The Writing Mom Podcast

What if pressure isn’t actually the best way to get yourself to write? In this episode, I’m sharing what I’ve been learning postpartum about the difference between using deadlines, guilt, and urgency to force myself forward - and intentionally building genuine desire for the work instead.We’ll talk about how I’m reframing my preorder deadline, why starting with just five minutes helped me want to keep going, and how to tell the difference between honoring your capacity and avoiding something uncomfortable. You don’t have to wait until you feel inspired, but you also don’t have to bully yourself into finishing your novel.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

What does writing look like when you have a newborn at home? After intentionally taking the last month of pregnancy and first month postpartum completely off, I found myself naturally wanting to return to my stories—not because I thought I should be writing, but because I genuinely missed it.In this episode, I’m sharing what my return to writing has actually looked like: starting with just five minutes, keeping expectations incredibly low, balancing edits with the joy of a brand-new story, and letting my capacity grow naturally. If you’re in a season where writing has taken a backseat, I hope this reminds you that you don’t have to rush your return, or follow anyone else’s timeline. Sometimes keeping that tiny flicker of desire alive is enough.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9.

Do you constantly second-guess your writing decisions or look to someone else to tell you what you should do next? Often, the problem isn't a lack of talent or creativity; it's that you haven't learned to trust yourself as a writer yet.In this episode, we're talking about how self-trust is built through small promises, imperfect decisions, and continuing to move forward even when you don't know how everything will turn out. Writing your novel doesn't just require self-trust, it can actually help you build it, one decision and one writing session at a time.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Have you been waiting for the perfect time to start your novel? Maybe you're hoping life will settle down, your confidence will grow, or you'll finally feel "ready." If so, you're not alone, but waiting for readiness may be the very thing keeping you stuck.In this episode, we're talking about why so many moms postpone their writing dreams, what readiness actually looks like, and why confidence comes from taking action, not waiting for it. If you've been telling yourself "I'll start someday," I hope this conversation gives you the courage to make today that day.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Do you find yourself rewriting the same chapter over and over, convinced that if you can just get it right, the rest of the book will fall into place? If so, you're not alone. Perfectionism is one of the biggest reasons writers stay stuck, and it often disguises itself as productivity. We tell ourselves we're improving the book when, in reality, we're avoiding the uncertainty of moving forward.In this episode, we're talking about why finishing a messy draft teaches you far more than perfecting chapter one ever will. I'll share a powerful analogy from two of my coaching clients who compared novel writing to painting, why stories are built in layers, and how reaching the end of your draft often reveals solutions you could never have discovered at the beginning. Remember: you can't revise a story that doesn't exist yet.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Have you ever sat down to write your novel only to realize you have absolutely no idea what happens next? If so, you're not alone. Getting stuck is one of the most common challenges writers face, and contrary to what you might think, it doesn't mean your idea is bad or that you're not cut out to write a book.In this episode, we're talking about how to move forward when you're feeling stuck, including the questions I use with coaching clients to unlock new possibilities, why waiting for the perfect answer often keeps you stalled, and how focusing on the next scene can help you regain momentum. Finishing a novel isn't about having everything figured out; it's about learning how to keep moving when you don't.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Do you ever feel like you're moving too slowly with your novel? Maybe you're only writing a little each week, or you've been working on the same manuscript for years. In a world that celebrates speed, productivity, and overnight success, it's easy to wonder if you're falling behind.In this episode, we're talking about why slow progress still counts, how motherhood naturally changes the timeline of creative work, and why consistency matters far more than speed. Finishing a novel isn't about racing to the finish line; it's about continuing to move forward, one small step at a time.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

What do you do when life gets busy and writing starts slipping through the cracks? Whether you're navigating a new baby, summer break, a demanding job, or another season of life that leaves little room for creativity, this episode is for you. The goal isn't necessarily to write more; it's simply to stay connected to your story.In this episode, I'm sharing why busy seasons aren't a detour from your writing life, practical ways to keep your novel alive even when time is limited, and how small moments of connection can make it much easier to return when you're ready to write again.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Do you ever find yourself thinking, "There's no point writing because I only have 10 minutes"? If so, you're not alone. Many moms assume writing only counts if they have a big block of uninterrupted time, but that belief is often what keeps them from making progress at all.In this episode, we're talking about why small pockets of time matter more than you think, what you can actually accomplish in 10 minutes, and how tiny writing sessions can build momentum, confidence, and eventually a finished novel. Writing a book isn't about finding more time, it's about learning how to use the time you already have.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9

Have you been away from your novel for a few weeks, months, or even years? If so, this episode is for you. Returning to writing after a break can feel surprisingly difficult, not because you've forgotten how to write, but because so much emotion gets wrapped up in coming back. Guilt, pressure, self-doubt, and unrealistic expectations often make the return harder than it needs to be.In this episode, I'm sharing how to reconnect with your story, rebuild trust with yourself as a writer, and start again without overwhelming yourself. Whether you're returning after a busy season, a life transition, or simply falling out of the habit, I hope this episode reminds you that your creativity isn't gone. It's still there, waiting for you.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9.

We often talk about writing as something we do, but in this episode, I want to talk about who we become when we keep writing through motherhood. Writing isn't just about finishing a novel; it can help you reconnect with yourself, show up more fully in your life, and model something powerful for your kids.I'm sharing how writing helped me find my way back to myself after becoming a mom, why pursuing your creative dreams isn't selfish, and the unexpected impact it can have on your family. If you've ever wondered whether writing still has a place in your life as a mom, this episode is for you.I'm currently on maternity leave, but I'm building a waitlist for future coaching clients. If you'd like to be the first to hear when coaching spots open this fall, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/Bd6AwbRRqpUmboKQ9.

If you've ever told yourself, "I'd write my novel if I just had more time," this episode is for you. As moms, it's easy to look at our busy schedules and assume finishing a book isn't realistic. But what I've learned - both through writing seven novels and coaching other moms - is that finishing isn't about having huge blocks of free time. It's about learning how to use the time you already have.In this episode, we're talking about why writing feels so overwhelming, what actually leads to finishing a novel, and how I went from writing in tiny pockets of time to publishing books while working, raising a toddler, and growing a coaching business. If you're ready to stop waiting for the perfect season and start making progress with the life you have right now, this episode will show you how.If you'd like support building a writing rhythm that works with your real life, book a free consultation call here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

In today’s episode, I’m sharing a more personal behind-the-scenes look at how I’m approaching writing during my upcoming maternity leave with baby #2. This isn’t an episode about productivity or “bouncing back” creatively after birth. Instead, it’s a conversation about self-trust, flexibility, identity, and what it looks like to build a writing life that can move with you through different seasons of motherhood.I’m reflecting on what happened during my first pregnancy and postpartum experience—why I stopped writing for months, what helped me reconnect to that part of myself, and what feels different this time around. We’re also talking about the gentle, realistic way I plan to stay connected to my creativity during maternity leave, without pressure, rigid expectations, or perfectionism.If you’re a mom wondering whether writing still fits into your life after kids, or you’re navigating a season where creativity feels harder to access, I hope this episode reminds you that your writing life doesn’t have to disappear just because life changes. It may simply need a softer shape for a while.If you want support building a writing life that actually works with your real life and changing seasons, book a free consultation call here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you feel like you’ve started your novel over multiple times, this episode is for you. Maybe you keep rewriting chapter one, changing story ideas, creating new outlines, or losing momentum halfway through. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many writers get stuck in the restart cycle, and why it’s usually not a discipline problem, but a pattern rooted in perfectionism, fear, and uncertainty.We’re talking about what starting over is actually costing you, why clarity comes from continuing (not restarting), and how to finally move forward even when the story feels messy or unresolved. The version of you who finishes will teach you far more than the version of you that keeps trying to perfect it.If you’ve been stuck in this cycle, you don’t need a better idea, you need a clearer path forward. Learn more about how 1:1 coaching can help by booking a free consultation call here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

After working with so many moms trying to write novels, I’ve started to notice the same patterns showing up over and over again. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five biggest mistakes I see mom writers make - from waiting for more time, to trying to figure everything out alone, to making the goal so big that your brain immediately shuts down. We’re also talking about perfectionism, overthinking, and why so many writers stay stuck rewriting instead of finishing.If you’ve been struggling to make progress on your novel, this episode will help you understand what’s actually keeping you stuck... and why it’s probably not laziness or lack of talent. You’re not behind, and you’re not failing. You just need a different approach.If you want help breaking out of these patterns and finally making progress on your novel, book a free consultation call here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you came to me today and said, “I want to write a novel,” this is exactly what I’d tell you.In this episode, I’m walking you through the mindset shifts and practical changes I wish more moms had at the very beginning of their writing journey, because it would save so much time, confusion, overwhelm, and self-doubt. We’re talking about why you need to start smaller than you think, how to build writing into your real life (instead of waiting for perfect conditions), and why claiming the identity of “writer” matters before you feel fully ready.I’m also sharing why messy drafts are completely normal, how motherhood changed my own writing process, and why trying to figure everything out alone often keeps writers stuck far longer than necessary.This episode is part pep talk, part roadmap, and part reality check for the mom who keeps thinking about writing a novel but isn’t sure where to begin, or how to finally move forward. Book a free consultation call: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Ep 50: 5 Truths About Writing a Novel as a Busy Mom (After 50 Episodes of the Podcast)We made it to 50 episodes of The Writing Mom Podcast! 🎉 And instead of just celebrating this milestone, I wanted to use this episode to share the five biggest truths I’ve learned about writing novels as a busy mom, from my own writing life, from coaching clients, and from having these conversations week after week.In this episode, we’re talking about why you probably don’t need more time (you need a smaller next step), why perfect writing conditions are a myth, and why your identity as a writer matters more than your routine ever will. I’m also sharing the difference between motivation and decision-making, how motherhood changed the way I approach my writing, and why trying to do this dream completely alone often keeps writers stuck for years.This episode is part encouragement, part reality check, and part roadmap for the mom who still wants to finish her novel... even if life looks nothing like she expected.If you take one thing away from these 50 episodes, let it be this: your writing is still possible. It just might not look the way you thought it would. Book a free consultation call: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

So many moms trying to write a novel believe they should be able to figure it out on their own. That needing support means they’re not disciplined enough, serious enough, or capable enough. But in this episode, I want to challenge that belief and talk about what actually happens when you try to write your novel completely alone.We’re diving into the hidden emotional and practical costs of doing everything solo: overthinking, second-guessing, endlessly rewriting, losing momentum, and staying stuck for years without realizing it. I’m also sharing some of the common patterns I see with my coaching clients, from writers sitting on 30k words for years to moms who desperately want to write but feel too overwhelmed to even begin.Most importantly, this episode is about reframing support. Getting help doesn’t mean you’re incapable, it means you’re no longer willing to make this harder than it needs to be.If you’ve been spinning in circles with your novel and wondering why it still feels so heavy, this episode will help you understand what might actually be going on underneath the surface. Book a free consultation call: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve ever thought about booking a consultation call with me, but hesitated because you’re not sure what will happen, or whether you’re “ready," this episode is for you.Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what actually happens on a consultation call, why it’s so valuable (even though it’s free), and how it can be the moment things finally start to click with your writing. Most moms I talk to aren’t lacking motivation - they’re stuck in overwhelm, indecision, or trying to figure it all out on their own. And what this call offers isn’t pressure, it’s clarity.You’ll hear how we start the call to get you comfortable, how we unpack what’s really been keeping you stuck, and the kind of shifts that happen when your writing finally has a clear path forward. I’m also sharing a real example of a client who went from spinning on a trilogy idea for years… to feeling immediate relief and focus in a single conversation.You don’t need to have everything figured out before you ask for help. You just need a space to think clearly, make a decision, and take your next step.If you’ve been sitting in “someday” with your novel, this might be the moment things change. Book your free consultation here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

When I was pregnant with my first baby, I stopped writing for months. This time, I didn’t. Not because I have more time, energy, or a simpler life, but because something deeper changed.In this episode, I’m sharing a personal look at what shifted between my first pregnancy and this one when it comes to my writing. From the moment I felt like I had lost myself in early motherhood, to the realization that I still wanted to be a writer, to rebuilding a writing practice that actually fit my life... this is the full story behind how I found my way back. And why, this time around, continuing to write isn’t even a question.We’ll talk about the real reasons I stopped the first time, the identity shift that brought me back, and the self-trust that now carries me through exhaustion, uncertainty, and a completely different season of life. If you’ve ever wondered whether writing is still possible for you as a mom - or how to hold onto that part of yourself - this episode will meet you there.Because your writing doesn’t disappear when your life changes. It just needs a new way to exist.If you’re trying to figure out how writing fits into your life now, you don’t have to do it alone. Book a free consultation to build a writing rhythm that works for your real life: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

What if the reason you’re stuck isn’t your writing ability… but how you think the process is supposed to work?In this episode, I’m sharing a powerful breakthrough from one of my clients, who realized that writing a novel is a lot like oil painting. Instead of trying to perfect each scene as you go, you have to build the full composition first, layer by layer. That shift helped her finally let go of perfectionism and move forward with her draft.We’ll talk about why polishing too early keeps so many writers stuck, how to think about your novel in layers (from rough draft to final polish), and why getting to the end of your story is what actually makes the beginning stronger. If you’ve been rewriting chapter one over and over or feeling like your draft isn’t “good enough,” this episode will help you see your writing process in a completely new way.Because your first draft isn’t meant to be beautiful; it’s meant to exist.If you want support staying in the draft and finishing your novel instead of getting stuck in perfectionism, book a consultation here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens inside a book coaching session (or whether it could help you), you’re going to love this episode.Today, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how I work with new clients and what we focus on first when they feel stuck with their novel. Most writers come in thinking they need more time, more motivation, or a better outline… but what they really need is clarity. In this episode, I walk you through how we uncover the real problem (not just the surface-level one), simplify the path forward, and turn overwhelm into clear, manageable action steps.Because getting unstuck isn’t about doing more... it’s about knowing exactly what to do next.If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to go next with your novel, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Book a consultation to get clear on your next step: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

You finally have a pocket of time… and still don’t write. Sound familiar?In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of the biggest breakthroughs I help my clients have: realizing that the block isn’t always time, it’s often fear. We’ll talk about the emotional resistance that shows up when you sit down to write, why it’s completely normal, and how it can disguise itself as “being busy” or “needing more clarity.”I’ll walk you through the common fears that keep writers stuck, how to recognize avoidance patterns without judging yourself, and what actually helps you move forward, even when writing feels vulnerable. Because confidence doesn’t come from waiting to feel ready. It comes from taking small, safe steps and building trust in yourself over time.If this resonated and you want support working through resistance so you can finally make progress on your novel, book a consultation here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve ever felt like your writing “isn’t working” and immediately wanted to scrap everything and start over, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m taking you inside another key part of my coaching process: how to evaluate your writing as you go so you can keep moving forward - without falling into the stop-and-restart cycle.We’ll talk about why so many writers assume something is wrong when progress feels messy, how small adjustments are often more powerful than complete overhauls, and why treating your writing like an experiment helps you build momentum instead of losing it. I’ll also share real client examples of what happens when you keep going - even when things feel unclear - and how that’s often where the clarity actually comes from.Because finishing your novel isn’t about finding the perfect system. It’s about learning how to adjust as you go.If you’re tired of constantly starting over, coaching can help you build a writing process that grows with you. Book a consultation to find your path forward: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

A lot of writing advice assumes you have long stretches of quiet time and a perfectly consistent routine. But for moms, life rarely works that way. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my coaching process to share how we build writing plans that actually work within your real life, not some imaginary future where everything is calm and predictable.We’ll talk about why traditional writing systems often fall apart for busy moms, how to identify pockets of time that already exist in your schedule, and why flexibility - not perfection - is what keeps your writing alive through changing seasons of life. When your writing fits inside your real schedule, it becomes much easier to keep showing up and making progress.If you’ve been trying to follow writing advice that doesn’t match your life, coaching can help you design a plan that does. Book a consultation to explore what that could look like: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Many writers believe their problem is motivation or discipline, but more often, the real issue is not knowing what to do next. In this episode, I’m giving you another behind-the-scenes look at my coaching process and how I help writers move from vague goals like “finish my book” to small, clear steps that actually fit into real life.We’ll talk about why big writing goals can keep you stuck, how turning your focus to one specific step each week can unlock momentum, and why progress builds when your writing targets are grounded in the story - not in pressure or unrealistic expectations. I’ll also share how evaluating and adjusting each week helps writers keep moving forward instead of falling into guilt or perfectionism.Because consistency doesn’t come from having more time, it comes from knowing exactly what your next step is.If your writing goal feels overwhelming or undefined, this is exactly the kind of work we do together in coaching. Book a consultation to start turning your novel into clear, doable steps: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I just don’t have time to write,” this episode is for you.Today, I’m giving you a peek behind the curtain into my coaching process and sharing what I’ve learned from working with busy moms who want to write, but feel stuck. Often, it’s not actually a time problem. It’s an overwhelm problem. Writing a novel feels huge and undefined, so your brain doesn’t know where to start… and nothing happens.In this episode, I walk you through how we turn “write a book” into small, concrete steps that actually fit into real life, and how finding tiny pockets of time that already exist can make steady progress possible. Finishing a novel isn’t about having more hours. It’s about knowing what your next brick is.If this resonated, this is exactly the kind of work I do with my clients. Book a free consultation to find your next small step: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

So many writers—especially moms—feel pressure to write something practical, marketable, or “worth the time.” In this episode, we’re talking about what happens when you stop writing the book you think you should write… and start writing the one you actually want to.I’m sharing how stepping away from a planned series after becoming a mom helped me reconnect with my creativity—and ultimately return to that story with more joy and clarity. We’ll explore why writing from obligation drains momentum, how to recognize whether you’re following fear or genuine curiosity, and why creative pivots aren’t flaky—they’re often exactly what helps you stay committed long enough to finish.Because the truth is: the book that lights you up is often the one that readers will feel most connected to, too.If you’re unsure which story to pursue next, a consultation call can help you find clarity and a path forward: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you feel like you should be more disciplined with your writing—but by the end of the day you have nothing left to give—this episode is for you.Today we’re talking about why willpower isn’t the real issue for moms who want to write. Between decision fatigue, emotional labor, and the mental load of daily life, your brain is already working overtime. Instead of relying on motivation, I’ll walk you through how to make writing the default through simple systems, identity-based habits, and tiny environmental shifts that lower the barrier to showing up.You’ll learn how anchoring writing to existing routines, removing emotional pressure, and redefining consistency can help you stay connected to your novel—even in your most exhausted seasons.Want help building writing habits that actually fit your life? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of what it really looked like to write and publish my seventh book while parenting a two-year-old, working a day job, and building my coaching business. A lot of moms assume that writing has to wait until kids are older, but I share why it isn’t easy to write with a toddler… and how it is absolutely possible when your expectations, rhythm, and mindset shift with your season of life.You’ll hear how motherhood changed my creative process, why letting go of deadlines became a gift rather than a loss, and how “slow and steady” — not perfect or fast — carried this book across the finish line. I also get practical about the logistics that actually made the book happen: micro-writing sessions, messy drafts, simple creative rituals, and the support that mattered most. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can finish a book in the chaos of early motherhood, this is an honest, hopeful look at how it can be done, at your own pace.If you’d like support building a writing routine that fits your real life and helps you finish your novel, I’d love to talk. Book a free consultation to learn more about my coaching program: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I just don’t have time to write,” this episode gently pushes back on that story. In today’s conversation, I unpack why time is usually the excuse, and fear is often the real barrier. I talk about the common fears that keep mom-writers stuck, how those fears get disguised as “being busy,” and what that can look like in real life (like avoiding your manuscript, over-planning, or feeling anxious just opening your document).Then I share three simple tools that actually helped me get unstuck with my own writing this year. When you can name the fear and take even the tiniest step anyway, resistance loosens — and real momentum becomes possible. You don’t need bravery or a perfect plan to begin; you just need one small action.If fear is getting in the way of your novel, let’s talk. Book a free consultation here: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

If you’ve been waiting for life to calm down before you fully commit to your writing… this episode is your gentle reality check: busy seasons aren’t the exception — they’re the norm, especially for moms. Work, family responsibilities, childcare hiccups, and the mental load don’t magically disappear. But your writing life doesn’t have to disappear either.In this episode, I’m sharing how to stay creatively connected even when your schedule feels overwhelming. You’ll learn why maintaining a simple “writing pulse” matters more than sticking to a perfect routine, how micro-moments can keep your story alive, and the mindset shift that allows writing to coexist with your real, full life. Because the truth is — you don’t need wide-open days to finish a novel. You just need a way to keep coming back.If you’re navigating a busy season and struggling to prioritize your writing, coaching can help you build a sustainable path forward — one that works within your life, not some ideal future version of it. Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Self-publishing while raising kids isn’t simple—and it isn’t always easy—but it has been deeply worth it for me. In this episode, I’m sharing an honest reflection on what self-publishing has really looked like as a mom: the steep learning curve, the overwhelm, and the moments where I wondered how I’d juggle all the roles involved… alongside the freedom, confidence, and connection that made it all worthwhile.We’ll talk about why self-publishing gave me control over my creative life, how it helped me take myself seriously as a writer, and what it’s felt like to watch readers fall in love with characters and worlds I created on my own terms. If you’ve ever wondered whether publishing your book is possible alongside motherhood, this episode offers a grounded, real look at what that journey can look like.Want support as you work toward your own finished book? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Josee here. We're halfway through January, and I haven't gotten back into my writing routine. Rather than beat myself up about it, I'm revisiting the first episode of this podcast and lowering my expectations back to 20 minutes of writing a day. If you're also struggling to get back to writing in the new year, maybe this episode will help you out, too. Enjoy!Ready to create a writing routine that fits your real life? Book a free consultation call where we’ll talk about your story, your writing time, and how I can help you finish your novel, without needing a perfect plan or perfect draft. ⁠https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Following your creative dreams doesn’t pull you away from your kids, it teaches them what it looks like to live a meaningful, courageous life. In this episode, we’re talking about why pursuing your writing matters not just for you, but for your children too. When kids see their parents go after something they love, it shapes what they believe is possible for themselves.I’m sharing personal reflections on writing as a mom, how creativity helped me reconnect with myself after becoming a parent, and why modeling passion and commitment is a powerful part of motherhood. If you’ve ever felt torn between caring for your family and honoring your creative dreams, this episode is a gentle reminder that the two can coexist... and even strengthen each other.Want support making writing part of your real life as a mom? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

As we step into a new year, this episode is your invitation to start fresh without the pressure of having everything perfectly planned. If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to begin writing again, or hoping for more time, more energy, or a more organized life before you commit to your novel, this conversation is for you. The truth is, most moms never get ideal conditions—but writing is still possible in the middle of real life.In this episode, I’m sharing why momentum comes from starting small, how to reset your writing life with compassion instead of pressure, and simple, doable ways to reconnect with your story in this season. You’ll hear reminders that you’re not behind, that your dream is still valid, and that your next step doesn’t have to be big to matter. Let this episode be your reset button for 2026.Want accountability and a plan that works with your real life? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/bookCheck out my new novel! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2L9XCS6

As we close out 2025, this episode is your gentle invitation to pause and look back on your writing year with honesty, compassion, and celebration. So many writers skip the part where they acknowledge what did go well, but that reflection is essential. Today, I’m guiding you through simple questions to help you notice your progress, understand what supported your creativity, and set grounded intentions for the year ahead.You’ll hear why even the smallest wins matter, how to evaluate what worked (and what didn’t), and why your next step for 2026 doesn’t need to be a giant goal—it just needs to be doable. I’m also sharing how focusing on consistent action, not perfect plans, helped me publish my seventh novel this year. No matter how your 2025 unfolded, there’s something here to celebrate… and so much possibility waiting for you in 2026.Want accountability and a clear plan to finish your book next year? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book⁠⁠Check out my new novel! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2L9XCS6

This week’s episode is a short, cozy reminder that you’re allowed to slow down. The holidays are full and emotional—especially for moms—and if your writing has taken a back seat, you haven’t failed. In this episode, I’m offering you a permission slip: it’s okay to rest, it’s okay to prioritize family and celebration, and it’s okay if your creativity looks quieter this season.You’ll hear encouragement for navigating guilt, tiny ways to stay connected to your book if you want to, and why stepping away for a week (or even a month) won’t undo your momentum. Your writing will be there in January—and you’re still a writer, no matter how much you did or didn’t get done this month.If you want 2026 to be the year you finally finish your novel, let’s talk. Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book⁠⁠Check out my new novel! ⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2L9XCS6

This week I’m giving you a peek behind the curtain of my brand-new cozy mystery — not just what the book is about, but what it meant to write a novel across early motherhood, step away from it for years, and finally return to finish it.I’m sharing how this story began, why becoming a mom shifted my creative direction, how I rediscovered the pull of these characters, and what it was really like to refine a book I drafted before my son was born. You’ll hear about letting go of deadlines, trusting slow progress, and following your creativity even when it takes unexpected detours.If you’re a mom who worries that stepping away means you’ll never finish your book, I hope this episode shows you what’s possible when you listen to your creative instincts — and come back when you’re ready.Ready for support finishing your novel? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book⁠Check out my new book! ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2L9XCS6

Publishing my seventh book this week felt completely different from every book before it—and in the best way. In this episode, I’m sharing what I learned about creativity, persistence, and identity after writing and publishing my first book as a mom. We’ll talk about following your true creative pull (even when it means taking a big detour), why letting go of deadlines actually helped me finish, and how publishing feels steadier and more joyful now that I trust myself and the long game of indie publishing.If you’re writing through a full, messy, beautiful season of life—or trying to find your way back to your book—you’ll hear why your creative dreams are still very much possible, even if your timeline looks different than it used to.Ready for support as you work toward your next finished book? Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book⁠Check out my new book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2L9XCS6

Every writer goes through identity shifts: the quiet dreaming stage, the moment you finally call yourself a writer, and the leap to sharing your words as an author. In this episode, I’m breaking down what each stage looks like, why the transitions can feel so uncomfortable, and how to know which one you’re in right now.I’ll share how fear and doubt kept me stuck in the “wannabe” stage for years, what changed when I started writing my cozy mystery series, and how publishing my first book transformed the way I saw myself. Whether you’re still writing in secret or ready to own your voice publicly, this conversation will help you see that every stage counts, and that you’re closer than you think to stepping into your next one.Ready to step into your writer identity with confidence? Book a free consultation to get support: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Perfect writing routines look great on paper, but they rarely survive real life. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to create a "good enough" writing routine that actually lasts: one that bends with you through busy seasons, shifting nap schedules, and energy slumps. I’ll share how my own routine evolved from pre-mom life to now, why flexibility is the secret to consistency, and what makes a routine sustainable long-term.You’ll learn how to anchor your writing to everyday rhythms, reset after a break without shame, and design a process that keeps you coming back to the page. Because a “good enough” routine isn’t settling—it’s what makes writing possible.Ready to build a routine that feels doable (and doesn’t collapse when life gets busy)? Book a free consultation to design yours: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Finishing six cozy mysteries didn’t happen because I had endless time or perfect motivation; it happened because writing a series forced me to build real, steady persistence. In this episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes truth about what it took to keep going from Book 1 all the way to Book 6: navigating new challenges with each story, moving through the murky middle when doubt crept in, and learning to trust myself even when a draft felt messy or confusing.You’ll hear what helped me push through the hard parts, why persistence is a skill (not a personality trait), and how finishing even one book can change your confidence as a writer. If you’ve ever wondered whether you have what it takes to stick with your novel, this episode will help you see what’s possible for you too.If you want persistence but keep stalling out, let’s talk. Book a free consultation to create your writing momentum: https://calendly.com/joseesmith/bookAnd if you like cozy mysteries, check out the series on Amazon!

That pang of guilt when you sit down to write? You’re not alone.In this episode, I’m sharing how to handle the guilt that can show up when you make time for your writing: why it’s normal, what it really means, and how to reframe it so it doesn’t stop you from writing your novel. You’ll learn simple strategies for quieting guilt in the moment, longer-term mindset shifts to keep you aligned with your “why,” and real examples from my life and clients who’ve learned to write without the guilt winning.Because writing isn’t taking away from your family -- it’s helping you show up as your full self.If guilt is stealing your joy in writing, let’s talk. Book a free consultation to find your rhythm again: calendly.com/joseesmith/book

You don’t need a book deal, an agent, or a bestseller list to call yourself a writer.In this episode, we’re talking about what really makes you a writer, and why waiting for external validation keeps you stuck. I’ll share how self-publishing helped me stop waiting for permission, why perfectionism is just another form of fear, and how claiming your writer identity right now changes everything about how you show up for your creative work.Because writers don’t become writers when they’re published—they become writers when they write.Ready to stop waiting for “someday”? Join my November 8 workshop: Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!)And if you’re ready for personalized support, book your free consultation here: calendly.com/joseesmith/book

Think you don’t have time to write? You’re probably falling into one of these traps.In this episode, I’m sharing the three biggest time traps that keep moms from writing, and what to do instead.You’ll hear real examples from my own writing life and learn how to create consistent time for your novel (even with kids, chores, and chaos).Don’t miss my November 8 workshop: Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!)And if you’re tired of feeling “too busy” to write, coaching can help you find your flow again. Book a free consultation at https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book.

I’ve written and published six cozy mysteries... but I didn’t get everything right the first time.In this episode, I share the biggest mistakes I made while writing my first series (and what I’d do differently now). From not planning the series arc clearly enough, to doubting my messy drafts, to relying too much on other people’s advice -- I’m breaking down what I learned and how you can avoid the same pitfalls.If you’re scared of “messing up” your novel, this one will help you see mistakes as experiments, not failures.Join my November 8 workshop: Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!)And if you want guidance and accountability to finish your book with more confidence, then book a free consultation at https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking time to write, this episode is for you.We’re unpacking why writing can feel “selfish” for moms, and why it’s actually one of the most generous things you can do -- for yourself & your family. I’ll share what happened when I felt mom guilt during a writing retreat, how I reframed writing as care instead of indulgence, and simple ways to start writing again without the guilt overpowering you.Your stories matter, and making time for them isn’t taking away from your family. It’s showing up more fully for them.Join my November 8 workshop: Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!)And if you want help building a writing practice that fits your life, book a free consultation at https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book.

Why is it so hard to say the words, “I’m a writer”? Because labels shape identity - and once you say it out loud, you’re accountable to it.In this episode, I dig into why claiming the title feels so vulnerable, especially for moms. From cultural narratives that minimize creative work to the risk of judgment when you’re unpublished, fear is normal. But fear also means you care.I’ll share the story of my own hesitation to call myself a writer, and how finally saying it out loud shifted everything. Plus, you’ll hear encouragement to practice claiming the identity in low-stakes ways so you can start believing it for yourself.Join my upcoming workshop: Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!). Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/SQB7g75-Sa2TYHgEAo5IJgIf calling yourself a writer feels scary but you know it’s the truth, coaching can help you step into that identity with confidence. Book a free consultation at https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book.

Most moms are writing tired. If you wait until you’re well-rested, your novel will never get written.In this episode, I share practical ways to keep writing even when your energy is low. From micro-commitments (like one sentence or five minutes) to reframing what progress really looks like, you’ll hear how small, messy steps still build momentum. I’ll also talk about how I drafted a novel in three months by starting with short, doable sessions and slowly building up consistency.If you’ve ever thought, “My brain doesn’t work when I’m tired,” I’ll help you see that tired writing still counts, and that it’s proof of resilience, not failure.Join my upcoming workshop on November 8, Finally Write Your Novel: Build a Creative Practice That Sticks (Even as a Busy Mom!). Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/SQB7g75-Sa2TYHgEAo5IJgIf you’re exhausted but still want to see your novel take shape, coaching can help you find the simplest path forward. Book a free consultation at https://calendly.com/joseesmith/book.