Insights from recent episode analysis
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Podcast Focus
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Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
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Total monthly reach
Estimated from 1 chart position in 1 market.
By chart position
- 🇳🇿NZ · Books#177500 to 3K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
250 to 1.5K🎙 ~2x weekly·115 episodes·Last published 1w ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
500 to 3K🇳🇿100% - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
200 to 1.2K
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EPISODE 112: Writing Heart-Led Children’s Biographies with Nancy Churnin
Jun 16, 2026
44m 33s
EPISODE 111: Writing in the Dark: Jeannine Ouellette on Uncertainty, Slow Language, and Writing as a Path of Becoming
Jun 2, 2026
46m 21s
EPISODE 110: Inside Today’s Cookbook Market with Agent Sally Ekus
Apr 28, 2026
36m 42s
EPISODE 109: Grammar as a Craft Choice with Patty McGee
Apr 7, 2026
38m 07s
EPISODE 108: The Art of Line Editing: Elevating Character and Plot with Author Jennifer Gennari
Mar 24, 2026
31m 25s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/16/26 |  EPISODE 112: Writing Heart-Led Children’s Biographies with Nancy Churnin | Way-Word Writers hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome award-winning children’s nonfiction author Nancy Churnin, known for inspiring stories about real people who changed the world. Churnin shares how a Dallas Morning News article about deaf baseball player William Hoy led to her first children’s book after a 13-year journey, launching her focus on lesser-known changemakers. She explains how she discovers subjects through curiosity and articles, approaches research differently depending on available sources, and ensures accuracy and cultural sensitivity by working closely with families, communities, and scholars. Churnin discusses finding the “heart” of each story, choosing what to include in picture book narratives, creating student projects tied to each book, lessons in perseverance and humility, and advice to write about someone you love, seek support, and stay focused on meaning over facts.00:00 Meet Way-Word Writers00:31 Introducing Nancy Churnin02:15 Why Biographies04:01 William Hoy Origin07:18 Finding Story Subjects11:16 Research Methods14:38 Accuracy And Sensitivity18:48 Choosing What Stays21:03 Staying Focused On Theme24:54 Empowerment Themes26:05 Projects With Every Book29:11 Biggest Writing Lesson29:52 Perseverance Through Rejection32:53 Craft Advice For Nonfiction36:28 Rapid Fire Questions40:15 School Visit Joy42:42 Encouragement And Farewell This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 44m 33s | ||||||
| 6/2/26 |  EPISODE 111: Writing in the Dark: Jeannine Ouellette on Uncertainty, Slow Language, and Writing as a Path of Becoming✨ | writinguncertainty+4 | Janine Ouellette | Minnesota Prison Writing WorkshopUniversity of Minnesota+2 | — | writingmemoir+6 | — | 46m 21s | |
| 4/28/26 |  EPISODE 110: Inside Today’s Cookbook Market with Agent Sally Ekus✨ | cookbook marketliterary agency+3 | Sally Ekus | Jean V. Naggar Literary Agency | — | cookbooksliterary agent+3 | — | 36m 42s | |
| 4/7/26 |  EPISODE 109: Grammar as a Craft Choice with Patty McGee✨ | grammarwriting+4 | Patty McGee | Feedback That Moves Writers ForwardNot Your Granny’s Grammar | — | grammarwriting advice+3 | — | 38m 07s | |
| 3/24/26 |  EPISODE 108: The Art of Line Editing: Elevating Character and Plot with Author Jennifer Gennari✨ | line editingcharacter development+3 | Jennifer Gennari | EPISODE 104 DEEP DIVE: The Art of Line Editing, A Guide to Polishing Your Prose | — | line editingcharacter-driven dialogue+3 | — | 31m 25s | |
| 3/10/26 |  EPISODE 107: Summit Club Workshops--Coming to Way-Word Writers✨ | writing resourcesworkshops+4 | Heather CashmanStephanie Bearce+1 | Way-Word WritersSubstack | — | writingworkshops+5 | — | 20m 04s | |
| 3/9/26 |  Tackling Time Management & Writing Goals✨ | time managementwriting goals+3 | Nicki Jacobsmeyer | — | — | time managementwriting goals+3 | — | 33m 14s | |
| 2/24/26 |  EPISODE 106: Kickstarter Campaigns & Author Partnering with Christina Boufis and Victoria Olsen✨ | editingKickstarter+4 | Christina BoufisVictoria Olsen | Penny Dreadful MediaThe Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Nonfiction | somdarkforest.comchristinaboufis.com | Kickstarterco-authors+6 | — | 39m 13s | |
| 2/10/26 |  EPISODE 105: Layered Themes & Hooks in Picture Books with Chloe Ito Ward✨ | children's literaturediversity+3 | Chloe Ito Ward | Way-Word WritersMade For More+1 | — | children's authorthematic elements+3 | — | 38m 35s | |
| 1/30/26 |  SPECIAL EPISODE: Navigating the Creative Journey: Way-Word Writers' 2026 Goals and Changes✨ | creative journeywriting projects+3 | — | — | Costa Rica | creative journeywriting goals+3 | — | 29m 14s | |
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| 1/27/26 |  EPISODE 104: Writing Later-In-Life Romances with Author Julie Berman✨ | writing later-in-life romancesauthentic portrayal of older adults+4 | Julie Berman | Elsie's New Season | — | later-in-life romanceJulie Berman+5 | — | 34m 43s | |
| 1/20/26 |  EPISODE 103: Creativity & Caregiving: Nurturing Your Passion While Supporting Loved Ones | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the unique challenges of balancing writing with caregiving responsibilities. Each shares personal experiences as caregivers and writers, offering valuable insights and practical advice on managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding creative solutions to maintain their passion for writing. They emphasize the importance of self-care, realistic goal-setting, and the value of community support during difficult times.This week our EPISODE 103 DEEP DIVE: Writing While Caregiving (Or Being Super Busy!) has some great tips and ways to keep your relationship with writing and creating healthy.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:43 The Challenges of Writing as a Caregiver01:16 Different Types of Caregiving01:52 Personal Caregiving Experiences06:04 Balancing Writing and Caregiving06:49 Strategies for Managing Time09:35 The Importance of Community Support11:12 Setting Boundaries and Self-Care18:34 Creative Solutions for Writing Time21:01 Dealing with Creative Burnout23:05 The Writing Process: Observations and Experiences23:33 Creative Solutions for Writing on the Go24:14 The Importance of Reading and Consuming Stories25:47 Incorporating Life Experiences into Writing27:26 Balancing Family, Resilience, and Writing31:46 Finding Creativity Amidst Caregiving35:13 Managing Guilt and Asking for Help42:17 Defining Success During Caregiving44:38 Final Thoughts and Advice for Caregivers and Writers This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 45m 44s | ||||||
| 1/13/26 |  EPISODE 102: Creating Community Through Writing Contests with Kaitlyn Sanchez | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Kaitlyn Sanchez, an agent at Bradford Literary, joins to discuss her journey with writing contests, community building, her roles as an editorial agent, and the impact of her contests on writers’ careers.And if you’d like a bit more of Heather’s thoughts on this topic…EPISODE 102 DEEP DIVE: The Hidden Architecture of a Thriving Writing Community00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:02 Meet Kaitlyn Sanchez: Agent and Contest Creator01:24 The Birth of Writing Contests03:54 Community and Collaboration in Contests10:08 Behind the Scenes of Contest Management16:58 The Impact of Contests on Writers20:09 Advice for Contest Participants26:30 Future of Writing Contests29:27 Conclusion and FarewellFind out more about Kaitlyn Sanchez, her contests, writing, agenting, and more on her website!Thank you for listening! To get access to our worksheets and deep dive articles, add your email below! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 30m 29s | ||||||
| 1/6/26 |  EPISODE 101: Mastering Submission Strategies with Harold Underdown | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Harold Underdown, a seasoned editor and consultant, to discuss effective submission strategies for writers. Harold shares insights on common submission missteps, how to test editor and agent fit, and crafting the perfect query letter. He also delves into the impact of digital workflows and AI on the publishing industry, and offers useful revision tools for authors. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the balance between trade and educational markets for nonfiction works, and practical tips for finding comparable titles.EPISODE 101 DEEP DIVE: Where Heather Talks About Publishing Trends and Assessing Manuscripts For Submission00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:34 Guest Introduction: Harold Underdown02:11 Common Submission Missteps05:22 Testing Editor and Agent Fit07:43 Submission Checklist Essentials11:03 Handling Soft Passes and Rejections15:28 Using Industry Intel Smartly18:33 Big Changes in Publishing23:32 The Impact of AI on Publishing Staff25:09 Editorial Assistants and Efficiency26:14 Challenges for Authors with Orphaned Books28:00 Revision Tools for Authors31:45 Positioning Nonfiction for Multiple Markets34:40 The Role of Comparable Titles in Queries39:17 Submission Strategies Across Genres41:22 Lightning Round: Trends, Myths, and Resources45:57 Conclusion and FarewellThe Purple CrayonChildren’s Book Agents and Artist’s Representatives: a Guide This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 46m 54s | ||||||
| 12/23/25 |  Reflecting on 2025 and Embracing the Future | In this episode of Wayward Writers Podcast, Stephanie Bearce and co-hosts Nicki and Heather reflect on the milestones and personal victories of 2025. They discuss their memorable 100th episode, successful retreats, heartwarming interactions with podcast guests, and individual creative achievements. They also offer insights into their plans for 2026, including exciting new projects, personal growth in writing, and upcoming events for the Wayward Writers community. The hosts express gratitude for their journey and the supportive community that surrounds them, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own year and look forward to new opportunities.00:00 Welcome to the Grand Finale of 202500:33 Celebrating Milestones and Retreats04:01 Personal Victories and Achievements07:38 Reflecting on the Year and Looking Ahead12:48 Finding Joy and Passion in Writing15:14 Current Projects and Future Plans15:37 Exploring the Joy of Writing Essays16:37 Deep Dives and Craft-Based Advice17:22 Exciting Plans for 202617:45 Nicki's Debut Thriller Novel19:30 Navigating the Publishing Jungle21:37 Agent Ascente and Opportunities23:46 Upcoming Retreats and Community Building26:06 Gratitude and Reflections28:30 Looking Forward to 2026 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 29m 20s | ||||||
| 12/16/25 |  EPISODE 100: Exploring the Art of Essay Writing with Author and Editor Melissa Helton | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Melissa Helton, a literary arts director and published author. Melissa shares her writing journey, discusses her approach to essay writing, and offers insights into maintaining authenticity while working with editors. The conversation covers the nuances of writing publishable essays, blending personal experiences with universal themes, and navigating the ethical considerations of sharing personal stories. Melissa also provides practical advice for writers on staying motivated and organized. This informative and heartfelt discussion is sure to inspire both emerging and established writers.For a more in depth look at essay writing, the purpose and how-to, see EPISODE 100 DEEP DIVE: The Art of the Essay: Why We Write, How It Works, and What Makes It Matter.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:32 Guest Introduction: Melissa Hilton01:58 Melissa Helton’s Writing Journey03:54 The Emotional Impact of Editing07:06 Defining a Publishable Essay11:05 Finding the Hook and Structure in Essays14:30 Balancing Personal and Universal Themes23:08 Maintaining Authenticity with Editors24:07 Navigating Editorial Feedback26:12 Balancing Artistic Integrity and Publication26:42 Alternative Publishing Methods28:58 The Revision Process31:03 Organizing Creative Ideas33:03 Understanding Editorial Rejections36:56 Staying Motivated and Creative41:08 Ethical Considerations in Personal Essays43:14 Lightning Round: Quick Insights44:15 Conclusion and FarewellThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support Way-Word Writers, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 44m 46s | ||||||
| 12/9/25 |  EPISODE 99: Genre Hopping and Author Branding with Agent & Author Eric Smith (Rocks!) | You can find more about this topic and the risks and rewards of genre hopping in our article EPISODE 99 DEEP DIVE: Genre Hopping Risks and GainsIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by special guest Eric Smith, an award-winning literary agent and young adult author. The discussion delves into the concept of genre-hopping and age category shifting among authors. Eric Smith emphasizes that an author’s unique voice can transcend genres and categories, encouraging writers to explore different writing styles. The episode also covers important aspects like the risks and rewards of genre-hopping, the importance of passion in writing, and how to prepare for transitioning into new literary spaces. Special highlights include Eric’s personal experiences with genre transitions and comprehensive advice for authors considering a shift in their writing career.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:30 Introducing Eric Smith02:02 Genre Hopping and Career Impact04:05 Why Writers Switch Genres06:38 Challenges and Misconceptions11:40 Voice and Genre Crossover17:29 Navigating Genre Jumping as an Author17:49 Reassurance for Authors Exploring New Genres18:20 Risks and Rewards of Genre Hopping19:31 Publisher Expectations and Author Branding21:35 The Role of Pen Names in Genre Hopping25:13 Lessons Learned from Genre Hopping28:18 Advice for Aspiring Genre Hoppers31:50 Eric Smith’s Contact Information and Closing RemarksFind Eric at EricSmithRocks.com or NeighborhoodLiterary.com. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 33m 17s | ||||||
| 12/2/25 |  EPISODE 98: I’ve Got A Book Offer, NOW WHAT? | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the critical steps and considerations for authors who receive a book offer. They emphasize the importance of celebrating the offer, taking time to review the contract, and asking the right questions. The hosts share personal experiences with book contracts and highlight key issues such as negotiation timelines, advances, subsidiary rights, and the impact of AI on publishing. They provide actionable advice for both agented and un-agented authors, stressing the necessity of seeking legal assistance when reviewing contracts to ensure a fair and beneficial agreement.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:45 Celebrating Your Book Offer01:26 Questions to Ask When You Get an Offer02:45 Negotiating Your Contract09:22 Understanding Advances14:28 Royalty Rates and Payments19:35 Rights and Contract Clauses22:09 Understanding Subsidiary Rights23:26 Negotiating Contract Terms27:15 Marketing and Production Considerations30:04 Cover Design and Illustrations34:24 AI Clauses and Legal Considerations36:48 Final Thoughts and AdviceTo see the DEEP DIVE article on this episode, go here! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 42m 09s | ||||||
| 11/25/25 |  EPISODE 97: Creative Constraints and Killer Twists: Jenna Satterthwaite on Genre-Blending Success | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by Jenna Satterthwaite, a literary agent and author. The discussion revolves around Jenna’s journey in publishing, her experiences writing in multiple genres, and her insights on market trends. Jenna shares practical tips for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of understanding genre expectations and staying true to one’s voice. Key topics include balancing thriller and romance elements, the impact of market trends, and the creative process behind developing compelling stories.00:00 Introduction to Way-word Writers00:32 Meet Jenna Satterthwaite01:52 Jenna’s Writing Journey03:56 Balancing Genres: Thrillers and Romance04:55 The Creative Process and Market Constraints08:03 Themes and Common Threads in Jenna’s Work11:25 Challenges of Writing Romance and Thrillers22:59 Commercial vs. Literary Fiction26:01 Understanding Literary Prose and Market Trends26:39 Staying Aware of Market Trends Without Losing Your Voice27:48 The Secret Money Code in Publishing28:49 Gathering Information Without Breaking the Bank30:46 Navigating Genre Trends and Market Challenges35:37 The Creative Process: From Concept to Execution45:00 Balancing Multiple Genres and Reader Expectations49:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFor more info on Jenna Satterthwaite, you can find out more about her on her website at JennaSatterthwaite.com.To read the deep dive article that corresponds with this week’s podcast, find it here:EPISODE 97 DEEP DIVE: The Architecture of Genre-BlendingFor a coordinating worksheet, go here: Genre Blending Worksheet This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 50m 00s | ||||||
| 11/18/25 |  EPISODE 96: From First Draft to Final Say With Editor & Author Deborah Halverson | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with acclaimed author and editor Debra Halverson to discuss the nuances of revising a manuscript from the first draft to the final product. They explore the often overlooked layers of revision, the default settings writers fall into, and how to inject new life into characters and settings. Halverson shares practical tips on maintaining the heart of the story, dealing with conflicting feedback, and adapting to the ever-changing market trends. The conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice for both novice and seasoned writers.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:34 Meet Debra Halverson02:01 The Hidden Layers of Revision05:15 Transformative Revision Techniques12:46 Common Writing Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them20:12 Maintaining the Heart of Your Story22:00 Humanizing Historical Characters24:24 Balancing Emotional Distance in Revisions27:28 Navigating Feedback and Critique32:34 Adapting to Market Trends40:04 Overcoming Overwhelm in Revisions41:49 Final Thoughts and EncouragementFind out more about Deborah Halverson HERE!To read a deeper dive article about editing, go to the EPISODE 96 DEEP DIVE: Beyond Surface Revision: The Architecture of Transformative Editing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 43m 09s | ||||||
| 11/11/25 |  EPISODE 95: Exploring the Essence of Voice in Writing with Macmillan Editor Kortney Nash | To read more about voice, see our DEEP DIVE: Expanding on the Essence of Voice post HERE!In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and author and writing coach Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the nuances of ‘voice’ in writing with special guest Kortney Nash, an assistant editor at Godwin Books. Kortney shares insights from her experience in the publishing industry, highlighting the importance of a unique voice in author submissions, pitfalls writers often fall into, and actionable tips for developing strong narrative and character voices. Additionally, the conversation covers industry trends and the evolving expectations of young readers in a post-pandemic world.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:32 Meet Kortney Nash: Assistant Editor at Godwin Books02:30 The Importance of Voice in Acquisitions04:38 Evaluating Authenticity in Voice06:11 Finding Your Unique Voice11:45 Authorial Voice vs. Character Voice19:08 Recommended Reads for Unique Voices22:59 The Power of an Engaging Narrative23:28 Building a Strong Narrative Voice25:42 Developing Character Voices28:53 Voice in Different Formats and Genres38:42 Trends and Shifts in Kid Lit40:40 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFind out more about Kortney Nash HERE!Check out her picture book Tell Me About Juneteenth HERE! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 42m 19s | ||||||
| 11/4/25 |  EPISODE 94: Unlocking the Power of Libraries for Writers with Author & Librarian Donna Mork Reed | This episode has a post that shares an interview with Donna Mork Reed as well as the resources that we mention on the podcast. You can find that here:EPISODE 94: Unlocking the Power of Libraries for Writers with Author & Librarian Donna Mork ReedIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman and Stephanie Bearce delve into the multitude of resources that libraries offer to writers. They discuss how libraries are invaluable for research, borrowing books, and utilizing various online platforms like Libby and Hoopla. They also highlight lesser-known resources such as professional databases, WorldCat, and various subscriptions available for free through the library. The episode emphasizes the importance of leveraging the expertise of librarians and accessing a variety of educational classes, workshops, and unique lending items that libraries offer.00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers00:38 The Power of Libraries for Writers01:30 Exploring Library Resources02:50 Digital and Audiobook Platforms04:36 Research Databases and Tools12:42 Unique Library Offerings17:19 Classes and Workshops at Libraries19:31 The Value of Librarians24:46 Conclusion and Call to ActionFind out more about Author and Librarian Donna Mork Reed HERE! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 25m 18s | ||||||
| 10/28/25 |  EPISODE 93: My Writing-Life Plans Failed: NOW WHAT? | In this episode of Way-WordWriters, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges writers face when life disrupts their plans. They explore strategies to keep writing amidst such disruptions, including adjusting goals, shifting creative outlets, and leveraging technology. The episode underscores the importance of taking things one step at a time, reevaluating priorities, and seeking support from the writing community to stay motivated and productive. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:33 The Reality of Writing Plans 01:28 Adapting to Life Changes 03:07 The Importance of Pausing and Reevaluating 04:46 Finding Balance and Prioritizing 07:33 Maintaining Creativity and Motivation 10:32 Overcoming Creative Blocks 13:58 Leveraging Technology and Community Support 18:24 Ideas and Encouragement 32:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFor worksheets that will help you navigate life changes and how to keep writing, see this EPISODE 93 DEEP DIVE post here!This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support the Way-Word Writers mission consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Trailblazer offers worksheets and deep dive posts, and our Summit Club features ongoing workshops. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 32m 30s | ||||||
| 10/21/25 |  EPISODE 92: Mastering Beta Readers with Author Cherie Postal | For a deeper dive into creating a win-win scenario for you and your beta readers, see the EPISODE 92 DEEP DIVE article here!In this episode of ‘Way-Word Writers,’ hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome guest Cherie Postill to discuss training beta readers and selling more books. Cherie, author of How to Train a Beta Reader and Sell More Books, shares her insights on the importance of beta readers, the process of creating and using a beta reader toolkit, and how to collect valuable feedback. She also explains how to recruit the right beta readers, the significance of their feedback, how to address conflicting feedback, and her unique approach to nurturing a community of knowledgeable and engaged beta readers. Cherie’s practical advice aims to help writers refine their manuscripts based on actionable insights and ensure that their books resonate with their target audience. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:59 Meet Cherie Postill: Author and Speaker 03:08 Cherie’s Writing Journey 04:14 The Importance of Beta Readers 13:06 Training Your Beta Readers 13:45 Building Your Beta Reader Toolkit 14:33 Gathering and Utilizing Feedback 18:53 Incentives for Beta Readers 20:12 Finding Your First Beta Readers 22:53 Setting Beta Reader Expectations 24:02 Critique Partners vs. Beta Readers 25:28 Handling Conflicting Feedback 27:48 Stages of Beta Reading 29:47 The Importance of Genre-Specific Feedback 33:33 Finding and Qualifying Beta Readers 35:48 The Role of Beta Readers in Crafting a Story 38:11 Final Thoughts and EncouragementFind out more about Cherie Postill HERE!Order your copy of How To Train A Beta Reader and Sell More Books by Cherie Postill HERE! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 44m 53s | ||||||
| 10/14/25 |  EPISODE 91: Finding Your Perfect Match with HarperCollins Editor (and Author) Sara Schonfeld | In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Sara Schonfeld, a senior editor at Harper Collins, to discuss the parallels between publishing and dating. Sara delves into her process of finding ‘the one’ manuscript, what she looks for in submissions, and how she balances personal taste with market demands. She shares her proudest moments, handling rejection, and offers insight and advice for both aspiring and established authors. This engaging conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical tips for navigating the publishing world. 00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers 00:31 Introducing Sara Schonfeld from Harper Collins 01:07 The Publishing Meet Cute 03:12 What Editors Look For in Submissions 08:32 Handling Rejections and Ghosting 10:58 The Editing Process and Author Calls 18:46 Dealing with Breakups and Cancellations 20:04 Silver Medalist Syndrome 21:01 Rejection in the Publishing Industry 21:18 Breakup Rituals and Sad Playlists 22:13 Dating and Book Comparisons 22:53 Balancing Personal Taste and Market Pressures 28:37 Proudest Author Relationships 31:00 Lightning Dating Round 33:08 Advice for Authors and the Future of Publishing 34:41 Conclusion and FarewellFind out more about Sara Schonfeld here!For a deeper dive into first pages and how to make an editor or agent fall in love, see our Episode 91 Deep Dive post here! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com | 35m 01s | ||||||
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