14 episodes

The Steps to Story podcast with your host Nicole Meier, delivering weekly episodes (in short and accessible recordings!) that provide fiction writers with essential steps and strategies, so they can get clear on their big story idea, complete their manuscripts, and follow their novel writing dreams.If you’re an emerging author seeking guidance, this podcast is for you!

Steps to Story Nicole Meier

    • Arts
    • 5.0 • 24 Ratings

The Steps to Story podcast with your host Nicole Meier, delivering weekly episodes (in short and accessible recordings!) that provide fiction writers with essential steps and strategies, so they can get clear on their big story idea, complete their manuscripts, and follow their novel writing dreams.If you’re an emerging author seeking guidance, this podcast is for you!

    13. How to Hook Readers in Scene One

    13. How to Hook Readers in Scene One

    Crafting a strong opening scene is crucial for grabbing the reader's attention and setting the tone for the entire novel. 

    As writers, we know this on some level, and yet when it comes to crafting that important opening chapter, we sometimes forget which elements to include.
    So, in today’s episode, I'm discussing key elements that writers need to know when creating the opening to their novel.
    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide

    • 8 min
    12. PSA: Five Things Writers Can Control

    12. PSA: Five Things Writers Can Control

    Today’s episode is meant to be a gentle reminder for anyone who is feeling perplexed or frustrated with certain elements of the writing and publishing journey. 

    While some elements of the publishing world may be out of a writer's control, there are SO many things that aren't.⁠ ⁠ 
     My number one recommendation is to take time to focus on the craft. Because in this, there are five wonderful things you can have control over.

    Tune in to find out what they are.

    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide 

    • 6 min
    11. Do You Have Kitchen Sink Syndrome in Your Writing?

    11. Do You Have Kitchen Sink Syndrome in Your Writing?

    In this episode, we'll be delving into the art of restraint in novel writing. Specifically, we'll discuss why it's crucial for writers to resist the temptation to throw in everything but the kitchen sink into their novel manuscript.
    Otherwise known as kitchen sink syndrome.
    It’s something I see often in my book coaching and developmental editing business – writers find themselves stuck and second guessing their story, and as a result, they tend to throw far too many characters, plot points, & twists and turns into an already packed story, for fear of not hooking their reader.

    Tune in to find out why this is and how to fix it!

    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide | MAP YOUR STORY COURSE✍🏻

    • 7 min
    10. Overcoming Common Roadblocks in Novel Writing

    10. Overcoming Common Roadblocks in Novel Writing

    If you've been second-guessing yourself and letting doubt hold you back from your writing goals, this episode is for you!

    As a book coach, I have writers come to me and admit they have a nice story outline with all kinds of good research and prep work complete…yet they just can’t find a way to get words onto the page.

    So, today I want to talk about something that comes up in different phases of our writing process and that is the subject of roadblocks. 
    Inside this episode, I'm breaking down writing roadblocks into four different categories. 
    Writer's blockPlot holesCharacter developmentPerfectionismLet's first identify them and then talk about ways to overcome them.

    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide | MAP YOUR STORY COURSE✍🏻

    • 8 min
    9. How Writers Can Know Their Protagonist Better

    9. How Writers Can Know Their Protagonist Better

    Inside this episode of Steps to Story, we discuss why knowing your protagonist on a deeper level allows you to create a more engaging and relatable story.

    When you understand your character's hopes, dreams, fears, and flaws, you can craft a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level.

    Tune in to discover an exercise to help you identify the "why" behind your character's decisions and actions in your novel manuscript.

    🚀KNOW YOUR PROTAGONIST BETTER in this self-paced course!🚀

    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide

    • 8 min
    8. Why Healthy Writing Habits Matter

    8. Why Healthy Writing Habits Matter

    In this episode of Steps to Story, I'm talking about practices that can fuel our writing process and propel us forward.

    I’m sharing my top ten list of things that can elevate your writing habits.

    This includes:
    1. Consistency & productivity
    2. Mental & emotional well-being
    3. Goal achievement
    4. Quality of writing work
    5. Overcoming challenges
    6. Writing community & support
    7. Long-term sustainability in writing
    8. Creativity & exploration
    9. Professional growth in your writing world
    10. Having a holistic approach to writing

    Let's dive right in!

    Website | Instagram | Programs | Free Novel Writing Guide

    • 10 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
24 Ratings

24 Ratings

dancerjohn ,

Great for writers at every stage of their journey!

Nicole nails it. I am beyond grateful for her wisdom and expertise.

Tracey D. Buchanan ,

On target

Nicole hits the mark with her simple, clear, helpful podcast episodes for writers who might need direction or focus. Keeping the episodes brief and targeted helps me retain what she’s teaching. I’ve had the opportunity to hear Nicole in person and she’s a true encourager who offers meaningful content.

TOL158 ,

Perfect for writers at any stage!

Whether you just have an inkling of an idea for a manuscript, or you’re stuck somewhere in the middle of one, Nicole‘s practical and supportive approach can help you get there. I’m so excited she decided to share her skills with a wider audience!

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