Episodes
Chapter 10: Bringing Fantasy to Life with Cosplay Artist Georgia Deiker
In today’s chapter, Heather and Mia learn all about the world of cosplay and bookstagram with cosplay artist Georgia Deiker.
In today’s chapter, Heather and Mia learn all about the world of cosplay and bookstagram with cosplay artist Georgia Deiker.
Tune in for discussion on the topics below and more!
Georgia’s beginning and process as a cosplay artist
Behind-the-scenes of bookstagram and online book communities
Let’s welcome Georgia to the Inkspiration community!
Georgia was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, and grew up loving stories, playing make-believe, and dressing up in costumes whenever she could find the chance. In 2016, she discovered the world of cosplay and a year later she would find a way to marry her love for dress-up and stories when she started sharing her book cosplays on Instagram. When she is not creating cosplay photos or silly videos, Georgia can be found relaxing with her two cats—Tootie and Giles—while reading a good book, drinking obscene amounts of coffee, or lurking the halls of the Fox Theatre in St. Louis. Taylor Swift is the only music she plays in her car and she also firmly and un-ironically believes The Mummy is one of the best films ever made.
See Georgia’s magic for yourself on her Instagram, @peachyqueencosplay.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 9: Perseverance in PUblishing with Author Sierra Greer
In today’s chapter, Heather and Leila get to know author Sierra Greer and learn more about her debut Annie Bot and her whirlwind of a year.
In today’s chapter, Heather and Leila get to know author Sierra Greer and learn more about her debut Annie Bot and her whirlwind of a year.
Tune in for discussion on the topics below and more!
Tackling themes in your writing
How the Book of the Month selection process and contract works
Let’s welcome Sierra to the Inkspiration community!
Sierra Greer grew up in Minnesota before attending Williams College and Johns Hopkins University. A former high school English teacher, she writes about the future from her home in rural Connecticut. Her debut novel, Annie Bot, came out in March 2024 and was a Book of the Month selection and also featured on Jimmy Fallon as part of his Fallon Book Club bracket. Talk about a whirlwind of a debut year.
Purchase Annie Bot wherever books are sold.
More information on Sierra’s journey and future publications can be found on her website, sierragreerwriter.com.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 8: Exploring Identity and Agency in the Horror Genre with Sam Rebelein
In today’s chapter, Olivia and Mia get to know horror author Sam Rebelein!
In today’s chapter, Olivia and Mia get to know horror author Sam Rebelein!
Tune in for discussion on the topics below and more!
Sam’s journey to publication with Edenville
Exploring complex emotions through the horror genre
How to create compelling characters and powerful storylines
The importance of blending real-life events with fiction
Content Warning: Discussions of Sexual Assault: In this episode, we discuss experiences related to sexual assault. Listener discretion is advised.
Let’s welcome Sam to the Inkspiration community!
Sam holds a BA in English and Education from Vassar College and an MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College. His debut novel, Edenville, was released onto the shelves in October 2023 by William Morrow and Titan Books. After receiving rave reviews, Edenville has been nominated for a Bram Stoker award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Sam’s work has appeared in a variety of speculative fiction publications and his follow-up collection to Edenville releases in early 2025. He lives in Poughkeepsie, New York with his dog, Truman - a pup whose sassy self is a frequent participant on Sam’s Instagram.
Purchase Edenville wherever books are sold.
More information on Sam’s journey and future publications can be found on his website, www.srebelein.com.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 7: What it Takes to Write Full Time with Jennifer Peel
What do you self-publish books? How do you choose a cover? Do you need an editor? How much does it cost? How much can you earn? What does it take to write full-time as a self-published author? Authorprenuer Jennifer Peel answers all of these questions and more in Inkspiration’s latest interview with the self-published romance and fantasy author.
What do you self-publish books? How do you choose a cover? Do you need an editor? How much does it cost? How much can you earn? What does it take to write full-time as a self-published author?
Authorprenuer Jennifer Peel answers all of these questions and more in Inkspiration’s latest interview with the self-published romance and fantasy author.
During this episode…
Jennifer discusses her surprising career change and origins as a self-published author.
Hosts Heather and Olivia ask Jennifer about the nuts and bolts of self-publication.
For all those considering going the indie route, Jennifer gets specific about the realities and wins of the growing self-pub industry.
Listen to the episode on all major podcast platforms today!
Let’s welcome Jennifer to the Inkspiration community!
From her website: Jennifer Peel is a USA Today bestselling author who didn’t grow up wanting to be a writer, she was aiming for something more realistic like being the first female president. When that didn’t work out, she started writing just before her fortieth birthday.
Now after publishing several award-winning and bestselling novels, she’s addicted to typing and chocolate. When she’s not glued to her laptop and a bag of Dove dark chocolates, she loves spending time with her family, making daily Target runs, reading, and pretending she can do Zumba.
Visit Jennifer’s website.
Check out Jennifer’s latest books.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 6: Unraveling the Fantasy Worlds of Self-Publishing with Tory Guyon
With the steadily changing landscape of publishing and social media, many authors are embracing self-publishing as a way to own their stories and build communities with their readers. In Inkspiration’s latest episode, hosts Olivia and Heather discuss self-publishing and life as an Indie author with Indie author and entrepreneur, Tory Guyon.
How many authors can say they OWN their publishing imprint? We know at least one.
With the steadily changing landscape of publishing and social media, many authors are embracing self-publishing as a way to own their stories and build communities with their readers. In Inkspiration’s latest episode, hosts Olivia and Heather discuss self-publishing and life as an Indie author with Indie author and entrepreneur, Tory Guyon.
During this episode…
Tory describes her writing journey and how she became an Indie author.
Tory provides a crash course in writing resources and tips for aspiring self-publishing authors.
Tory discusses the inspiration behind her self-published YA debut, “Angel of Water and Shadow.”
Tory reflects on the healing power of books and the importance of mental health representation and transparency in the publishing industry and beyond.
Let’s welcome Tory to the Inkspiration community!
Adapted from her website:
Tory grew up dreaming about dragons, coloring Lisa Frank characters, reading the Hobbit, watching The Last Unicorn, writing Harry Potter fanfic, and eagerly awaiting to be summoned by the realm of the fae. While she no longer writes fanfic and still hasn’t been called upon by the fae, Tory has created her own fantasy worlds and is convinced that she’ll stumble across a magical being in the redwoods one day.
From her home in Santa Cruz, California, Tory writes fantasy novels, blogs about myths and monsters, explores magical locations, and shares self-publishing tips + tricks in hopes of empowering others who are thinking of going the indie route.
Explore Tory’s hub for her books and blog at her website
Purchase Tory’s book Angel of Water & Shadow
From the Episode
Information on Writing with the Soul can be found at https://writingwiththesoul.com/.
Tory uses a Plot Tree to support her brainstorming process.
A few Facebook groups where Tory “lurks and learns” include Moms Who Write and 20BooksTo50K.
Tory uses Canva to support her content creation.
Tory finds the work of Tina Marshall on Instagram to help inspire and guide her own career.
To find her editors and designers, Tory uses Reedsy, calling it “the LinkedIn for the publishing world.”
Those interested in self-publishing, living a creative life, or the best book recommendations should also check out Tory’s blog.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 5: Why Writers Should Embrace Delusion with Monica Hay
In the latest chapter of Inkspiration, Mia and Leila get to know writing resistance and mindset coach Monica Hay and learn more about common roadblocks writers face while trying to get their stories out of their heads and onto the paper (or screen).
A dash of delusion. A heaping of intuition.
These are some of Monica Hay’s key ingredients for writers working to overcome writer’s resistance and find success in the publishing industry.
In the latest episode of Inkspiration, Mia and Leila get to know writing resistance and mindset coach Monica Hay and learn more about common roadblocks writers face while trying to get their stories out of their heads and onto the paper (or screen).
During this episode…
Monica explains the origins behind her interest in brain science for writers and her flourishing coaching business.
Diving into the science behind resistance, Monica describes how resistance lives and manifests in the body and mind.
Monica emphasizes the importance of listening to your intuition and being delusional, rather than realistic, with your writing dreams.
Touching on her own spirituality, Monica describes how spirituality impacts her writing and coaching as well as how connecting with yourself can help you craft more compelling and honest characters.
Listen to the episode on all major podcast platforms today and find out just what Monica means when she says, “Your delulu will come trulu!”
Let’s welcome Monica to the Inkspiration community!
From her website:
Monica is from the hills of California, though she now resides in Amsterdam. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, where she majored in English Literature. After a career in social work, she earned her Master’s in Publishing. She worked with two literary agents and with WriteOnCon before starting her own coaching business. Monica now aims to help other writers embrace their fullest creative potential and manifest their dream lives.
Those interested in learning more about Monica’s workshop and coaching can follow her on Instagram @monicahayauthor and learn more about her business on her website: https://monicahay.com/.
From the Episode
Monica praises Writing on Both Sides of the Brain by Henriette A. Klauser as a book that encouraged her to dig deeper into the science of resistance.
Monica references Octavia Butler’s journal pages, where the prolific science fiction and speculative author manifested her own success.
Monica studied The Science of Stuck by Britt Frank and Around the Writer’s Block by Roseanne Bane to prepare for the famous “Science Day” in her workshop.
For those looking to learn more about spirituality, Monica recommends Abraham-Hicks, who has a plethora of videos on YouTube.
Monica’s favorite craft book is Story Genius by Lisa Cron.
Monica’s latest five-star read is Blood Heir by Amélie Wen Zhao.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 4: Exploring YA Romance with Eva Des Lauriers
What can be more perfect than a conversation about first love, Taylor Swift, and the inspiration behind Eva Des Lauriers’ debut YA romance I Wish You Would? As hosts Mia and Leila discover, talking to debut author Eva Des Laurier tops the charts in oh so many ways.
What can be more perfect than a conversation about first love, Taylor Swift, and the inspiration behind Eva Des Lauriers’ debut YA romance I Wish You Would? As hosts Mia and Leila discover, talking to debut author Eva Des Laurier tops the charts in oh so many ways.
During this episode…
Eva describes her publishing journey and how her former career as a social worker informs her writing today.
Eva explains the inspiration behind her debut YA romance I Wish You Would, including its Swiftie appeal.
Eva and the hosts dig into the importance of writing for teen readers and the considerations writers should have when writing KidLit.
Eva suggests ways for writers to find like-minded communities and navigate the business side of publishing.
This episode is overflowing with wisdom from a soulful author who writes honest, loving, messy characters for teen readers looking for humor, romance, and solace.
Let’s welcome Eva to the Inkspiration community!
From her website:
Eva is a California girl who became a diehard romantic when she married her best friend, the boy she sat next to in eleventh-grade Calculus. She now holds both an MSW and BA in Psychology. As a clinical social worker, she had the privilege of working with the vibrant and complicated teens for whom she now writes. When she isn’t writing, you can find her wandering through the redwoods, staring at the sea, or pretending she’s in a music video. She lives with her husband, their two children, and her collection of kissing books in Northern California.
Purchase I Wish You Would wherever books are sold.
Check out Eva’s podcast with author Kathryn Bury, Write Where It Hurts.
More information on Eva’s journey and future publications can be found on her website, www.evadeslauriers.com.
Eva can be found on Instagram and TikTok @evadeslaurbooks.
From the Episode
If you want to dig deep into the effects of novel writing and publishing on mental health (and have lots of laughs and maybe some tears along the way), check out Eva’s podcast with Kathryn Bury, Write Where It Hurts.
Information on Writing with the Soul can be found at https://writingwiththesoul.com/.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 3: Romancing Your Debut Year with Clare Gilmore
Do you fantasize about writing your own workplace romance? Do you cast Henry Cavill in your WIPs? Do you LOVE swoon-worthy rom-coms with the perfect combination of romance and humor? If you relate to any of these (and even if you don’t!), tune in to Inkspiration’s latest episode, where Leila and Olivia interview debut romance author, Clare Gilmore.
Do you fantasize about writing your own workplace romance? Do you cast Henry Cavill in your WIPs? Do you LOVE swoon-worthy rom-coms with the perfect combination of romance and humor?
If you relate to any of these (and even if you don’t!), tune in to Inkspiration’s latest episode, where Leila and Olivia interview debut romance author, Clare Gilmore.
Clare published her first novel, Love Interest, in October 2023, and the workplace romance garnered nothing but praise from the reading community. Perfect Fit, another workplace romance sure to have readers swooning, is scheduled for release on October 29, 2024. Between these two office romcoms, Clare has also released her first mystery, What Happened to Helen Rochester, on Kindle Unlimited.
During this episode…
Clare describes her journey to publication, beginning with her Maurader fanfic and ending with the publication of her romcom, Love Interest.
Clares breaks down tips for surviving querying and debut year.
Clare explains her decision to self-publish her mystery What Happened to Helen Rochester and kickstart a hybrid career.
Clare provides suggestions for writing swoon-worthy characters and romances for any genre.
Needless to say, writers of all genres can learn from Clare’s journey, and readers will love learning more about this witty rom-com author who moonlights in mystery.
Listen to the episode on all major podcast platforms today!
Let’s Welcome CLare to the Inkspiration Community!
From Clare’s website:
Clare is a romcom author who was raised in Nashville, but now calls Charlotte, North Carolina home where she lives with her dog, Winifred, and her partner. When it comes to her books, you can expect stories that are “frothy but substantial,” chock full of funny moments split up between earnest self-realizations. Clare’s debut novel, Love Interest, was published in 2023 and her follow-up novel titled, Perfect Fit, is set to release on October 29, 2024. You can find her cooking elaborate meals or planning endless vacations.
Purchase Love Interest by Clare Gilmore today
Read What Happened to Helen Rochester on Kindle Unlimited
Preorder Perfect Fit by Clare Gilmore today (In stores everywhere, October 29, 2024!)
Find Clare on Instagram and TikTok at @claregilmorewrites.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inspirations!
Chapter 2: Editing your first draft with Callie Stoker
In this episode of Inkspiration, Heather and Mia interview editor extraordinaire, Callie Stoker. Callie is the founder and owner of The Manuscript Dr., an editing service for fiction writers that provides mentorship, education, and editing support by experienced professionals.
You’ve written a manuscript. A whole first draft. It’s beautiful. Pristine. Perfect…or is it?
In this episode of Inkspiration, Heather and Mia interview editor extraordinaire, Callie Stoker. Callie is the founder and owner of The Manuscript Dr., an editing service for fiction writers that provides mentorship, education, and editing support by experienced professionals.
As Heather is currently self-editing her manuscript and Mia is tackling rewriting hers, both these hosts are excited to learn from Callie and share her expertise with listeners.
During this episode…
Callie shines a light on the murky first steps following your first draft.
Callie breaks down the editing mindset for creatives who prefer drafting to revising.
Callie explains how to navigate the editing funnel and different types of editing services.
Regardless of your experience, this episode overflows with editing and revising tips and tricks you won’t want to miss. Be sure to stay tuned until the end when Callie introduces a one-time offer for Inkspiration listeners only.
Listen to the episode on all major podcast platforms today!
let’s welcome Callie to the Inkspiration community!
From her website:
In fourth grade Callie read The Indian in the Cupboard. The idea of a boy’s toy coming alive in a magic cupboard grabbed a hold of her imagination and never let go. The addiction only increased as she read Roald Dahl, Lloyd Alexander, Madeleine L’Engle, and the Redwall series. In sixth grade her teacher took away Jane Eyre because it was distracting Callie from her work.
In all her reading, one question has always fascinated her. Why do some stories with great ideas fall flat?
For the past decade, Callie has honed her skills by studying the craft of writing and defining the elements that make a story work. She can read any story, any rocky first draft, and provide the first aid it needs to make your manuscript live off the page and resonate in the minds of your readers.
Callie is also a mother of four–two of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. A singer and theater buff, she has spent a lot of time on the stage and behind the curtain as a music director and costumer. She loves good stories told on television and is a big fan of many
From the Episode
Callie’s favorite craft book is On Writing by Stephen King. Read it – it’s doctor-recommended.
Callie loves to use Dan Wells’ 7-Point Story Structure series to inform her plot. Find the series at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzfRuHa21NIzQFrQ6FAq8Pj2IA_SXiwrN&si=GGwFZQGsVGSx-53f
Callie referenced Neil Gaiman’s killer quote: “Remember: when people tell you something’s wrong or doesn’t work for them, they are almost always right. When they tell you exactly what they think is wrong and how to fix it, they are almost always wrong.”
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!
Chapter 1: Exploring our Origins in the First Podcast Episode!
Welcome to Inkspiration, a new community for writers and story lovers to discuss inspiration, creativity, and the writing process. In our first podcast episode, Heather, Olivia, Leila, and Mia gather virtually as they chat about their writing lives and current projects.
The location of our 2023 writing retreat in Asheville, North Carolina.
Welcome to Inkspiration, a new community for writers and story lovers to discuss inspiration, creativity, and the writing process. In our first podcast episode, Heather, Olivia, Leila, and Mia gather virtually as they chat about their writing lives and current projects.
During this episode…
The hosts delve into their works in progress, offering sneak peeks into the stories that have captured their hearts and minds.
They touch upon the current status of their projects, discussing the ebbs and flows of the creative process with honesty and humor.
The writers explore their writerly beginnings, some of which include stashed away floppy disks and dragon-adorned binders.
The hosts tackle Rapid Fire Questions – from pondering their ideal superpowers to sharing their secret weapons for conquering writing slumps – that had just a dash of whimsy.
Whether you're a seasoned writer or someone who dreams of penning their first story, tune in for an episode filled with laughter, lessons, and the kind of storytelling magic that reminds us why we fell in love with writing in the first place.
Listen to the episode on all major podcast platforms today!
From the Episode
Heather and Olivia discuss their mutual love and respect for characters from Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series.
As Heather mentions, #findmywritingcommunity on Instagram helped connect her with her critique partner and a world of writers with similar passions and goals.
Information on Writing with the Soul, the community that brought these four internet strangers together, can be found at https://writingwiththesoul.com/.
Thanks for listening to Inkspiration, a podcast where we explore the art of storytelling with expert interviews and tips for writers, readers, and publishing enthusiasts eager to uncover the magic in their stories.
Follow us on Instagram at @inkspirationpodcast. Our DMs are always open for discussion, suggestions for future episodes, and all things literary! Tag us in your writing adventures and inkspirations!