The Myth of the Big Writing Retreat episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 4, 2026 · 12 MIN

The Myth of the Big Writing Retreat

from Making Memoir Magic · host Kerry Kriseman

What if the reason you haven’t started your book isn’t lack of talent—but waiting for perfect conditions?In this episode, Kerry busts the myth of the big writing retreat and reveals what actually gets books written: twenty minutes a day, a chair, and a decision. You’ll learn how to create a writing retreat at home, DIY a retreat in one weekend, and build a consistent writing habit—without waiting for more time, money, or inspiration.Kerry also announces her new weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins, starting February 11 at 10:30 a.m. live on Zoom—a supportive, low-pressure space to write alongside others.👉 Want to join? These are free for members of her Facebook group.Not a member yet? Click here to join the Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors FB Group.Your story doesn’t need a mountain view. It needs you.Episode Summary:In this episode, Kerry dismantles the fantasy that you need a big, expensive writing retreat to begin—or finish—your book. Instead, she shares how real momentum comes from small, consistent actions: twenty minutes a day, a dedicated writing space, and a decision to begin. You’ll learn how to create a writing retreat at home, DIY a retreat in one weekend, and finally build a sustainable writing habit—without waiting for perfect conditions.Kerry also introduces her new weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins, starting February 11 at 10:30 a.m. live via Zoom—a supportive, pressure-free space to write alongside others.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:* Why the “big writing retreat” myth keeps writers stuck* How to create a retreat environment at home* How to DIY a writing retreat in one weekend* How to build a consistent writing habit* How to join the weekly Memoir Magic Write-InsJoin the free weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins starting 2/11 at 10:30 a.m. live on Zoom.These are free for members of Kerry’s Facebook group.👉 Not a member yet? Click here to join the Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors FB Group.Thank you for listening to this episode of Making Memoir Magic. To learn more about my course, Make Memoir Magic, click here.Join my free Facebook Group, Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors, where we honor your story, provide tips, create community, and help you write the story you were meant to tell. Join here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

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The Myth of the Big Writing Retreat

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This episode is 12 minutes long.

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This episode was published on February 4, 2026.

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What if the reason you haven’t started your book isn’t lack of talent—but waiting for perfect conditions?In this episode, Kerry busts the myth of the big writing retreat and reveals what actually gets books written: twenty minutes a day, a chair,...

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