No Mess, No Magic

Many writers spend years trying to force themselves into writing routines that simply don't fit how their brains work.In this episode, Monica sits down with Dr. Bailey Lang—book coach, writing studies scholar, and self-described literary witch—to discuss why traditional writing advice often fails neurodivergent writers and what to do instead.Together, they explore the overlap between ADHD, autism, and AuDHD, the damage caused by shame-based writing advice, and how writers can build sustainable practices that honor their energy, creativity, and real lives.Topics discussed include:• The differences between ADHD, autism, and AuDHD• Why so many neurodivergent writers feel broken by traditional writing advice• The problem with "just be more disciplined" messaging• Discipline vs. devotion in a writing practice• Creating flexible routines that work with your brain instead of against it• Red-light, yellow-light, and green-light planning for fluctuating energy levels• Why fantasy writing routines often fail in real life• Burnout, overachievement, and recovering from perfectionism• Permission-giving as a creative practice• Ritual, magic, and creating meaningful writing habits• How to stop comparing your process to everyone else'sConnect with Dr. Bailey Lang:Dr. Bailey Lang is the Literary Witch—a book coach who helps authors build sustainable, magical writing practices that take their books from draft to done. With a focus on mindset, practice, and craft, Bailey combines research with intuitive, client-led wisdom to guide writers as they step into their creative power.Bailey's website:https://literary-witch.kit.com/profile

What happens when life forces you to stop writing?In this episode of No Mess, No Magic, I sit down with developmental editor and story scientist Lori Puma to talk about creativity, rest, uncertainty, and what happens when your plans are completely upended.After being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2018, Lori underwent an eight-hour brain surgery that changed her life overnight. For years afterward, she could only manage about 30 minutes of activity per day before exhaustion and cognitive symptoms took over. Writing, reading, socializing, and even everyday tasks suddenly looked very different.Together, we explore what it means to live through seasons of illness, grief, burnout, and uncertainty. We discuss:Why time away from writing isn't wastedThe difference between rest and "creative death"How difficult seasons deepen emotional complexity in your storiesWhat brain surgery taught Lori about creativity and identityLearning to trust yourself when life doesn't go according to planThe surprising ways writers can stay connected to creativity during periods of restWhy your most difficult experiences can become your greatest creative assetsWhether you're navigating illness, burnout, caregiving, grief, a demanding season of life, or simply feeling frustrated that you're not writing as much as you'd like, this conversation is a powerful reminder that creativity doesn't disappear when you stop producing.Connect with Lori:Lori Puma helps experienced indie authors write novels that make readers skip bathroom breaks and ignore their smartphones. She started her career publishing scientific papers, then spent years helping data tell stories, and now she's a Visual Story Scientist and developmental editor who uses infographics and science to help genre fiction authors write novels that aren't just addictive, they're unforgettable.Free quiz - Breakout Novel X-Ray: https://loripuma.com/quizInfographic Guide to Standout Plots: https://lori-puma.kit.com/products/infographic-guide-to-standout-novels

Writing a first book isn't just about learning craft. There's a lot of mindset work involved, and a lot of it feels invisible.It's about learning how to keep going when your brain is telling you you're not talented enough, your book isn't good enough, and maybe you should quit altogether.In this episode, I'm joined by author, writing coach, and founder of First Book Finish, Rhonda Douglas.We talk about the mindset shifts that help writers move from "I want to write a book someday" to actually finishing one.In this conversation, we discuss:Why so many writers wait for permission before taking their creative dreams seriouslyThe identity shift from wanting to write a book to calling yourself a writerCommon fears first-time authors face (and why they're normal)How perfectionism keeps writers stuckWhy your brain tries to convince you to quitThe emotional roller coaster of drafting and revisionFear of failure, fear of success, and fear of being judgedWhy you're not "too late" to write a bookThe truth about writing a book in 30 daysHow to keep going when everything you've written feels like trashIf you've ever wondered whether you're a "real writer," worried your book isn't good enough, or felt tempted to abandon your manuscript for a shiny new idea, this episode is for you.About Rhonda:Rhonda is an award-winning author of fiction and poetry. She's the host of The Resilient Writers Radio Show and the founder of the First Book Finish program.Find Rhonda here: https://offers.resilientwriters.com/diyretreat

If you've ever opened a beat sheet, stared at a plotting template, and immediately wanted to throw your laptop out a window, this episode is for you. (This is how I am lol)In this conversation, I sit down with book coach and editor Lewis Jorstad to talk about intuitive outlining—a flexible approach to story development that helps writers create stronger stories without sacrificing creativity, curiosity, or the joy of discovery.We explore why traditional outlining methods work brilliantly for some writers and completely fall flat for others, the difference between developing a story and plotting a story, and how to use story structure as a tool rather than a cage. Lewis also shares his approach to "waypoint scenes," how character motivations shape plot, and why there may be thousands of good versions of your novel!Along the way, we discuss:Why some writers feel stuck by traditional outlining methodsThe difference between plotting, outlining, and story developmentHow to use character motivations to create organic plotWhat to do if your ideas only show up while you're actively draftingWhy perfectionism keeps writers trapped in endless outlining and revisionThe "helicopter vs. forest" analogy for understanding your natural writing process (I was obsessed with this!)How to know when you're ready to start draftingWhy discomfort is a normal part of writing—and how to tell when it's helping you growWhether you're a dedicated plotter, a die-hard pantser, or someone who's tried both and hated both, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on finding a writing process that works for you.About Lewis JorstadLewis Jorstad is the editor and book coach behind The Novel Smithy, where he helps debut fiction writers turn their messy drafts into finished novels they’re proud to publish.With over eight years of experience, Lewis has edited 250+ manuscripts, written seven bestselling writing guides, and supported over 2,000 writers around the world. These days, he's on a mission to help writers embrace their brain’s intuitive way of telling stories, while also creating page-turning novels readers can’t put down.Check out Lewis's offers here: https://thenovelsmithy.com/Find Monica's website here: https://monicahay.com/Monica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/

In this episode of No Mess, No Magic, Monica talks with fiction author and educator Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer about dictation, accessibility, and why writing with your voice is still writing.Sarah shares how she went from struggling with dictation for seven years to using it to draft 14 books, and now teaches other authors how to make the shift from typing to speaking their stories. Together, Monica and Sarah explore dictation as a sustainable writing tool, especially for writers with disabilities, chronic pain, ADHD, autism, screen fatigue, or anyone who feels chained to their desk.They also talk about oral storytelling traditions, why “shortcuts” aren’t cheating, the learning curve of dictation, Sarah’s DRAFT framework, and how writers can practice dictation without putting pressure on their current work-in-progress.Want to learn to dictate? Sarah us offering a HUGE discount on her Fictation Course exclusively for listeners of No Mess, No Magic. Check it out here: https://fictioncourses.thrivecart.com/fictation-digital-course-coupon/?coupon=NOMESSNOMAGICFind Sarah's freebies here: https://www.fictioncourses.com/dictationFind Monica at the links below:Monica's website: https://monicahay.com/Book a Curiosity Call: https://monicahay.com/curiousMonica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/Waitlist to join the Writer's Way Community: https://www.monicahaycoaching.com/communitywaitlistTakeawaysDictation as a writing methodOvercoming challenges in dictation Practice and repetition are essential for skill developmentDictation can be a valuable tool for writersChapters00:00 Introduction and Friendship07:00 Overcoming Resistance to Dictation13:29 Beginner's Curve in Dictation21:24 The Importance of Practice and Repetition29:02 Tools and Techniques for Dictation35:22 Learning Dictation and Where to Find Resources

We get SPICY in this one!About Rachel:Rachel May is a published author and powerhouse coach who brings a refreshingly down-to-earth approach to writing craft, mindset, and process. As a writer with ADHD, Rachel is intimately familiar with the frustrations that traditional writing “rules” can bring—especially for writers who feel like they just don’t fit the mold. Rachel’s sessions go beyond typical craft lectures; they’re about healing writing roadblocks, creating a process you’ll actually want to stick with, and building momentum toward the book you’ve always dreamed of finishing.To check out Rachel's work, click here: https://goldenmayediting.com/The conversation delves into the challenges of being a high achiever and the impact of achievement on creativity. It also explores the journey of overcoming the need for external validation and approval, focusing on self-love and self-acceptance. We talk self-love and creativity, exploring the impact of perfectionism, and the fear of failure. We also examine the influence of capitalism on creativity and the societal pressure to achieve success.Find Monica's website here: https://monicahay.com/Find Monica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/Want good shit in your inbox? Subscribe to Monica's newsletter: https://www.monicahaycoaching.com/newsletterWant to explore working with Monica? Book a curiosity call here: https://calendly.com/monicahay/discovery-callTakeawaysHigh achiever challengesSelf-validation and approval Self-love and creativityPerfectionism and fear of failureChapters00:00 Overcoming the Need for Validation25:40 Embracing Self-Love and Creativity36:31 Impact of Capitalism on Creativity

About Annie:Annie is a German-born author who now lives in the Netherlands, where she cycles through the countryside like a main character in a moody indie film—if that character were also late to school pickup and covered in cat hair. She writes romcoms full of grumps, banter, and emotional chaos, because love should come with laughter and a mild identity crisis. She lives with her British husband, two small tornadoes disguised as children, and exactly two cats. When she’s not writing or drawing, she’s watching drag and pretending her fictional characters didn’t just emotionally damage her.Find her website here!Annie Abel discusses her book 'Two Truths and a Lie' and her experience with self-publishing and audiobooks. She also shares insights on creative freedom, marketing, and the indie publishing community. The conversation covers topics such as marketing strategies for indie authors, staying true to one's creative vision, self-publishing advice, and managing a busy life as a writer. Anne-Marie Alcott shares insights on book launches, writing processes, and the challenges of balancing family and writing career. She also emphasizes the importance of authenticity and creativity in the writing process.TakeawaysCreative freedom in self-publishing allows authors to take risks and write stories they want to read.Networking and seizing opportunities play a key role in indie book marketing. Marketing strategies for indie authorsStaying true to creative visionSelf-publishing adviceBalancing family and writing careerChapters00:00 Introduction and Book Overview07:55 The Audiobook Journey15:01 Creative Freedom in Self-Publishing22:20 Approach to Marketing and Networking31:39 Self-Publishing Advice37:20 Balancing Family and Writing Career

Join this conversation with my mommyyy, Stacy Blum-Hay. What happens to creativity over a lifetime?Visit my mom's website here.The conversation explores the therapeutic nature of art, the influence of family on artistic pursuits, the challenge of overcoming critical self-perception, the balance between art and family responsibilities, and the impact of education on creativity. The conversation delves into the importance of education and its impact on creativity, the influence of society on creative pursuits, the challenges of pursuing creative writing, the role of art in society, raising creative children, the impact of stability on creativity, the need for support and recognition of the arts, and encouraging creativity and artistic expression. The discussion emphasizes the significance of education in fostering creativity and the societal impact on artistic pursuits.TakeawaysArt as TherapyThe Impact of Family on ArtOvercoming Critical Self-Perception Supporting creativityThe impact of education on creativityChapters00:00 Art as Therapy09:35 Overcoming Critical Self-Perception17:39 Balancing Art and Family26:16 Creativity and Education31:39 The Importance of Education and Creativity40:19 The Role of Art in Society45:31 The Need for Support and Recognition of the Arts52:16 Encouraging Creativity and Artistic Expression

Join Monica and Gala for a low-key chaotic discussion about the writing life.Gala Russ helps creatives understand how they work and build sustainable creative lives and businesses that fit them. After writing and publishing nine romance novels under the pen name Willa Drew, she developed a practical path to help writers start their novels and bring them into the world. Through workshops, small groups, and one-on-one coaching, she teaches writing craft, storytelling fundamentals, and creative systems so creativity becomes part of everyday life—not something squeezed into the margins.The conversation covers the journey of a writer and the impact of life transitions on the writing process. It explores the concept of making peace with one's writing practice and the influence of emotional bandwidth on writing pace. The conversation covers the themes of self-compassion, creativity, writing process, and originality in writing. It delves into the importance of self-compassion in creative pursuits, the challenges of finding time for creativity, and the process of discovering one's unique writing voice and niche in the market.TakeawaysWriting pace varies based on individual factors such as writing speed, book length, and writing frequency.Life transitions and emotional bandwidth can significantly impact a writer's pace and writing process. Self-compassion is essential for making space for creativity in times of uncertainty.Discovering and embracing one's unique writing voice and niche is crucial for successful and fulfilling writing endeavors.Chapters00:00 Journey as a Writer and Writing Practice08:31 Making Peace with Writing Practice24:41 Impact of Life Transitions on Writing Pace32:07 Self-Compassion and CreativityGet Gala's Write Your Novel Check InFollow Monica on InstagramMonica's WebsiteWant to explore working with Monica? Click here to book a curiosity call!

Today we have guest Dani Fankhauser! Dani is a writer and energy healer. Her fiction has been published by NonBinary Review, HAD, Sheepshead Review, and Nightshade Publishing, and long listed by Uncharted Magazine. Sister Earth is her first novel.Learn about Dani and find her book here.Want to learn about working with Dani? Click here.The conversation explores the spiritual side of writing and channeling, discussing the impact of social media on writers' ability to connect with themselves and their intuition. It delves into the struggle to write, the path to channeling, energy healing, meditation, and the process of channeling in writing. Additionally, it addresses the learning process of channeling and overcoming the inner critic, as well as creating inner and outer changes for channeling. The conversation delves into the healing process of creativity, the distinction between intuition and fear, the recognition of channeling in writing, and the spiritual practice of writing. It explores the frustration and clearing of the subconscious in creativity, as well as the surprise and recognition of channeling in the writing process. The discussion also highlights the role of writing as a spiritual practice and the importance of honesty as a high vibration in creativity.TakeawaysChanneling and writing are interconnectedThe impact of social media on writers' ability to connect with themselves and their intuition Honesty as High VibrationChanneling and Writing as a Healing ProcessChapters00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Writing06:30 Social Media and Distraction13:01 Understanding Channeling in Writing19:00 Learning to Channel and Overcoming Inner Critic24:30 The Healing Process of Creativity30:25 Distinguishing Intuition from Fear and Anxiety35:29 Recognizing Channeling in WritingMonica's Links:WebsiteInstagram Subscribe to the Literary Lantern

We talk about why lowering the bar sets you up for success in your writing life! Subscribe to my newsletterCheck out my Instagram!Website New here? Hi, I'm Monica! I'm a writing coach who specializes in helping writers overcome resistance. I help writers finish drafts even when their brains are screaming “maybe reorganizing the spice cabinet would be better right now.”Because here's my take:Writing isn’t hard because you don’t know enough craft or because you're not skilled yet.Writing is hard because:it’s vulnerableit’s uncertainyour brain wants to protect you from failureSo I help writers build systems, friendships, and practices that let them keep writing anyway.Mess and all.

Today, we’re covering the 9 unsexy truths I’ve learned from being a writer the last 10+ years. And I introduce myself and what this podcast is all about!