When it comes down to it, I’m a relatively new podcast listener. Though aware of them for quite some time, I had a greater interest in listening to music and never bothered giving podcasts a shot.
As I began to take my writing career more seriously, I sought a way to get advice and hear about the industry on regular basis. Unfortunately, I can’t realistically go to workshops, author events, conferences, what have you, daily. Podcasts became a perfect solution.
The podcasts I tend to listen to focus primarily on writing – whether that be craft or genre focused ones. What drew me to each of these is they focus on writing in some shape or form and have been valuable in either giving me tricks to improve my craft or enhance my knowledge of the industry. It is amazing what listening to hours of interviews, authors sharing their experiences along with craft tips, and publishing professionals explaining their role in the industry will do for your writing career. These podcasts haven’t only helped hone my craft but also equipped me with tools to be a successful working author — when that time comes.
Below is a list of podcasts that are in my regular rotation:
Writing Excuses
This was the first podcast I listened to and the one that got me addicted to writing podcasts. Perfect length of time, packed with great content to help writers. Featuring acclaimed authors — Brandon Sanderson, Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Wells, and Howard Taylor. Highly recommend.
Functional Nerds
This podcast appeals to me in so many ways. They have a big emphasis on science fiction and fantasy media — as well as other topics. It is a lot of fun to listen to Patrick Hester and John Anealio’s interviews each week. Their Picks of the Week always provide entertaining new media to check out.
Sword & Laser
Great way to stay on top of the current news in the SF/F market. Tom Merritt and Veronica Belmont’s conversations are engaging and the show features plenty of great author interviews. If you’re in need of something to read check out their Picks on the website.
Beyond The Trope
The show has a strong emphasis on writing but covers all facets of nerd culture too. Entertaining and informative.
Scott Sigler (Primarily the Friday Fix)
I primarily like this feature for the occasional author interviews, which are always fun and enlightening. Other episodes vary in topic and usually have to do with something current out in the media world. Lots of other great content over at Scott’s website.
Shipping & Handling
Hosted by two literary agents, this podcast offers a great opportunity to see the publishing industry through their eyes. The show features great conversations about books and writing. They also answer questions sent in by listeners, which is very helpful and a great resource.
Ditch Diggers
Mur Lafferty and Matt Wallace focus on the business side of writing with this podcast. This show isn’t aimed at beginners and pulls no punches by painting a realistic picture of the writing life — discussing the good and the bad. Genuine conversations between Mur and Matt, along with the occasional guests, the advice provided is invaluable. If you’re looking for something geared more towards the beginner writer, check out Mur’s I Should be Writing.
88 Cups of Tea
I came across this podcast thanks to Mindee Arnett posting on Twitter the week she was a guest on 88 Cups of Tea.
By the way, if you haven’t checked out Mindee’s books, you should. Ever since listening to that episode I was hooked. Yin Chang is an outstanding host and has authentic conversations with her guests that leave you inspired. The guest authors in particular share a lot of awesome writing advice. This podcast is great for novelists, screenwriters, filmmakers, or other creatives.
Wired: Geek’s Guide to the Galaxy
This show primarily focuses on everything Science Fiction and Fantasy, in all mediums, with a great assortment of guests. The episodes are pretty lengthy but because of that are in-depth on a variety of genre related topics. With an extensive archive of past episodes, I’m sure you’ll find an episode that’d interest you.
So that’s a list of some of my favorite writing podcasts, though I have a handful of others. Any I missed that you enjoy?
Joshua Clark 