Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews RJ Johnson, award-winning author of the fantasy thriller Dreamslinger.

Chapter 1: Introduction
"I’ve added two more publishers, another agent, and a writer to the WriterCon speaking roster. If you’d like to review the programming schedule for yourself, visit our website, writercon.org, or you can download the official WriterCon phone app. Just search for "WriterCon 2021" and download it. Costs nothing, and once you see all we have to offer, I think maybe you’ll realize this is where you need to be on Labor Day weekend. Remember you can come to the conference in OKC live—or you can stream it from home. You don’t even have to watch it live. The sessions will be online for a month after the conference, so you can watch it whenever you have time." www.writercon.org

Chapter 2: News
1) Hachette is buying Workman Pub for $240 million;
2) Patterson and Parton Are Working Together; and
3) Clanchy and RWA Battle Race-Sensitivity Conflicts.

Chapter 2:
In the interview segment, RJ Johnson discusses:
1) How he squeezes writing into a busy life;
2) How he picks his projects;
3) How writing conferences changed his life;
4) What he's learned about writing over the years, and
5) Why he binge-watched The White Lotus.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Don't forget to register for WriterCon. Take your writing to the next level! www.writercon.org

Need a writing coach? Like this podcast? Consider making a contribution. www.patreon.com/willbern

Making Writing Dreams Come True with RJ Johnson

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Lemony Snicket (Daniel Handler), bestselling author of the Series of Unfortunate Events books, which have sold more than 70 million copies worldwide. HIs new novel is Poison for Breakfast.

Chapter 1: Introduction
WriterCon begins Friday, September 3, but it is not too late to register. Come in person or watch from home. Over 60 presenters. Over 80 sessions covering very aspect of writing and the business of writing. Download the conference app, WriterCon 2021, or visit our website for more information: www.writercon.org. This is the time to take the next step. Make your writing dreams come true.

Chapter 2: Interview
Daniel Handler talks about the new Lemony Snicket novel, Poison from Breakfast, and also discusses:
1) where he got the idea for A Series of Unfortunate Events;
2) why he writes in longhand, on paper, with a pencil;
3) why he likes to write in public places;
4) the differences between Lemony Snicket and Daniel Handler; and
5) the secret project he's tackling next.

Chapter 3: Parting Words
Come to WriterCon: www.writercon.org
Books sales are spiking. This is the time to break into the business. Take your writing career to the next level! www.writercon.org

Keep writing, and remember—you cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.

Lemony Snicket on Writing! A WriterCon Special

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews David Farland, New York Times-bestselling author of the Runelords fantasy series, and mentor to many successful writers.

Chapter 1: Introduction
We are live-streaming live from WriterCon 2021!

Chapter 2: News
1) Book sales are up with traditional publishing, independent publishing, and at B&N.
2) Amazon purchases Wondery and makes and big move in podcasts.

Chapter 3: WriterCon Reporter
Two newcomers to WriterCon, Grady Wieczorek and Jessica Smith, share their enthusiasm about WriterCon and what they've learned at the conference.

Chapter 4: Interview with David Farland
Bernhardt interview bestselling author and writing mentor David Farland about;
1) the best way to learn to write;
2) his work with Brandon Sanderson, Stephanie Meyer, and others;
3) His early advocacy of the Harry Potter series;
4) the value of outlines;
5) how he created a fantasy universe; and
6) his next work, Love Among the Cannibals.

Chapter 5: Parting Words
Please rate or review this show wherever you get podcasts. It makes it easier for new listeners to discover us.

You can follow this podcast so it is automatically downloaded for you each time we load a new episode, and if you prefer the video version, subscribe to the William Bernhardt YouTube channel. You’ll be alerted each time we livestream, or watch every episode after its completed.

Next year, join us at WriterCon! www.writercon.org

Live from WriterCon: Reaching a Vast Audience with David Farland

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews New York Times-bestselling author Robert Dugoni about his new novel, The World Played Chess.

Chapter 1: Introduction
Reflections on WriterCon 2021

Chapter 2: News
a) TikTok revives backlist titles and puts them on the bestseller list.
b) Thriller sales decline—but it may be a matter of classification.

Chapter 3: Interview
Robert Dugoni discusses his blockbuster writing career, and explains:
a) the importance of learning the craft of writing;
b) how to understand your story;
c) the value of series novels;
d) the genesis of this mainstream novel; and
e) the importance of regular work habits.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
If you’re writing or aspiring to write, join our Facebook Group, Red Sneaker Writers, so you can get daily updates.

This podcast is ad-free, supported by our patrons. I have a site at Patreon, www.patreon.com/willbern, where you can support this podcast. I also handle writer mentoring through that site, so if you’re looking for some help with your writing career, please check it out.

William Bernhardt
www.williambernhardt.com
willbern@gmail.com

Understanding Your Story with Robert Dugoni

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Betsey Kulakowski, the acclaimed author of The Veritas Codex book series, including The Alien Accord.

Chapter 1: Introduction
William Bernhardt's next novel, Exposed (Splitsville #2) can now be ordered!
https://amzn.to/3mksiFD

Chapter 2: News
a) Paper and Supply Shortages impact the Book Industry
b) Written Word Media adds Reader Reach service for book promotion

Chapter 3: Interview
Betsey Kulakowski discusses her whirlwind book career and the hit Veritas Codex series, including
a) why she loves the unexplained,
b) how she researches mysterious subjects,
c) why she created a strong female heroine—with a family,
d) how she maintains her writing schedule, and
e) how her career has been defined by pushing herself toward attainable goals.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Please rate or review this podcast wherever you get podcasts. It makes it easier for new listeners to discover us.

We’re in the planning stages for next year’s conference, WriterCon 2022, so if you have suggestions about how to make the next conference even better, please share them.

You can follow this podcast so it is automatically downloaded each time we load a new episode, and if you like the video version, subscribe to the William Bernhardt YouTube channel. You’ll be alerted each time we livestream, or you can watch every episode after it's completed.

Keep writing, and remember: you cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.

Don't forget to order Exposed, William Bernhardt's 2nd Kenzi Rivera novel!
https://amzn.to/3mksiFD

William Bernhardt
willbern@gmail.com
www.williambernhardt.com

Finding the Courage to Write with Betsey Kulakowski

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Tamara Grantham, award-winning fantasy author of Never Call Me Vampire and The 7th Lie.

Chapter 1: Introduction
Order William Bernhardt's new thriller, Exposed. This is the second book in his new series featuring lawyer Kenzi Rivera.

Chapter 2: News
1) Supply Chain Issues and Paper Shortages Plague the Book World;
2) Reader Reach Helps with Facebook Ads;
3) Sue Grafton Heirs Sell Kinsey Milhone to TV—Against Her Wishes;
4) Story Origin Helps Writers Find Beta Readers;
5) Amazon Adds Performance-Based Advertising; and 
6) Colleen Hoover Scores Huge Hybrid-Author Success.

Chapter 3: Interview
Bernhardt interviews Tamara Grantham, the award-winning fantasy author of bestseller Never Call Me Vampire and The 7th Lie and many others. She discusses:

a) how she committed to writing—and stuck to it;
b) how she makes time for writing in her busy life;
c) where she finds her stories;
d) why she likes writing series;
e) why she outlines; and
f) how writing retreats and workshops jumpstarted her career.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Please help spread the word about Bernhardt's new novel, Exposed, Book 2 in the Splitsville Legal Thriller series. https://amzn.to/3APeMPq

This podcast is ad-free, supported by our patrons. Visit www.patreon.com/willbern, where you can support this podcast. Bernhardt also handles writer mentoring through that site, so if you’re looking for some help with your writing career, please check it out.

Please rate or review this show wherever you get podcasts. It makes it easier for new listeners to discover us.

Keep writing, and remember: You cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.
William Bernhardt
www.williambernhardt.com
willbern@gmail.com

Commitment and Perseverance with Tamara Grantham

In this special "Release Day" episode, William Bernhardt (author of the new thriller Exposed) interviews Nicola Davison, Australian writer, journalist, and founder of Forever Young Autobiographies.

Telling Your Life Story with Nicola Davison

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Yasmin Angoe, author of the exciting new thriller, Her Name is Knight.

Chapter 1: Introduction
Bernhardt talks about podcast reviews and explains the chapter breaks in every episode.

Chapter 2: News
1) Huge Spanish literary prize for supposedly female-penned thriller goes to three men; 
2) Ireland institutes weekly support payments for artists—including writers; and
3) Plans for a social media platform specifically for authors.

Chapter 3: Interview
Bernhardt interviews the delightful and insightful author Yasmin Angoe, whose debut novel Her Name is Knight is generating great reviews and launching a brilliant new series.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Please rate or review this podcast!

Join the Red Sneaker Writers Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/WGBernhardt2

Bernhardt's new legal thriller, Exposed, is now on sale! https://amzn.to/3mvvyzr

Keeping Your Promises with Yasmin Angoe

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Lynne Reeves, author of the terrific new thriller The Dangers of an Ordinary Night.

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: News
a) Justice Department sues to block PRH acquisition of Simon & Schuster:
b) The proposed Copper author social media platform starts early adopter list;
c) Amazon adds "transparency codes" to POD books; and
d) Atticus is a new book formatting platform for PCs and Macs.

Chapter 3: Interview
Bernhardt interviews Lynne Reeves about her new novel and other topics, such as:
a) her nonfiction work on parenting and family life;
b) why she inaugurated a new pseudonym with this book;
c) why she has multiple books in progress at one time;
d) why all characters should have their own DNA; and
e) why every character should be flawed.

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Bernhardt's new novel, Exposed (Splitsville Legal Thriller Series Book 2), is now on sale in hardcover and eBook editions: https://amzn.to/30v5YST

Join the RedSneaker Writers Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273

Support this podcast and keep it ad-free by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/willbern

William Bernhardt
www.williambernhardt.com
willbern@gmail.com

Creating Unique Characters with Lynne Reeves

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Karen Grassle, author and actor (Ma Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie) about her new memoir, Bright Lights, Prairie Dust.

Chapter 1: Introduction
Check out the new Jesse Ulrich podcast, The Wheel of Pod. https://www.podpage.com/the-wheel-of-pod/

Chapter 2: News
1) Spotify is acquiring audiobook platform Findaway Voices;
2) Written Word Media reveals its new findings about authors;
3) 20Booksto50K presentations are available free on YouTube; and
4) BookBub reveals what tropes and genres do best.

Chapter 3: Interview
Bernhardt interviews Karen Grassle about her extraordinary career and actor and author. Among other topics, she discusses:
1) why she wrote this memoir;
2) her writing process (no outline, many years); 
3) the importance of writing groups and education;
4) life on Little House on the Prairie, and
5) Her new movie, Not to Forget

Chapter 4: Parting Words
Bernhardt has a new novel out, Exposed, Book 2 in the Splitsville legal thriller series, and a story in a new Christmas anthology, Christmas Tapestry. a collection of holiday tales written by authors who have series characters, featuring their series characters! 
Take a closer look at Exposed: https://amzn.to/3HWg1Br

The next episode of this podcast will be recorded on Dec 9 and will feature all six authors who contributed stories to Christmas Tapestry. It’s gonna be a party!

If you’re writing or aspiring to write, join our Facebook Group, Red Sneaker Writers, so you can get daily updates. 

During the interview, Karen Grassle mentions her new movie, Not to Forget. Here are some links to locations you can stream the film:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Forget-Karen-Grassle/dp/B09M2J74TB/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=not+to+forget&qid=1637953082&s=instant-video&sr=1-1
Apple TV: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/not-to-forget/umc.cmc.2lh30lzgkt5c04dnk56foq3p8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/movies/details/Not_to_Forget?id=e1saAxGmGWc.P&hl=en_US&gl=US

Making Memoir Matter with Karen Grassle

Bestselling author William Bernhardt discusses the latest news from the world of books, offers writing tips, and interviews Steve Berry, New York Times-bestselling author of The Warsaw Protocol and many other historical thrillers featuring series character Cotton Malone.

Chapter 1: Introduction
Final Verdict (Daniel Pike #6) can now be pre-ordered.
Send me your suggestions for the podcast, WriterCon, or the WriterCon website: wb@williambernhardt.com.

Chapter 2: News
a) Unpublished manuscripts are being hijacked by an unknown source.
b) The CASE Act creates a small claims court for copyright cases.
c) Portrait of 2020: Book sales are up, Amazon is soaring, but independent bookstores are hurting.

Chapter 3: Writing Tips
Popular fiction novels can reference the real world and engage with the issues of the day, but avoid being preachy and let your protagonist's actions set an example.

Chapter 4: Interview
Bernhardt interviews bestselling author Steve Berry about the creation of one of the most successful series characters of the modern era.

Chapter 5: Parting Words
Make your New Years Day resolution to write every day (or as close as possible)!

Writing Series Characters with Steve Berry

William Bernhardt

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