Writers Circle

The first sentence is usually the hardest, but if you don't immediately pull readers in, they'll ditch you. Today I sit down with my former journalism professor, Dr. Michael Longinow, who unpacks the secrets of crafting a winning lead line. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

In this engaging discussion, Nathan Baugh, founder of Worldbuilders and a storytelling expert, reveals the transformative four tenets of storytelling: conflict, progress, causation, and transformation. He shares insights on why humans crave stories and highlights common storytelling mistakes, such as focusing too much on external conflict. Nathan emphasizes the importance of pacing and internal change, using examples like Katniss from The Hunger Games. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their storytelling craft!

AI is everywhere—and for writers, it's confusing. Is it a genius creativity hack or the end of creativity as we know it? In part two of my conversation with executive editor Stephanie Duncan Smith, we wrestle with the real questions writers face: What's gained when AI speeds up the process? And what's lost when we outsource creativity to machines? Stephanie shares why inefficiency is actually vital to the writing life and how protecting your creative core is more urgent than ever. If you've felt overwhelmed or unsure about AI, this episode will help you think clearly. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Sign up for my workshop: https://writers-s-site-7336.thinkific.com/products/courses/copy-of-how-to-write-stuff-people-actually-read Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Many writers feel compelled to share their story—but here's the hard truth: while everyone wants to tell their story, most readers don't actually want to read it. In this episode, senior editor Stephanie Duncan Smith of HarperOne joins me to unpack why memoirs so often struggle in publishing, and more importantly, how you can write your story in a way that makes room for readers. You'll come away with practical insights on how to transform a personal narrative into a universal one that truly resonates. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

It's easy to say the same things in the same way over and over—to get stuck in a communication rut. Today's guest, Rachel Buller, shares a framework she uses with authors as an editor at W Publishing, called the '4 C's of Communication.' These four metrics will help you distinguish your unique voice as a writer, so you can effectively cut through the noise and reach more readers. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join my monthly workshops: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/subscribe Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

In this Real-Time, Real-Talk episode, Doug Wekenman explains why it's worth taking the time to distill your ideas into their catchiest form, and how if you don't, your words will be forgotten. "Feeling behind in your writing—or wondering if it's even worth finishing? Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join my monthly workshops: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/subscribe Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson"

Feeling like your words go unheard? You're not alone. That's why I'm hosting a live workshop—*How to Write a Substack Post People Actually Read*—on Thursday, August 28, 5–6pm PT. You'll learn a proven 5-part framework, see it in action, and get your questions answered. Access is just \$15/month as a Writers Circle member. Don't miss out—tap the link in the show notes and join us! Subscribe to Writers Circle

Feeling behind in your writing—or wondering if it's even worth finishing? In Part 2 of my conversation with literary agent Mike Salisbury, we dig deeper into the emotional and practical realities of the writing life. Mike challenges our obsession with speed and reminds us that quality storytelling takes time. He talks about the beauty of being unknown, how to face book reviews, and why finishing your draft matters more than perfecting it. You'll walk away with a fresh appreciation for the quiet, focused work it takes to write something worth reading. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Mike Salisbury, a literary agent with Yates and Yates, has an intriguing background from minor league mascot to guiding authors in Christian publishing. He emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling in both fiction and nonfiction. Time management for writers can be a hurdle, but it's crucial to find joy in the writing process. Mike shares insights into the publishing world, stressing the value of revision and building a strong author platform. Ultimately, he inspires listeners to embrace the challenging yet rewarding journey of creativity.