Sharing quick and easy writing advice with William Bernhardt on his writing podcast
It was my pleasure to recently be a guest on the Red Sneaker Writers podcast.
The popular show covers the latest news from the publishing world and includes interviews with top authors, agents, editors and other professionals.
And it is hosted by the New York Times bestselling novelist William Bernhardt who is the author of over 50 books, most recently Exposed (Splitsville Legal Thriller Series Book 2).
Indeed I had a fantastic conversation with Bernhardt about sitting down to write life stories. (Listen or watch the podcast here!)
So in today’s article I’m highlighting some of the key topics we talked about such as: my top tip for writers, being a ‘planner or a pantster’, and how to get started creating a life story.
Now let’s jump in …
Related article – Writing tips: The ultimate guide of life-story tips for new writers
Related article – How to start a story: Podcast special – memory recall, writing structure plus writing process
What’s your No. 1 writing tip for Red Sneaker Writers?
This was a cracker of a first question on the Red Sneaker Writers podcast.
And my suggestion was to set a writing deadline.
Certainly this could be for a one-off writing session or it could be for a larger writing goal like finishing a chapter.
However, the important thing is to set a timer or a date to get things done.
For example, I know how powerful deadlines are for print journalists.
But the same idea can be used by life-story writers to concentrate the mind and get more writing finished.
Related article – New year’s resolutions: Set top writing dreams and goals
How to start writing a life story?
Considerations for starting a life story was another key question I was asked on the Red Sneaker Writers podcast.
Firstly I recommended planning before you write.
Most importantly this helps you get a few key things clear from the beginning.
For example, what type of story are you writing and why, making a writing plan, getting memories flowing and preparing a positive mind frame.
And don’t forget practical considerations like seeking supportive fellow writers and organising a designated writing space.
In summary, planning sets you up for successful writing, editing and publishing!
Related article – Good writing: Writing tips on how to become a better writer (plus writing prompts free training)
Planner vs pantster?
A standing question on the Red Sneaker Writers podcast is: Are you a planner or a pantster?
In short, a panster is the opposite to someone who plans a book outline.
That is to say they write by the ‘seat of their pants’ to see where the story ends up!
Indeed I am not a pantster, however, I appreciate this technique does suit some writers.
Certainly I prefer a rough outline to no outline.
Mainly this helps combat writer’s block but insures key memories are recorded early.
Related article – Story outline: What is an outline and having life-story topics to write about
Final say: Red Sneaker Writers podcast
It was wonderful to be invited on the popular Red Sneaker Writers podcast and chat with bestselling host William Bernhardt.
Certainly it was an opportunity to talk about writing tips, the foundations of good life-story writing plus how to start projects successfully.
However, I also shared how I got into writing, helped my grandmother write her autobiography, my writing routine and other personal stories.
So make sure you check out the episode to listen to the full interview.
Happy writing!
Free gift!
On the Red Sneaker Writers show I talked about the importance of creating a rough project outline. And I show you how to do this in my free Structure Success video training. Sign up here!
Your say
Are you a planner or a pantster? I’d love to know! Drop me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article.
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