Best Manuscript Development Podcasts (2025)

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Michelle Yang - Phoenix Girl 29:56

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7h ago29:56

29:56

From the outside, Michelle Yang’s life might look like a familiar immigrant success story—but her new memoir, Phoenix Girl, reveals something far more powerful and complex. When her family left their tight-knit Chinese community in South Korea and arrived in America, the promise of freedom quickly tangled with a domineering father, a silenced mothe…

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Carolyn Larkin Taylor - Whispers of the Mind, a Neurologist’s Memoir 26:58

13h ago26:58

26:58

Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor is a neurologist with decades of experience, and now, she's turning her stethoscope inward in a powerful new memoir, Whispers of the Mind. Through a series of deeply personal essays, Dr. Taylor takes us behind hospital doors and into the moments that defined her—from the crushing task of declaring a teenage boy brain dead,…

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Dr. Marissa Toussaint - Flambeau Kitchen 17:40

1h ago17:40

17:40

Ever feel like eating healthy means giving up the foods you grew up with? Dr. Marissa Toussaint says you don’t have to choose. Her new book Flambeau Kitchen blends Caribbean heritage with real, sustainable wellness—70+ recipes, practical tools, and guidance for conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Today we talk with her about ho…

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#221. 5 Line Editing Tips to Make Your Prose Shine 25:00

5d ago25:00

25:00

Discover five practical line editing strategies that sharpen your prose, strengthen emotional clarity, and make each sentence more purposeful on the page. Line editing can feel intimidating, especially if you're not sure where to begin or how to make meaningful improvements at the sentence level. And if you've ever tried refining lines before your …

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Mark Murphy - Rose Dhu 23:40

11h ago23:40

23:40

Savannah has always been a city of secrets—but none as haunting as the mystery at the center of Mark Murphy’s new novel, Rose Dhu. Tangled loyalties, buried grudges, and long-kept secrets ripple beneath the city’s live oaks as he hunts for the truth.By Terry Shepherd

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#220. How to Build an Author Platform (Even if You're an Introvert) with Shelby Leigh 32:05

12d ago32:05

32:05

Learn how to build a focused, authentic author platform to connect with readers early, grow your visibility, and create lasting momentum for your book launch. In this episode, I’m joined by Shelby Leigh, bestselling author of four poetry books (with over 60,000 copies sold!) and the founder of Marketing by Shelby, where she's helped more than 8,000…

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#219. How To Build Story Tension by Sharing More (Not Less) with Daniel David Wallace 29:00

19d ago29:00

29:00

Discover why clarity (not secrecy) is the key to keeping your readers engaged, curious, and emotionally invested in your story. Writers often think suspense means withholding information, but what if the opposite were true? In this episode, I'm joined by Daniel David Wallace, author, writing teacher, and founder of the annual Escape the Plot Forest…

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Jack Brown - Prophets of War 13:12

3h ago13:12

13:12

What if the next world war isn’t fought for ideology or territory — but for quarterly profits? That’s the unsettling premise behind Prophets of War, the explosive debut novel from writer, investor, and political thinker Jack Brown. A lifelong student of history and finance, Brown turns his eye to the places where power hides in plain sight — where …

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Nancy Shear - I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms 28:10

19d ago28:10

28:10

Ever meet someone who didn’t just witness history—but lived right in the middle of it? That’s Nancy Shear. For more than twenty years, Nancy was woven into the fabric of America’s classical music world—an orchestra librarian, broadcaster, and behind-the-scenes insider who worked shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the greatest musical minds of the tw…

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Mark Peres - The Accord 22:20

24d ago22:20

22:20

What happens when intelligence that isn’t human demands recognition? 🤖 In The Accord, author Mark Peres explores grief, love, and the blurred lines between human and machine through the bond between a professor and her sentient AI. Join us as we talk with Mark about the ethics, emotion, and humanity at the heart of his powerful debut. #TheAccord #M…

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#218. How to Find & Work With Beta Readers to Improve Your Manuscript 25:50

26d ago25:50

25:50

Learn how to work with beta readers in a grounded, calm way so feedback feels useful, not overwhelming. You're nearing the finish line of your first draft, or maybe you've just crossed it. Either way, the question is the same… what happens next? Should you send it to friends? Hire an editor? Bury it in a drawer? Everyone keeps mentioning “beta read…

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Writing a Complex Mystery Novel with Bianca Marais 21:09

14d ago21:09

21:09

Send me a Text Message! What if the secret to writing unforgettable characters isn't interrogating them with questionnaires, but letting them reveal themselves organically? In this episode, bestselling author Bianca Marais shares how she "pantsed" her way through writing her newest novel, A Most Puzzling Murder. It’s especially impressive because t…

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Gil Gillenwater - Hope on the Border 26:38

1M ago26:38

26:38

Meet Gil Gillenwater — real-estate guy, Harley fan, and founder of Rancho Feliz. For 40 years he’s helped families along the U.S.–Mexico border with one surprising motto: Helping others should be fun. His new book, Hope on the Border, shows how “reciprocal giving” restores dignity — we feed their stomachs, they feed our souls. Gil calls it enlighte…

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#217. Save the Cat! Writes Horror: How to Write Truly Terrifying Stories With Jamie Nash 47:12

1M ago47:12

47:12

Ever wonder why some horror stories linger in your mind long after the lights go out? Jamie Nash reveals how structure (not jump scares or gore) creates true terror. In this episode, I’m joined by Jamie Nash, screenwriter and author of Save the Cat! Writes Horror, the ultimate guide to creating “Monster in the House” stories that keep readers up at…

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C.B. Wilson - The Fire Diamond 15:49

26d ago15:49

15:49

What happens when a gemologist writes a thriller? You get "The Fire Diamond"! We chat with author C.B. Wilson about her new book, the high-stakes world of jewel thieves, and her "diamond detective" protagonist.By Terry Shepherd

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How to Write a Thriller that Gets Attention: Character and Plot Advice from Chevy Stevens 31:16

27d ago31:16

31:16

Send me a Text Message! New York Times bestselling author Chevy Stevens pulls back the curtain on what separates a good thriller from an unforgettable one. And it might not be what you think. In this episode, Chevy reveals her unconventional process for crafting antagonists that readers love to hate. She also shares the exact mindset shift that hel…

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#216. Story Structure: The 5 Scenes Every Story Needs (With Kristina Stanley) 46:57

1M ago46:57

46:57

Learn the five key plot points that turn struggling manuscripts into finished novels—and exactly where they need to appear in your story structure. Have you ever felt like your story just isn't clicking, no matter how much effort you've put into it? Maybe you've polished your prose, developed your characters, and built an intriguing world—but somet…

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Developing Better Plots Using a Character-Driven Approach with Daniel David Wallace 27:36

1M ago27:36

27:36

Send me a Text Message! Struggling with how to write a thriller that grabs readers immediately? In this interview, writing expert Daniel David Wallace shares game-changing writing tips for crafting plots that keep readers hooked from page one. Daniel, creator of the Character First Writing Approach and host of Escape the Plot Forest summit, reveals…

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#215. How to Write a Prologue Readers Won’t Skip (& When to Start at Chapter One Instead) 18:57

2M ago18:57

18:57

Should you include a prologue or skip it? Here's how to make the right choice for your novel. Prologues are one of the most debated topics in fiction. Some literary agents warn against them, some readers skip them altogether, and yet many of the most beloved bestselling novels begin with one. The real question is this: Does your story need a prolog…

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Traci Abramson - Victim #8 19:42

1M ago19:42

19:42

Former CIA officer Traci Hunter Abramson trades classified briefings for bestselling novels, written with the kind of authenticity only experience can give. We talk about her latest, Victim #8, how a layover in Istanbul sparked a story, and why her years in the Agency still shape every page.By Terry Shepherd

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How to Write Thrillers That Actually Matter with Aaron Philip Clark 32:31

30d ago32:31

32:31

Send me a Text Message! What if the setting you choose could be as morally complex as your protagonist? In this episode, USA Today bestselling author Aaron Philip Clark pulls back the curtain on how he crafts crime fiction that thrills and matters. Aaron reveals: his process for weaving heavy themes into page-turners without slowing the pace why he…

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#214. Subverting the Mainstream Lens: Writing Stories That Stay True to Your People (With Tiffany Grimes) 35:37

2M ago35:37

35:37

Learn how to write authentic, diverse characters without over-explaining or fearing criticism. Writing diverse characters can feel intimidating. You want to include different voices in your story, but worry about misrepresenting them. This leads many writers to either avoid diversity altogether or fall into the trap of over-explaining everything fo…

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Raymond E. Foster - Chasing the Surge 22:01

1M ago22:01

22:01

By Terry Shepherd

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146 How to turn 'wasted' drafts and subverted tropes into your writing superpower with Charlene Wang 14:49

1M ago14:49

14:49

Send me a Text Message! What if the tropes you love are actually holding your thriller back? In this episode, Charlene Wang reveals how she transformed the beloved campus novel into a feminist revenge thriller by strategically subverting genre expectations. And the results landed her a major book deal. You'll discover the counterintuitive truth abo…

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#213. 5 Expert Tips To Edit Your Messy First Draft Without The Overwhelm 28:23

2M ago28:23

28:23

Five book coaches reveal the editing secrets that turn messy first drafts into ready-to-publish manuscripts. Finishing a first draft is an incredible milestone, but what comes next can feel overwhelming. If you're staring at your messy pages and wondering how to even begin editing, you're not alone. The good news is that there is a way to move forw…

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Heather Ogden - The Betrayal 17:12

1M ago17:12

17:12

In a world where loyalty can be the sharpest weapon and truth itself is treason, debut novelist Heather Ogden invites us into the haunting depths of her new dystopian fantasy, The Betrayal—the first in The Lies We Fear series. With a passion for fantasy and magical realism, Heather has crafted a story that blends mysterious magic, hidden truths, an…

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145 The View from the Slush Pile: A Literary Agent's Fresh Take on What Works with Tommy Dean 20:19

1M ago20:19

20:19

Send me a Text Message! What if I told you that right now, while established agents are drowning in hundreds of submissions, there's a brand new literary agent who's actively building his client list and genuinely excited to discover your manuscript? In this episode, Tommy Dean shares what makes him your ideal partner in this industry. Tommy shares…

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Stephen K. Postema - Running Around Town 26:42

2M ago26:42

26:42

Stephen Postema started running in Kindergarten. His strides through Ann Arbor, Michigan in the 60s and 70s became a metaphor for a city and nation in evolution.By Terry Shepherd

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#212. 5 Ways Writers Can Use AI to Help With Book Marketing 18:29

2M ago18:29

18:29

You’ve poured your heart into writing your book, but now you’re staring down the next challenge: how do you actually get it into readers’ hands? Marketing your book can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools—like AI—you can turn it into a streamlined, even fun, part of your creative process. In this episode, I’m breaking…

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Sam Daley-Harris - Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen’s Guide to Transformational Advocacy 28:01

2M ago28:01

28:01

Sam Daley-Harris has updated and expanded his classic work, Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen’s Guide to Transformational Advocacy. And it's become a playbook for positive change. Get the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Reclaiming-Our-Democracy-Citizens-Transformational/dp/1953943381By Terry Shepherd

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Charles Philipp Martin - Rented Grave 18:06

2M ago18:06

18:06

Charles Philipp Martin's Rented Grave, re-introduces Inspector Herman Lok, delving deep into the underbelly of Hong Kong, a city caught between modern ambition and the haunting legacy of Mao’s Cultural Revolution.By Terry Shepherd

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Sharon Eubank - Doing Small Things With Great Love 25:09

2M ago25:09

25:09

Drawing from decades of experience in global humanitarian service, Sharon Eubank offers a wisdom-packed guide on how to enact impactful aid in the world through actions you can initiate in your own backyard.By Terry Shepherd

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What Editors Really Want Right Now with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Who Provides a Sneak Peek Inside Simon & Schuster's Newest Imprint 27:39

3M ago27:39

27:39

Send me a Text Message! You’re going to love this exclusive conversation with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Senior Editor at Simon & Schuster's new imprint, Simon Maverick. Chantelle reveals how the publishing industry is evolving to meet indie and hybrid authors where they are. And why audio is becoming the new frontier that could transform your writing …

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#211. How to Write Romantasy Power Couples Readers Obsess Over With Jenna Moreci 35:25

3M ago35:25

35:25

Want to write a Romantasy that readers obsess over? Here’s how to deliver the tropes, intimacy, and magic readers crave. Romantasy is everywhere right now, and for good reason—it’s the perfect mix of swoony romance, epic fantasy, and unforgettable characters. But if you’ve ever thought, “How do I even start writing Romantasy?” you’re not alone. Wit…

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Stacy Bass - Lightkeeper 27:40

2M ago27:40

27:40

Stacy Bass delivers a transformative story of grief, offers a new way into resilience, and illustrates how photographs can be portals to the stories, moments, and love that loss cannot diminish.By Terry Shepherd

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Why Your Perfect Manuscript Isn't Enough And What to Do About It with Author Tamara Miller 16:57

2M ago16:57

16:57

Send me a Text Message! Tamara Miller's debut thriller INTO THE FALL has launched her career with a two-book publishing contract. But her path from government policy analyst to published author wasn't built on talent alone. It was strategic business thinking that made the difference. In this episode, Tamara Miller reveals the approach that got her …

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#210. 5 Tips For Writing A Multiple POV Novel Without Confusing Your Readers 11:55

3M ago11:55

11:55

Discover the five essential strategies for mastering multiple-POV novels without confusing your readers. Have you ever wondered if you could write a multi-POV story like The Girl on the Train? Or how about The Six of Crows? The kind that pulls you into multiple characters' worlds so completely that you feel like you know each one personally? Writin…

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Tim Kirk - All His Damned Mother's Sons 26:37

2M ago26:37

26:37

What if Elvis died while serving in the Army? Who might emerge to try and replace the young, still emerging superstar? Tim Kirk discusses how his Hollywood screen chops influenced a tightly plotted story of four men Elvis' age who were influenced by what few realized in this altered timeline was a seismic event.…

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Literary Agent Lori Galvin Talks Going From Query to Deal: What Agents Need to See Before They Sign You 22:13

3M ago22:13

22:13

Send me a Text Message! Literary agent Lori Galvin reveals exactly what makes a query letter irresistible. She breaks down the specific elements that make agents request materials, and the common mistakes that lead to instant rejections. Whether you're crafting your first query or your fiftieth, this episode delivers the agent perspective that ever…

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#209. How to Revise Your Novel Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Mind) With Alice Sudlow 54:30

3M ago54:30

54:30

Discover the counterintuitive first draft editing approach that transforms messy manuscripts into page-turning novels readers love. Most fiction writers struggle with novel revision because they jump straight into editing their manuscript after finishing their first draft. This approach leads to endless rewrites, overwhelming confusion, and stories…

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141 Literary Agent Vicky Weber on Why Most Writers Aren't Agent-Ready (And How to Fix It) 29:37

3M ago29:37

29:37

Send me a Text Message! Ever wondered why it feels nearly impossible to land a literary agent these days? In this episode, I had a chat with Vicky Weber, a literary agent, bestselling children's author, and marketing strategist, who pulls back the curtain on the harsh realities facing today's publishing industry. Vicky reveals why the bar for getti…

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#208. Student Spotlight: 5 Lessons Learned from Notes to Novel (Season 6) 24:48

3M ago24:48

24:48

Real writers share how they broke free from endless rewrites and abandoned drafts to finally finish their novels in just 90 days—using the exact framework that can unlock your story too. In this episode, I’m sharing real, inspiring stories from fiction writers who went from stuck and overwhelmed to finishing their novels using the exact framework I…

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Claire Booth - Throwing Shadows 20:27

3M ago20:27

20:27

Claire Booth beautifully blends real-life location with a mix of mystery and drama in Hank Worth 7. Throwing Shadows effectively demonstrates how past events ripple into present drama.By Terry Shepherd

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#207. What Agents & Readers Want: How to Write a Story That Works 12:35

3M ago12:35

12:35

Have you ever sat down to write a novel and thought, “Where do I even begin?” Or maybe you’ve started writing, but something feels... off. The story isn’t coming together the way you imagined, and you’re not sure why. You’re not alone. Most writers struggle with this because they’re missing the foundational elements that make a story work. It’s not…

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Loxley Browne - The Charms Series 15:39

3M ago15:39

15:39

Author and entrepreneur Loxley Brown discusses her Charms book series, teaching young people about dreaming big and taking action to make those dreams real.By Terry Shepherd

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Tom Epperson - Baby Hawk 52:41

4M ago52:41

52:41

Tom Epperson, the screenwriter behind One False Move—the cult classic crime thriller co-written with his childhood friend Billy Bob Thornton. He's the author of the Edgar-nominated The Kind One and the haunting noir Sailor. But today, Tom Epperson is here to talk about something entirely different. His new book, Baby Hawk, is a bold, breathtaking d…

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Brian Cranley - The Call of Wonder 20:43

4M ago20:43

20:43

Brian Cranley is a biomedical engineer turned theologian, whose new book The Call of Wonder invites readers to rediscover awe at the intersection of empirical discovery and spiritual truth. From the Big Bang to the human brain, from ancient wisdom to quantum theory, Cranley reveals how the mysteries of science may not oppose belief—but illuminate i…

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#206. Student Spotlight: How Gina Elizabeth Went From Stuck to Publishing Two Books in Just One Year 33:15

4M ago33:15

33:15

After years of getting stuck at chapter six, Gina Elizabeth finally discovered the missing piece that helped her finish writing not just one novel, but two books in a single year. Today I'm chatting with Gina Elizabeth, indie fantasy romance author of the Bonded in Blood series (and Notes to Novel graduate!), about her transformation from someone w…

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Bonus: Plotting for Pantsers: How 3 Writers Found Freedom in Story Structure 17:06

4M ago17:06

17:06

The myth that plotting kills creativity is keeping countless discovery writers stuck in an endless cycle of abandoned manuscripts—but what if structure could actually set your creativity free? If you're a pantser convinced that outlining will ruin your creative process, or you've been discovery writing through multiple unfinished manuscripts, this …