Episodes

Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
What Should Writers Discuss On Their Blog? | Ep. 208 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
If you're a writer, then you probably have a website, right? Right? And if you have a website, then you might also have a blog. A blog is a great way to keep your website looking active and updated. This week, Ari and Rachel discuss content writers can share on their blog.
In this episode, we cover:
- Types of blog posts
- Niche(s)
- Consistency
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
We are accepting guest applications for The Merry Writer Podcast! If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. Applications are still open, but we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snap up some goodies for as little as $1 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
What Is The Difference Between Cliches and Tropes? | Ep. 207 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
In this week's episode, we (try) to discuss the difference between cliches and tropes. I say try, because apparently it was a crazy day for both of us, so if you made it through to the end, good on yer!
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
Want to be a guest on The Merry Writer Podcast? If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
At the top of the FAQs Page will be the status as to whether the applications are currently open.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do so by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snapping up some goodies for just $2 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
One big decision all writers face is the matter of publishing: traditional or self? It's not an easy choice, which is why Ari and Rachel are joined on the podcast this week by Wendy Simpson who discusses what the traditional publishing industry is really like.
In this episode, we cover:
- The main benefits of traditional publishing
- Benefits of having an agent
- What control the author has
- A typical publishing timeframe
- Extras authors might not know about traditional publishing
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
ABOUT WENDY SIMPSON
Wendy has been writing since the age of five and finished her first novel at fourteen. Her debut novel Tinderbox and its sequel Tarotmancer are available both in-store and online. Tinderbox made the Top 100 on the Amazon Best Sellers List in Black &African American Fantasy Fiction and is the 2022 GOLD Winner for Fantasy Foreword Reviews Indie Award. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, working in her garden, or gaming and streaming on Twitch under the handle Runic Nightshade. She shares her home with her older brother and two diva cats.
Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
We are accepting guest applications for The Merry Writer Podcast! If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. Applications are still open, but we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snap up some goodies for as little as $1 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
How Can You Motivate Yourself to Write? | Ep. 205 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
Motivation can be pretty elusive and if you are hoping to find some behind the fridge, we can guarantee it's not hiding there. If you struggle with feeling motivated to write, then check out today's episode.
What we cover:
- Give yourself cues
- Know what comes next
- Think small
- Spark some joy
- Use what inspires you
- Get a positive read
- Step away from social media
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. If you still feel like you’re a good fit for the show after reading the FAQs, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. The form is still open for 2025, but we may take a while to get back to you. Please know we have your application on file. Thank you for your patience.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do so by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snapping up some goodies for just $2 a month!
Share
If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to share our episodes on social media, follow the podcast, and engage in the comments.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of incompetech – Music and also Graph Paper | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
How Can You Utilize Your Local Library As A Writer? | Ep. 204 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
When was the last time you went to your library? If it's been a couple of months, go ahead and plan a trip there. Libraries are useful for everyone for a number of reasons, but writers can get a lot out of it. This week, Ari and Rachel discuss how writers can use their local libraries.
In this episode, we cover:
- The library environment
- Events from the library
- Research
- Writing routine
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
We are accepting guest applications for The Merry Writer Podcast! If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. Applications are still open, but we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snap up some goodies for as little as $1 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
How Important Is Reading For Pleasure? | Ep. 203 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
Let's throw in a quick disclaimer - we are not talking about THAT kind of pleasure - this episode topic is NOT about reading erotica. So get your mind out of the gutter! :p
In today's show, we are talking about reading for fun and touch on why some readers may not be doing that as much as well as why it's important to take the time to read just for the pleasure of it. Not sure what we're talking about? No problem, just give it a listen :)
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. If you still feel like you’re a good fit for the show after reading the FAQs, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. The form is still open for 2025, but we may take a while to get back to you. Please know we have your application on file. Thank you for your patience.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do so by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snapping up some goodies for just $2 a month!
Share
If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to share our episodes on social media, follow the podcast, and engage in the comments.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
Have you ever wanted to dabble in different genres but have always been told to stick to one? Sometimes, you need to branch out and do what makes you happy. This week, Ari and Rachel are joined by Chyina Powell to discuss why writing in multiple genres is a great idea.
In this episode, we cover:
- The benefits for writers
- The benefits for readers
- Thoughts on pen names
- Thoughts on author branding
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
ABOUT CHYINA POWELL
Chyina Powell is a multi-genre author as well as a freelance editor at Powell Editorial as well as the founder of the nonprofit organization, The Women of Color Writers' Circle which offers a safe space for women of color to hone their craft.
In her free time, she can be found reading speculative fiction, drinking tea or working on her own manuscripts. She also enjoys crafting bookish gifts from time to time!
Website | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
We are accepting guest applications for The Merry Writer Podcast! If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. Applications are still open, but we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snap up some goodies for as little as $1 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Do You Need An Editing Checklist? | Ep.201 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
In today's episode, we are digging into the idea of using Editing Checklists to make editing your manuscript a little more efficient!
In this episode, we cover:
- Names
- Repeating Words
- Dialogue Tags
- POV
- Chapters
- Character Balance
- Senses
- Inconsistencies
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
Resources
K.M. Allan's Writing Checklists
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, we are almost full for 2024 guests. You can still fill in an application for 2025, however, it might be a while before we get back to you. Please be patient.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do so by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snapping up some goodies for as little as $2 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Answering Rapid Fire Questions | Ep. 200 | The Merry Writer Podcast
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
Yay for 200 episodes! Thank you so much for always listening and supporting the podcast for 200 episodes. We truly appreciate it.
This week, Ari and Rachel answer rapid fire questions (not so rapidly) about reading and writing.
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
We are accepting guest applications for The Merry Writer Podcast! If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, our guest slots for 2024 are almost filled. Applications are still open, but we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snap up some goodies for as little as $1 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr

Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Can You Have Too Much Dialogue In A Novel? | Ep. 199 | The Merry Writer
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
EPISODE SHOW NOTES
What are your thoughts on dialogue? Can a novel have too much? That is today's topic Rachel and I discuss.
In this episode, we cover:
- Our thoughts on too much dialogue
- How to achieve more of a balance in your writing
As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below.
WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW?
If you would like to be considered, please take the time to read our FAQs Page. Once you've read everything, please fill in the Google Form linked on that page if you feel you could be a good fit.
Due to high interest, we may take a while to get back to you.
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Patreon
If you want to support our show and show our little podcast extra love, you can do so by becoming a patron. Consider popping over to our Patreon Page and snapping up some goodies for as little as $2 a month!
Share
If you enjoy our podcast, please share episodes on social media to spread the word about our show.
CREDITS
Hosts
Music
Intro & Outro – “Inspired” composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of http://www.incompetech.com | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0
Special Thanks
Our patrons, Kristen Poli & Plottr