Co-author James Pomerantz brings the literary precision, leveraging his own wild background from writing biographies to navigating the world of Chicago nightlife (including a memorable business partnership with action-star Steven Seagal!).In This Episode, We Breached the Playbook:Here are just a few of the high-impact stories and writing secrets the authors shared:* From SEAL to Student: The unbelievable transition Tom made from the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to walking onto a Division I football team at the age of 34, and how that relentless drive fuels his writing.* The “Breacher’s” Philosophy: What the term “Breacher” means both tactically and psychologically, and how Tom’s philosophy of breaking through barriers shapes the protagonist, Deklan Novak.* The Art of Collaboration: How two men with such wildly different life experiences successfully merge authenticity and narrative craft to create a seamless, high-velocity story.* Endorsement by a Champion: We discuss the amazing testimonial from former Chicago Bear Jim Morrissey(World Champion 1985), who called The Breacher’s Playbook a book he “simply could not put down.”Praise for Tom Hruby and the Book:“A true warrior in every sense... The book is all about determination at the highest level and the inspirational message that anything is possible.” — SEAL TEAMMATE OF TOM HRUBY“The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak Novel”Deklan fought his demons in the combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy SEAL breacher and now in Chicago as a special agent for the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children squad.That grit will be what he leans on in his new role as a tough FBI agent tasked with unraveling the disappearance of two children from a daycare center owned by his mother in this first installment.This debut narrative, the first in a planned three-book series, is a fictional account based on Hruby’s real-life story.The mystery thriller lays the groundwork for what the authors describe as a recurring character who is hard, fast, and mean as a razor wire. Deklan’s life path is one of determination and sacrifice in the face of defeat. That grit will be what he leans on in his new role as a tough FBI agent tasked with unraveling the disappearance of two children from a daycare center owned by his mother in this first installment.“The Breacher’s Playbook showcases a modern warrior’s real-life experiences,” said Chris Schafer, CEO at Tactical 16 Publishing. “Tom and James’ story shows that not all battles are in war zones, and not all war zones are sanctioned by governments.”“After serving more than a decade as a Navy SEAL and retired with a decorated combat career, Deklan Novak realized his days of making life and death decisions were not behind him. The Breacher’s Playbook is a book I simply could not put down!” -Jim Morrissey, a former Chicago Bears linebacker, 1985 Super Bowl ChampionBuy The Breachers Playbook here!Watch it here:Listen on the Go:Prefer to listen on your run or commute? You can find the writing community chat show on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Search for our channel name or the episode title: Navy SEAL to Big Ten Linebacker: Tom Hruby & James Pomerantz.Pick up a copy of The Breacher’s Playbook: A Deklan Novak Novel today!Support Our Non-Profit CICAs many of you know, The Writing Community Chat Show is now officially a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC). Our mission is to support authors and creatives through interviews, workshops, competitions, and community projects.Running the show takes time, effort, and resources — from live streaming and editing, to event hosting and outreach. If you enjoy what we do and want to help us continue providing a platform for authors, please consider donating directly to our PayPal. Every contribution goes right back into growing the show and supporting the writing community.Donate here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/TheWCCSEven the price of a coffee makes a difference in helping us keep the lights on, the mics live, and the conversations flowing.Featured on these blog posts as one of the best writing podcasts:Number 7 in the top 11 writing podcasts of 2025 by Million Podcasts. com https://millionpodcasts.com/author-interview-podcasts/…Number 3 in the top 10 best writing UK podcasts of 2025. https://podcast.feedspot.com/uk_writing_podcasts/The 10 best writing podcasts of 2024, No1 The Writing Community Chat Show - 10 Best UK Writing Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024 (feedspot.com) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.Connect With The Community🏆 Ranked #3 Writing Podcast in the UK (2025) The WCCS is more than a show; it’s a masterclass in the craft and business of storytelling. Join 380+ interviews with NYT Bestsellers, Indie Icons, and Celebrities.📺 Watch the Full Shows: The Writing Community Chat Show | 360+ Author Interviews, Writing Tips & Creative Chaos.✍️ The Stories Behind the Stories And Great Writing Articles: WRITE, CONNECT, GROW, With The Writing Community Chat Show. | 📚The WCCS | Substack🚀 Support the Mission With Tips And Donations: PayPal.MeTogether as one, we get it done! The Writing Community Chat Show is a proud supporter of indie authors and creative persistence.