Collaborcast

The Importance of Helping Others Find Their Voice with special guest Anita Mumm

Collaborist — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 12:32:35 +0000

Editor and teacher Anita Mumm joins us on the podcast to talk about the importance of story and helping others find their voice. She discusses her work teaching creative writing to incarcerated populations.

For more about Anita, please visit www.anitamumm.com

#writingadvice #writingcommunity #inmateprograms #colorado

Free 25 Page Editing Offer (this is a public service announcement)

Collaborist — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:49:09 +0000

How would you like free feedback on 25 pages of your work in progress?

Intern Maddy is back with us this summer and she is looking for more hands on editorial work.

Jason and Ben will work with her to read your material and provide you with marked up pages, editorial notes, and maybe (situation dependent) a phone call to discuss.

No tricks. No hooks. No gimmicks. We're just trying to help the next generation of the editorial world get real world experience.

Thanks, Collaborist!

Another Approach to Memoir with special guest Madelyn Postman

Collaborist — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:46:16 +0000

On this episode of Collaborcast Jason and Ben speak with author Madelyn Postman about writing memoir, understanding identity, and how short form can provide insight.

We're Back! Jason's Got a Book Deal! Tsunami Alerts! And! More!

Collaborist — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:19:33 +0000

Hi Collaborist -

Sorry we've been gone for a bit. It's been busier than a third shift at the pillow factory, but here we are! On this episode of Collaborcast, Jason tells us about his book deal for his new novel, we discuss understanding story and the distances it sometimes takes, Jason gets a tsunami alert on air, and Ben makes an offer to YOU about volunteering in your community in exchange for editing/writing/coaching from Ben.

Listen up and Happy Holidays, Collaborist.

#writing #editing #novel #memoir #bookdeal #tsunami #volunteering #volunteer

How to Get Into Publishing (one story)

Collaborist — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 14:44:45 +0000

Hey Collaborist!

On this week's episode of Collaborcast, Maddy and Ben dive in to the publishing world, and how Ben entered the publishing world. We talk about Ben's story of hard-work, motivation, and luck. We also discuss the logistics and roles that are necessary in the publishing world. From Ben's eventful career, he has one major takeaway to share with Collaborist: No matter the path we all take, it is the connections and impacts we make along the way that matter the most.

Ben LeRoy began his publishing career in the early 2000s as the publisher of Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and then Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was acquired by Simon & Schuster. During his time as publisher, Ben worked on a variety of critically acclaimed and award winning titles. He was also a regular panelist and speaker at writing conferences. Since 2017 he has continued to work with writers to help them understand and best tell their stories. He has extensive relationships within the publishing and bookselling community and is a mindful observer of current trends and artistic integrity. He is continually exploring new ways of approaching editing.

We provide editing, writing, coaching, and consulting services for writers in all genres. Whether you’re a first-time writer planning your first manuscript or an established author wondering why your latest draft isn’t quite working as well as it should, our bespoke services will help you attain your goals. If you feel like we can help you in your writing aspirations, please visit us at https://collaborist.org/

How to Get a Literary Agent in 2024

Collaborist — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:26:22 +0000

Hi Collaborist! On this week's episode of Collaborcast we talk to literary agent, Joanna MacKenzie! We dive in to the publishing market today, and how it has changed since the pandemic. We also discuss self-publishing, and how this could be a wrong way to go for most authors. Make sure to stick around for Joanna's "Do's and Dont's" of query letters. Joanna also gives us insight in to how her love and studies of movies have translated over to the literary world!

From Joanna, "I owe my love of books to the librarian of my childhood bookmobile, who, after I had worked my way through The Baby-Sitters Club and Sweet Valley High, lifted the velvet rope and let me into the grown-up section, where I discovered V.C. Andrews. And to my father, who gave me Cat’s Cradle, Wuthering Heights, and One Hundred Years of Solitude for my fifteenth birthday. A seasoned publishing professional with nearly twenty years on the agenting side, I’m driven by the stories my authors tell, both with the novels they write and with the careers they build. I represent New York Times bestsellers, Edgar and Anthony Award nominees, and critically acclaimed storytellers writing in all areas of adult and young adult fiction."

Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, was published by Tyrus Books in 2016. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco.

Collaborcast with Emily Krempholtz

Collaborist — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 12:25:00 +0000

Hi Collaborist!

This week on Collaborcast we interview Emily Krempholtz. Emily is an esteemed editor, book coach, and hopefully, soon-to-be-published author! We dive into her new book and what got her, and America, into the booming cozy fantasy genre. We also discuss how to query agents, BookTok, Romantasy, and how the woman author is the major voice behind the Romantasy genre. Emily talks us through all the highs and lows of her current publishing journey, and how she persevered through it all. This is an episode you can’t miss!

Emily Krempholtz is a writer, editor, book coach, and storyteller. With a background that spans from journalism to fantasy, Emily is passionate about pulling at the threads of a narrative—be it memoir, self-help, or sci-fi—to unearth the powerful stories that lie beneath the fabric of the human experience. She prides herself on being an enthusiastic, supportive, and honest advocate for the authors she works with.Her reading interests are as varied and ever-changing as her hair color, but her specialties as an editor include memoir and personal development.On the fiction side, Emily loves to write, read, and edit works that fall under the genres of fantasy, sci-fi, contemporary, romance, women’s fiction, and YA. If it’s got themes of found family, realizing your own potential, or breaking free from the “shoulds” of the world, she’s in.Emily also has extensive experience working in spirituality/wellness, prescriptive nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, and business guides, as well as short-form nonfiction like blogs, articles, brochures, and social media, particularly for small businesses. She loves conceptualizing a book’s structure from the ground up, and works with many writers to create successful book proposals that speak to that book’s unique message and firm place in today’s publishing landscape.Above all else, Emily lives for a story that grabs her with a strong voice and captivates her with a compelling narrative. If you bring her a story that makes her laugh, she’ll be your new best friend for life.

Ben LeRoy began his publishing career in the early 2000s as the publisher of Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and then Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was acquired by Simon & Schuster. During his time as publisher, Ben worked on a variety of critically acclaimed and award winning titles. He was also a regular panelist and speaker at writing conferences. Since 2017 he has continued to work with writers tohelp them understand and best tell their stories. He has extensive relationships within the publishing and bookselling community and is a mindful observer of current trends and artistic integrity. He is continually exploring new ways of approaching editing.

Writing Mystery Fiction - with guest John Ritter

Collaborist — Mon, 27 May 2024 12:59:00 +0000

Hi Collaborist! On this episode of Collaborcast, we sit down with John Ritter! We dive in to how he navigated the cliches of the private investigator genre, while writing "Fatal Conceit". Ritter also fills us in on how he was able to have such a diverse amount of environments in his book, while making them all rich with detail. Finally, John Ritter gives us some recent updates on his new book!

From small-town Midwest roots, John Ritter bounced around America growing up—Kentucky, Texas, Wyoming, Southern California. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, interrupted by two years of hitchhiking in the Southwest and work as a carpenter’s helper and meat cutter. He began a reporting career at two upstate New York newspapers the summer Nixon resigned. Then came a short stint in Phoenix at the Arizona Republic before hiring on at start-up USA TODAY in Washington. He spent twenty-eight years there, as an editor on the national desk, then as a general-assignment reporter handling both breaking news and in-depth stories about the environment, education, aviation, and politics. He and a colleague were named 1995 Pulitzer Prize finalists in investigative reporting. A move to the Bay Area as a national correspondent found Ritter on the road up and down the West Coast and throughout the mountain West. He left journalism in 2009 to write fiction and currently splits time between Northern California and Southeast Asia. Fatal Conceit is his first published manuscript.

Whether you’re a first-time writer planning your first manuscript or an established author wondering why your latest draft isn’t quite working as well as it should, our bespoke services will help you attain your goals. If you feel like we can help you in your writing aspirations, please visit us at https://collaborist.org/

00:00 Opening Credits

00:45 Writing Groups this Summer!

01:45 John's entrance (Bio + Book Summary)

05:31 "How did you navigate the cliches of your genre?"

07:40 Baggage of main character

10:15 Intelligence of main character (all of the references he uses)

18:18 Change from journalism to fiction

25:16 Diverse and immersive settings that Ritter used

33:43 New Book!

35:38 1st person to 3rd person

What to Say and Not Say in Your Memoir (We are NOT Lawyers)

Collaborist — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 17:50:04 +0000

Hi Collaborist!

Thinking about writing a memoir? Have some things you really want to say, but worry you might get in trouble for it? Whose story is it anyway? We go over some things to keep in mind as you tell the story of your life and the people who have made guest appearances.

Writing Memoir with Meg Kissinger

Collaborist — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 16:29:45 +0000

Hey Collaborist! On this episode of Collaborcast we're joined by journalist and author Meg Kissinger. She talks about what went into writing her memoir While You Were Out: An Intimate Family Portrait of Mental Illness in an Era of Silence. We discuss not only the craft of writing memoir, but also the profound mental work that is required of us when telling stories about our own lives and the lives of those closest to us.

Join Jason, Katelyn, and Ben as they welcome Meg Kissinger to Collaborcast!

ABOUT MEG KISSINGER -
Meg Kissinger spent more than two decades traveling across the country to report on America’s mental health system for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. A Pulitzer Prize finalist, she has won dozens of accolades, including two George Polk Awards, the Robert F. Kennedy Award, awards from Investigative Reporters and Editors, and two National Journalism Awards. Kissinger teaches investigative reporting at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism and was a visiting professor at DePauw University, her alma mater. Her stories on the abysmal living conditions for people with mental illness inspired changes to Wisconsin law and led to the creation of hundreds of new housing units. She lives in Milwaukee with Larry Boynton, her husband of more than 40 years.

ABOUT WHILE YOU WERE OUT -
Long-listed, Barnes and Noble Best New Books of the Year 2023

From award-winning journalist Meg Kissinger, a searing memoir of a family besieged by mental illness, as well as an incisive exploration of the systems that failed them and a testament to the love that sustained them. Growing up in the 1960s in the suburbs of Chicago, Meg Kissinger’s family seemed to live a charmed life. With eight kids and two loving parents, the Kissingers radiated a warm, boisterous energy. Whether they were spending summer days on the shores of Lake Michigan, barreling down the ski slopes, or navigating the trials of their Catholic school, the Kissingers always knew how to live large and play hard. But behind closed doors, a harsher reality was unfolding—a heavily medicated mother hospitalized for anxiety and depression, a manic father prone to violence, and children in the throes of bipolar disorder and depression, two of whom would take their own lives. Through it all, the Kissingers faced the world with their signature dark humor and the unspoken family rule: never talk about it. While You Were Out begins as the personal story of one family’s struggles then opens outward, as Kissinger details how childhood tragedy catalyzed a journalism career focused on exposing our country’s flawed mental health care. Combining the intimacy of memoir with the rigor of investigative reporting, the book explores the consequences of shame, the havoc of botched public policy, and the hope offered by new treatment strategies. Powerful, candid and filled with surprising humor, this is the story of one family’s love and resilience in face of great loss.

For more information about Meg, visit www.megkissinger.com

For more information about Collaborist, visit www.collaborist.org

Does Memoir Need to be Factually Accurate?

Collaborist — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:26:05 +0000

Hey Collaborist -

Have you ever read a memoir and wondered how much of it was true and how much of it was "true?" On this episode of Collaborcast we discuss reader expectations and author intentions in the matter of retelling the story of a lived life. Is truth important in memoir? Is it possible to be 100% accurate with an unreliable memory? Does it matter?

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Jason Buchholz’s acclaimed debut novel, A Paper Son, published by Tyrus Books in 2016, explores themes of migration, borderlands, heritage, and the sometimes hidden stories that bind us all together. He has ghostwritten books and book proposals for a variety of authors and as an editor he has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. A current nonfiction project has him hiking and kayaking deep into the quiet landscapes of the many wilderness areas of Northern California, where he lives. When he’s not writing or reading he spends his time playing and traveling with his son and daughter. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco.

Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. In 2014, after the suicide death of a friend, Ben did volunteer work in all 50 states as part of the Be Local Everywhere project.

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/

More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/

More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com

Memoir vs. Autobiography - Here's the Difference!

Collaborist — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 21:00:29 +0000

Hey Collaborist - Are you wanting to tell your life story, or, at the very least, part of it? Well, we have an episode for you. Jason has put on his fanciest college professor gear to explain the difference between a memoir and an autobiography!

What is an MFA in Creative Writing (with guest Jennifer Reimer)

Collaborist — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:15:26 +0000

Hey Collaborist, do you ever find yourself asking just exactly what is an MFA in Creative Writing and what can you do with it? You're not the only one. On this episode of Collaborcast, we talk with Jennifer Reimer, the Program Director of the Low Residency MFA program at Oregon State University Cascades Campus. What can you get out of an MFA for your education? For your writing community? What to look for in terms of expenses and environments.

We've had multiple people email us in the past asking -- What is an MFA in Creative Writing and Do I Need One? Hopefully, after this episode, you'll know more and know more detailed questions to consider.

Thanks to Jennifer for joining us. Thanks to the world's coolest producer, Katelyn. Thanks to Self Help for the music.

If you enjoy this podcast in video form, you'll be super jazzed to know you can watch it on YouTube.

Write What You Know

Collaborist — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 19:36:04 +0000

We've all been handed the advice "Write What You Know" at one point or another on your writing journey. But what does that mean? How will people know if we're writing outside of that?

Good questions. We'll address them and others like, "What does it mean in today's publishing environment?" Experience or research? Both? What are the pitfalls that might expose us? Does it matter? Are different genres equipped with different rules?

All that and more on this episode of Collaborcast with hosts Jason Buchholz and Ben LeRoy.

Thanks to Katelyn Ferral for producing and Self-Help for the music.

#amwriting #writingadvice #beginnerwriter #writewhatyouknow #amediting #publishing #howtowrite #fiction #fictionwriting

How to Take Criticism

Collaborist — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 23:58:05 +0000

Hey Collaborist –

Ever find yourself wondering how to take criticism when people give you feedback on your work? In this episode of Collaborcast we talk about some of the emotional things that might pop up, how to process them, and how to get the most out of reader opinions. Whether you're meeting with your local writers’ group or knee deep in an MFA program, part of the process is handing over the precious work you've been doing for months or years so it can be judged by others. Is that scary? Hell yes, it is. Should it stop you from sharing? Absolutely not. Provided you're around the right group, the feedback you get isn't a personal attack on your personhood, but a series of helpful suggestions for how to be a better writer by learned readers.

Hosts:
Jason "Birthday Boy" Buchholz
Ben LeRoy

Producer:
Katelyn Ferral

Opening theme:
Self Help

#writingadvice #newwriter #writingcommunity #howtotakecriticism

Message to a New Writer #1

Collaborist — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:25:31 +0000

Hey Collaborist -

Ben's been hanging out on Reddit (r/writing) and noticed A LOT of young writers who have unrealistic expectations for their lives and their writing in the moment. What would young Jason and young Ben say to themselves when they started writing decades ago? Guess you'll have to tune in to find out.

Big thanks to Katelyn for joining the Collaborcast crew as a producer. This podcast is about to get really good, gang.

#writingadvice #writingtips #newwriter #writingcommunity #howtowrite

Let's Talk About Editing, Ghostwriting, Book Doctoring, Proofreading, and other Things!

Collaborist — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 21:27:10 +0000

Hey Collaborist. Welcome to Season Two of Collaborcast. It's wonderful to see you, please excuse the dust. On this episode of the podcast we'll be talking about reading Cormac McCarthy, Barry Lopez, and Philip K. Dick. We'll also discuss what we do and don't do as coaches, editors, ghostwriters, and book doctors. #publishing #writing #writingadvice #editing #editingadvice #cormacmccarthy #barrylopez #philipkdick #bloodmeridian #valistentertainment

Collaborcast Intermission

Collaborist — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 22:49:15 +0000

Hey Collaborist!

We've got a super brief episode to let you know that we've been collecting new equipment, recording techniques, and ideas for the podcast. However, if YOU didn't know that, you might think some terrible fate had befallen us because we have been quiet for a bit and the last time you listened to us, Ben was...under the weather.

BUT! We're coming back in July with season two (arbitrarily decided upon) of Collaborcast and it will feature special guests from the writing and publishing worlds! But not in interviews that go on too long about things you're not really interested in. Unless you're interested in that kind of thing (hit us up on AOL Messenger if that's your thing!) in which case...

We hope your writing is going well.

During this very brief episode we mentioned a YouTube version of Collaborcast that we did featuring Jason's daughter, Hazel as she joined us to talk about her book called NATURE. If you haven't already seen it, it would do your heart some good to watch it.

Just go to the Collaborcast YouTube channel.

See you in July, Collaborist!

Love,

Jason and Ben

Not Really Sure What This Episode is About

Collaborist — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 01:34:41 +0000

Hey Collaborist - the good news is, by the time you start this episode, it'll almost be over. We talk about back cover descriptions and the importance of finding the sweetspot between book report and teaser. And then the Covid gets Ben and ... zzz.

Writers! Let's Dive into the Subconscious End of the Pool!

Collaborist — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:47:18 +0000

Hey Collaborist - ever find yourself stuck in your book?

Don't know how to get your character from Point A to Point B? Confused about your setting? Trying to figure out the emotional tone of where you are in the book?

Sometimes we try to force ourselves over the hurdle, but it doesn't always work. We often say on the podcast that "Writing isn't simply typing." Is it possible that writing is...painting? Ben talks about his recent experience collaborating with authors at the Wellstone Center in the Redwoods to see if there isn't a different way around the same old roadblocks.

Chekhov's Gun and Ben Finally Gets his Earthquake

Collaborist — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 03:31:26 +0000

Hey Collaborist - You know how we've already discussed techniques for being disciplined about description in your work? Well, we had an idea for this episode that talks about it again and we also bring up the oft mentioned "Chekov's Rifle." Here is the intersection of description and foreshadowing and we are waiting on the corner to discuss it with you.

Ben is in California for this episode at the Wellstone Center in the Redwoods where he experienced his first earthquake.

Come on Gang! Let's chit chat, Collaborist!

At Last! The AWP recap episode

Collaborist — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:43:10 +0000

Hello! Please pardon the absence, we're back (finally!) from AWP. Thank you to everybody we met and who agreed to join us on the podcast. As a heads up, because we were recording this on the fly in a venue with lots of people and no control of the environment, the audio quality is...not going to win a Grammy. Apologies in advance. What it may lack in clearness, it more than makes up in earnestness.

We'll be back next week with a regularly scheduled episode and hope to see you there!

Opening Pages and Why They Work

Collaborist — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 23:15:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist - on today's episode we take a look at some opening pages and why they work as an effective beginning ot a book.

How to Incorporate Backstory Without Slowing Down the Pace

Collaborist — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 21:24:00 +0000

Do you find yourself driving down the writing highway only to slam on the brakes to incorporate backstory?

Hey Collaborist - are you unsure how to get critical details into your characters' pasts without slowing down the pace of your book? You're not alone. It's important to keep in mind that you--as the author--should know a lot more about the people populating your book than the reader, much of that knowledge won't ever be directly shared with the reader. And that's okay.

Here are some things to think about when trying to decide what to include and not include in your book.

Pacing, Physiology, and Museum Curation

Collaborist — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 02:40:00 +0000

Pacing is a key component in how well a book holds a reader's attention. It doesn't always have to be a million miles an hour with big car chases and explosions. In fact, maybe the more you add, the less they mean. So maybe don't add so many.

We also talk about dramatic tension--how to keep the reader's cortisol and dopamine invested in each page.

Lastly, hey Moot--it's a murder car!

Understanding Book Contracts and Subsidiary Rights

Collaborist — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:09:00 +0000

You've been dreaming of the day when understanding book contracts and subsidiary rights is the most important thing in the world. Well, we share that dream with you and here's a primer.

Hey Collaborist - we recognize that the world around book contracts is often mysterious and getting information about them is only as good as the source (and there are a lot! and they aren't always good!). We got a question about how it all works in practice and on this episode of Collaborcast, Ben talks about general terms, what they mean, how to understand them, and ways YOU might think about them when the day comes.

We talk movies! Translations! Territories! Options! We talk about the costs of publishing and the Terrible, No Good Intersection of Art and Commerce! Ready? We're about to help you on your quest of understanding book contracts and subsidiary rights.

We also, not exactly stealthily, bring up issues around labor being discussed in general but specifically by striking Harper Collins employees. An article about that can be found here - https://www.chicagotribune.com/entert...

Understanding Your Characters

Collaborist — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Collaborcast we talk about the importance of Understanding Your Characters.

Hey Collaborist - you spend hours with them on the page and in your head, but how well do you know your characters?

How do you introduce yourself? Do you ask them questions? Do they give you answers? How real our characters feel is a critical component of how readers connect with them and with the larger story we're telling. Remember! The author (in most cases) is not the character. It's likely they've had entirely different experiences and as a result, would make different choices and handle their decision points in different ways.

Let's discuss...understanding your characters!

Head Hopping in Writing and Reading While You Write

Collaborist — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 14:24:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist - this week we're talking about head hopping in writing and also answering the question of how to approach reading while you write. We go over listener reading lists. And, Ben's got a new studio setup.

One of the most common editorial notes first time authors get is that they're "head hopping." Well, what does that mean? How does it happen? And how can you work around it. If you haven't already seen our classic Instagram Reel discussing the topic, we cover a lot of the same stuff in this episode of Collaborcast.

If you're watching this video, you probably don't need much convincing of how important it is to read books. But should you keep reading even while you're working on your own book? Or is that simply a recipe for getting influenced by the works and voices of other authors? Reading is important for writers, and when you read may be a critical component of that.

Both of these topics were listener submitted questions. If you've got one of your own, please feel free to drop it in the comments or send us an email and we'll try to work it into a future episode. We also celebrate the authors and books mentioned in last week's reading accountability check in addition to Jason and Ben listing the books they're reading.

Featured independent bookstore - Pegasus Books.

Bad Book Marketing and New Year's Resolutions

Collaborist — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 20:48:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist! Welcome to 2023, we've been waiting for you.

Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about how to drum up more interest in your writing? Maybe you've come up with some wild ideas about how to sell a truckload of books. Well, we encourage you to make sure that "wild" doesn't equal "bad" because there are plenty of bad marketing tricks that people try to play and ultimately, they're not only unsuccessful as a get rich quick scheme, they can also completely obliterate an author's career in its tracks. For instance, on this episode of Collaborcast we talk about one "innovative" author strategy that involved faking their own death. Don't do that.

We also talk about the value of New Year's resolutions and how to incorporate the concept (or a modified version of it) as you enter the first page of the calendar.

Lastly, we've got an accountability check. If you're so inclined, let us know the books you're reading this week, next week, and so on.

End of Year Recap + A Query Letter Review

Collaborist — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 13:22:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist,

In this week's episode, Jason and Ben talk about the birth and growth of Collaborist and Collaborcast, including some of their favorite episodes. Additionally, they read and discuss another query letter submitted by a Collaborist just like you.

How about you, Collaborist? What were your 2022 highlights?

Featured independent bookstore - Andover Bookstore in Andover, Massachusetts.

How Much Description Do You Need in your Writing?

Collaborist — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 05:59:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist - today we go back to talking about how much description you need in your writing. We examine the idea using Ernest Hemingway's novel, 'A Farewell to Arms and Don Delillo's novel White Noise! We, once again, examine the idea of why it's important to know the rules before you break the rules.

How about you, Collaborist? How much description do you think you need in your writing?

Trust Your Reader

Collaborist — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 16:34:00 +0000

On this week's episode we remind you to trust your reader. No need to go all in on details.

We also talk about Jasper's quest to get t-shirts from bookstores all across the country and how he found clarity in writing a scene during November. Also, Bryce talks about the effects painting has had on his writing.

Also! There's a request for you, dear Collaboring.

Non-fiction Book Proposals, Manuscript Wishlist, and an Observation on Point of View (and chitchat!)

Collaborist — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 01:48:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving, Collaborist! On this week's episode we talk about what needs to go into a prescriptive non-fiction book proposal at the corner of Art and Commerce. How to participate in the hashtag publishing world, and Jason tells us about an observation he made on his book while out on a hike.

How to Know You Are Ready to Query an Agent or Publisher

Collaborist — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 14:28:00 +0000

Hey Collaborist!

On this week's episode we help you understand how to know you are ready to query an agent or publisher. You've written a novel. Great! You want the whole world to read it. Also great! Now that you've typed "the end" you should start working on your query letter, right?

Well, not exactly. You need to remember that your query letter isn't the only one going out in the world and that other people are looking for representation, too. It's competitive, but there's a lot about it that is entirely within your control.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/

Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/

Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/

More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com

Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1

Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

How Long Should a Book Be? An episode about word count.

Collaborist — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:26:00 +0000

On this episode of Collaborcast we answer a frequently asked question, "How long should a book be?"

And though we both agree that a story should be as many words as it needs to be, the business side of publishing has more specific numbers as far as word count. We go over the numbers. We give examples of books that went way over and a few that snuck in well under.

Ben also talks about his side project -- What Did I Just Paint? -- a YouTube project about my nightly learning process with paints and canvases. And we want to hear from those of you who are doing NaNoWriMo! How's it going?

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS: Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/

Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/

Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/

More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com

Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1

Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Query Letter Review! Celebrating Independent Bookstores! Are People Sick of the 80s?

Collaborist — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 19:39:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss Jason's mission to learn about and promote different independent bookstores across the country, a recent Twitter discussion about new books that take place in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, and lastly, a brand new query letter review. Also, if you want your query letter to be read and discussed on an episode of Collaborcast, we've got an offer for you.

If you're a NaNoWriMo participant this year, we're cheering you on!

Old Dogs, New Tricks. Discoveries about Point of View and Weather! And We Answer the Question -- Who Designs Book Covers?

Collaborist — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 14:01:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss who designs a book's cover and why the process is the way it is. We also discuss a FIFTH! POV that nobody ever knew about (except maybe Hemingway). Jason tells us about recent magic in nature with bioluminescence and not kayaking in shark infested waters on windy nights. Also, reminder, if you're participating in NaNoWriMo 2022, we're here to talk to you about your project ahead of time to make sure you feel prepared to do your best fast drafting.

Tending to Your Purpose

Collaborist — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 01:05:00 +0000

In a busy, busy world, how can you make sure to keep tending to your purpose?

Jason and Ben discuss how to ease back into the real world after spending mindful time away on your creative project. What lessons can be learned from dedicating days or weeks to hyper focusing on one act? How do we continue to carry those lessons with us once we return to the routine of the 9-5 and the distractions of our regular life?

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/

Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/

Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/

More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com

Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1

Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Creative Time Management | Consuming Culture

Collaborist — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Jason and Ben sit down on the beach to talk about creative time management, especially as it relates to protecting your time as a writer, storyteller, artist--human. The world is full of potential distractions, but you are under no obligation to be consumed by them. It's okay to prioritize your writing. It's okay to prioritize you. You're the one who has to make sense of your life and your purpose and so much of that begins with protecting your time.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/

Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/

Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/

More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com

Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1

Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Let's Talk about NaNoWriMo!

Collaborist — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 19:33:00 +0000

Jason and Ben talk about NaNoWriMo in the first ever in person edition of Collaborcast!

Planning to write 50,000 words in November? Hoping to find writing community? We've got things for you to think about as you embark on your book writing journey this fall! We're here with writing advice, writing tips, and gentle encouragement for those on the NaNoWriMo journey.

The Art of Silence as Writing

Collaborist — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Writing isn't simply typing. It's processing the world around you as you try to understand yourself and what it is you want to say. We live in a world of constant stimulation from all corners, much of it is disposable. So how do you get outside of it? And what should you expect once you do? Is being uncomfortable part of writing? Probably not for everybody, but maybe for you. In this episode of Collaborcast we explore the necessity of silence as part of your creative process.

What about you, Collaborist? Have you found refuge in quiet? If so, where?

Let's talk about Writing Retreats and Writing Conferences

Collaborist — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 19:02:00 +0000

Jason and Ben talk about the benefits and expectations of a writing retreat and how it differs from a writing conference. Are you looking for alone time and no distractions so that you can write ten thousand words? Are you looking to meet other writers working in your genre? Hoping to learn from your favorite authors and esteemed experts in the business of writing and publishing?

Well, Collaborist, we've got an episode for you!

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/
Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/
Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist
More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/
More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com
Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1
Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist
Collaborist on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/collaborist
Collaborist on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Writing Routines that Work (and ones that don't)

Collaborist — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 12:20:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss writing routines that work and why it's important to question the wisdom of anybody telling you they have a formula for success. A lot of writing advice comes off as aggressive and needlessly rigid, pretending that it's practical in a mythical cutthroat literary world. You don't need to hustle and grind. You don't need to write 5,000 words a day. You don't need to produce a novel every few months. For most writers it isn't realistic and the effects of unrealistic expectations can ruin a book before an author even gets started.

Let's discuss, Collaborist!

Also, because of goings on in the publishing world this week, we have a refresher conversation about the precarious nature of micro presses (no matter how well intentioned!), red flags to notice, questions to ask. You've got a few decades, write like it.

Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist
Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services
Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1
TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@collaborist

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

ABOUT THE HOSTS Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster).

Ben LeRoy was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books and Tyrus Books until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good.

Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS...

How to Write a Novel: The End (and things to remember along the way)

Collaborist — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 13:36:00 +0000

Jason and Ben wrap up their How to Write a Novel series with some thoughts about the end of a book and the process of writing.

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Need an Editor, Ghostwriter, or Coach? Hire a Collaborist! – https://collaborist.org/services/
Looking for a Writers’ Group? - https://collaborist.org/writers-groups/
Interested in a book mentioned during the podcast? - https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist
More about Jason Buchholz - http://www.jasonbuchholz.com/
More about Ben LeRoy – http://www.thebenleroy.com
Collaborist on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/Collaborist1
Collaborist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist
Collaborist on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Is Writing to Chase Trends a Good Idea?

Collaborist — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 14:25:00 +0000

Should you chase trends when writing a novel? Is there a way to take advantage of the zeitgeist atop the bestseller list? Is there a formula for striking it rich with your writing? Is it more important to write a book according to what's popular now? Or to write the book that's burning in your heart? Do you have to choose? Can you do both?

Let's discuss, Collaborist!

Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist

Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services

Follow Collaborist on Social Media: Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1

TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@collaborist

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist. https://bookshop.org/shop/collaborist

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Jason Buchholz has fostered the development of dozens of manuscripts, both in fiction and nonfiction. He has also worked as a journalist and a travel writer. Jason graduated from UC Berkeley and holds an MFA from the University of San Francisco. He is the author of the novel, A Paper Son (Simon & Schuster).

Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS...

00:00 Introduction

02:39 Updates from Collaborist

05:06 Should You Chase Writing Trends

How to Write a Novel: Scene Building

Collaborist — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 15:03:00 +0000

Hey, Collaborist! Have you ever wondered how to do scene building in your novel? How do you weigh a scene vs. a summary? How do you write a scene that is essential and not simply a way to pass the time to get to the good parts? Well, have we got an episode for you! Jason and Ben discuss scene building, what the difference is between scene and summary, what it means to let a moment pass, why some people shrug, and how to maximize the effect of your words on your readers.

Support Collaborist on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborist
Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services

Follow Collaborist on Social Media:
Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1

ABOUT THE HOSTS

How to Write a Novel: Show Don't Tell

Collaborist — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 19:17:00 +0000

Hey, Collaborist! Have you ever been told that you need to "show, don't tell" in your novel? Did you then run to the internet (overflowing with writing advice) to find out what exactly people were talking about and why they suggested that you "show don't tell?" Even after reading a variety of how to blog posts from people you don't know, were you still just as confused as ever? Well, have we got an episode for you! Jason and Ben discuss the adage Show Don't Tell, what the difference is between scene and summary, and why you don't want somebody on your shoulder ruining a movie for you.

Support Collaborcast on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/collaborcast

Want to work with Collaborist on your novel? http://www.collaborist.org/services

Follow Collaborist on Social Media:

Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/thecollaborist

Twitter - https://twitter.com/Collaborist1

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Theme song by Self Help - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtbDS_UewGA&ab_channel=SelfHelp

How to Write a Novel: Setting

Collaborist — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 14:22:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss the importance of setting, how it does and does not act as another character, the importance of writing with authority about a place, and how setting is not only about the physical location but also the time and context.

As always, thanks to Self Help for the intro and outro music!

About the hosts:

Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good.

Affiliate Disclosure: As a regular part of our discussions on Collaborcast we discuss books that have inspired us and contribute to a larger point we’re trying to make about storytelling, craft, insights into the human condition, or any number of other things. When we remember, we may include links to those books in the episode notes. If you are interested in purchasing those books and do so by clicking on the link to the Collaborist storefront on Bookshop, we will receive an affiliate commission from Bookshop. We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore. If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist.

How to Write a Novel in 2022: Pacing, Plotting, and Tension!

Collaborist — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 00:26:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss the critical balance between pace, plot, and tension. We discuss the difference between what happens in a book and what a book is about. We talk about the Karate Kid, Mad Max, thrillers, genre expectations, and how to make sure you're paying attention to your intentions and reader expectations.

Also! We're now on Patreon. If you'd like to support ongoing Collaborist initiatives and feast on a buffet of cool writing, mentoring, and community benefits, visit us at www.patreon.com/collaborist.

If you're looking for more information about our Free Query Letter Review happening August 1-7th, you can find it on your website at www.collaborist.org.

Books discussed in this episode include:

About the Hosts:

Ben LeRoy has long been fascinated by the power of words and story to connect and expand the world. He was the founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed publishing companies Bleak House Books (2000-2009) and Tyrus Books (2009-2017) until the latter was sold to Simon & Schuster. During his time in publishing, Ben was a frequent speaker at conferences and routinely interviewed for pieces about the industry. He is currently at work on a novel that is far too long and too complicated for its own good.

Affiliate Disclosure:

We have selected Bookshop because of their commitment to keeping independent bookstores competitive in the online bookselling space. We encourage you to consider Bookshop when buying books online whether or not you choose to do so through Collaborist or your favorite independent bookstore.

If you opt to get your books from somewhere other than our link – bookstores, libraries, estate sales, wherever—we’re totally okay with that, too. Books are valuable and wonderful and we encourage you to find the treasure wherever it works best for you, Collaborist.

How to Write a Novel in 2022: Your Antagonist

Collaborist — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 18:20:00 +0000

Jason and Ben discuss what makes an effective antagonist. Is the bad guy always the one in the bushes? Who else can be the person between your protagonist's goals and success?

Thanks to Self Help for the intro and outro music.