Anyone with a passion for writing can probably say ‘I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember.’ Maybe not always structured stories. Maybe not beautifully crafted personal essays and opinion pieces published in reputable literary magazines. Probably not for money.  But likely in school, or in their jobs. Maybe in a private journal or on those social media updates for family and friends. Everyone writes things all the time. Writing is a practical and necessary skill.

In 2023, I stepped away from practical writing – the grant proposals, the business plans, the reports – and I called myself a creative writer for the first time. A huge part of making that leap was absorbing a plethora of creative writing media (Craft books, course content, podcasts etc.)  I have a bachelor’s degree in English Literature, and it never crossed my mind that I could become a writer. That mindset shift was facilitated by diving into a space where people were talking about it. Excited about discussing the writing and publishing world in a way that my friends and family probably aren’t.

My love for headphones grew in 2023 (I’ve got cheap, wireless earbuds that I can pop in anywhere, and I’ve absolutely become the person walking through the shopping center, ignoring everyone and in my own world ). Aside from listening to a bunch of audiobooks and experiencing more full-length books than I could ever hope to do ‘the old-fashioned way’ (a whole other post), podcasts became my newest favourite (Canadian/Australian, not a typo) pastime. I’m dragging on. Getting to the point…

Three Podcasts Fiction Writers Need to Hear in 2024

(Especially early career writers)

1. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

Two literary agents (Carly Watters and Cece Lyra) and a best-selling published author (Bianca Marais) guide new writers on how to improve writing all the way from a line level to the very practical skills needed to prepare an effective query package that lands. The Books with Hooks segment is my personal favourite and it allows writers to submit their query letters for live assessment. If traditional publishing is an aspiration, this is a wonderful resource to start to wrap your head around the querying and agenting process.

2. Fiction Writing Made Easy with Savannah Gilbo

This one is straight up fiction writing gold. As a developmental editor and book coach, she provides practical tips and tricks to apply to elevate stories and lots of other great strategies for aspiring authors.

3. Writing Excuses

With Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells and Howard Taylor. This is another technique-oriented podcast that includes homework for a listener to apply right away. I love their sign off, ‘You’re out of excuses, now go write.” 

I’m always on the lookout for new listens. What are your favourite writing world podcasts?

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This is not an exhaustive list. This doesn’t even scratch the surface.  Whether you’re a curious creative dipping your toes in the water of writing, or a seasoned author with countless books out in the wild, there will be something here for you. Trust me. And once you catch up on the back catalogue of binge-worthy episodes, I’m sure more shows will pop up in your favourite podcast provider. Heads up – you probably need to take something out of the freezer for dinner.