The Outliner vs. The Pantser

In this episode, Kelton and Krisserin flip the script on their expected writing styles, revealing that organized Krisserin is actually a passionate pantser while project-manager Kelton has embraced the power of outlining. They candidly dissect how these approaches shape their creative processes—from Krisserin feeling her way through first drafts to Kelton's revelation that structure finally helped her break through long-standing writing blocks. The hosts share how place profoundly inspires their work, whether it's Krisserin's formative desert years or Kelton's deep dives into local cemetery histories. They discuss the essential components of compelling stories, debate the merits of chronological writing versus scene-jumping, and confess their personal writing struggles (tense inconsistencies, anyone?). Along the way, they answer listener questions about creative inspiration and writing crutches while setting ambitious weekly word count goals. Whether you're team outline with color-coded stickies or team follow-your-characters-into-the-unknown, this conversation offers reassurance that there's no single "right way" to bring your stories to life—just the way that actually gets words on the page.Write to us: [email protected] us:Instagram: @penpalspodTikTok: @penpalspodMusic by Golden Hour Oasis StudiosWrite to us: [email protected] us:Instagram: @penpalspodTikTok: @penpalspodYouTube: @PenPalsPodSubStack: penpalspod.substack.comFollow Krisserin and Kelton:TikTok: @krisserin, @keltonwrites Instagram: @keltonkin, @keltonwritesKelton's Substack: ShangrilogsKrisserin's Substack: krisserin.substack.comMusic by Golden Hour Oasis Studios