Michelle Oucharek-Deo is a Time Strategist, Author, Speaker Art/ Horticultural Therapist, Mother, Wife, Sister, and Entreprenuer. She wears many hats, but intentionally chooses to wear them all with integrity and a dash of sparkle and humor. Time is her passion and she believes that with the right time tools and system in place we can smash the "I don't have enough time myth" together and accomplish the goals which are percolating in our hearts and minds.

Having a time organization system in place became the walking stick she needed to navigate the raging waters of a family crisis and continue the work on her current book. Developing an implementing the 42 Minute Hour Time Strategy System has changed the way she writes, breathes and lives her life.

She hopes that hearing her story will help to inspire people who think they are too busy or stressed to accomplish their writing goals. With the proper time strategy system in place you can accomplish any goal.

The key topics discussed in today’s episode are:

-understanding Michelle’s 42-min time management system as a time nerd

-being intentional with the time you do have, not focusing on the time you don’t

-removing the time shaming and learning which time tools works best for you

When asked what Worthy Writers means to her, Michelle said this:

Kirsten McNeill’s Worthy Writers Podcast provides a thoughtful platform for writers to share their personal journeys, exploring the struggles and complexities of becoming an author. Through a diverse range of guests, Kirsten’s kind and creative spirit fosters connection and encouragement for writers at every stage.

Connect with Michelle on her Website, LinkedIn, and her 42 Minute Club: Time With Intention group. You can also download her Free Time Strategy Handbook HERE!

We hope you enjoy this episode!

Journal Prompts:

1. What holds you back from writing in your daily schedule?
2. What helps you create more time in your day for writing?
3. How will your motivation shift when you create more space for writing?

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C.C. Tyler is a writing coach, developmental editor, and indie author passionate about helping storytellers achieve their creative goals. With a background in mental health and corporate sales, she understands the critical role mindset and habits play into success.

Drawing on her experience crafting romantic fantasy novels, she focuses on story development, resilience, and sustainable writing practices to empower others to bring their visions to life. Outside of writing, she enjoys exploring local coffee shops with her dark-haired love interest (aka her husband) and savoring the magic of a perfectly brewed latte.

📚The key topics discussed in today’s episode are:

-being in the present moment with your writing and sensory experiences

-getting into the mind of your characters and the setting of your story

-setting intentions to help you succeed

You are fully capable of facing challenges by learning resiliency and adaptability.

💛 When asked what Worthy Writers means to her, C.C. Tyler said this:

Worthy Writers reminds us of one important thing: our writing is for us—our routines, our habits, our goals. No matter our style, descriptive or concise, embracing our process, trusting our voice, and creating with confidence is what matters most.

Want to write better descriptions? Interested in mentally preparing to write a scene? Sign-up for her newsletter to access the writing descriptions worksheet: CLICK HERE

You can also connect with her on Instagram! We hope you enjoy this episode!

🌻 Journal Prompts:

1. What helps you connect with your writing when you're not in the "right" mood?
2. How do you add descriptions into your stories?
3. What is your favourite way to connect with your readers?

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Megan Mary is an international bestselling metaphysical author, dreamworker and host of the Women's Dream Enlightenment podcast. She founded Inner Realms Publishing to provide book marketing services such as websites and bestseller campaigns to women authors.

Also, she holds an MA and BA in English Literature, is pursuing her PhD in Metaphysical Sciences and is a member of the International Association for the Study of Dreams and the Independent Book Publishers Association. She lives in Idaho with her husband and two cats.

Blending the genres of mystery, fantasy and speculative fiction, her debut series, Witches of Maple Hollow, launched in 2024 with The Dream Haunters. Book 2: The Dream Mirrors & Book 3 will both be released in 2025.

The key topics discussed in today’s episode are:

-integrating the practice of dream recall to help your creativity

-emotional experiences in dreams and the messages the dreams share

-Megan’s book series Witches of Maple Hollow; fictional self-help and supernatural realism

All writers can benefit from learning how to tap into the infinite creative and inspirational source of their dreams.

When asked what Worthy Writers means to her, Megan said this:

Worthy Writers to me embodies the acknowledgement that we all have a story inside, and with the right mindset, confidence and power of authenticity, we can harness our internal wisdom to educate and inspire others.

Connect with Megan and learn more about her books and dreamwork at meganmary.com

We hope you enjoy this episode!

Journal Prompts

1. What themes commonly arise in your dreams?
2. Are there story ideas that come up in your dreams? How will you integrate them?
3. How do dreams inspire your creativity?

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Hannah Wolfram is a ghostwriter, editor, and trauma-informed book coach who is passionate about helping people tell their stories. She lives in the United States with her partner and her dog, who keeps her company during long bouts of writing and editing.

The key topics discussed in today’s episode are:

-finding confidence and courage to write your story no matter the criticism

-understanding your intentions behind telling your story and the themes it reflects

-knowing how your story will impact readers

Writing about traumatic topics (or the fear/blocks toward doing so) is something that everyone faces at one point or another. With emphasis on maintaining mental wellbeing, it’s important for people to know how to transform their trauma into a story, while recognizing when it’s appropriate to take a step back and/or seek professional help.

When asked what Worthy Writers means to her, Hannah said this:

Worthy Writers reminds me that everyone, no matter who they are, has a story to tell. It makes me feel more centered in my writing journey, even if I’m not quite making the progress that I thought/hoped I would be by now. And, most importantly, Worthy Writers reminds me that I'm not alone. Writing can be a solitary profession, but there are always people feeling the way you're feeling and doing the things you're doing. And that makes me happy.

Connect with Hannah on her website writingyourlegacy.com or email hannahwolframwrites@gmail.com

We hope you enjoy this episode!

Journal Prompts

1. What stories from your life would help others if shared?
2. How does it feel to share stories from your life openly and honestly?
3. What helps you heal when you think about your past?

Kirsten McNeill - Confidence and Writing Lifestyle Coach

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Laurie Deveau is a voracious reader of all genres, and writer of fantasy and historical fiction.

She started her writing career at an early age, entering a fourth grade poetry contest run by her school. Her long-form poem about spring and all that she liked about it WON! Laurie has always had a passion for writing and English literature as she’s grown up through the years.

Fast forward, she started a family and her writing projects were put aside. Now, her kids are independent young adults and she’s able to rebuild her writing habit. A lot of her writing ideas come from dreams, and she knows she has to write down those experiences before she forgets.

Throughout this episode, Laurie and I discuss the following themes:

1. Finding time to balance work life and other activities you love.
2. Knowing your ideal writing environment.
3. Being supportive of the writing community and accepting everyone’s unique styles.
4. Exploring your identity as a writer and finding your confidence.
5. Moving through the different seasons of your life.
6. Creating a mindset that helps you move forward in creativity.
7. Doing activities that are good for your soul (Laurie loves horseback riding!).

Laurie leaves us with some beautiful words of wisdom to never be afraid to be yourself, and be proud of everything you have to offer. You can connect with Laurie in theWorthy Writers’ Nook Facebook Group. She is always active and welcoming in this group and loves connecting with fellow writers!

I can’t wait for you to check out this episode – if you love what you hear, leave a review on your listening platform!

Journal Prompts:

1. Reflect on your life and explore the different seasons of life you've experienced.
2. What have you learned about yourself along the way?
3. How do you support your unique journey?

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Sue Brown-Moore is the host of the Wanna Write Romance virtual conference. Sue is a sought-after book revision coach, and one of LA Weekly’s 15 Book Coaches to Watch in 2023. She teaches fiction authors to craft their best stories in the fewest drafts, and specializes in working with experienced romance authors in her small-group programs.

Known for being a tough editor with a soft touch, Sue approaches every session from a character transformation mindset. Her empathetic teaching methods break the traditional mold of plot-first story design. She is passionate about empowering writers to embrace what makes them unique and champions progressive, inclusive literature.

On today’s episode, we explore how to develop positive growth arcs in romance. Sue gives us a sneak peak into her process to building a strong growth arc throughout your novel.

I loved talking with Sue because we have similar philosophies about writing for yourself and focusing on what resonates most with you. It’s important to be well-read in your chosen genre and specific romance plots. If what you’re passionate about aligns with your readers, that’s just a bonus! Focus on what YOU love first, and follow your passion. You have the freedom to choose how your writing life looks.

We also discuss the difference between writing the romance genre and writing a book with romance elements, embracing your imperfect first draft, and using movies to study story structure!

Learn more about Sue on her Website, and download her FREE worksheet for learning more about building a positive growth arc.

Journal Prompts:

What romance sub-plots/tropes do you enjoy writing most?

What makes you unique as a romance writer?

Which characters in your current WIP have positive growth arcs? How are you developing them?

Never forget that you are worthy!

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Author 1: Tina Capricorn

Tina Capricorn writes sci-fi fantasy time travel romance. She has two books out currently, Shadowglass Time-Magic, Blood-Magic and The Anchor of Time. When she’s not writing, she’s probably out in the garden, or doing the dishes.

To find out more about her and her books head over to tinacapricorn.com

The excerpt I’m reading is from Shadowglass Time-Magic, Blood-Magic. It opens after a time witch Ostra, was summoned through a Blockleiter Bar (a bar for members of the Reich in WWII) and destroyed most of the vampire nazis present.

Author 2: Stephanie M. Matthews

Having been raised as an East Coast girl in Truro, Nova Scotia, Stephanie Matthews has spent time living in Newfoundland, Oklahoma, and Italy. She has currently settled in Ontario working for a non-profit organization and writing in her spare time.

Stephanie’s love of writing came at an early age, drafting her first “real story” in Grade 2. This love has continued throughout her life, as a university professor once accused her of having made a history research paper too exciting. While this accusation inspired an opinionated debate between department professors- from which she gently excused herself, the moment solidified a decision to never take the excitement out of her writing- fiction or non.

When not writing or working, Stephanie enjoys fueling her passion for Ancient Rome and combatting her arch nemesis: her love of cookies. Stephanie also loves mountain biking, pretending like she can play hockey, or planning her bucket list, for which she had to come to the harsh reality that time travel is not an option.

Learn more about Stephanie on her website: https://stephaniemmatthews.com/

Her excerpt is from Book 1 “The Gift”. A supernatural thriller set in a Christmas wonderland. It’s an addictive story about hidden truths and one woman’s journey to survive against overwhelming darkness.

Author 3: Laura Westman

Laura Westman is an ontological coach and multifaceted creative who cares deeply about creative joy. She is the author of How to Be Creative in the Age of Digital Noise, a singer/songwriter, co-host of West of Wonderland Podcast, and the host of The Creativity Broadcast on YouTube. Laura loves being moved by art, but also being inspired by the effort behind the art. Her life is led by her core values of appreciation and joy.

Her fan fic I’m reading isn't published yet. To read more, hop on her newsletter at www.laurawestman.com for the announcement.

This fan fiction explores the world of Remus Lupin as he navigates being a werewolf, in secret. Inspired by the author's experience having an autoimmune disease, Remus's experience of being a teen wizard is remarkably different on a physical and emotional level than that of his peers.

This is a story about Remus's connection with himself and his true nature. It's also an ode to the teenage antics of the author, as (non-canon) American witch Laurel Witherby transfers from Ilvermorny to Hogwarts in her sixth year. Away from the normal trappings of her life, family and people-pleasing tendencies, Laurel finds new confidence, power and ambition as she chooses life in Slytherin House.

Journal Prompts

What would your life be like as a vampire?

How would you handle a mysterious situation where you know everyone is keeping a secret from you?

Write a fan fiction about your favourite fictional world.

Never forget that you are worthy!

Kirsten McNeill: Confidence & Writing Lifestyle Coach

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Rhonda Douglas is an award-winning poet and fiction author. She’s the host of The Resilient Writers Radio Show podcast for writers, and the creator of First Book Finish.

Living and writing in Ottawa, Canada, she’s committed to helping writers overcome fear and eliminate distractions so that they can write with ease and achieve their writing dreams.

On this episode, we’re talking about writing retreats.

Rhonda has vast experience with a range of retreats from the high-end paid ones to free events you can create in the comfort of your own home. By yourself or with friends, a writing retreat is what you make it.

Rhonda tells us how retreats are page boosters, and if you bring them into a regular part of your schedule, they can be a lot of fun. She shares how to do advanced planning that works best for you and your lifestyle for a 3-day retreat. Making it fun and comfortable is very important to her. She comes prepared with writing prompts, scheduled breaks, and the pomodoro technique.

Listen in to learn her tips on balancing productive writing with relaxing downtime. Even if you can’t do a 3-day retreat, make the most of the time you DO have. If you can’t write for hours at a time, that’s okay. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Don’t wait for “ideal conditions” like a spotless home or enough energy to feel like what you’re writing is perfect. Ideal conditions are myths. We must stop telling ourselves false stories about our limitations. Start by regulating your nervous system, then find your writing flow NOW!

Download her FREE The Busy Writers' Guide to DIY Writing Retreats, then connect with Rhonda on her website and Instagram. Make sure to listen in to the Resilient Writers Radio Show too!

Journal Prompts:

If money were no object, what would your ideal writing retreat weekend look like?

In your current situation, what would an ideal D.I.Y. writing retreat look like?

What preparation needs to be done for your retreat?

Never forget that you are worthy!

Kirsten McNeill: Confidence & Writing Lifestyle Coach

Create Your Worthy Writers Lifestyle 5-Day Challenge

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