EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever struggled to finish your manuscript? Do you have several writing projects languishing unfinished? Check out... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing a novel isn't easy; we all know that. But which part of your novel do you typically... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES To all you published authors, do you read reviews left for your books? Today, we share our own... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES We've all heard of the cozy mystery genre, but did you know there's at least two more? One... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES When writing a book, it can be fun to keep track of the journey along the way. In... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's no secret Ari and Rachel love using Scrivener for their creative writing projects. This week, they decide... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Today we are discussing some of the advice we've seen floating around that is written almost as gospel,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES As readers, one of the best ways to support authors is to leave a review of their book... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you worry your story is not exciting enough? Depending on what you write and how you want... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In episode 217, we talked about what you should consider when agreeing to be a beta reader. We... more

Have you considered hosting guests on your blog? There are some benefits to doing this and that's what we are... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES I get it! It's a Monday and suddenly something pops up from The Merry Writer Podcast. This is a... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever wondered what it's like to set up an in-person book tour event? Have you thought... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES We are talking about marketing today and discussing the possibilities of using Influencers for book marketing, including things... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Things don't always go as planned and that includes your writing career. Your wants and desires might have... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Today we are talking about quitting (nope, we are not quitting writing!) But we wanted to give some... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever thought about going to school for creative writing? This week, Jason Harris joins us to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Today is all about regrets! We do love to pick some cheery topics. We each share our main... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you cracked the code to streamline your writing process? How about your author business? Or simply writing... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Let's get a little spicy! This week, we are sharing thoughts on adding spice to a story. In this... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writer's block is something all us writers are familiar with. Some days are easier than others, but for... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Some days, everything is annoying so we can fall back to the comfort and joy of books. But,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES No matter how many years you've been writing, there's always something new to learn. However, we can easily... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Can a deconstructed story help your own writing? In today's episode, we discuss how and why you might... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Whether you outline or plan your books or not, mind mapping is an excellent way to keep track... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you suffer from anxiety? Worried about how it might impact your writing career and not sure how... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES If you're listening to this podcast, then you're probably an avid reader. But how do you typically keep... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever received a Positive Read of your manuscript? Not sure why you might want one, check... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Character development isn't always easy. That's why we deep dive into various ways writers can get to know... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES There are many uses for writing, it doesn't always have to be about writing novels. Today, we are... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES The writing doesn’t end after the first draft! Before you send your manuscript to beta readers and editors,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week we are all about beta reading! Are you considering being a beta? Want to make the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Regardless of whether you're a planner or pantser, do you keep track of your characters? Do you create... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever written short-form stories? If you haven't then this episode might just be for you! As always,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you tried your hand at writing middle grade but struggled making the characters come to life? Don't... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES So, just how long does it take to write a book? You know the answer, we know the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Last week, we talked about stretching your word count, but what if you go over your word count?... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Are you an underwriter? Do you often struggle to get your word count up? Then you might enjoy... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing for children is an art form all on its own. While it has the same pieces as... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you suffer from perfection? Is it hard to let your manuscript see the light of day because... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES If you're a writer, then you probably have a website, right? Right? And if you have a website, then... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In this week's episode, we (try) to discuss the difference between cliches and tropes. I say try, because... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES One big decision all writers face is the matter of publishing: traditional or self? It's not an easy... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Motivation can be pretty elusive and if you are hoping to find some behind the fridge, we can... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES When was the last time you went to your library? If it's been a couple of months, go... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Let's throw in a quick disclaimer - we are not talking about THAT kind of pleasure - this... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever wanted to dabble in different genres but have always been told to stick to one?... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In today's episode, we are digging into the idea of using Editing Checklists to make editing your manuscript... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Yay for 200 episodes! Thank you so much for always listening and supporting the podcast for 200 episodes.... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES What are your thoughts on dialogue? Can a novel have too much? That is today's topic Rachel and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES A new year means new goals! This week, Ari and Rachel talk about some ways you can create... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's a new year and you probably want to set off on the right foot this year. So... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Another successful podcast year is in the books! This week, we discuss some of our favorite episodes that... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES As the end of the year is in sight, we thought we'd do something a little different and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, Ari and Rachel decided it would be fun to discuss if they've seen their story ideas... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, Wilmar Luna is back on the show with Ari and Rachel to discuss building a horror... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's not always easy to end you novel. Sometimes we have an idea of how they'll end and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Info dumping can really slow down the pace of your story, can annoy many readers and even have... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's no secret that authors need a website, but where do you start? You can hire someone to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Want to get your books written faster? Increasing your writing or typing speed can definitely help. This week,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you been planning a novel series? Or maybe you're ready to share it with the world but... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES For some, story ideas can be hard to come by. For others, story ideas are everywhere. For everyone,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES When it comes to writing, practice makes perfect. Everyone has a story to tell and the way you... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you write with multiple characters? Worried you might be slipping into the wrong character's head in the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, Ari is joined by author AJ Alexander who discusses the health issues that writers can face... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In today's episode, Ari and Rachel are talking all about conflict!   This week, we cover: Character vs Character Character vs... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES We all know that writing isn't an easy task. A great way to be consistent with it is... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's time to talk about formatting. It's not always fun but is it an important part of your... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you sometimes struggle with your ADHD and motivation when you're writing? Are you having trouble finding a... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Are you considering how to outline your novel? Whether you used to be a pantser or you have... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Middle grade novels are the link between early readers and kids continuing their reading journey to YA and... more

**QUICK NOTE** Apologies for some of the sound quality, I had some issues with my microphone EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you want... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES It's so easy to get wrapped up in the numbers rather than the quality of your work. This... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In today's episode, Ari and Rachel are joined by author Kyle Robertson to discuss the importance of perseverance... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever seen people writing or drawing inside the books they read? They're annotating their books to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Not all metrics are the same, especially when it comes to social media metrics. Knowing what's important and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing doesn't always have to be creative or academic. It comes in many shapes and forms and therapeutic... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Just how useful is social media for writers?  Have you found yourself wondering if it was even worth... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES We all need to do research for our novels. Some research is tedious but some is fun and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you have several books out or do you plan to write and publish more than one book?... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you create character profiles? How in-depth do you go? How well do you know your protagonist? This... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES What makes a good antagonist? Does your story need an antagonist?  Justine Manzano joins Ari and Rachel to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever thought about where your published book will be one, five, or even ten years from... more

This week Ari and Rachel are discussing when it might be time to let go of a story idea.   In this... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you been torn between self-publishing and traditional publishing? We've all been there. There's a lot of decision... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week Ari and Rachel are looking at Writing and Life balance. We all want it but can... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever tried writing a screenplay before? Have you thought of turning it into a novel or... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week Ari and Rachel are discussing the four types of stories.  Where does your story fall within... more

Edit: Sorry, I ended up deleting this episode. I have re-added it today.   EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week, Ari and Rachel discuss... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In today's episode, we are looking at all those bad ideas we have and why we shouldn't just... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing a novel can be confusing, especially if you're juggling multiple story arcs in one story. Luckily, Troy... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In today's episode, we are talking about foreshadowing, what it is, how it works and why you might... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week, Ari and Rachel discuss ways to set aside money for publishing your novel. They also discuss... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Today is all about Deus Ex Machina, what it is, why it's bad and how to avoid it! ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever gotten stuck on your novel before? Outlining is a great way to around that. However,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In today's episode, we discuss the frustrating "As You Know, Bob" trope, why we don't like it and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you tried submitting a piece of writing before and encountered a word you didn't know? This week,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Today we are talking all about habits and why making writing a habit can be quite difficult for... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Are you releasing a debut novel? Are you working on a new project and want to spread the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Let's talk about procrastination!  That weird urge to delay a task rather than just working on it.  This... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Some books are broken up into chapters. Others have parts. Some have prologues at the beginning, and others... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Social media is very much in our lives now, but does it have some negative effects and should... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   If you're a writer, then you know writing a novel has multiple stages. It seems like a simple... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Happy New Year!  We are now in 2023 and we thought we'd start the year talking about our... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   It's the end of 2022! This week, Ari and Rachel decided to share bloopers from this year's episodes.... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   So today's episode is all about pacing in a novel, things we recommend regarding pacing, things we aren't... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   If you're a reader, then you probably write book reviews... right? With 2022 coming to an end and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   As the year starts to draw to a close, Ari and Rachel are back with another fun episode... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Description can be tricky in writing sometimes. If you ever feel stuck, think of the five senses. We... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   With Christmas not too far away, people are turning their thoughts to gifts.  So today, Ari and Rachel... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Auditing is a scary word, but it's easier than it seems. As with all businesses, you should audit... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In today's episode, Rachel and Ari discuss some of their favourite writing (and writer) programs that they've found... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you decided to get traditionally published and don't know how to start pitching your novel? Or maybe... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you know the best time to write?  Today, Rachel and Ari discuss finding the best time to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   As writers, we can get stuck in many places when it comes to writing your novel. The first... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Are you setting up a dedicated writing space?  What are some things you might want to include?  Ari... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever thought of becoming an audiobook narrator but didn't know where to start? Luckily, audiobook narrator, Rachel... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Writing a book is awesome but it can also be stressful, so can editing, marketing and publishing!  So... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Self-publishing can cost more than you think. And, as the author, you have to be responsible for all... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Finding time to write can be hard, so what can you do to protect that writing time you've... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you love writing but have a hard time talking about it? Promoting your book can be difficult... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you lost your love of writing?  Is your manuscript getting your down?  Considering throwing in the towel? ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you had some rough mental health days where you seem like you can't write or do anything... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Let's talk about all those old stories and ideas you have tucked away.  Or maybe you don't keep... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you know who your target audience is for your book? How do you begin to figure it... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever considered collaborating with another author?  If so, then check out today's episode where author Morgan... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you have your author bio written yet? How about a few different versions of it? This week, Ari... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Marketing may not be everyone's favourite thing to do, but there are strategies that can put you on... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you know the difference between self-publishing your book yourself or going through a vanity press? This week, Ari... more

Are you writing a series but aren't sure how to start?  Then check out today's episode where author Helen Scheuerer... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you know what a book publicist is? Do you know how they can help you as an... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever created an Ideal Reader?  This is a specific marketing technique and in today's episode it's... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever tried writing diverse characters and didn't know where to start? Or maybe you want to... more

QUICK NOTE: Apologies for the sound quality at the start, I was having issues with my mic.  It does get... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Are you interested in being a fantasy author?  This week, author I. L. Cruz joins Ari to discuss... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Today, we discuss the concept of adding pictures to your novel and the different forms these can take. ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever come across a secondary character in your novel that doesn't need to be there? Or... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   When you have finished your manuscript, is it a good idea to let family and close friends read... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever thought about writing craft books? Or do you read them and haven't quite found the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   We are back with a Marketing episode today, when we ask "Should You Offer Your Books For Free?" ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Writing can be a lonely job and there are many other writers who have similar setbacks with their... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you find yourself getting tired throughout the day, and struggling to make good decisions?  You might be... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever thought about writing a series of books but thought it might be too daunting to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Today on the show we are going through the different things you should and could include in your... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you get distracted while you're trying to write? There could be a few reasons for that whether... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you prefer chapter numbers or chapter titles?  Today we discuss giving your chapters titles and why some... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Deadlines... we either love them, hate them, or wave to them as they whoosh by. Do you set... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Not always an easy topic, but today we are looking at the concept of Trigger Warnings in novels. ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Can you believe The Merry Writer Podcast has reached 100 episodes? We truly appreciate all the shares, listens,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   As we teeter on the cusp of triple digits for our episodes, we decided to discuss some tips... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever been stuck on writing descriptions in your novels? Maybe you info-dump or don't add enough?   In... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you want to try something different for 2022?  Then how about writing contests?  Don't worry, Rachel and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   When you first begin to write, it's typical to see what others do and you try to get... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Today we are discussing whether writers should share their writing journey with the world and what might the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Hey, everyone! Are you prepping to launch your debut novel in 2022 but don't know where to start?... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   We are finally in 2022 and in our first episode of the year, we are laying out our... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Another year has come and gone! Listen to our many screw-ups from 2021. As always, thanks for listening and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES As Christmas is approaching we decided we would do another round of Would You Rather, "Christmas Edition".  Play... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Get to know more about the host of The Merry Writer Podcast, Ari Meghlen! In this week's episode,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   As we are heading towards the end of the year, we decided to do something a little different. ... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you want to write science fiction, but don't know what to include? Maybe you don't want to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   We are back with another character-drive episode, today we discuss the issues of creating Mary Sue characters and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   How do you continue writing your novels? Do you sit down and type? Or do you have writing... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   If you caught last week's show where writer Tobias Salem joined the show to discuss world-building, you might... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Writers, have you ever considered worldbuilding? Then certainly give this episode a listen!   This week, Ari and Rachel talk... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever suffered from imposter syndrome? Or maybe you don't and haven't realised it? In today's episode... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Depending on the genre you're writing, research has to be done. It doesn't matter if you're writing fiction... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week, Ari and Rachel discuss characters and their different motivations and how these motivations can affect your... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Writers, have you ever considered writing science fiction? Then certainly give this episode a listen!   This week, Ari and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Is your plan to make writing a career? Do you want to take your writing more seriously? Then... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   There are many things you can include in your author newsletter and yet, we sometimes run out of... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Want to try writing a larger cast of characters?  Feel like a singular main character just isn't enough... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you have a ton of writing projects that you don't know what to do with? Or maybe... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, author Chris Harvey joins Ari and Rachel, and shares this thoughts and experiences with using the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   The first draft is always the messiest. Therefore, editing the first draft is always the hardest. This week,... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Your mindset can play a big part in your writing journey, so in today's episode we look at... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you have a large cast of characters that you don't know what to do with? Or maybe... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Writers, have you ever considered writing historical fiction? Then this is the episode for you, today Ari is... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, we're doing another round of Would You Rather, but reading-related questions this time.   We hope you enjoy... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week we are all about working from home and finding that balance between working and writing efficiently... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week, we're diving deep into the different types of editing. What they are, what they mean, and... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you shudder at the very idea of marketing? Is it the part of all this writing biz... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you drift off into la-la land in the middle of a writing session? Do you need to... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES What do you do when faced with criticism? As writers, criticism is part of the package but we... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you compare yourself to other writers? Are you your own worst critic? This week, Ari and Rachel discuss... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES On today's episode we decided to discuss Hobby Writing and Professional Writing! Which do you do?   Support the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever wanted to publish an audiobook version of your stories but never knew how to go... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you have a dedicated writing space? Do you think they can help make you move productive or... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever forgotten to take a shower for a few days? Or maybe you forgot to leave... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, we are talking about writing reviews on books.  As writers we need reviews, so it's important... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever gotten the dreaded one-star review on your book? Guess what? There's nothing to be worried... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Yesterday was Tell A Story Day, so with that as inspiration, we decided to discuss our favourite childhood... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week, we're sharing our stories about how we started writing. Let us know what you think on... more

This week on the podcast we are talking all about book covers and why they are so important. As the... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In this week's epsiode, Ari is joined by special guest, Kim Golden, where they discuss all things about... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In honour of International Women's Day (that was this month, March 8th... yes we know we're late, we... more

Characters are the heart of every novel, so this week's we discuss a way you can keep track of their... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing is a constant learning game, and no matter what stage of the journey you are at there... more

The podcast is almost a year old and the Twitter hashtag game turns 3-years-old this year. It's crazy how time... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Have you ever been interested in running an Anthology? Want to get the scoop on what is involved... more

Which social media platform do you think is the best for writers? This week, we compare Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest... more

Writing a novel is hard, so do you jump in at the beginning and keep to the path or do... more

We decided to do another tag this week with Valentine's Day around the corner! We did our best to keep... more

We are all about the names today!  As writers, we need to come up with a lot of names -... more

Inspiration is all around us in people, places, and things in real life and even in our own imagination. This... more

Being on social media is one way to connect with your audience and potential readers, but how do you build... more

Hey, everyone! Welcome to episode 042 where we discuss how to overcome roadblocks when writing your novels. Thanks to Marty... more

We have officially said goodbye (and good riddance) to 2020 and are jumping straight into 2021 with enthusiam and motivation. ... more

2020 is coming to an end. We've had a lot of fun with this podcast and the support has been... more

Since we are only 2 days from Christmas, we decided to so something a little different.  Welcome to our Christmas... more

Do you know your way around the book marketing world? This week, we discuss how marketing is always changing and... more

What part of your novel gets you excited to write?  Do you love fight scenes or love scenes? What about... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Hey, everyone! How do you go about writing your novels? Do you type on the computer or a... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you sometimes get gripped with the fear of failure?  Does it stop you in your tracks?  You... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In this week's episode, we're honoring "International Men's Day" (which is November 19th) by discussing how to write... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Have you ever experienced Creative Constipation - otherwise known as Writers' Block? Almost every writer get's hit back... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In this week's episode of The Merry Writer Podcast, we are joined by our good friend and fellow... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   Do you often feel overwhelmed with story ideas?  Are you sometimes caught with indecision as to which one... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   In this week's episode we did something different! We played a fun round of "Would You Rather?" Listen... more

EPISODE SHOW NOTES   This week's episode we decided to discuss Productivity, specifically the method of "Blocking".  Listen in to our thoughts... more