creative writing life podcast

The Creative Writing Life

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From screenplays to TV, novels to video games, everybody has their own path to establishing a creative writing life. Join host Paul Zeidman as he interviews writers from all mediums and genres to find out about them, their work, and what advice and guidance they have for ambitious and aspiring writers.

Rachael Kelly

Author Rachael Kelly talks about being a neurodivergent author, her love of world-building for dystopian fiction, using setting as a character, and finding the process that works best for you.

Author Beth Revis talks about what it’s like to write for the Star Wars franchise, why writers should always go for the new adventure, and the benefits of having a story be fueled/inspired by spite.

Dr. Ron Dwinnells

Author Dr. Ron Dwinnells talks about the benefit of starting at the end of your story, how “Show, don’t tell” made a difference in his work, and why you should write thinking “I can do anything I want to do!”

Laura Samotin

Author Laura Samotin talks about what you want a reader to feel, the importance of eliciting emotion, and to not worry about making it perfect

Author A.S. King talks about finding art from trauma, why you should write with unflinching honesty, and the benefits of volunteering and getting out into the world.

Lauren Seal

Author/poet Lauren Seal discusses the therapeutic value of writing about personal trauma, the challenge of writing a story in verse, and incorporating your experiences into your work.

Alexandra Salmon

Author/podcaster Alexandra Salmon discusses when to let the character dictate how the story goes, and how a writer needs discipline and consistency to get the writing done.

Dr Bruce Farmer

Author Dr Bruce Farmer talks about a character’s free will and their fatal flaw, overwriting and then needing to kill one’s darlings, and asking “What grips you and compels you as a writer?”

Ratings & Reviews

Delightful show with interesting guests.

Anastasia Violet Lipske

I'm not a writer, but I sure have enjoyed Paul's show as his guests share their journeys in writing which gives me a greater appreciation for this craft. AND it's a great way to learn about books that are out there as I'm always interested in discovering new reads...especially for my women's book club. For anyone who loves reading or writing, I feel you'll enjoy this show and Paul's great conversational style!

Great Show!

Bob Batchelor

Fantastic podcast that delivers a wealth of ideas about writing, creativity, and the writing life! Highly recommended for anyone interested in getting inspired. I learn many new ideas and concepts every show! What could be better than that?

Breathing in mic

Really irritating when you breathe in mic.

Information

• Creator Paul Zeidman
• Years Active 2019 - 2024
• Episodes 171
• Rating Explicit
• Copyright © Paul Zeidman
• Show Website The Creative Writing Life

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Podcast Review

The 14 Best Writing Podcasts

I n 1959, Jack Kerouac sat down at his typewriter and compiled a haphazard list of thirty “guidelines” for writers. His nuggets of wisdom included such zingers as “blow as deep as you want to blow” and “struggle to sketch the flow that already exists intact in mind.”

Whether Kerouac would have done the podcast circuit to promote “ Belief and Technique for Modern Prose ” is a question lost to history, but the enduring fetishization of the writing process shows that sources of creativity have always been elusive. If these writing podcasts are anything to go by, writers’ secrets are coveted like truffles amongst hungry pigs.

We all know that talking about writing is easier than actually writing. Listening to the podcasts on this list won’t substitute sitting down and putting words on paper. But it is impossible to deny that whether you are a freelance journalist or a budding novelist, the process of looking for inspiration can be a lonely one. This is where writing podcasts can become a useful resource to support your creative practice.

If you’re going to procrastinate, at least do so by listening to one of the best podcasts for writers to inspire your work.

DIY MFA Radio

Prestigious graduate programs have been coveted by aspiring writers for decades. But times are changing. Having an MFA is not necessarily a prerequisite for success — or a financially accessible option.

Gabriela Pereira is not claiming that her podcast, DIY MFA Radio, is a complete replacement for a grad program. But her popular show provides a toolkit for writers seeking to diversify and strengthen their craft. The show delves into most questions about the publishing world you’ve always wanted to ask — if you can get past being referred to as a “word nerd” in the first thirty seconds.

Through interviews with award-winning writers like Jojo Moyes, Brenda Jackson, and Steve Berry, DIY MFA substitutes a seminar for soundwaves. It explores everything from the obvious (“How to Turn Characters Into People”) to the useful (‘An Inside Look at Tropes in Literature’) and the unexpected (‘Crafting an Amish Romance’). The best part: no student debt.

Longform Podcast

Many career journalists dedicate their lives to longform writing. Chronicling the development of such writers and storytellers is Longform , a weekly podcast that showcases the slow burn of creative nonfiction in an internet age that rewards clickbait.

A recent surplus of episodes featuring writers promoting books and novels isn’t necessarily a drawback. It’s perhaps symptomatic of the recent resurgence in book sales , hardly something to be disappointed about. With a broad scope and a diverse set of guests, Longform does a great job covering a changing industry — especially the way people previously excluded from magazine writing have broken onto the scene.

The Writer’s Voice

For nearly a century, The New Yorker has been publishing some of the best new fiction, from extracts of the latest Ben Lerner novel to short stories by Rachel Kushner and Tessa Hadley. But here’s a secret: you need neither a subscription nor much spare time to enjoy new prose. The Writer’s Voice is part of the magazine’s excellent podcast catalog, which includes shows dedicated to both fiction and poetry as well as The New Yorker Radio Hour .

What makes The Writer’s Voice different is suggested in its title. These writers are reading their own work, giving each an additional layer of intimacy. Sure, it’s no indie show. But the prestige attached to the magazine attracts some of the best writers working today. If you’re a contemporary writer interested in how “our moment” is represented on the page, this is the podcast you should be listening to.

The Underground Writing Podcast

Describing the aim of Underground Writing, the organization’s executive director, Matt Malyon, writes: “We use creative writing as a shovel. . . And the soil, prepared by the literature, is pliant.” An accomplished and poignant example of how writing can create a positive impact beyond bookshop shelves, Underground Writing is a creative writing program that serves migrant, incarcerated, and other at-risk groups in northern Washington. The long hours involved in completing a book can breed solipsism, even egotism.

Although sometimes necessary to finish a project, these feelings often make the process isolating. Listening to The Underground Writing Podcast reminds us that, at its core, writing can inspire hope. We don’t need fancy grad programs to create something with substance. Writing belongs to everyone — even, and perhaps especially, the disadvantaged. Created by Malyon alongside Alvin Shim, the project has continued to produce podcast content throughout the pandemic, giving a platform to voices often forgotten in the noise.

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The Writer Files

With episodes like “How to Write a Book in One Month” and “5 Things Only Serious Writers Do,” The Writer Files is a response to our obsession with productivity. The show features a combination of interviews with writers on the minutiae of their routines and analyses of the science behind creativity, tapping into behavioral techniques to make its listeners more efficient writers.

Some might argue that using neuroscience to deconstruct the magic behind writing risks turning artists into automatons, yet it is undeniable that The Writer Files fills a hole in the discourse around career writing. Occasionally, we must abandon the romanticization of the lonely writer scrawling longhand into a notebook, uninhibited by modern workloads. The episode “ Busting the Myth of the Starving Artist ” is an important conversation about writers having the right to live a healthy life. We do not have to die for our art, and The Writer Files is an important reminder.

Between the Covers

Between the Covers is a writing podcast with literary clout. Brought to us by the publisher and literary journal Tin House , the show is hosted by David Naimon, a softly-spoken modern sage who may or may not be the most knowledgeable person in the genre, though this fact has yet to be verified.

The show’s standing as a platform for diverse writers and sharp, reflective conversation makes it the perfect gateway drug for a first audio hit of high-brow literature. Even if you come for its reputation, you’ll stay for the show’s mini-series “Crafting with Ursula,” where writers discuss their craft alongside the work of science fiction writer Ursula Le Guin. Le Guin’s masterful world-building proves a perfect vessel for conversation on topics ranging from nature writing to the poetic form. Current and innovative, Between the Covers provides writers with an anchor to a world of its own making, an unapologetically literary world.

Sponsor Working Drafts: A Writing Podcast

Novelist/humorist/coffee enthusiast Ted Fox (DATE WEEK, SCHOOLED) talks with other writers about their work—not so much the books they’ve published (although those definitely come up) but more what they’re writing right now, aka their works in progress, their working drafts, their open Word documents making them want to throw their computers out a window. Covering the good, the bad, and the daunting word counts, these are conversations about the craft of writing meant to be both fun and helpful. New episodes released each month on the 15th.

Writing Excuses

Writing Excuses is a punchy, fifteen-minute podcast that focuses on the craft behind creative writing. The success of the show is down to the dynamism of its presenters. Each one a working writer, the hosts represent a wide range of interests and genres, offering ideas on hundreds of writing topics.

Have you ever wondered how to use food as a creative device? Do you know how to write a character who is out of their depth? In many ways, Writing Excuses is delightfully old-school, yet it also reflects emerging and important trends in writing, such as gender, writing “the other,” and using sensitivity readers. Episode highlights include their recent live recorded shows, where the hosts’ cross-talk is funny and engaging; combined with the frequency of their episodes, Writing Excuses is a solid resource.

The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

Let’s talk about rejection. For the emerging writer, failure inevitably precedes publication. To continue writing is a feat of daily endurance not dissimilar to running a marathon wearing nothing but a loincloth that reads “desperate for industry acceptance” across one’s butt cheeks.

The answer, for those hungry for affirmation, might be a prestigious graduate program. But having a degree is by no means a guarantee for success. Plan B? Sorry to break the news, but the odds of winning a literary prize are very low. So what does a new writer do? This question, and plenty of others like it, are answered in The Shit No One Tells You About Writing , a podcast that provides a toolkit for writers seeking to understand a writing and publishing industry that is often impenetrable.

Host Bianca Marais knows exactly how to answer the tough questions; she’s a best-selling novelist herself. Alongside industry insiders, Marais never sugar coats the road to publication, instead offering useful and realistic advice that leaves writers with a better sense of the chaotic industry they’re determined to be a part of. The best part? Her co-hosts Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra critique two query letters in every episode, just in case you weren’t suffering enough.

Supercontext

A self-proclaimed “media autopsy,” this cult podcast by Christan Sager and Charlie Bennett was not overtly aimed at aspiring writers. The goal of Supercontext — which ran from 2016 to 2020 — was to understand why a book, television show, film or album was made, forgoing performing plot analysis or becoming a Cliffnotes hack-job to instead place media in its cultural context. Supercontext was a show that was hard to categorize, encompassing both mainstream and indie genres. Much like the podcast Philosophize This! (the similarity in tone and quality should also be noted), Supercontext relied almost exclusively on the support of its listeners who helped decide that topics became episodes. The podcast was a textbook example of how, as with writing, building a fanbase through authenticity is still achievable today. The show exemplified an important lesson for budding authors and screenwriters: how your writing is consumed will determine whether you can produce more.

The Critic and Her Publics

Critics are writers, too. In The Critic and Her Publics, a collaboration between The New York Review of Books and Literary Hub, Merve Emre speaks to the most prolific critics of our time. But there’s a twist: these guests must perform criticism on the spot about an object they’ve never seen before. It’s delightful, masochistic fun that most writers will enjoy.

There has been a recent resurgence in podcasts about criticism. The New Yorker recently launched Critics at Large , a weekly pop culutre podcast from the magazine’s most opinionated voices. While these shows will never match the trend towards big personalities espousing their thoughts as a personal branding exercise, it’s encouraging to see critics support each other in their powerful, yet often maligned profession.

The Plot Thickens

As the name suggests, The Plot Thickens is a writing podcast about craft. Specifically, it’s about the craft of writing crime fiction, possible the most complex of all genres. The show is hosted by bestselling author Elly Griffiths, a crime aficionado interested in everything from cozy crime to Scandi Noir. It helps that she has a voice straight out of an Agatha Christie novel.

In conversation with expert guests, Griffiths takes writers behind the scenes of writing a crime novel. If you want to challenge your plotting and develop your character writing, The Plot Thickens is has useful episodes like “ Writing Female Investigators “. Take this as a sign to finally write that murder mystery.

Start With This

For fans of cult podcast Welcome to Night Vale , anything that comes out of the brain of Jeffrey Cranor is gold dust. The success of his fiction podcast has made Cranor’s thoughts on writing useful for aspiring authors — especially those who are struggling with writer’s block. Start With This is a podcast that doubles as a creative playground. Cranor’s goal is to spark new ideas in this listeners by exploring topics like world building, opening lines — and what to do when you fail.

Each episodes includes two short assignments, one to consume and one to create. Cranor encourages listeners to begin gradually, making these habits a sustainable part of their routine. Trying to write as a “sprint” risks burn out (but it doesn’t stop us doing it). In a world full of flashy advice, Start With This offers pragmatism. Just get started.

“Crossing a threshold” is an ambiguous phrase. It reminds us of vampires and reaching targets and even smashing ceilings. But for Jordan Kisner, the author of Thin Places , a threshold can mark a moment of transformation. She interviews artists and writers about their transformative experiences, unraveling how these life-changing moments changed their work and inspired new ideas.

For those interested in how personal revelation can impact writing will enjoy Thresholds. It’s full of essayists and poets — the sort of writers who thrive in MFA workshops. Their stories of surprises, crisis, failures and breakthroughs are authentic and inspiring.

The Institute of Black Imagination.

The Institute of Black Imagination. is a podcast with a clear agenda. It aims to elevate black voices in the arts, calling itself a “collection of iconoclasts” offering alternative visions of the world. The podcast is hosted by writer and artist Dario Calmese, the first African American to photograph the cover of Vanity Fair .

Calmese is a curious mind with plenty of ambition for his audio project. It’s refreshing to hear someone take the interview genre into a space where provocative ideas blend easily with beguiling production. Unlike many other niche writing podcasts, which often sound like little more than unedited Zoom calls, TIBI has a clear artistic vision and the production quality to back this up.

While the show employs a lot of labels, its strength comes from its fluidity. With an emphasis on radical art and thought, Calmese amplifies the voices of marginalized writers and marginalized ideas, engaging with a diverse range of perspectives. Courageous and timely, let Calmese and his guests inspire you beyond established boundaries.

Alice   Florence   Orr  is a staff writer for  Podcast Review  and is based in Edinburgh . Her work has appeared in  Scottish Review ,  Like The Wind , and  Nomad Journal . You can connect with her on  Twitter  or  Instagram .

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20 Best Creative Writing Podcasts

Creative Writing Podcasts

Here are 20 Best Creative Writing Podcasts worth listening to in 2024. Subscribe in one place on FeedSpot Reader.

1. The Creative Penn Podcast

2. First Draft: A Dialogue on Writing

3. Creative Writing Life

4. The Inner Loop Radio

5. Write, Publish, and Shine

6. The Underground Writing Podcast

7. Creative Writing Club

8. Early Work with Rhys James

9. 88 Cups of Tea

10. The Creative Writer's Toolbelt

11. Story Craft

12. Become a Writer Today

13. Selected Prose

14. New Writing North

15. Passion for Creative Writing

16. English Literature Analysis for the HSC with Tim Macintyre

17. Lana M. 'Rochel Author

• Creative Writing Podcasters
• The Creative Penn Podcast
• First Draft: A Dialogue on Writing
• Creative Writing Life
• The Inner Loop Radio
• Write, Publish, and Shine
• The Underground Writing Podcast
• Creative Writing Club
• Early Work with Rhys James
• 88 Cups of Tea
• The Creative Writer's Toolbelt
• Story Craft
• Become a Writer Today
• Selected Prose
• New Writing North
• Passion for Creative Writing
• English Literature Analysis for the HSC with Tim Macintyre
• Lana M. 'Rochel Author
• Screenwriting Podcasts
• Writing Podcasts
• Copywriting Podcasts
• Creativity Podcasts
• Short Story Podcasts
• Playwriting Podcasts

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The Best Writing Podcasts for All Aspiring Authors

No matter where you are in your creative journey, take a moment to explore some of these insightful writing podcasts that will guide you from first draft to publication.

While writing is a craft often undertaken in solitude, you don't have to feel like you're alone while embarking on your creative journey. There are so many steps to the writing process, from strengthening your writing skills to forming story ideas, from drafting and revisions to pursuing publication. Luckily, there is a podcast out there for nearly every phase of this path. These podcasts offer a range of information, gentle inspiration, community encouragement, facts and strategies for navigating the publishing industry, and insight and wisdom from authors who have built successful careers on bestselling books.

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

Hosted by Mignon Fogarty, aka Grammar Girl, internet personality and bestselling author, this award-winning podcast offers fast, accessible tips and tricks to improve your writing and communication. Along the way, it also dives into some of the mysteries of the English language, why we say and write the things we do, and the origins of some of the most interesting phrases, words, and grammatical constructions. If you're a voracious reader who may not have extensive experience or formal education in writing, Grammar Girl will help you sharpen your technical skills while keeping you engaged.

The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience

Kelton Reid is fascinated by writers—their habits, processes. and brains. On each episode of this podcast, he interviews a different writer about their creative life, how they stay productive, and their secrets for overcoming writer’s block. Guests include bestselling authors spanning a variety of genres and styles— John Scalzi , Emma Donoghue , Dennis Lehane , Jay McInerney , and Andy Weir among them—as well as TV and film writers. Occasionally, Reid turns over the mic to guest hosts like journalist Adam Skolnick , short story writer Robert Bruce, and neuroscientist Michael Grybko. Follow The Writer Files to hear from a wide range of writers, or simply peruse the archives to find your favorite author.

A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over

Since "tough," "through," and "dough" all end in O-U-G-H, why don't they rhyme? Why do we say "That's bananas!" to describe something wacky instead of "That's pineapples!"? If you're a word nerd, this podcast is for you! Cohosted by journalist Martha Barnette and linguist Grant Barrett, A Way with Words ponders and probes all sorts of interesting phrases, grammatical structures, and slang from all over the world. Weekly episodes also welcome callers to share their questions, insights, and stories about language, meaning that you'll learn a lot about not only words but also about different regional vernacular and cultural understandings.

Write Now with Sarah Werner

Struggling to find the right healthy and fulfilling balance of work, life, and writing? On Write Now , award-winning podcaster and writer Sarah Werner and an assortment of creative guests offer encouragement, candid advice, and practical tips and techniques to help you let go of excuses, self-doubt, and guilt in order to make time and mental space for writing—every day. While warm and inviting, playful and uplifting, this podcast is serious about placing a priority on writing in your life.

The Writers Panel

If your writing goals and dreams tend to focus on film and television projects, then The Writers Panel is essential listening. Hosted by Ben Blacker, this podcast offers a mix of panel discussions and intimate interviews with the writers, producers, and showrunners behind some of the best known, most acclaimed movies and shows. Writing for film and TV is a collaborative and unique process, and insiders from Jordan Peele ( Get Out ) to Amy Sherman-Palladino ( The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel ), from Vince Gilligan ( Breaking Bad ) to Natalie Chaidez ( The Flight Attendant ) talk about the business, the craft, the challenges, and what keeps them inspired and motivated.

Deadline City's Podcast

If you're an aspiring author, publishing may seem like big, overwhelming, mysterious world. On Deadline City , hosts Dhonielle Clayton and Zoraida Córdova, New York City-based authors with 40 books published or under contract between them, pull back the curtain and simply talk about all things publishing—defining your genre, the editing process, reading reviews, the pros and cons of pen names, and industry trends and news, including the unsettling surge in book banning. They also let listeners in on lots of insightful, funny, and honest conversations about their own publishing journey.

This Creative Life with Sara Zarr

Sara Zarr is the author of 10 books, including both works of fiction and nonfiction. Her debut novel, Story of a Girl was a National Book Award finalist. On her podcast This Creative Life , Zarr talks with writers of all kinds about writing and what it means to be a writer juggling a full-time job, relationships, kids, and other obligations. Their wide-ranging conversations touch on everything from the creative process and the psychology of writing to the business side, alternatives to traditional publishing, finding and connecting with an audience, and taking advantage of social media. Guests include authors such as Faith Gardner , Laurel Snyder , Mike Jung , and Preeti Chhibber .

Write-minded: Weekly Inspiration for Writers

Hosted by Brooke Warner of She Writes, the world's largest online community for women writers, and Grant Faulkner of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), this weekly podcast offers a helpful blend of writing and craft-focused advice as well as industry insight. Each episode features an interview with a writer or publishing industry professional, followed by mini feature exploring a trend in the publishing world. Whether you're an aspiring author or a working writer, Write-minded offers a great mix of creative inspiration and business insight. Recent guests include Stephanie Foo on the challenges of writing about trauma and A.M. Homes on the craft of characterization.

Writer's Routine

Looking for inspiration both practical and creative from real working writers? Writer's Routine is a podcast specifically designed to glean perspective from the lives and habits of successful writers. In each episode, host Dan Simpson interviews a writer about their daily routines, their writing process, and the lifestyle choices that support their literary lives. Everyone from novelists to journalists to poets have been interviewed, and past guests include Dervla McTiernan , Sara Blaedel , Ken Follett , and Zen Cho . With more than 200 episodes to explore, there's no shortage of thoughtful advice housed in this podcast.

Helping Writers Become Authors

With more than 500 episodes, Helping Writers Become Authors is one of the most comprehensive writing podcasts out there. Host K.M. Weiland is passionate about giving writers the tools they need to take their career from aspiring to published author. Each episode looks at a micro-element of the craft, from opening a story to creating cohesive structure to developing believable characters. This podcast tends to focus on a topic for three to six episodes, allowing Weiland to break it down in depth and then talk about how to leverage those elements to market your novel. This is the perfect listen for writers looking to sharpen their skills to craft a story that an agent will buy and the right audience will love.

The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Honing your craft skills as a writer is important—but so is understanding the wider literary market and your place in it. Joanna Penn is the bestselling author of fantasy, thriller, and nonfiction books, and in this long-running podcast, she dives into the nuances of the publishing industry. The Creative Penn covers everything from how to find your niche in the book world to how to build and sustain a long-term career, along with looking at publishing trends and hot-button topics, including auto-narration of audiobooks. With insights from special guests like physician turned internationally bestselling medical thriller author Tess Gerritsen , this podcast is critical listening for anyone determined to make a comfortable living off their creative writing.

The First Draft Club

Created and hosted by author and writing coach Mary Adkins, The First Draft Club aims to help you overcome whatever creative blocks you might be facing and write with more clarity, more confidence, and less stress. It's meant for anyone working on a novel or memoir, even if your last written work was an essay for English class. Filled with pep talks, helpful hacks, mini workshops, and writing assignments, this weekly podcast gives you the tools and know-how you need to complete your first draft and troubleshoot any problems that might come up along the way—because, as Adkins believes, writing should be a source of joy, not agony.

The Self Publishing Show

Eager to dive into the wide world of self-publishing? Hosted by Mark Dawson, a successful self-published author, and James Blatch, a former reporter who recently self-published his debut thriller, this podcast is not only an invaluable resource for emerging authors but also a fun exploration of the exciting innovations and opportunities in the self-publishing sphere. With more than 300 episodes to explore, you can pick and choose which topics will be most helpful to you or immerse yourself in the knowledge found in the archives. Episodes range from 40 to 60 minutes and oftentimes feature guest authors, both self- and traditionally published. The Self Publishing Show also offers some great craft resources, plus brand- and wealth-building pointers.

Kobo Writing Life Podcast

From Kobo, one of the world's biggest Ebook platforms, this podcast offers invaluable insights into self-publishing and the Ebook market. The Kobo team has curated a collection of resources, from the latest information about how to create a Kobo best seller, based on Kobo's sales metrics and platform affordances, to interviews with successful bestselling indie authors about everything from writing your way across mediums to word-of-mouth marketing. Kobo Writing Life has an archive of 300-plus episodes, ranging in length from 45 to 60 minutes, and many conversations are adapted from Kobo's Facebook community, which listeners are welcome to participate in.

Between The Covers : Conversations with Writers in Fiction, Nonfiction & Poetry

Hosted by David Naimon of Tin House Books, a prominent independent publisher, Between the Covers offers probing long-form conversations with writers on the craft of writing. Along with plenty of nuts and bolts craft talk to satisfy any writer looking to build their toolbox, the conversations often turn philosophical as the writers dig into the whys of writing. With more than 200 episodes featuring bestselling authors such as William Alexander and Becky Chambers , there's so much here for writers of all experience levels and styles to explore. As a bonus, this podcast has a recurring feature of special interest to science fiction and fantasy writers called Crafting with Ursula, exploring the influence of the great Ursula K. LeGuin on the genre and its particular craft elements.

88 Cups of Tea

88 Cups of Tea is more than a writing podcast. Rather, it aims to be a community for writers looking for connections and encouragement. While episodes offer craft and publishing advice, the main focus is on the emotional life of the writer—how to find ideas, cultivate a creative life, and stay motivated to keep writing and publishing in the face of rejection. Host Yin Chang often interviews prominent figures in the children's and YA literary sectors, from authors like Stacey Lee , Kelly Yang , and Sara Zarr to industry professionals like agents and editors.

Michelle Obama: The Light Podcast

In one of the year’s most anticipated new podcasts, Michelle Obama brings listeners deeper into the world of her bestselling memoir, The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times . Where the audiobook initiated a dialogue with listeners on some of life’s biggest challenges—from building lasting relationships and meaningful success to overcoming obstacles and navigating identity—the podcast will explore these themes and more with an esteemed selection of friends and luminaries. In intimate recordings from her star-studded book tour, the former First Lady draws on her trademark humor, warmth, and compassion to elicit moments of startling insight and vulnerability from guests including Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Tyler Perry, and Conan O’Brien. The result is a series of searching conversations that will leave you feeling smarter, inspired, and, yes, lighter.

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The Ultimate List of the Best Writing Podcasts (60+ Amazing Listens)

If you want to master writing and become more motivated, you need to be studying the craft of writing in all genres. This study can take many forms, from reading works in each genre to editing projects by your peers to listening to podcasts about the industry. Here are the the best podcasts for writers who want to gain knowledge about their craft! 

Fiction Writing

Write-minded

Hosted by our very own Brooke Warner of She Writes Press and Grant Faulkner, the executive producer of America’s Next Great Author, “Write-minded” is a podcast with episodic and theme-focused interviews with authors regarding the challenges and joys of the writing journey. 

Creative Penn Podcast

Do you want writing advice from a seasoned self-published author? “The Creative Penn Podcast” is a weekly podcast that airs every Monday, with episodes about writing information, inspiration, and author interviews from author J.F. Penn.

The Writing Life

“The Writing Life” is a weekly podcast that explores the writing journeys and techniques of a diverse range of authors, from emerging talents to established figures such as Margaret Atwood and Val McDermid. Produced by the National Centre for Writing at Dragon Hall in Norwich, it offers valuable insights into the world of writing.

The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

A podcast hosted by bestselling author Bianca Marais, featuring interviews with authors, agents, editors, and industry experts to help emerging writers improve their craft and understand the publishing world. Alongside literary agents Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra from P.S. Literary Agency, the podcast offers advice, critiques query letters, and provides insights into the writing journey.

Writing Excuses

“Writing Excuses” is a podcast that helps writers improve their craft. From hobby writing to writing  with the goal of being  published and paid, this podcast will have advice for you. 

Literaticast

Hosted by literary agent Jennifer Laughran, the podcast “Literaticast” is focused on informing writers about the world of children’s publishing. 

Between the Covers

“Between the Covers,” a literary radio show and podcast hosted by David Naimon and brought to you by Tin House in Portland, Oregon, offers in-depth interviews with today’s best writers, both established and up-and-coming, across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Recognized by The Guardian among the best book podcasts, these long-form conversations provide writers and readers alike with invaluable insights, earning acclaim from notable figures like poet Morgan Parker.

The Creative Writer’s Toolbelt

“The Creative Writer’s Toolbelt” is a podcast that was created by Andrew Chamberlain  with the goal of giving  creative writers easily accessible and applicable advice. Each episode covers a different creative writing technique and includes examples for the listeners to follow along and apply to their writing, and while this podcast has ended there is an extensive backlist of episodes available!

Unpublished

James Winestock and Amie McNee from @inspiredtowrite come together to create a podcast about fostering and maintaining a creative life. “Unpublished” helps writers reflect on their own lives and how that affects their creativity and writing habits. 

Book Riot’s First Edition

“Book Riot’s First Edition” is a podcast series hosted by Jeff O’Neal, discussing the bookish world. This podcast contains author interviews, book recommendations, book lists, and much more from people who know books. 

The Essential Guide to Writing a Novel

“The Essential Guide to Writing a Novel” is just that, a step-by-step guide to writing a fully developed novel. Hosted by James Thayer, this podcast goes in-depth about every aspect of building a story and writing it into a cohesive novel. 

DIY MFA Radio

Elevate your writing by gaining insights from bestselling authors, writing masters, and publishing experts on this podcast. Acquire essential tools and techniques to bring your stories to life, with their robust backlist of deep dives into topics like character development, story structure, and world-building, led by host Gabriela.

I Should Be Writing

The Podcast Peer and Parsec Award-winning radio show “I Should Be Writing” is a podcast that discusses the trials and difficulties that occur when writing and how to overcome them. 

The Writer Files

Kelton Reid hosts acclaimed and successful writers weekly in “The Writer Files” podcast! This podcast interviews authors on their writing styles, inspiration, and how to keep the pen moving and avoid writer’s block.

Fiction Writing Made Easy

Have you ever wanted to write a book, but didn’t know where to start? In the “Fiction Writing Made Easy” podcast, Savannah Gilbo outlines how to write a fiction book, create complex characters and plot, as well as tools to help writers stay organized.

Hosted by Brad Listi, this podcast gives weekly interviews and insights into today’s leading authors. If you want more information on literature, genre, creativity, and the writing process then this is the podcast for you.

Print Run Podcast

The “Print Run Podcast” was created by Erik Hane and Laura Zats to discuss difficult topics within the publishing industry. Anything from queries to the false seriousness surrounding the publishing industry will all be discussed on this show. 

The Publishing Rodeo Podcast

If you have ever wondered why some authors and books have more success than others despite their similarities and the same publishers, then this is the podcast for you. In “The Publishing Rodeo Podcast”, Sunyi Dean and Scott Drakeford discuss what makes or breaks a book and how to become a successful author in the industry. 

You Should Write a Book With Camille Pagán

Author and host Camille Pagán is a bestselling author and master certified coach. In this podcast, she discusses the writing process, but also how to enjoy writing novels and make a career out of it! 

Story Magic

If you are the type of writer who stays up until 2 am. and loses track of time writing, then this is the podcast for you! Hosted by Emily and Rachel from Golden May, “Story Magic” informs readers on how to build a writing life that is fulfilling and works for them.

Thriller 101

David Gwyn goes in-depth about the thriller genre of writing and teaches writers how to create mystery and suspense within their stories. 

The Manuscript Academy

Hosted by Society & Culture, “The Manuscript Academy” interviews writers, editors, and agents weekly about the industry and informs people on how to start their publishing journey. 

  Ink in Your Veins

International bestseller Rachael Herron teaches writers how to relax and make writing easy. If you are a perfectionist writer who is struggling, then this is the perfect podcast for you with tips on how to relax while writing! 

Self Publishing School

The perfect podcast for those who are looking to have their novels self-published, “Self Publishing School” teaches writers how to publish and market their books to audiences. 

Writer’s Routine

Hosted by Dan Simpson, “Writer’s Routine” gives listeners an insight into the mind and diary of a professional writer. Learn how a writer plots their stories, plans their day, and publishes their works. 

Minorities in Publishing

For more information on diversity and inclusion (and the need for more of it) in the publishing world, listen to “Minorities in Publishing”. Hosted by Bev Rivero and Jenn Baker, this podcast outlines the need for more minorities within the publishing industry and interviews current minorities that have been published. 

Kobo Writing Life Podcast

If you need inspiration and knowledge about the self-publishing business, this is the podcast for you! “Kobo Writing Life Podcast” interviews bestselling authors and editors who work within the self-publishing industry. 

The Children’s Book Marketing Podcast

This podcast outlines what the children’s book publishing world is like and how to get your book marketed and published in this industry. 

The Story Grid

With an almost 300-episode-long backlist, “The Story Grid” is a podcast that has ended but has invaluable information on writing from master editor Shawn Coyne and aspiring author Tim Grahl. 

Helping Writers Become Authors

Award-winning story coach K.M. Weiland discusses the theory of story, writing techniques, and how to write an informed and thought-out story in the “Helping Writers Become Authors” podcast. 

The  Self Publishing  Show

Bestselling, self-published author, Mark Dawson and newbie author James Blatch discuss indie landscape and share marketing tools that made Dawson a six-figure author. Through interviews, Blatch covers everything from tactical tips to finding motivation and inspiration. 

Nonfiction/Memoir Writing

The Author Factor

“The Author Factor” is a publishing podcast that is aimed towards business owners and corporate writers. This podcast goes into detail about writing within business fields and how that type of writing can be turned into non-fiction literature. 

Sell More Books Show

Hosted by self-published author Bryan Cohen and Jim Kukral, the “Sell More Books Show” discusses the newest book marketing news, information on self-publishing, and marketing strategies to make your book well known. 

Writer on the Side

A lot of people want to write but just can’t seem to find the time between their jobs and daily lives. “Writer on the Side” is a podcast dedicated to showing people how to get their non-fiction writing finished and published while working a full-time job. 

The Creative Nonfiction Podcast

“The Creative Nonfiction Podcast” is a weekly podcast that showcases leading and influential writers within journalism, memoir, essay, film, and creative spaces. This podcast interviews these authors and gives information on how they became influential and their writing processes. 

Write the Damn Book Already

“Write the Damn Book Already” is hosted by author, writing coach, editor, and founder of Fin-Phyllis Press, Elizabeth Lyons. The podcast, titled after her book of the same name, provides motivation and encouragement through interviews that cover both the indie and traditional spaces.  

First Draft

“First Draft” has been running for over eight years and has been named in Apple Podcast’s Top 25 Podcasts for Book Lovers list. In this podcast, Sarah Enni interviews authors and storytellers about how they manage to balance their life and their writing.

Your Daily Writing Habit

In “Your Daily Writing Habit,” Christine “Ink” Whitmarsh, a celebrity ghostwriter, bestselling author, and book coach, shares her expert writing techniques to help individuals write impactful books that have the potential to change lives. With her extensive experience and The Ink Agency’s professional services, Christine guides authors in writing, publishing, and promoting extraordinary books that enhance their  personal  brands.

Let’s Talk Memoir

“Let’s Talk Memoir,” hosted by writer, speaker, and memoirist Ronit Plank, is a podcast that delves into the world of memoirs, featuring interviews with memoirists discussing their writing process, challenges, and the art of sharing personal narratives. In each episode of this limited series, Ronit highlights different facets of the memoir-writing experience, offering valuable writing tips and inspiration, drawing on her own acclaimed work, including the memoir When She Comes Back .

“The Memoir Writer” Podcast

Bestselling memoirist Nadine Taylor discusses the craft and process of writing, editing, and publishing memoirs and various types of biographies. This podcast goes in-depth about the importance of themes, character, and truthfulness in writing a real story.

Screenwriting 

Screenwriters’ Rant Room

Hosted by Hilliard Guess, a WGAw writer, film director, and film producer, “Screenwriters’ Rant Room” is a podcast that interviews screenwriters throughout the various genres of film writing. If you are looking for  real  and funny talk about the film industry, then this is the podcast for you! 

Bulletproof Screenwriting

Named in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide, “Bulletproof Screenwriting” hosts weekly interviews with Emmy and Oscar-winning screenwriters, bestselling authors, and Hollywood agents regarding all parts of the screenwriting process. 

Perfect for film lovers who want details on the newest movies and their screenplays, “On Story” has exclusive interviews with filmmakers and screenwriters of Hollywood’s newest films. 

Write On: A Screenwriting Podcast

“Write On” is a podcast focused on giving aspiring screenwriters tips and information to help improve and inspire writing. Listen in to learn more about the screenwriting world and process through exclusive interviews with industry professionals.

Write Your Screenplay

If you are looking for a podcast that discusses current films and the importance of how they were written, as well as giving information on how to write screenplays, “Write Your Screenplay” is a great podcast for you! 

Script Notes

“Script Notes” has both a free and premium paid podcast series, where all things screenwriting and screenwriters are discussed. With a selection of over 500 episodes, this podcast shows writers how to turn their stories into a screenplay format. 

The Screenwriting Life

Oscar and Emmy-nominated Meg LeFauve and Lorien McKenna discuss the importance and difficulty of being  a creative  in the screenwriting industry. This podcast goes deep into the emotional and personal side of screenwriting and how it is important to persevere and keep writing! 

Hosts Chas Fisher and Stuart Willis, two emerging screenwriters, get together to discuss some of the best examples of screenplays and what screenwriters can do to make their screenplays stand out and become great!

The Successful Screenwriter

“The Successful Screenwriter” is just as its name suggests, interviewing the most successful screenwriters to learn and teach how they have mastered their craft and made their way through the industry. 

Lovinder Gill hosts a podcast that teaches its listeners how his journey through screenwriting has gone. In this series, Gill covers the ups and downs of screenwriting and how new screenwriters can avoid the same mistakes that he made. 

Shoot From the Heart

“Shoot From the Heart” is hosted by Diane Belle, who teaches her listeners techniques, tips, and information about screenwriting, filmmaking, and how creativity can lead to opportunities. 

Curious About Screenwriting

This podcast is intended for writers who are already knowledgeable about the basics of screenwriting but want to take their craft further. “Curious About Screenwriting” interviews guests who share how they took their screenwriting skills and made careers out of them.

Blogging/Freelance Writing

Writing Around the Kids

A podcast aimed towards mothers who want to write on the side, but don’t have the time. “Writing Around the Kids” shows mothers tips for writing while taking care of children and how having children can influence your writing. 

The Ultimate Blog Podcast

Blogging experts Amy Reinecke and Jennifer Draper give all the information an aspiring blogger could want on how to start a blog. This podcast discusses everything from getting started to growing an audience for a blog, to the formatting and writing of the blog itself. 

The Market Your Message Show

“The Market Your Message Show” showcases the marketing and earning money side of blog writing. If you are looking for ways to turn your blog writing into an income source, then this is the podcast for you!

Freelance Writing Coach

Formatted into short twenty-minute episodes, the “Freelance Writing Coach” podcast is focused on helping people turn their writing hobbies into a business and source of income. 

Freelance Writing Direct

Join Estelle Erasmus in her weekly “Freelance Writing Direct” podcast, where she interviews freelance writers who give advice about their writing and how the various types of freelance writing can turn into different writing careers.

Journalism 

“WriteLane” hosted by Lane DeGregory discusses the different types of journalism and how to write in a journalistic style. This podcast is perfect for those who want to learn how to turn their articles into narrative journalism pieces. 

Longform podcast, hosted by Aaron Lammer, Max Linsky, and Evan Ratliff, explores the creative processes of influential voices in writing, journalism, filmmaking, and podcasting. Offering insights into their lives and work, it’s a must-listen for those intrigued by the inner workings of the writing world.

Get to Work Hurley! 

“Get to Work Hurley!” is a monthly podcast where journalists rant about all aspects of journalism and how their job as a journalist affects their personal life. 

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

Five-time winner of Best Education Podcast, Grammar Girl provides quick and friendly tips to boost your writing skills and fuel your love for English. Whether it’s your first or second language, these tips on grammar, punctuation, style, and business will enhance your writing success. 

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