PODCAST · arts
Way-Word Writers Podcast
by Conquer Your Path
A publishing podcast for every writer, illuminating the publishing industry with episodes focused on craft, marketing, business, and mental health for writers of all experience levels. waywordwriters.substack.com
Episodes
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EPISODE 112: Writing Heart-Led Children’s Biographies with Nancy Churnin
Way-Word Writers hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome award-winning children’s nonfiction author Nancy Churnin, known for inspiring stories about real people who changed the world. Churnin shares how a Dallas Morning News article about deaf baseball player…
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EPISODE 111: Writing in the Dark: Jeannine Ouellette on Uncertainty, Slow Language, and Writing as a Path of Becoming
Way-Word Writers hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce their mission and welcome guest Janine Ouellette, author of the lyric memoir The Part That Burns and creator of the Substack Writing in the Dark, who teaches writing through the Minnesota Prison Writing...
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EPISODE 110: Inside Today’s Cookbook Market with Agent Sally Ekus
Way-Word Writers cohosts (Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer) welcome senior literary agent Sally Ekus of the Jean V. Naggar Literary Agency’s Ekus Group to discuss the current cookbook market and how cookbooks remain viable alongside online recipes. Ekus explains how food...
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EPISODE 109: Grammar as a Craft Choice with Patty McGee
Hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome nationally recognized grammar expert Patty McGee, author of “Feedback That Moves Writers Forward” and “Not Your Granny’s Grammar,” to discuss grammar as a tool for clarity, intention, and voice rather than rigid rules. McGee...
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EPISODE 108: The Art of Line Editing: Elevating Character and Plot with Author Jennifer Gennari
In this episode of Wayward Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author Jennifer Gennari to discuss the intricacies of line editing and its importance in the writing process. Jennifer talks about her journey as a writer and editor, shares her approach to...
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EPISODE 107: Summit Club Workshops--Coming to Way-Word Writers
Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce Way-Word Writers’ new Substack offerings to support writers across genres and career stages with actionable resources. They describe two paid tiers: the $50/year Trailblazer Tier featuring craft, marketing, and business…
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Tackling Time Management & Writing Goals
Feel like you don’t have enough hours in the day? Writing goals not being met like you hoped? Nicki Jacobsmeyer, author and business professional, explores different time management strategies and goal setting that work for your life and make you more intentional. Determine where you’re currently...
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EPISODE 106: Kickstarter Campaigns & Author Partnering with Christina Boufis and Victoria Olsen
On this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer talk with longtime collaborators Christina Boufis (fiction/nonfiction author and author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Nonfiction) and Victoria Olson (author of biography, fiction, and...
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EPISODE 105: Layered Themes & Hooks in Picture Books with Chloe Ito Ward
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer interview Chloe Ito Ward, a Japanese American children’s author with a background in education. They discuss Chloe’s new and upcoming books, the thematic elements in her writing, and the…
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SPECIAL EPISODE: Navigating the Creative Journey: Way-Word Writers' 2026 Goals and Changes
In this episode of the Way-Word Writers Podcast, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer share updates on their current writing projects and discuss the exciting changes in their creative journeys as they step into 2026. They open up about their writing seasons, upcoming...
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EPISODE 104: Writing Later-In-Life Romances with Author Julie Berman
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author Julie Berman to discuss her journey of writing later-in-life romances. They delve into Julie's transition from speech-language pathology to author, her latest book 'Elsie's New...
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EPISODE 103: Creativity & Caregiving: Nurturing Your Passion While Supporting Loved Ones
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the unique challenges of balancing writing with caregiving responsibilities. Each shares personal experiences as caregivers and writers, offering valuable insights and practical advice on...
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EPISODE 102: Creating Community Through Writing Contests with Kaitlyn Sanchez
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Kaitlyn Sanchez, an agent at Bradford Literary, joins to discuss her journey with writing contests, community building, her roles as an editorial agent, and the impact of her contests on writers’ careers. And if you’d like a bit more of Heather’s thoughts…
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EPISODE 101: Mastering Submission Strategies with Harold Underdown
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Harold Underdown, a seasoned editor and consultant, to discuss effective submission strategies for writers. Harold shares insights on common submission missteps, how to test editor…
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Reflecting on 2025 and Embracing the Future
In this episode of Wayward Writers Podcast, Stephanie Bearce and co-hosts Nicki and Heather reflect on the milestones and personal victories of 2025. They discuss their memorable 100th episode, successful retreats, heartwarming interactions with podcast guests, and individual creative…
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EPISODE 100: Exploring the Art of Essay Writing with Author and Editor Melissa Helton
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Melissa Helton, a literary arts director and published author. Melissa shares her writing journey, discusses her approach to essay writing, and offers insights into maintaining authenticity...
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EPISODE 99: Genre Hopping and Author Branding with Agent & Author Eric Smith (Rocks!)
You can find more about this topic and the risks and rewards of genre hopping in our article EPISODE 99 DEEP DIVE: Genre Hopping Risks and Gains In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by special guest Eric Smith, an...
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EPISODE 98: I’ve Got A Book Offer, NOW WHAT?
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the critical steps and considerations for authors who receive a book offer. They emphasize the importance of celebrating the offer, taking time to review the contract, and asking the right...
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EPISODE 97: Creative Constraints and Killer Twists: Jenna Satterthwaite on Genre-Blending Success
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by Jenna Satterthwaite, a literary agent and author. The discussion revolves around Jenna’s journey in publishing, her experiences writing in multiple genres, and her insights on market...
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EPISODE 96: From First Draft to Final Say With Editor & Author Deborah Halverson
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with acclaimed author and editor Debra Halverson to discuss the nuances of revising a manuscript from the first draft to the final product. They explore the often overlooked layers of…
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EPISODE 95: Exploring the Essence of Voice in Writing with Macmillan Editor Kortney Nash
To read more about voice, see our DEEP DIVE: Expanding on the Essence of Voice post HERE! In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and author and writing coach Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the nuances of ‘voice’ in writing with special guest Kortney Nash, an…
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EPISODE 94: Unlocking the Power of Libraries for Writers with Author & Librarian Donna Mork Reed
This episode has a post that shares an interview with Donna Mork Reed as well as the resources that we mention on the podcast. You can find that here: EPISODE 94: Unlocking the Power of Libraries for Writers with Author & Librarian Donna Mork Reed In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts…
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EPISODE 93: My Writing-Life Plans Failed: NOW WHAT?
In this episode of Way-WordWriters, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges writers face when life disrupts their plans. They explore strategies to keep writing amidst such disruptions, including adjusting goals, shifting...
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EPISODE 92: Mastering Beta Readers with Author Cherie Postal
For a deeper dive into creating a win-win scenario for you and your beta readers, see the EPISODE 92 DEEP DIVE article here! In this episode of ‘Way-Word Writers,’ hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome guest Cherie Postill to discuss training beta readers and...
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EPISODE 91: Finding Your Perfect Match with HarperCollins Editor (and Author) Sara Schonfeld
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Sara Schonfeld, a senior editor at Harper Collins, to discuss the parallels between publishing and dating. Sara delves into her process of finding ‘the one’ manuscript, what she looks...
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EPISODE 90: I'm Going to Acquisitions: NOW WHAT?
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, delve into the intricacies of the acquisitions process in book publishing. They discuss the steps involved, the role of editors, and the potential outcomes when…
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EPISODE 89: Passion to Pressure: Breaking Out & Managing Creativity with NYT Bestselling Author Marc J Gregson
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome New York Times bestselling author Marc J Gregson. They discuss Marc's journey from an aspiring writer to a successful author, offering insights on balancing a creative passion with the...
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EPISODE 88: Author Mandi Fugate Sheffel On Writing & Publishing with a University Press
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, literary agent Heather Cashman and authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome author and indie bookstore owner Mandi Fugate Sheffel. Discussing her journey from discovering her passion for writing at the Appalachian Writer's Workshop to publishing...
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EPISODE 87: The Art of Writing Young Adult with Bloomsbury Author Michelle I. Mason
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, the hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Michelle I. Mason, author of Your Life Has Been Delayed, to discuss writing young adult (YA) fiction. The conversation explores Michelle's background in public relations, her transition...
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EPISODE 86: I'm In The Murky Middle, NOW WHAT?
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the challenges and solutions for tackling the 'murky middle' of a manuscript. They cover the importance of maintaining momentum, avoiding plot distractions, and ensuring character development...
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EPISODE 85: A Discussion About POV with Macmillan Editor Emily Settle
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Emily Settle, an editor from Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan), to discuss the nuances of point of view in writing. They explore whether third-person POV is disappearing, the challenges and...
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EPISODE 84: Pursuing an MFA: A Conversation with Michelle Collins Anderson
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer engage in a compelling conversation with author Michelle Collins Anderson about her journey through an MFA program. The discussion covers Michelle's background, the influence of her roots on her...
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EPISODE 83: Exploring the Art of Writing Westerns with Doug Osgood
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, authors Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome western author Doug Osgood to discuss the art of writing Westerns. Doug, a lover of Western storytelling, talks about his journey from reading to writing, the...
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EPISODE 82: Navigating Networking for Writers: Tips, Experiences, and Strategies
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the significance of networking in the writing and publishing industry. They outline what networking is, why it's essential, and offer practical tips for writers at all stages of their...
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EPISODE 82: Navigating Networking for Writers: Tips, Experiences, and Strategies
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the significance of networking in the writing and publishing industry. They outline what networking is, why it's essential, and offer practical tips for writers at all stages of their...
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EPISODE 81: Inside BookTok, Romantasy & Intersectionally Diverse Publishing with TOR Editor Aje Roberts
Send us a text In this Way-Word Writers episode, Senior Literary Agent Heather Cashman engages in an insightful conversation with Aje Roberts, a Senior Commissioning Editor at TOR Bramble, about the genre of Romantasy. They delve into her career journey, the emerging trends in Romantasy, the…
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EPISODE 80: PART 2: The Six P's of Well-Being in the Publishing Industry with Danielle Render Turmaud
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, literary agent and authors Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the six Ps of wellbeing in the publishing journey with special guest author and trauma therapist, Danielle Render Turmaud. They delve into topics such as...
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EPISODE 79: The Six P's of Well-Being in the Publishing Industry with Danielle Render Termeaud
Send us a text This episode of Wayward Writers features senior literary agent Heather Cashman, authors Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, and special guest Danielle Render Termeaud. The discussion focuses on the intersection between mental health and the writing journey. Danielle, a trauma...
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EPISODE 78: I've Signed With An Agent: NOW WHAT?
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, along with authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, discuss the exhilarating and often complex phase that follows signing with a literary agent. They emphasize the importance of...
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EPISODE 77: Nurturing Memoir Writing with Wendy Dale: Insights, Structure, and Emotional Resonance
Send us a text In this episode of Wayward Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Wendy Dale, an acclaimed author and memoir writing coach. Wendy discusses her journey into memoir writing, emphasizing the complexities and common pitfalls writers face. The...
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EPISODE 76: Mastering Author Branding and Platform Building with PR Strategist Gretchen Schafer and Author Nicole Meyer
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the key elements of author branding and platform building with special guests Nicole Meyer and Gretchen Schafer. Nicole and Gretchen, the brains behind 'Bookwork,' share…
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EPISODE 75: Surviving Conferences as an Introvert with the Way-Word Writers CoHosts
Send us a text OUR 75th EPISODE!!! In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss strategies for introverted writers to survive and thrive at writing conferences. The trio explores the differences between introverts and extroverts…
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EPISODE 74: Protecting Writers: Insights from Victoria Strauss of Writer Beware
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by Victoria Strauss, co-founder of Writer Beware. The discussion covers the origins and mission of Writer Beware, types of publishing scams they report on, common mistakes...
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EPISODE 73: The Literary AI Revolution: Navigating New Frontiers with the Way-Word Writers Co-Hosts
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer delve into the controversial and rapidly evolving topic of artificial intelligence (AI) in the writing and publishing industry. They discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of…
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EPISODE 72: Writing Different Age Categories and Characters with Author Leslie J. Wyatt: A Love Affair with Words
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome prolific writer Leslie J. Wyatt to discuss her extensive career. Leslie shares her journey from writing inspired by her mother to publishing romance and middle-grade…
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EPISODE 71: Cover Design, Marketing, and Advertising Insights from Successful Indie Author Jamie Dalton
Send us a text This episode features Jamie Dalton, a YA fantasy author and indie publisher, sharing her journey and strategies in handling the challenging balance of writing, parenting, and business responsibilities. Jamie delves into her writing routine, the evolution of her career, her approach...
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EPISODE 70: Character Backstory and Myth with Academic Turned Bestselling Author, Karen Odden
Send us a text In this episode of Wayward Writers, USA Today bestselling author Karen Odden joins the show to discuss her fascinating journey from academia to a successful career in historical fiction. Karen shares her background, the inspiration behind her novels, her research process, and the...
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EPISODE 69: From Advertising to Aliens: Author Zach Von Zonk Reveals Insights on How to Captivate Your Audience
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer interview Zach Von Zonk, a creative director and children's book author. They delve into Zach's background, including his debut book Old McDonald had a Farm, E-I-UFO and his…
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EPISODE 68: Writing Support Systems: Leveraging Critique Partners for Growth PART 2
Send us a text Navigating the World of Critique Groups and Partners In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent and author Heather Cashman, writing coach Stephanie Bearce, and author Nicki Jacobsmeyer continue their discussion on critique groups and critique partners. They delve…
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EPISODE 67: Writing Support Systems: Leveraging Critique Partners for Growth PART 1
Send us a text In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer discuss the important role critique partners and critique groups play in a writer's journey. They explain the differences between critique partners, critique groups, beta readers…
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Way-Word Writers Podcast have?
Way-Word Writers Podcast currently has 118 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Way-Word Writers Podcast about?
A publishing podcast for every writer, illuminating the publishing industry with episodes focused on craft, marketing, business, and mental health for writers of all experience levels. waywordwriters.substack.com
How often does Way-Word Writers Podcast release new episodes?
Way-Word Writers Podcast publishes regularly with 118 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Way-Word Writers Podcast?
You can listen to Way-Word Writers Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Way-Word Writers Podcast?
Way-Word Writers Podcast is created and hosted by Conquer Your Path.
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