Writers With Wrinkles

• From Rough Draft to Ready: Editor Joel Brigham on Revisions That Sell

  Send us a textIn this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel offers a masterclass in transforming a draft into a submission-ready novel.Guest Bio: Joel Brigham is a professional editor, former NBA journalist, and passionate advocate for emerging authors. With over a decade of editorial experience and a background in teaching, Joel brings deep insight into storytelling structure, character development, and the realities of the publishing industry.Key Discussion Points:Revision in Phases: Joel shares his six-phase editing approach, starting with foundational story beats like the inciting incident, midpoint turn, and “all hope is lost” moment.Character Development: Tips on ensuring all characters—not just the protagonist—have motivation, depth, and personal arcs.Tension & Stakes: Why every chapter must carry tension and what makes stakes compelling enough to hook readers and agents.Checklist for Self-Editing: Joel outlines critical revision questions including character agency, dialogue realism, narrative voice consistency, appropriate word count, readability scores, and genre expectations.Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Advice on preventing rushed endings, fixing saggy middles, and using tools like the “but/therefore” method for coherent structure.Voice Development: Joel explains why voice can’t be forced and shares strategies to cultivate it through imitation, feedback, and cross-genre writing.Final Polish Tips: Encouragement to revise in focused passes, gather outside feedback, and avoid the impatience that leads to premature querying.Conclusion: Joel Brigham offers writers not only a clear, step-by-step path through revision, but also the inspiration to stick with it. With practical advice and a refreshing blend of honesty and encouragement, this episode is essential listening for anyone preparing to submit their manuscript.Mentioned Links:for episode cheat sheets, sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter🎧 Tune in and share with the writer in your life who’s ready to revise with purpose and confidence. Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

  --------  

  58:19

  --------

  58:19
• Drafting Without Fear: Writing Momentum and Mistakes to Avoid, with editor Joel Brigham

  Send us a textBeth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript.Guest Bio: Joel Brigham is a seasoned developmental editor and founder of Brigham Editorial. With over 21 years of experience as an English teacher, Joel also mentors authors through RevPit, an online writing community focused on providing free editorial feedback. He is a former Pitch Wars mentor and the author of multiple novels, with a passion for coaching writers through their creative blocks.Key Discussion Points:The core purpose of a first draft: “Words on the page—period.”Avoiding perfectionism and maintaining momentum in early writing stages.The power of psychology in writing: Zeigarnik effect, goal gradient effect, and the commitment and consistency principle.Common drafting mistakes: cliché openings, info dumping, lack of conflict, and undefined characters.How to start a novel and what elements (plot, character, theme, world) might help, especially across genres.Discovery writing vs. plotting: how to use strategic check-ins every 15-20k words to stay on course.The importance of not editing too early and letting bad writing exist temporarily.Encouragement for writers to embrace their individual process while building systems to reduce overwhelm.Conclusion: Joel Brigham offers not just craft knowledge, but a motivational boost for every writer wrestling with doubt or perfectionism. Whether you're a plotter or discovery writer, Joel’s advice focuses on giving yourself grace, building momentum, and ultimately, finishing that draft.Mentioned Links:Sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter for episode cheat sheets: https://writerswithwrinkles.netListeners are encouraged to visit the site for more on Joel and to submit questions for future episodes. Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

  --------  

  54:20

  --------

  54:20
• To Edit or Not to Edit? (An Ask B&L Episode)

  Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down complex concepts with clarity and humor.Key Discussion Points:Catching Up: Beth shares travel stories from Copenhagen and Amsterdam, including a must-visit bakery (Anderson Bakery), while Lisa talks about her current writing phase and genre pivot.What Is Voice?: Beth uses a brilliant analogy inspired by the Van Gogh Museum to define voice as an evolution of style that emerges through experimentation and imitation, becoming uniquely yours over time. Lisa highlights how voice is infused with the author’s personality and reflects their authentic self.Understanding the Editorial Process:Advice on handling editorial letters—read, reflect, highlight, and revisit.The importance of setting ego aside and seeing editors as collaborators.When and how to push back while preserving your voice.Personal experiences with accepting or negotiating changes during revisions.Encouragement to not feel overwhelmed and to treat edits as opportunities for growth.Conclusion: Beth and Lisa offer real, grounded insight that demystifies the writing and editing journey for emerging authors. Whether you’re figuring out your voice or working through your first editorial letter, this episode is a warm, insightful companion that reminds you—you’re not alone.Mentioned Links:Visit: writerswithwrinkles.netBakery Mention: Andersen Bakery (Copenhagen)Upcoming Guest on June 9: Editor Joel Brigham on fast drafting The Write NoteExploring the craft of writing and its impact on pop culture.Listen on: SpotifySupport the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

  --------  

  34:45

  --------

  34:45
• ENCORE: Editor Ivan Taurisano talks kidlit and IP

  Send us a textIn this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.Guest BioIvan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and select MG and YA titles. He has collaborated on several successful series and brands, such as How to Catch, Little Heroes, Big Hearts, Sesame Street, Disney, Tokidoki, and Pokémon. His guiding principle is that a child whose life is transformed by a book is one step closer to becoming an adult who will change the world.Key Discussion PointsSubmission Essentials: Ivan emphasizes the importance of polished manuscripts, strategic research, and personalized query letters. Authors should highlight why their work fits the editor’s preferences and demonstrate professionalism to make a strong first impression.Acquisition Process: Ivan demystifies the journey of a manuscript from editorial meetings to marketing evaluations, highlighting what makes or breaks a deal.Middle-Grade Trends: The market is leaning toward shorter, action-packed, and visually engaging middle-grade books. Writers are encouraged to innovate and break traditional molds to captivate readers.Social Media & Track Records: While a social media platform isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s a bonus for YA and middle-grade authors. Past sales numbers of debut books are discussed critically during acquisitions, with publishers investigating contributing factors to performance.Opportunities in Chapter Books: There’s room for new voices in character-driven chapter books, with series potential being a key factor for success.ConclusionThis episode provides actionable advice for aspiring authors to refine their submissions and navigate publishing with confidence. Ivan’s insights, grounded in industry expertise, offer a roadmap for writers seeking to make an impact in children’s literature. The Write NoteExploring the craft of writing and its impact on pop culture.Listen on: SpotifySupport the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

  --------  

  38:14

  --------

  38:14
• Love, Art & Storytelling in Rome: Brian Selznick on his new novel Run Away With Me

  Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story.Guest Bio: Brian Selznick is the Caldecott Medal-winning author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which became Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His innovative storytelling style blends narrative and illustration, captivating readers of all ages. Selznick’s books have sold millions of copies, been translated into over 35 languages, and include the bestsellers Wonderstruck and The Marvels. He lives in Brooklyn and La Jolla with his husband, Dr. David Serlin.Key Discussion Points:Origins of Run Away With Me: Inspired by time spent in a deserted Rome during the pandemic and Brian’s husband's Rome Prize fellowship.Setting the Story in 1986: Chosen for its pre-digital intimacy, connection to Fellini's Intervista, and poignant resonance with the emerging AIDS crisis.YA Shift: This novel marks a shift to older characters and more intimate, emotional themes, including first love and sexual awakening.Illustration vs. Text: Originally intended as a text-only novel, illustrations were later added to immerse readers in Rome and enhance storytelling rhythmically.Building Empathy: Through vulnerability and layered character flaws, Brian explores how readers connect with characters even through their mistakes.Worldbuilding & Pacing: Brian discusses how his illustrations function as visual memory aids, reducing exposition and preserving narrative flow.Film Adaptation Insight: Brian details how Hugo was faithfully adapted by Martin Scorsese, who honored the visual storytelling of the book.Conclusion: Brian Selznick offers a masterclass in layered storytelling, blending history, personal experience, and imaginative worldbuilding. Run Away With Me is a love letter to young queer love, art, and the haunting beauty of solitude and discovery. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and fans of emotionally resonant fiction.Mentioned Links:Run Away With Me by Brian Selznick: Publisher's PageBrian Selznick's website The Write NoteExploring the craft of writing and its impact on pop culture.Listen on: SpotifySupport the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

  --------  

  51:38

  --------

  51:38

More Arts podcasts

Trending Arts podcasts

About Writers With Wrinkles