Buildwriting is a podcast for the intersection of creative writers that are both poets and short fiction writers. While we explore writing craft through a variety of podcast show formats we look at how we can make and find time to write in our busy lives. We look at poetry, short fiction and creativity. This is a podcast from a writer figuring how it works and sharing generously with those that care. Buildwriting releases episodes to educate, entertain and inspire you. Answering your questio ...
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Do You Really Need a Creative Writing Degree to be a writer? | Ep 59
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So, you're dreaming of being a writer, but you don't have a creative writing degree? Don't sweat it! Let's bust that myth right now. Sure, a degree can be helpful, but it's definitely not a requirement for writing success. Look at all the amazing authors out there who never stepped foot in a writing classroom. Writing is a craft, and like any craft…
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Am I too old or young to start writing seriously? | Ep 58
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Let's talk about something that might be holding you back: age. Believe me, I've heard it all before – "You're too young," or "You're too old." But guess what? Age doesn't define your ability to write. It's your craft, your voice, and your stories that matter. There are bestselling authors who started in their teens and others who didn't publish un…
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Do I need a Completely Original Idea to Start Writing? | Ep 57
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You know that feeling when you stare at a blank page, paralyzed by the fear of coming up with something completely original? Yeah, me too. But guess what? That’s a trap. The truth is, originality isn’t about inventing something out of thin air. It’s about bringing your unique perspective to a familiar idea. We’ve all heard countless stories about l…
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Does Your First Draft Really Need to Be Perfect? | Ep 56
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Let's talk about something that terrifies even the most seasoned writers: the first draft. It's that blank page, that empty document staring back at you, demanding perfection before you even get started. But guess what? Perfection is the enemy of progress. Your first draft is your rough sketch, your brainstorming session on paper. It's where ideas …
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Is Waiting for Inspiration Killing Your Writing Career? | Ep 55
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In this episode, I'm tackling the myth of waiting for inspiration to strike. Let's face it, relying on inspiration is like planning your day around the weather – unreliable! I'll share why discipline is your secret weapon to becoming a consistent writer. We'll uncover the reasons why so many of us fall into the inspiration trap and how to break fre…
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Are You Actually Talented Enough to Be a Writer? | Ep 54
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In this episode, I dive into the age-old question: Do you need talent to be a writer? I'll share my take on why I believe practice beats pure talent every time. We'll talk about overcoming those pesky self-doubts and building your writing muscle. I'll also give you some practical tips like joining a writing group or seeking feedback from editors. A…
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Do You Really Not Have Enough Time to Write? | Ep 53
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In this episode, I tackle the common excuse that writers use: "I don't have time." I'll share practical tips on how to squeeze in writing time, even with a busy schedule. You'll learn how to make the most of small moments, the power of journaling, and the importance of time management for writers. I'll also discuss strategies like early morning or …
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Is being 'too busy to write' just another excuse? | Ep 52
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Being busy is often used as an excuse for not writing, but it can also be a legitimate claim. The reasons people are busy include work commitments, family responsibilities, social obligations, and other hobbies and interests. Being busy is a symptom of prioritization, where certain activities take precedence over writing. It can also be a fear of f…
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Should I keep waiting for the "big writing idea"? | Ep 51
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Join the newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Summary In this conversation, the host explores the idea of waiting for a big writing idea and whether it is necessary or productive. They discuss the concept of waiting and how it relates to writing, the role of the Muse in generating ideas, and the misconception of a 'big writing idea'. The…
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Why can't I move past the first line of writing? | Ep 50
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Join the newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Summary In this episode, the host discusses the struggle of getting past the first line of writing. The first line is significant as it serves as the introduction and determines if a book has value. The fear of imperfection and judgment often prevents people from writing. The host emphasizes …
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Am I really a morning/night writer or is it just an excuse? | Ep 49
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Join the newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Takeaways Being a morning or evening person when it comes to writing is not a matter of biology or habit, but rather a matter of trying different times of the day and finding what works best for each individual. It is important to actually sit down and write, focusing on the output rather tha…
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Can I really write without a perfect space? | Ep 48
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Join the newsletter I explore the concept of a perfect writing space and question its necessity. I describe the common conception of a perfect writing space as a quiet, organized place with a view, and challenge the idea that it is essential for writing. I discuss the tools needed for writing, such as pen, paper, and digital platforms like Google D…
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Do I really need to feel 'inspired' to write? | Ep 47
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Summary Join the newsletter In this episode, the host explores the question of whether one needs to feel inspired to write. They discuss the idea that waiting for inspiration can be a trap and that writing is a skill that can be developed through practice. The host shares examples of famous writers who pushed themselves to write even when they didn…
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It is time to upgrade
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In this episode, I grapple with the age-old question that plagues many writers: should I quit writing or keep pursuing my passion? I share a powerful anecdote about the acclaimed writer Raymond Carver and his advice to someone at a crossroads about whether to continue writing. Carver's perspective struck a chord with me and caused me to reflect dee…
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I've come up with an interesting idea for improving my micro fiction writing skills - copyworking. No, I'm not talking about plagiarism or copy and pasting the works of others. What I'm going to do is study the writing styles and techniques of some great micro fiction authors like George Saunders and Amy Hempel. By very carefully re-writing and emu…
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In this episode, I remind myself and my fellow writers of a fundamental truth - that we are often our own biggest obstacles when it comes to writing. I explore the fears, doubts, and excuses that can prevent us from putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. Despite having the desire and even a plan to write consistently, I find myself getting ca…
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Overcoming I am not good enough feeling as a Writer | Ep 42
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In this episode, I explore the common feeling of self-doubt that plagues many writers - the nagging voice that tells us "I'm not good enough" to be a writer or succeed at writing. I share several powerful quotes from famous authors that have inspired me when I've struggled with those kinds of thoughts. Writers like Ray Bradbury, Natalie Goldberg, J…
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In this episode, I share my thoughts and excitement about the concept of free writing. I discuss why free writing is so important - it allows you to overcome mental blocks, tap into your subconscious mind, and get words flowing onto the page without constraints. Even when you feel uninspired or think you have nothing to say, I encourage simply writ…
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In this episode, I discuss why I write microfiction, which are very short stories under 300 words. I explain that microfiction is easier for me to start writing since it doesn't require as much time commitment. It also allows me to get in more writing practice by completing many small pieces rather than fewer longer works. Finishing these bite-size…
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Celebrating Small Wins: 5 Days of Consistent Writing | Ep 39
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In this episode, I celebrate the small wins from consistently showing up to write every day for the past five days. While the quality may not be there yet, I've kept my promise to myself of writing microfiction pieces daily. That commitment and progress feels incredibly reassuring and encouraging. I discuss how getting started is the hardest part -…
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In this episode, I share my personal story of how using writing prompts has helped me get started and stay motivated as a writer. I talk about the struggles writers often face with feeling overwhelmed by the infinite possibilities when it comes to what to write about. Writing prompts provide a helpful starting point and creative spark to overcome t…
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The Evolution of My Writing Excuses | Ep 37
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In this episode, I get real about the endless cycle of excuses that has held me back from writing consistently over the years. I open up about the evolution of my mindset - from believing I needed to take a course or uncover some "secret sauce" before I could call myself a writer, to finally realizing that great writers start out as beginners too. …
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In this episode, I give myself a candid and impassioned reminder to actively pursue my creative writing ambitions instead of just talking about it. I admit to frequently putting off writing and making excuses, despite knowing I have the capability. I challenge myself and other writers to get serious for 6-12 months and see how much we can create wh…
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In this episode, I share an update on my writing journey, specifically my goal of writing 100 micro fiction pieces. I discuss the challenges I faced initially, like feeling overwhelmed by the endless possibilities of what to write, and how I experimented with different writing tools like Google Docs and Notion. I explain how using Notion has helped…
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Why I Almost Quit the 30 Day Podcast Challenge | Ep 34
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In this episode of the Build Writing Podcast, I reflect on my recent absence and explore the challenges I faced in committing to a daily podcasting challenge. I delve into the reasons behind my hesitation and address the feelings of overwhelm and self-doubt that held me back. I share my strategies for overcoming these obstacles, including the use o…
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I started the micro story challenge today | Ep 33
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It felt really good showing up and writing without any analysis.
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Creative Projects for Beginner Writers and Sharing My Project | Ep 32
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Episode Summary: In this episode, host Onyemechi Nwakonam explores the concept of projects and how they can benefit writers. He defines what a project is and discusses the importance of having a clear plan and goal when working on a project. Nwakonam emphasizes the role of projects in making writing more manageable and consistent, as well as the sa…
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Onyemechi Nwakonam is a writer who shares his confessions and struggles as a freelance writer. He discusses his experiences of feeling like a failure and not living up to his potential as a writer. Through his podcast, he aims to hold himself accountable and inspire others to pursue their writing goals. Onyemechi is dedicated to improving his writi…
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Episode Summary: In this episode of the Buildwriting Podcast, I explore the changing landscape of writing and the challenges faced by creative writers, particularly those focused on short form writing. The podcast aims to document the host's personal journey of self-discovery as a writer and provide valuable insights and resources for writers facin…
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Committing to Daily Podcasting: Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Inspiration | Ep 29
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Committing to Daily Podcasting: Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Inspiration . Episode Summary: In this episode, I reflect on my recent failure to fulfill a commitment and explore the feelings of guilt and self-doubt. I discuss my past tendency to quit when faced with challenges and the negative self-talk that accompanies my failures. However, I als…
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I am back | Pushing Past Excuses: 30 Days of Podcasting
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Episode 28 I am backI am a writer and podcaster who is committed to helping others improve their writing skills and develop a love for the craft. With a focus on self-improvement and personal growth, I share my own experiences and insights to inspire and motivate aspiring writers. Through this podcast and newsletter, I provide valuable tips, advice…
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The Real Reason Writing is Difficult.In this episode I discuss the future of this podcast and look at the difficulty of being a writer.
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What should really do. This is a struggle. Well I just want to see you response.
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Why is Writing Difficult? - Facing the Blank Page and BeyondHey word nerds!Ever wonder why writing, this beautiful act of creating worlds and expressing ourselves, can feel so darn difficult? We've all been there, staring at the blank page in terror, battling self-doubt, and wrestling with pesky perfectionism.This episode dives into the common culp…
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I have talked about starting and staying consistent over time . This will be the one. I know I am capable of being a writer if I choose to with my actions not my lips.Listen to this commitment
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It is time to get serious with writing. Time to speak because I know only when I speak can the people listen. I have said over time how it will be better. I figured it out. The whole problem stopping me.Now all I have to do is to show up and simplify the process.In this episode I go into what to expect of the podcast. For all of you listening thank…
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I have been looking at a unique system for setting achievable goals. Not the writing goals you will forget.
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Its been a long while. I made promises. Well it's time to get serious with those promises.Lets see what we could do with the writing . Create and recreate these goals
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In this episode, I discuss how writing improvement takes time and is a lagging indicator of the effort you put in. I talk about how we often expect to see results right away, but true progress happens gradually over weeks, months, or even years of consistent work. I encourage listeners to be patient with themselves and commit to showing up each day…
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The Law of 100: A better approach to Writing
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In this episode, I want to share my early experience with applying the Law of 100 to improve my writing. When I first heard about this approach, I was skeptical that committing to write 100 pieces could really help me in just a few months. However, after completing the first week, I'm already seeing surprising results. In the first paragraph, I'll …
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In this episode, I discuss why I failed to complete ambitious writing challenges in the past and how I've learned from those experiences. I talk about setting unrealistic goals that tried to do too much at once, which led to burnout. Now I'm focusing on just one writing project or goal at a time so I can give it my full attention. I share the speci…
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If you want to quit writing. Listen to this..
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By the end of the episode, I hope listeners come away understanding that writing is difficult but also deeply rewarding. For those who feel writing is their calling, the solution isn't to quit but to find community, accountability, and keep challenging themselves one story at a time. I encourage anyone on the fence to keep practicing their craft.Ti…
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Making Podcasting (Buildwriting) simple and fun
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Reevaluating My Commitment to Podcasting In this episode, I discuss why I have not been consistent with my podcast in the past and announce that going forward I will be posting a minimum of two episodes per week on Mondays and Fridays. I talk about making the podcast fun and easy to produce by removing complications and focusing on having conversat…
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In our episode, I emphasize that while validation is a natural part of the writing journey, it should never define a writer's worth. Join me on this episode, encouraging you to continue writing, creating, and believing in the power of your words.
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We write. Consistently for some time. It delights us. Make us want to recreate the world. But for one reason or the other we stop. Stopping isn't the problem. Our problem is starting again after we stopped.It is not like we are trying to start writing again. We are trying but it's not just working.
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Quinthirty: I created a Writing Challenge for Beginners
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Wow. In this episode I introduce you to my new writing challenge I named quinthirty. The challenge would help you as a writer whether you write poetry or fiction.Listen and subscribe.
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Behind the Scenes: Writing Life and Podcast Updates
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A long time has passed since I released podcast episodes. This episode is an update on what has been going on behind the scenes . We have been writing,failing and writing. We will figure it out when we write and not by wishing or fantasies.You would be seeing more episodes and consistent posting . Episodes would explore several themes and genres of…
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It's been a long time. In this episode I talk about my writing goals for July 2023. We see the main reason previous writing goals I shared failed . I mentioned about Qunthirty. You can check it out at https://buildwriting.com/quinthirtyEnjoy this episode and subscribe.
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Procrastinating Creative Writing Mastery and First Quarter Review
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Aside from a brief review of the progress I have made so far. I talk about the feeling and urge to postpone create writing into a future where you magically become a master writer.
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