Making Memoir Magic

Kerry Kriseman
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The podcast where we unlock the power of your story and guide you through the magical process of turning life experiences into memoirs that inspire and impact. kerrykriseman.substack.com

  1. Why Your Memoir Feels Flat

    2D AGO

    Why Your Memoir Feels Flat

    If your memoir feels flat, the problem may not be your story — it may be how you’re telling it. In this mini-lesson, Kerry breaks down one of the most important craft distinctions in memoir writing: scene vs. summary. You’ll learn why summary explains but scene immerses, and how slowing down your turning points can dramatically increase the emotional impact of your writing. Through concrete examples and a practical exercise, Kerry shows you how to transform flat narration into vivid, cinematic storytelling. Your story deserves to be experienced — not just reported. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * The difference between scene and summary * Why summary often makes writing feel distant or flat * How scene invites readers to live the moment with you * Concrete examples of summary rewritten as scene * A simple 4-question exercise to immediately strengthen your writing Ready to Go Deeper? Join Kerry for her live three-week workshop with the Happy Women Dinners group: Stop Telling. Start Showing. Week 1 – April 2What Makes a Scene? Moving from summary to story. Week 2 – April 9Building Emotional Depth — sensory detail, dialogue, and interior life. Week 3 – April 16Shaping and Polishing — structure, tension, and revision strategies. We’ll practice writing scenes in real time and build practical skills you can apply immediately. Early Bird Registration: $250 through March 5thAfter March 5th: $350 Register here: Stop Telling. Start Showing Join the Community Become part of Kerry’s free Facebook group: Join here: Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors Members are invited to weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins every Wednesday from 10:30–11:00 a.m. (via Zoom): * Brief greetings * A quick craft lesson and writing prompt * 20 minutes of focused writing together * Optional sharing and encouragement It’s a powerful way to build momentum and stay committed to your writing practice. Connect with Kerry Author of Accidental First Lady: On the Front Lines (and Behind the Scenes) of Local PoliticsFollow on Instagram Keep writing. Your story is valuable. It deserves to be told — and you are the best person to tell it. Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    10 min
  2. The Fear of Judgment

    FEB 24

    The Fear of Judgment

    Do you hesitate to write your memoir because of fear—of judgment, criticism, or misunderstanding? In this episode, Kerry explores why fear of judgment is natural, how it shows up in your writing, and practical strategies to write authentically anyway. Learn how to reclaim your voice, embrace courage, and share your story honestly without overthinking. What You’ll Learn: * Why fear of judgment stops so many writers * How to identify when fear is controlling your story * Techniques to write honestly and courageously * How to start small, build trust in your voice, and grow confidence CTAs: * Join the Make Memoir Magic Facebook Group for community, feedback, and inspiration * Attend a Memoir Magic Write-In to get live support while writing * Explore free resources including writing prompts, exercises, and guides “Fear of judgment is normal. But it doesn’t own your story. You do.” Thank you for listening to this episode of Making Memoir Magic. To learn more about my course, Make Memoir Magic, click here. Join my free Facebook Group, Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors, where we honor your story, provide tips, create community, and help you write the story you were meant to tell. Join here! Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    15 min
  3. Stop Overexplaining

    FEB 16

    Stop Overexplaining

    Do you overexplain your life in your memoir? Stop! In this episode, Kerry teaches aspiring writers how to trust their story and their voice, strip away unnecessary justification, and connect with readers emotionally. With practical exercises and mindset shifts, this episode will help you show up boldly and write honestly—without overexplaining. What You’ll Learn: * Why overexplaining hurts your memoir * How to write scenes that speak without footnotes * Exercises to trust your story and your voice * How to use specificity instead of explanation * How to build confidence as a writer Join My Community * Join the Make Memoir Magic Facebook Group for community, feedback, and inspiration * Attend a Memoir Magic Write-In to get live support while writing * Access free resources including prompts, exercises, and guides to keep your story moving Key Takeaway:“You don’t need to explain your story. You need to trust your voice.” Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    13 min
  4. The Myth of the Big Writing Retreat

    FEB 4

    The Myth of the Big Writing Retreat

    What if the reason you haven’t started your book isn’t lack of talent—but waiting for perfect conditions? In this episode, Kerry busts the myth of the big writing retreat and reveals what actually gets books written: twenty minutes a day, a chair, and a decision. You’ll learn how to create a writing retreat at home, DIY a retreat in one weekend, and build a consistent writing habit—without waiting for more time, money, or inspiration. Kerry also announces her new weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins, starting February 11 at 10:30 a.m. live on Zoom—a supportive, low-pressure space to write alongside others. 👉 Want to join? These are free for members of her Facebook group.Not a member yet? Click here to join the Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors FB Group. Your story doesn’t need a mountain view. It needs you. Episode Summary:In this episode, Kerry dismantles the fantasy that you need a big, expensive writing retreat to begin—or finish—your book. Instead, she shares how real momentum comes from small, consistent actions: twenty minutes a day, a dedicated writing space, and a decision to begin. You’ll learn how to create a writing retreat at home, DIY a retreat in one weekend, and finally build a sustainable writing habit—without waiting for perfect conditions. Kerry also introduces her new weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins, starting February 11 at 10:30 a.m. live via Zoom—a supportive, pressure-free space to write alongside others. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * Why the “big writing retreat” myth keeps writers stuck * How to create a retreat environment at home * How to DIY a writing retreat in one weekend * How to build a consistent writing habit * How to join the weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins Join the free weekly Memoir Magic Write-Ins starting 2/11 at 10:30 a.m. live on Zoom.These are free for members of Kerry’s Facebook group. 👉 Not a member yet? Click here to join the Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors FB Group. Thank you for listening to this episode of Making Memoir Magic. To learn more about my course, Make Memoir Magic, click here. Join my free Facebook Group, Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors, where we honor your story, provide tips, create community, and help you write the story you were meant to tell. Join here! Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    12 min
  5. Why Your Story Matters

    JAN 28

    Why Your Story Matters

    In this conversation, Kerry Kriseman emphasizes the significance of storytelling, especially during challenging times. She reassures listeners that their stories are valuable and necessary, serving as acts of resistance and courage. Kriseman discusses her course, Make Memoir Magic, as a pathway for aspiring authors to reclaim their voices and share their narratives. She encourages individuals to embrace their experiences and recognize the power of their stories, regardless of external circumstances. Takeaways * If your mind feels cluttered, you’re not broken. You’re human. * Telling your story is not a luxury; it’s a form of resistance. * Silence benefits systems that thrive on it. * Your stories disrupt and humanize. * Your story matters if it changed you. * Writing your story is not indulgent; it’s insurgent. * You just need one brave decision to start. * Your voice and story matter in this world. * You don’t have to write alone; seek community. * Your reasons for writing don’t need justification. Chapters 00:00The Importance of Storytelling in Troubling Times 09:41Embracing Your Narrative: Courage in Memoir Writing 10:23Introduction to Memoir Writing 10:47Connecting with Your Audience Thank you for listening to this episode of Making Memoir Magic. To learn more about my course, Make Memoir Magic, click here. Join my free Facebook Group, Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors, where we honor your story, provide tips, create community, and help you write the story you were meant to tell. Join here! Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    11 min
  6. Another Year Goes By. It's Still Unwritten

    JAN 20

    Another Year Goes By. It's Still Unwritten

    It’s already the third week of January—and if your memoir is still unwritten, you’re not alone. In this episode, Kerry Kriseman unpacks why so many memoir dreams get postponed and what it really takes to start writing in real life—not in a fantasy schedule. You’ll meet three types of writers Kerry sees most often:• The at-home entrepreneur with young kids• The full-time worker with limited energy and time• The start-stop writer who can’t seem to gain momentum And you’ll learn why:• “Later” is the most dangerous word writers use• Unwritten stories don’t disappear—they turn into regret• You don’t need more time—you need a clear path and accountability This episode is honest, compassionate, and motivating—and it just might be the permission you’ve been waiting for. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * How to write when life is full and noisy * Why consistency beats motivation every time * How to keep your story warm even when you can’t write * Why memoir dreams quietly age out when they’re not honored * What it really takes to finally finish your story Resources Mentioned: * Make Memoir Magic (course) * Free Facebook Group: Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors Connect with Kerry: * Email: kerrykriseman@gmail.com * Facebook Group: Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors * Website: www.kerrykriseman.comIf this episode sparked something in you, email Kerry and tell her what you’re thinking. And don’t forget to join the free Facebook group—your writing community is waiting. Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    17 min
  7. The Real Reason You're Not Writing Your Memoir

    JAN 12

    The Real Reason You're Not Writing Your Memoir

    Episode notes:If you’ve been telling yourself you’ll write your memoir when you have more time… more clarity… more confidence—this episode is for you. Today, we’re going one layer deeper than productivity tips and writing advice. We’re talking about the fears that hide behind “I’m just busy” and “maybe someday.” The ones that sound reasonable. The ones that keep you stuck. In this episode, we explore: * Why time and talent are rarely the real blockers * The quiet fears that keep aspiring memoirists circling instead of starting * Why avoidance often looks responsible (and feels convincing) * What it really costs to keep postponing your story * How to move from thinking about writing to actually beginning If you felt seen—or slightly exposed in the best way—you’re not alone. And you’re not late. You’re right on time. Ready to stop circling and actually begin? I’m hosting a free live masterclass on January 14:3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir In this one-hour workshop, I’ll help you: * Find a clear, doable starting point * Understand why your story matters (without exaggerating or apologizing) * Build momentum instead of waiting for confidence to magically appear 👉 Register for the free masterclass here. Want ongoing support and community? If you’re craving encouragement, accountability, and a room full of people who get this memoir itch, join my free Facebook group: Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors It’s a supportive space for writers who are ready to stop second-guessing and start honoring the stories they’ve lived. 👉 Join the free Facebook group: Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors Your story doesn’t need permission. It needs your presence. And I’m really glad you’re here. Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    17 min
  8. What if my story isn't big enough

    JAN 5

    What if my story isn't big enough

    Episode Description:Many aspiring memoir writers believe their story isn’t “big enough” to matter. In this episode, Kerry explores why that belief is the real obstacle—and how meaningful memoirs are built from everyday experiences, quiet transformations, and personal truth. If you’ve ever questioned whether your life is worth writing about, this conversation will help you reframe memoir, understand what readers actually connect with, and take the first step toward telling your story. Key Takeaways: * Memoir isn’t about fame, trauma, or spectacle—it’s about meaning * Readers connect to recognition, not extremity * Imposter syndrome affects even accomplished writers * Everyday experiences hold powerful story potential * Unwritten stories often show up as restlessness and self-doubt * You don’t need permission or perfection to begin—just a clear starting point Free Resource:🎓 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir🗓 January 14 | Noon (ET) | Live via Zoom👉 Register here: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir Join my free Facebook Group, Memoir Magic for Aspiring Authors. It’s your place for support, community, tips, live trainings, and more! Click here to join! Would love to have you! Get full access to Nothing Is Accidental at kerrykriseman.substack.com/subscribe

    20 min
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About

The podcast where we unlock the power of your story and guide you through the magical process of turning life experiences into memoirs that inspire and impact. kerrykriseman.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Kerry Kriseman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kerry Kriseman
  • Show Website
    Making Memoir Magic