How To Write The Future

Beth Barany
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The How to Write The Future Podcast offers fiction writing tips for science fiction and fantasy authors who want to create optimistic stories because when we vision what is possible, we help make it so. By science fiction and fantasy author and fiction writing coach, Beth Barany.

  1. 8H AGO

    191. Writing Constraints: The Fast Creativity Reset

    “For me, writing fiction is a place of play.  So, yeah, that Aha came to me recently and I thought, okay, I need to dedicate myself to just playing with fiction for the next few days or the next few weeks, not taking everything so seriously.  Just have some more fun.” How do you get unstuck in your writing?  How can you make the process more fun?  These are a couple of the questions How To Write the Future host, Beth Barany ask you in this episode titled “Writing Constraints: The Fast Creativity Reset” where she describes overcoming a creative slump using writing prompts to rediscover the joy of writing.  RESOURCES 10 Ways to Generate Ideas ebook - get your free copy https://BookHip.com/JWZVXWP MYTHULU CARDS - https://mythulu.com/pack-a-intro/ SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    5 min

  2. FEB 2

    190. Ethical AI for Writers with Ana del Valle

    “I think that if you sit on the sidelines and you choose to ignore these tools, you have no chance to compete in this new marketplace. You have no chance. I'm not gonna sugarcoat it. These tools can help you do structure, do deep thinking, do critical thinking very quickly and very, very good, and you're gonna be competing with very hungry writers that wanna learn craft, that have incredible tools in their hands.” —Ana del Valle In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Ethical AI for Writers with Ana del Valle” host Beth Barany interviews a leading authority in ethical AI for creative writing on tips on how to get the most out out your chat GPT questions plus predictions on the future of AI and how it will affect traditional publishers in 2026.  ABOUT ANA DEL VALLE Award-winning novelist and technologist, Ana Del Valle is a recognized authority on AI in fiction writing, host of The Novelist Studio Podcast & YouTube channel, and founder of the AI Creative Writing Academy — the first AI-Assist Writing system recognized by the U.S. Copyright Office. Through her AI-Assist framework, she transforms the way writers approach fiction — harnessing AI as a creative ally to build complex, compelling novels, without ever losing their voice, their copyright control, or publishing rights. Website: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/ Story Spark Bootcamp: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/story-spark-bootcamp-2dfc8808-f331-459f-8eba-27e82535328f AI Creative Writing Academy: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/ai-creative-writing-academy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sevennblue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoveliststudio/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anadistasio/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@noveliststudio Ebook: https://www.thenoveliststudio.com/ebook Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    17 min

  3. JAN 26

    189. World-Building Without Information Dumping

    “ I really recommend you write your book anyway. Let it be as messy and chaotic as first drafts are.” - Beth Barany Hooking a reader in at the beginning without overwhelming them with information is essential, which is why in this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “World-Building Without Information Dumping” host Beth Barany breaks down how to draw your reader in by starting with your main character’s perspective, introducing key elements and essential details gradually.  MORE RESOURCES 3 Powerful Techniques to Weave Backstory Into Your Novel by Beth Barany https://writersfunzone.com/blog/2024/12/12/3-powerful-techniques-to-weave-backstory-into-your-novel/ Where to insert backstory (Q&A) https://writersfunzone.com/blog/2024/08/12/where-to-insert-backstory-qa/ Search Result Resources on Writers Fun Zone https://writersfunzone.com/blog/?s=podcast+world+building Decode The Obsidian Tower’s Setting https://writersfunzone.com/blog/2026/01/12/decode-the-obsidian-towers-setting/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    6 min

  4. JAN 18

    188. Fantasy Steampunk: Do You Need Magic?

    “Do your research, read widely in the genre, and don't limit yourself to strict rules; go ahead and create something new. That would be cool.” - Beth Barany In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, “Fantasy Steampunk: Do You Need Magic?” host Beth Barany answers a listener's question on whether magic is needed as an element to a steampunk novel.  She dives into how to understand what genre you are writing, how to work using your instincts, plus why it can be exciting to create something completely new and unique by combining genres and elements.  RESOURCES FOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERS Sign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success. https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCAST Sign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/ GET SUPPORT FOR YOUR FICTION WRITING BY A NOVELIST AND WRITING TEACHER AND COACH Schedule an exploratory call here and see if Beth can support you today: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/discovery-call/ SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    5 min

  5. JAN 12

    187. Decode The Obsidian Tower's Setting

    “By setting in this case, we are getting the scope of the world. We are learning the rules of magic in this story.” — Beth Barany In this How To Write the Future podcast episode, titled “Decode The Obsidian Tower's Setting,” host Beth Barany analyzes The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso, showing you exactly how she works as a developmental editor and coach. You'll discover how character voice hooks readers, how setting creates intrigue, and how to ground your story in your character's perspective. Plus, Beth throws down a challenge for you to try. RESOURCES The Obsidian Tower (Rooks and Ruin Book 1) by Melissa Caruso: https://books2read.com/u/b5NqYA FOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERS Sign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success. https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCAST Sign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/ HOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    8 min

  6. JAN 5

    186. How Much Science in Your Sci-Fi Stories?

    “Go ahead and base your sci-fi entirely on your own imagination, whatever science that you want to integrate into your story. And make it feel real.“ —Beth Barany How Much Science in Your Sci-Fi Stories?  That’s the question from a listener Beth Barany is answering in this How To Write the Future podcast episode.  She answers whether you can base your novel entirely on your imagination, whether studying science is necessary, plus she invites you to get in touch with any questions that are niggling you about your science fiction writing.  ABOUT THE HOW TO WRITE THE FUTURE PODCAST The How To Write The Future podcast is for science fiction and fantasy writers who want to write positive futures and successfully bring those stories out into the marketplace. Hosted by Beth Barany, science fiction novelist and creativity coach for writers. We cover tips for fiction writers and get curious about the future of humanity. ABOUT BETH BARANY Beth Barany, an award-winning fantasy and science fiction novelist, teaches novelists how to write, edit, and publish their books as a coach, teacher, consultant, and developmental editor. RESOURCES FOR CREATIVE WRITING PROFESSIONALS - BUILD YOUR BUSINESS SERVING WRITERS Sign up to be notified when our training opens and get a short Creative Business Style Quiz to help you create success. https://bethbarany.com/apprenticeship/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2026 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    6 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    185. How to Find a Literary Agent

    “ It's essentially a marketplace. You want to shop around. You want to make sure that this person has a good reputation and you want to talk off the record in confidence with other writers.” — Beth Barany Finished your novel and ready to land a literary agent? In this How To Write the Future episode, Beth Barany shares how to research reputable agents, start smart conversations with fellow writers, evaluate fit, and communicate professionally—so your submissions stand out and your interests align. RESOURCES GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    5 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    184. Writing Consistently: Facts and Myths

    “Learning how to write fiction-- most people never learn in school, so we're learning as adults and therefore we're gonna have a huge learning curve.” - Beth Barany In this How to Write the Future podcast episode, “Writing Consistently: Facts and Myths,” host Beth Barany shares the common misconceptions about writing consistently, plus tips on how to find the rhythm of writing that suits and works for your writing style and a bit about her own writing journey.  GET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HERE Free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/ GET SOME FREE WRITING COACHING LIVE ON THE PODCAST Sign up for the 30-minute Story Success Clinic with Beth Barany: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/story-success-clinic/ Support our work for creatives! Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbarany SHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANY https://bethbarany.com/ Questions? Comments? Send us a text! --- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITS EDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link) MUSIC: Uppbeat.io DISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

    10 min
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About

The How to Write The Future Podcast offers fiction writing tips for science fiction and fantasy authors who want to create optimistic stories because when we vision what is possible, we help make it so. By science fiction and fantasy author and fiction writing coach, Beth Barany.

Information

  • Creator
    Beth Barany
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Beth Barany
  • Show Website
    How To Write The Future

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