No Mess, No Magic

Monica Hay

No Mess, No Magic is a podcast for writers who want to embrace the messy, imperfect process of writing. Hosted by writing coach Monica Hay, this show is for writers who want to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start building a writing practice in the middle of busy lives, rough drafts, and creative resistance. You won’t find rigid writing rules or productivity perfectionism here. Instead, we talk about the real work of being a writer: showing up when you feel uninspired, writing through doubt, and learning how to keep going when the process gets uncomfortable. Because books aren’t written by people who feel magically inspired every day. They’re written by people who keep showing up in the mess. If you’re a writer who wants to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start building a writing practice that works in real life… You’re in the right place. Messy drafts welcome.

  1. Jun 24

    The Truth About Author Platforms and Writing in the Margins

    In this episode, I'm joined by author Hannah Callan to talk about writing in the margins of life, and building an author platform. We discuss what it looks like to pursue creative dreams while juggling work, family, social media, overwhelm, and all the other responsibilities that come with being a human being. We also dive into author platform-building and some of the biggest misconceptions writers have about social media. Hannah shares how she built an audience online, how that audience helped her during the querying process, and why building a platform doesn't have to mean living on Instagram 24/7. We talk about: Why writers often have an all-or-nothing mindset around creativityThe myth of needing huge blocks of uninterrupted time to writeBuilding an author platform without losing yourself in the processThe difference between an audience and a communityWriting during busy seasons of lifeWorking with fragmented creativity instead of fighting itHannah's querying journey, including agent requests that came through social media If you've ever found yourself thinking, "I'll write when life calms down," this episode is for you. About Hannah: Hannah Callan is a jack of many creative trades—she spent ten years working as a graphic designer, ran her own wedding photography business, and received her bachelor's degree in Editing and Publishing. Now she's an agented author with her first novel out on submission to publishers, and a language nerd with linguistics research up for publication with Cambridge University Press. Above all, she believes stories to be one of the most powerful tools we have in passing on the things we've learned and building stronger communities. Hannah's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahcallanwrites/ Hannah's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hannahcallanwrites Hannah's Newsletter: https://substack.com/@hannahcallanwrites Hannah's Website: https://www.hannahcallan.com/

    59 min

  2. Jun 17

    Building an AuDHD Friendly Practice with Dr. Bailey Lang

    Many writers spend years trying to force themselves into writing routines that simply don't fit how their brains work. In this episode, Monica sits down with Dr. Bailey Lang—book coach, writing studies scholar, and self-described literary witch—to discuss why traditional writing advice often fails neurodivergent writers and what to do instead. Together, they explore the overlap between ADHD, autism, and AuDHD, the damage caused by shame-based writing advice, and how writers can build sustainable practices that honor their energy, creativity, and real lives. Topics discussed include: • The differences between ADHD, autism, and AuDHD • Why so many neurodivergent writers feel broken by traditional writing advice • The problem with "just be more disciplined" messaging • Discipline vs. devotion in a writing practice • Creating flexible routines that work with your brain instead of against it • Red-light, yellow-light, and green-light planning for fluctuating energy levels • Why fantasy writing routines often fail in real life • Burnout, overachievement, and recovering from perfectionism • Permission-giving as a creative practice • Ritual, magic, and creating meaningful writing habits • How to stop comparing your process to everyone else's Connect with Dr. Bailey Lang: Dr. Bailey Lang is the Literary Witch—a book coach who helps authors build sustainable, magical writing practices that take their books from draft to done. With a focus on mindset, practice, and craft, Bailey combines research with intuitive, client-led wisdom to guide writers as they step into their creative power. Bailey's website: https://literary-witch.kit.com/profile

    48 min

  3. Jun 9

    The Writing Lessons Hidden in Hard Seasons

    What happens when life forces you to stop writing? In this episode of No Mess, No Magic, I sit down with developmental editor and story scientist Lori Puma to talk about creativity, rest, uncertainty, and what happens when your plans are completely upended. After being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2018, Lori underwent an eight-hour brain surgery that changed her life overnight. For years afterward, she could only manage about 30 minutes of activity per day before exhaustion and cognitive symptoms took over. Writing, reading, socializing, and even everyday tasks suddenly looked very different. Together, we explore what it means to live through seasons of illness, grief, burnout, and uncertainty. We discuss: Why time away from writing isn't wastedThe difference between rest and "creative death"How difficult seasons deepen emotional complexity in your storiesWhat brain surgery taught Lori about creativity and identityLearning to trust yourself when life doesn't go according to planThe surprising ways writers can stay connected to creativity during periods of restWhy your most difficult experiences can become your greatest creative assets Whether you're navigating illness, burnout, caregiving, grief, a demanding season of life, or simply feeling frustrated that you're not writing as much as you'd like, this conversation is a powerful reminder that creativity doesn't disappear when you stop producing. Connect with Lori: Lori Puma helps experienced indie authors write novels that make readers skip bathroom breaks and ignore their smartphones. She started her career publishing scientific papers, then spent years helping data tell stories, and now she's a Visual Story Scientist and developmental editor who uses infographics and science to help genre fiction authors write novels that aren't just addictive, they're unforgettable. Free quiz - Breakout Novel X-Ray: https://loripuma.com/quiz Infographic Guide to Standout Plots: https://lori-puma.kit.com/products/infographic-guide-to-standout-novels

    50 min

  4. Jun 2

    The Mindset Shifts That Help You Finish Your First Book

    Writing a first book isn't just about learning craft. There's a lot of mindset work involved, and a lot of it feels invisible. It's about learning how to keep going when your brain is telling you you're not talented enough, your book isn't good enough, and maybe you should quit altogether. In this episode, I'm joined by author, writing coach, and founder of First Book Finish, Rhonda Douglas. We talk about the mindset shifts that help writers move from "I want to write a book someday" to actually finishing one. In this conversation, we discuss: Why so many writers wait for permission before taking their creative dreams seriouslyThe identity shift from wanting to write a book to calling yourself a writerCommon fears first-time authors face (and why they're normal)How perfectionism keeps writers stuckWhy your brain tries to convince you to quitThe emotional roller coaster of drafting and revisionFear of failure, fear of success, and fear of being judgedWhy you're not "too late" to write a bookThe truth about writing a book in 30 daysHow to keep going when everything you've written feels like trash If you've ever wondered whether you're a "real writer," worried your book isn't good enough, or felt tempted to abandon your manuscript for a shiny new idea, this episode is for you. About Rhonda: Rhonda is an award-winning author of fiction and poetry. She's the host of The Resilient Writers Radio Show and the founder of the First Book Finish program. Find Rhonda here: https://offers.resilientwriters.com/diyretreat

    45 min

  5. May 23

    Intuitive Outlining: How to Use Story Structure Without Feeling Trapped by It

    If you've ever opened a beat sheet, stared at a plotting template, and immediately wanted to throw your laptop out a window, this episode is for you. (This is how I am lol) In this conversation, I sit down with book coach and editor Lewis Jorstad to talk about intuitive outlining—a flexible approach to story development that helps writers create stronger stories without sacrificing creativity, curiosity, or the joy of discovery. We explore why traditional outlining methods work brilliantly for some writers and completely fall flat for others, the difference between developing a story and plotting a story, and how to use story structure as a tool rather than a cage. Lewis also shares his approach to "waypoint scenes," how character motivations shape plot, and why there may be thousands of good versions of your novel! Along the way, we discuss: Why some writers feel stuck by traditional outlining methodsThe difference between plotting, outlining, and story developmentHow to use character motivations to create organic plotWhat to do if your ideas only show up while you're actively draftingWhy perfectionism keeps writers trapped in endless outlining and revisionThe "helicopter vs. forest" analogy for understanding your natural writing process (I was obsessed with this!)How to know when you're ready to start draftingWhy discomfort is a normal part of writing—and how to tell when it's helping you grow Whether you're a dedicated plotter, a die-hard pantser, or someone who's tried both and hated both, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on finding a writing process that works for you. About Lewis Jorstad Lewis Jorstad is the editor and book coach behind The Novel Smithy, where he helps debut fiction writers turn their messy drafts into finished novels they’re proud to publish. With over eight years of experience, Lewis has edited 250+ manuscripts, written seven bestselling writing guides, and supported over 2,000 writers around the world. These days, he's on a mission to help writers embrace their brain’s intuitive way of telling stories, while also creating page-turning novels readers can’t put down. Check out Lewis's offers here: https://thenovelsmithy.com/ Find Monica's website here: https://monicahay.com/ Monica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/

    1h 1m

  6. May 14

    Writing Novels With Your Voice with Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer

    In this episode of No Mess, No Magic, Monica talks with fiction author and educator Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer about dictation, accessibility, and why writing with your voice is still writing. Sarah shares how she went from struggling with dictation for seven years to using it to draft 14 books, and now teaches other authors how to make the shift from typing to speaking their stories. Together, Monica and Sarah explore dictation as a sustainable writing tool, especially for writers with disabilities, chronic pain, ADHD, autism, screen fatigue, or anyone who feels chained to their desk. They also talk about oral storytelling traditions, why “shortcuts” aren’t cheating, the learning curve of dictation, Sarah’s DRAFT framework, and how writers can practice dictation without putting pressure on their current work-in-progress. Want to learn to dictate? Sarah us offering a HUGE discount on her Fictation Course exclusively for listeners of No Mess, No Magic. Check it out here: https://fictioncourses.thrivecart.com/fictation-digital-course-coupon/?coupon=NOMESSNOMAGIC Find Sarah's freebies here: https://www.fictioncourses.com/dictation Find Monica at the links below: Monica's website: https://monicahay.com/ Book a Curiosity Call: https://monicahay.com/curious Monica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/ Waitlist to join the Writer's Way Community: https://www.monicahaycoaching.com/communitywaitlist Takeaways Dictation as a writing methodOvercoming challenges in dictation Practice and repetition are essential for skill developmentDictation can be a valuable tool for writers Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Friendship07:00 Overcoming Resistance to Dictation13:29 Beginner's Curve in Dictation21:24 The Importance of Practice and Repetition29:02 Tools and Techniques for Dictation35:22 Learning Dictation and Where to Find Resources

    41 min

  7. May 7

    Writing for Approval Is Killing Your Creativity with Rachel May

    We get SPICY in this one! About Rachel: Rachel May is a published author and powerhouse coach who brings a refreshingly down-to-earth approach to writing craft, mindset, and process. As a writer with ADHD, Rachel is intimately familiar with the frustrations that traditional writing “rules” can bring—especially for writers who feel like they just don’t fit the mold. Rachel’s sessions go beyond typical craft lectures; they’re about healing writing roadblocks, creating a process you’ll actually want to stick with, and building momentum toward the book you’ve always dreamed of finishing. To check out Rachel's work, click here: https://goldenmayediting.com/ The conversation delves into the challenges of being a high achiever and the impact of achievement on creativity. It also explores the journey of overcoming the need for external validation and approval, focusing on self-love and self-acceptance. We talk self-love and creativity, exploring the impact of perfectionism, and the fear of failure. We also examine the influence of capitalism on creativity and the societal pressure to achieve success. Find Monica's website here: https://monicahay.com/ Find Monica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicahayauthor/ Want good shit in your inbox? Subscribe to Monica's newsletter: https://www.monicahaycoaching.com/newsletter Want to explore working with Monica? Book a curiosity call here: https://calendly.com/monicahay/discovery-call Takeaways High achiever challengesSelf-validation and approval Self-love and creativityPerfectionism and fear of failure Chapters 00:00 Overcoming the Need for Validation25:40 Embracing Self-Love and Creativity36:31 Impact of Capitalism on Creativity

    51 min

  8. Apr 27

    Self Publishing and Successful Marketing with Annie Abel

    About Annie: Annie is a German-born author who now lives in the Netherlands, where she cycles through the countryside like a main character in a moody indie film—if that character were also late to school pickup and covered in cat hair. She writes romcoms full of grumps, banter, and emotional chaos, because love should come with laughter and a mild identity crisis. She lives with her British husband, two small tornadoes disguised as children, and exactly two cats. When she’s not writing or drawing, she’s watching drag and pretending her fictional characters didn’t just emotionally damage her. Find her website here! Annie Abel discusses her book 'Two Truths and a Lie' and her experience with self-publishing and audiobooks. She also shares insights on creative freedom, marketing, and the indie publishing community. The conversation covers topics such as marketing strategies for indie authors, staying true to one's creative vision, self-publishing advice, and managing a busy life as a writer. Anne-Marie Alcott shares insights on book launches, writing processes, and the challenges of balancing family and writing career. She also emphasizes the importance of authenticity and creativity in the writing process. Takeaways Creative freedom in self-publishing allows authors to take risks and write stories they want to read.Networking and seizing opportunities play a key role in indie book marketing. Marketing strategies for indie authorsStaying true to creative visionSelf-publishing adviceBalancing family and writing career Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Book Overview07:55 The Audiobook Journey15:01 Creative Freedom in Self-Publishing22:20 Approach to Marketing and Networking31:39 Self-Publishing Advice37:20 Balancing Family and Writing Career

    43 min
See All (13)

4.7
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

No Mess, No Magic is a podcast for writers who want to embrace the messy, imperfect process of writing. Hosted by writing coach Monica Hay, this show is for writers who want to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start building a writing practice in the middle of busy lives, rough drafts, and creative resistance. You won’t find rigid writing rules or productivity perfectionism here. Instead, we talk about the real work of being a writer: showing up when you feel uninspired, writing through doubt, and learning how to keep going when the process gets uncomfortable. Because books aren’t written by people who feel magically inspired every day. They’re written by people who keep showing up in the mess. If you’re a writer who wants to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start building a writing practice that works in real life… You’re in the right place. Messy drafts welcome.

Information

  • Creator
    Monica Hay
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Monica Hay

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