Tea and Tales: Sipping on Writing, Editing, and Publishing
Episodes
S4:E14 Picture Books vs Graphic Novels with Agent Adria Goetz
06 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Picture books and Graphic Novels share many similarities with key differences. Agent Adria Goetz dives into these genres and what to expect when writi...
S4:E13 Books We'd Recommend with Author Clare Draycott
30 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
It’s always fun to have returning guest Author Clare Draycott. This time, we’re sharing books we recommend, how they shaped our writing, and how w...
S4:E12 Speech Development and Literature with Language Pathologist and Author Christien Neser
23 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Speech pathologist and author Christien Neser discusses the importance of reading and writing for children. Join us for tips on how to write children ...
S4:E11 Author Spotlight: Emiko Jean
16 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
goice and learning to craft unforgettable stories. Plus, insights into creating her past books, people who inspired her, and the creation of her newes...
S4:E10 Writing Difficult Scenes in Middle Grade with Author Patrick Asensi
09 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Spanish author Patrick Aseni joins us to discuss how he handles writing difficult scenes for middle-grade readers. This episode is full of nuggets of ...
S4:E9 Mentor and Ally Archetypes with Author Dhonielle Clayton
02 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Writing great characters takes many things. Understanding different character archetypes is key to adding variety to each novel. Author Dhoneille Clay...
S4:E8 Agent Spotlight with Sara Megibow
23 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Agent and Founder of Megibow Literary, Sara Megibow joins us to discuss the publishing industry, her processes, and many other bookish topics. Join us...
S4:E7 Classroom Innovation for Grammar and Writing with Author and Teacher Patty McGee
16 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
The foundation of great writing starts with understanding, using, and breaking the rules of grammar. This is a lifelong journey that starts early. For...
S4:E6 Crafting and Publishing Children's Books with Author/Publisher Miriam Laundry
09 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Writing for Children is vastly different from writing for adults. In this episode, children’s book author and publisher Miriam Laundry discusses how...
S4:E5 Head Hopping in 3rd Person with Crystal Shelley
02 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
From a close 3rd person to an omniscient narrator, head-hopping is a device that should be used very sparingly and in the right cases. Join us with ed...
S4:E4 Author Spotlight: Rob Mortell
26 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Author Rob Mortell discusses his journey in self-publishing from posting on Substack to publishing his full length novel. https://substack.com/@robri...
S4:E3 Close 3rd Person in Writing with Gayvin Powers
19 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Picking what kind of POV your writing will have is only half the battle. Learning how to make it engaging and to suck in the reader makes it impossibl...
S4:E2 Writing Prompts with Rose Lawrence
12 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When writers need to practice their craft or get stuck in a scene, writing prompts help us to break past it. Grab something to write with and a timer ...
S4:E1 Writer Bingo
05 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to session four with our writer bingo! Check our website for the bingo card, play along, or save the card for later to play with your friends....
S3:E22 Stephen King's 14 Tips for Writers
24 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There's no shortage of advice on how to write. Stephen King's 14 tips are a great place for new writers to start, and experienced writers to r...
S3:E21 Agent Spotlight: Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong
17 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Agents are an important part of the publishing process for most Traditional Published Authors. They advocate for authors and help us be the best we ca...
S3:E20 Author Spotlight: Bianca Marais
10 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Bianca Marais is an accomplished author in historical fiction, book club fiction, fantasy, dystopian fiction, and mystery. This episode explores her j...
S3:E19 Part 1 Beta Reading Session with Rose Lawrence and Conner McCall
03 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Starting a Beta Reading group can be tricky. Who do I invite? How will we organize the group and coordinate calls? Join our one-time beta reading sess...
S3:E19 Part 2 Beta Reading Session with Rose Lawrence and Conner McCall
03 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Listen in to the feedback on Sara and Conner's first 5 pages in this second installment of our recorded Beta Reading Session.
S3:E19 Part 3 Beta Reading Session with Rose Lawrence and Conner McCall
03 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Listen in to the feedback on Rose and Madlené's first 5 pages in this last installment of our recorded Beta Reading Session.
S3:E18 Slap Me with a Wet Fish: Responding to Non Readers
27 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
As writers, we want our novels to invoke emotions in our readers. Then we have a new problem. Explaining why ink on a page makes us cry.
S3:E17 Horror Levels in Writing with Mattea Orr
20 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to horror, everyone has a different tolerance. Understanding what things can create more or less fear in readers helps writers to unders...
S3:E16 Romance Spice Levels with Charlotte Stein
13 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
*Awareness advised, adult topics are discussed in this episode more than normal. We worked hard to keep it PG-13, but please use your own discretion.*...
S3:E15 Character Names with Kasia Alba
06 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Every novel needs names, so how do you do it? Join us and Author Kasia Alba as we talk about everything from when we name our characters, to how we pi...
S3:E14 Using Languages in Writing With Clare Draycott
29 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The language we use and how we use it brings so much variety to our novels. From illustrating cultural heritage to separating characters from differen...
S3:E13 From Idea to Novel
22 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Taking a great idea and making it into a great novel takes time, perseverance, and many drafts. Dive into how to get that idea formed into a story, wi...
S3:E12 Author Spotlight: Darden North
15 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Meet Mystery/Suspense/Thriller author Darden North as we talk about his novels and writing journey. Find more about his newest novel, Rooftop, and abo...
S3:E11 Favorite Tropes
08 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Do you know the tropes in your writing? This is one way to find the themes of your book, your target audience, and similar books! All are useful when ...
S3:E10 Writing Tools We Love
01 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writing a book can be quite the adventure and having the right tools will make it easier.*WordHippo: https://www.wordhippo.com/?fbclid=IwAR2C2RkCBBpBo...
S3:E9 Chill Your Guava: When Characters Go Off Script
25 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Every writer knows characters have a mind of their own. We learn how to react, or interact, with these surprises. What do you do when your characters ...
S3:E8 Manuscript Hopping
18 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Having many ideas makes a writing career, but how do you juggle jumping between projects? Find our tips, tricks, and advice with some great resources ...
S3:E7 Speculative Fiction Genres
11 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There can be a lot of controversy about Speculative Fiction. Dive into the Speculative Fiction Genres and how to tell where your story falls under thi...
S3:E6 Romance Subgenres
04 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 2 of our series on genres! In this one, we dig into Romance Subgenres and what they are.Resources:https://forevershereads.com/romance-genre-gu...
S3:E5 Breaking Down Genre
28 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Finding your genre can be a chore. Join us for part 1 of 3 where we try to tackle the reasons genre is confusing and how to chose the best ones for yo...
S3:E4 Author Spotlight: Rebecca Danzenbaker
21 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Meet Debut Author Rebecca Danzenbaker as we talk about her novel, process, and experiences working with a big five publisher.Preorder at https://www.m...
S3:E3 Taskmaster for Writers
14 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Test your knowledge of writers and words with us as we play Taskmaster, but for writers!https://taskmaster.info/
S3:E2 Hybrid Publishing with Alexandra Wendt
07 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Do I go Traditional Published, Self-Published, or Hybrid? In this episode, author Alexandra Wendt discusses her experiences with a Hybrid publisher an...
S3:E1 Writing Your First Novel: Dos and Don'ts
30 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Whether it’s your first novel or fiftieth, getting that first draft done is where it all begins. Join us for our Dos and Don’ts we’ve learned th...
S2:E22 Rejection Bingo
02 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
If you're querying your novel, you're going to get rejections. Likely a lot of them. We hear a lot of things from agents, and in this episode,...
S2:E21 Is My Novel Ready?
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There are ways to make sure your manuscript is ready to go into the world. Let’s talk about them! Whether you are eager to get your work out in the ...
S2:E20 Reading the Silent Letters
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We don’t always think about the sounds of our writing. In this episode, explore the cadence and understandability of language in our writing.
S2:E19 The Writer's Query Process
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We’ve talked about bits and pieces of how to query your novel, but in this episode, we put it all together! From building your agent list to what to...
S2:E18 Chill Your Guava, Writer!
05 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writers have to wait for so many things to fall into place. It can be stressful. Join our conversation on how you relax and enjoy the journey.
S2:E17 Author Spotlight Mary Seifert
28 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We learned so much from Cozy Mystery Author Mary Seifert! This episode explores her take on publishing, inspiration, and the people we rely on as writ...
S2:E16 Book Reviews
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We love them, and we hate them. Join us to discuss why book reviews are important, where to put them, and the great ways we have seen people post book...
S2:E15 Don't Judge a Book by the Cover
14 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Don't judge a book by the cover, unless you're talking about actual books. The cover is the first impression of your novel, so let's look ...
S2:E14 Interpreting Feedback
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writers need feedback, but what do you do with it after you have it? We discuss the processes we use to make the most out of feedback from beta reader...
S2:E13 If Writing Was a Board Game
31 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What's creativity without a bit of fun? If your writing journey was a boardgame, what game would it be? Invigorate your writing process with this ...
S2:E12 Write What You Know
24 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Authors always hear to write what we know, but what does that mean? Dig into how to put yourself in what you write and expand your experiences. https:...
S2:E11 Self Editing with Johnny Smythe
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Self-editing your novel can be daunting…or fun! Join us with guest Johnny Smythe as we talk about all things editing. Then peek at this excellent gu...
S2:E10 Author Spotlight: Tracy Smith Mathis
10 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Traditionally published memoir author Tracy Smith Mathis discusses platform building, networking, and the trials of being a memoir writer.www.tracysmi...
S2:E9 Comp Titles for Novels
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Comparison or comp titles are something all authors should find, traditionally or indie published. But how? This episode deep dives into all things co...
S2:E8 Agent Research with Jessica Faust
24 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Finding the perfect agent for your story can be daunting! Literary Agent, and Bookends Literary founder, Jessica Faust discusses with us how to resear...
S2:E7 Psychology and Social Sciences of Characters
17 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writing deep characters can be tricky. Join our guest, Marilu Hayes, as she discusses ways to incorporate mental health, neurodivergence, and difficul...
S2:E6 Snack Attack
10 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writers love our snacks! Here are some of our favorites for while we are writing and to add depth to our books.
S2:E5.1 Book Blurbs with Jessie Cunniffe
03 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Writing the blurb for your Novel or book can be stressful. Special guest blurb writer Jessie Cunniffe shares her thoughts and processes for creating t...
S2:E5.2 Blurb Review with Jessie Cunniffe
03 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Jessie Cunniffe live reviews the blurb for one of our listeners, where we see all the principles of a good blurb in action!
S2:E4 Author Spotlight: Olivia McCarthy
27 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Meet Author Olivia McCarthy (O. McCarthy) as she discusses her writing process and journey as a self-published author. Follow Olivia on Instagram @ ol...
S2:E3 Writing Groups and Networking Part 2
20 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Our concluding thoughts about Writing Groups and Networking with our guest, Clare Draycott! Leave your favorite writing advice or places to find writi...
S2:E2 Writer Groups and Networking Part 1
13 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Clare Draycott joins us to discuss the importance of Writer groups and Networking. Leave your comments of places and ways for people to find a writing...
S2:E1 Book Bingo
06 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Season Two! We're starting off with a fun book bingo for books we read last year. Join the fun and prepare for a new year of reading!
S1:E22 Our Novels
18 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We really are writers, we promise! In this last episode of season 1, we'll discuss our novels and what we have learned while writing our manuscripts....
S1:E21 Gifts for Authors
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It's the holiday season and we're giving you ideas for your Author, Writer, and Reader friends. If we missed something, add it in the comments!
S1:E20 Author Spotlight: Justine Brashear
04 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us with Indy Author Justine Brashear and hear her journey, writing process, and what software she uses to get published. www.JustineBrashear.com...
S1:E19 Beta Readers with Rose Lawrence
28 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us with writer Rose Lawrence as we discuss what beta readers are, why they are important, and how to find them. There is so much to know about th...
S1:E18 Slap Me With a Wet Fish: Favorite Authors and Books
21 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our audience answers the question: What little-known Author or Book do you wish more people knew about?
S1:E17 NaNoWriMo Preparing Yourself to Write
14 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Your story is ready to go, but are you? Author Anneke Vliegen joins us to discuss how to prepare yourself for writing a novel to find a successful and...
S1:E16 NaNoWriMo Getting in the Writing Zone
07 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After all the plotting, worldbuilding, and creating great characters, all you have to do is write. That can be hard to do. Join us in a discussion abo...
S1:E15 NaNoWriMo World Building for Writing
30 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
No matter your genre, worldbuilding is an important step in creating a lush story. https://faq.brandonsanderson.com/article-categories/worldbuilding/...
S1:E14 NaNoWriMo Character Building for Novels
23 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Characters are a key element in every book. Join our discussion about techniques to build characters that make a great story.
S1:E13 NaNoWriMo Preparing Your Novel
16 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The first in a five-episode series. Dive into various styles for preparing to write a new novel. Whether it's for National Noval Writing Month (Na...
S1:E12 Author Spotlight A.K. MacBride
09 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us in hearing about author A.K. MacBride and her journey as an Indy-published author. Also, her take on writing principles and style. Visit her w...
S1:E11 Writer Procrastination
02 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join our guest Lianné JvRensburg in discussing reasons we procrastinate and ideas to get creativity flowing again.
S1:E10 Show vs Tell in Writing
26 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We dig into what showing or telling in writing is and how to make it more engaging and active. Brenda Copeland - https://careerauthors.com/show-and...
S1:E9 Slap Me With a Wet Fish
19 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A selection of our viewer's favorite, strange, or funny quotes. We talk about dialogue and making it fit your character's personality. Thank y...
S1:E8 Nel's Favorites - Romance Genre
12 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dig into the Romance Genre with some must-read recommendations, Nel's thoughts on Romance tropes, and how she keeps herself motivated.
S1:E7 Author Spotlight: Nisha J Tuli
05 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
International Bestselling Author Nisha J Tuli discusses how she made writing a career through self and traditional publishing. https://nishajtuli.com/...
S1:E6 Indie Publishing
29 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The pros and cons of self-publishing, places to publish, and how to decide if self-publishing is for you. https://Reedsy.com https://www.wattpad.com/ ...
S1:E5 Traditional Publishing
22 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
An overview of the three paths to traditional publishing. The Big 5 and their imprints: https://www.9thstreetbooks.com/big-five-publishers-and-imprint...
S1:E4 Sara's Favorites
15 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Fantasy tropes, authors, and inspiration! Resources: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-the-fantasy-genre-history-of-fantasy-and-subgenres...
S1:E3 Can You Do It Without Singing?
08 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Learning your story deeply is a journey worth taking. This episode discusses the value of getting to know your story like your favorite song.
S1:E2 I'm a Writer
01 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dipping into things writers do for their genre. Plus, link to the mentioned map generator. Azgaar's Fantasy Map Generator at https://azgaar.github...
S1:E1 Who Dis
01 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Introduction to the Hosts of Tea and Tales, what the podcast is about, and our writing community.