Join Vicky and Joe in the middle of a thunderstorm and find out why you need to stop trying to find your voice—and just use it instead! Tune in for thunder, lightning, Terry Pratchett, plumbing, and a few helpful writing exercises and techniques to get you comfortable and confident in your writing voice.
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] Project Dingle update!
[4:15] Vicky is excited to fully disconnect on her holiday with Joe.
[6:00] Find your voice? Vicky doesn’t understand what this means.
[8:55] Some of the best stories have come from science fiction and fantasy.
[9:40] As you write, your voice and style will change.
[10:35] If you find the whole time writing for yourself, and no one sees it, you’re going to be in for a shock if you want to publish a book.
[14:15] Read different fictional books and really try to dissect the meanings behind them.
[16:55] You can find inspiration everywhere! Vicky is always going down wormholes.
[19:10] David Sedaris loves to ask really weird questions.
[20:25] Copy other people’s quotes! (However, don’t forget to credit them properly).
[23:20] Write stuff! Get feedback, and don’t give up!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Join Vicky and Joe for possibly the most professional podcast episode they’ve ever made, and discover why your table of contents is like a sexy elbow. Seriously. You’ll also discover why tables of contents are super useful, how to make them more fun, and what you can use them for as a writer. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[4:15] Project Dingle update!
[8:15] It’s time to make your table of contents sexy!
[10:25] When you create a table of contents early on, it helps you write out a nice roadmap to your book.
[13:30] When you have a table of contents, you don’t need to start at the beginning. You can just start writing whatever chapter you want.
[15:40] Things to consider when writing a title and subtitle.
[18:00] How do you outline like a boss?
[18:30] If Vicky were to rewrite her chapter again, what would she do differently?
[20:10] Vicky has some templates to help you write a seductive table of contents!
[21:10] Want to write with Vicky? She’s got four more people!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Join Vicky and Joe as they do a whirlwind trip through Vicky’s favourite productivity tools, writing tools, and editing tools! There’s a bunch of affiliate links for you, but don’t worry—she’s not a shill for big apps. This is only stuff she uses and loves. There are some tools in here that may surprise you because she has ADHD and some of the traditional advice is less than useful… so check this out instead. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[4:35] Project Dingle update!
[5:50] What are some of Vicky’s favorite tools to use when writing a book?
[6:10] Do you need a child lock for all your distracting apps? Vicky does.
[8:15] Vicky is so grateful for her Bose headphones to block out noise and distractions.
[11:40] Vicky has a second screen to help her with her book writing tasks.
[15:40] Vicky is also very fussy about what types of pens she likes to create with.
[19:45] Notion is a godsend! It can be integrated into your own content calendars as well as Canva.
[24:10] Do you struggle with starting and/or finishing stuff? Vicky has the ‘thing’ for you.
[25:15] Vicky has her writing group, which has been very helpful for a lot of people in getting their writing projects underway.
[26:30] Let’s talk about editing tools.
[31:10] Joe loves a good old fashioned white board and a pen.
[33:15] There are free writing groups out there. The accountability really helps you get stuff done!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Around India in 80 Trains Book by Monisha Rajesh
Good Pop, Bad Pop Book by Jarvis Cocker
Join Vicky and Joe as they not so much announce with fanfare but blurt out the podcast name change—and then pay close attention because Vicky’s super-excited about Jarvis Cocker’s new memoir. Which leads on a little side-quest about the difference between memoir and biography, but it’s worth it. Then onwards to the main event: writers you should check out because they’re full of ideas you can steal and adapt—meandering to a close with David Sedaris’s not-so-secret weapon for always having something interesting to write about.
Key Takeaways:
[2:35] Vicky is officially changing the podcast name!
[5:35] India is a massive place!
[7:45] Vicky loves the concept that Jarvis Cocker did for his book - writing about the memories and things he’s found in his attic.
[11:50] Project Dingle update!
[13:45] Let’s talk about Nick Cave!
[16:20] Nick has lost two children.
[17:30] Shoutout to Ann Handley!
[19:40] Why is David Sedaris such a great storyteller?
[24:15] Joe explains how entertaining spinning porridge is.
[29:05] Vicky has 5 book coaching openings if you’re interested in getting a breakthrough!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Around India in 80 Trains Book by Monisha Rajesh
The Thursday Murder Club: A Novel by Richard Osman
Good Pop, Bad Pop Book by Jarvis Cocker
James Pogson (poetry, writing, LI)
Ann Handley (Total Annarchy newsletter)
Authors + essayists: Joan Didion, David Sedaris, Roxane Gay, Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie, Octavia Butler, NK Jemisin
Ever wondered what to do if you’re asked to speak about your book in public? Wonder no more—for this week, Vicky is joined by the delightful Mike Ganino, who is a brilliant public speaking coach. He works with a lot of authors and helps them to craft their message—and tell it in a compelling, entertaining, and moving manner on stage or on video. Listen in and find out all about: the 5 stage languages, the difference between writing your story and telling it with your mouth, how to avoid death by PowerPoint (and is PowerPoint even a bad thing?)—and much more!
Key Takeaways:
[2:15] A little bit about Mike and what he does.
[3:55] What’s the difference between writing on paper vs. speaking it in person?
[5:15] You have to write in a way that’s natural to your speaking voice. It sounds so rigid if you say your speech off of ‘formal’ writing.
[8:45] When on a stage, people need to feel the words that you’re saying.
[10:30] It’s kind of boring to listen to an author read from their book. So how do you make it engaging?
[12:10] There are a lot of vocal nuances you need to think about when speaking.
[14:35] Sometimes you need to hold your ‘move’ for a little longer than you think you should. This pause can feel weird without practice.
[16:05] Should you ‘act’ bigger when you’re on stage?
[20:15] How can authors make their books sound more engaging in social media?
[25:00] How do speakers avoid death by powerpoint?
[27:00] How do you memorize your talk?
[31:25] Vicky does a lightning round session!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
This week Vicky is flying solo because of organisation issues so she decided to share 10 books she’s read and loved recently. If you’re wondering what to read, and how to read, and whether you should be reading books on writing or just books—tune into this episode and sort out your reading plans for the next couple of months. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[0:45] Vicky is going solo this week! And the podcast name is changing!
[2:10] If you want to write a book, you need to also read!
[2:35] The more diverse authors you read, the better of a writer you will become.
[3:15] First book review: The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams.
[4:35] Second book review: Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes by Phoebe Robinson.
[6:20] Third book review: Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon
[7:35] Fourth book review: The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw
[8:10] Fifth book review: Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
[9:45] Sixth book review: An Idler’s Manual by Tom Hodgkinson
[10:50] Seventh book review: My Mess Is a Bit of a Life: Adventures in Anxiety by Georgia Pritchett
[12:10] Eighth book review: Good Pop, Bad Pop by Jarvis Cocker
[13:05] Ninth book review: Their eyes were watching god by Zora Neale Hurston
[14:10] Tenth book review: Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion
[15:25] Vicky highly recommends that you join a book club!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams
Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes: Essays Book by Phoebe Robinson
Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered (Austin Kleon) by Austin Kleon
The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw
Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
An Idler’s Manual by Tom Hodgkinson
My Mess Is a Bit of a Life: Adventures in Anxiety by Georgia Pritchett
Good Pop, Bad Pop by Jarvis Cocker
Vicky officially “comes out” as a person with ADHD, and Joe interviews her about how she gets stuff done as a writer and book coach, how she copes with her ridiculous brain, and they offer suggestions on what to do when “foolproof” tools don’t work for you. There’s also a Magic Mike moment when Joe takes off his shirt, which is SUPER radio. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Vicky is changing the podcast name!
[1:35] Everyone is sticky and doesn’t like the weather today.
[7:15] Project Dingle update!
[10:10] Vicky loves to run her life on lists.
[13:25] Vicky likes to break her tasks down into pieces so she doesn’t overwhelm herself.
[15:55] Despite this, there are some days where Vicky does struggle.
[20:20] The famous marshmallow test that determines a child’s delayed gratification. Why do some kids fail at it?
[22:15] Vicky prefers to reward herself first, ride the dopamine hit, and then do the hard thing.
[26:45] Vicky breaks down how she structures her mornings and nights.
[29:05] How does Vicky cope with overwhelm?
[33:35] Vicky’s brain is chaotic, but organized.
[35:00] Vicky hasn’t told her family she really does suffer from ADHD.
[37:00] Vicky forgets where she puts her keys all the time. Not just some of the time. All the time.
[38:00] It’s really important to understand your style and how you work so that you can get more things done.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick
The Scar Novel by China Miéville
Ever struggle to start something—like you want to get on with writing, but instead you do 4,197 other things? Yep so does Vicky. So dive into this week’s podcast in which she and Joe talk about how to get started and do the things you want to do—even if you’ve tried all the “expert productivity techniques” and they haven’t worked for you. They didn’t work for Vicky either because—LISTEN UP—those techniques aren’t for us! Join us for 10 brain tricks, discover you’re not broken, and then get started. Hurrah!
Key Takeaways:
[5:35] Vicky rode her motorbike for the first time in six years!
[7:10] Project dingle update!
[9:20] Some people really struggle with getting started. Vicky is one of them.
[10:50] If you really wanna do something, you have to trick your brain.
[14:15] Instead of tackling all of the things, just put one thing away, or focus on one small thing to get you started.
[15:00] Get your word count started by only writing 3 words!
[17:40] Vicky doesn’t recommend using the pomodoro technique. She shares why.
[24:30] Try to play your day, even if it doesn’t go according to plan, at least you have an outline.
[25:30] Eat the frog? Doesn’t work for Vicky! She gets too distracted.
[27:45] If your task is too big, use a template!
[29:00] Vicky has some templates for you to help you write your book!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick
The Scar Novel by China Miéville
This is a repod, and we hope you enjoy it. It’s eternally relevant. Do you need kicking into action? So do we, friend. So do we. So when I saw Seth Godin's email titled "Initiative takes effort" last summer, I filed it away as the spark of a podcast episode idea. Here is that episode! In it, Joe and I have a chat about why we struggle to get started, and what can help. Plus Vicky shares another creative non-fiction writing tip with you. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[2:50] Storytellers are never ever going to be unwanted.
[7:10] Vicky reads an excerpt of a book and explains why she loves this passage.
[9:30] Were there any big events that happened in your lifetime? Draw up a timeline of your life.
[11:05] Want to learn how to write better? This is a great activity for you to do!
[14:00] Why is play so important in our adult lives?
[18:25] Vicky needs accountability. When you have a partner to do things with, you’re much more likely to do those things.
[22:30] Joe explains what shrimping means in MMA.
[24:25] You can absolutely sit down and write a book on your own, but most people don’t.
[27:00] Want to write a book? Don’t do it alone.
[27:35] Want to learn something? Find someone to help you.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Lord of the Silver Bow, by David Gemmell
Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Stuart Brown
Join Vicky and Joe as they talk about the wonders of short stories, the importance of pronouns (because they ARE important—tune if you’re in a frothing rage about how “woke” I am and find out why), and the fantastic hot seat book coaching event Vicky ran last week. They run through the 5 questions she chose, and show you how you can get past similar challenges. Happy listening!
Key Takeaways:
[2:25] Elephants are Vicky’s favorite animals.
[7:00] Exploring a genderless species, and why language is important.
[11:50] Imagine not being able to recognize faces because of a brain injury.
[16:00] Vicky received some great questions lately!
[16:55] How do you know which non-fiction book to write?
[19:20] How do I get the right tone down for my readers?
[20:15] This is your first draft! Your tone of voice isn’t going to match 100% on its first go.
[22:00] How do you know when you’re finished?
[25:20] Why am I stuck?
[29:00] Currently stuck on a writing problem? Don’t worry, they’re common and Vicky is always here to help!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Paper Menagerie by Ken Liu
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: And Other Clinical Tales by Oliver Sacks
Vicky is back with John Holcroft to talk about the book writing process! How did John get started? What challenges did he face, and how did he overcome them? And what does he have on his bedside table? Discover all this and more in this week’s action-packed episode. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[3:15] There is a high failure rate with building software because it’s often not useful for prospects to use.
[8:10] How long does it take to write a book?
[10:15] John started recruiting people for his book early on in the process.
[14:00] John learned in school that he hates writing.
[20:05] Want to know what John’s book’s about? He’s got a TL;DR version!
[24:55] John shares some storytelling lessons he learned from Pixar.
[31:25] Some of John’s best feedback were the shortest.
[33:05] John had his daughter read his book, and even though it wasn’t his target audience, she had a lot of very useful feedback from home about readability.
[37:45] John recognizes that there were so many people who helped his book come into existence.
[40:45] John thought he was writing ‘not a real’ book because it was too short.
[50:05[ What is John thankful for right now?
[51:50] Interested in John’s book? It’s on Amazon!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Be A Client Whisperer: A short guide on getting clients to tell you what matters
This week, Vicky is talking to Team Moxie Member John Holcroft about his new book, Be a Client Whisperer. It’s been a long time coming and it’s worth the wait—join Vicky and John as they dig into why he wrote his book, why everyone needs to read it, and how YOU can become a client whisperer. Part 2 follows next week!
Key Takeaways:
[2:07] John describes how he became an entrepreneur that made a great product nobody wanted.
[7:53] A sparks card is not a reward card.
[10:59] Another project John worked on that didn’t really go anywhere.
[15:15] John started writing a different book called Don’t Start Coding.
[16:55] In Chapter Seven of Be a Client Whisperer, John describes the perfect example of people not listening to each other.
[20:06] No one notices good marketing. It is when someone just tries to sell, sell, sell that people notice how yucky bad marketing is.
[23:35] There are worksheets in John’s book to help business owners change their habits.
[26:32] John struggled to interview people for his project.
[30:29] What to expect from Part 2 and how to get a copy of Be A Client Whisperer.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Be A Client Whisperer: A short guide on getting clients to tell you what matters
This week’s special guest is the Purple Yeti of Resistance, which sits on Vicky’s chest and stops her from writing. Tune in and find out how she defeats her yeti, and listen to Joe’s take on getting stuff done. You can also listen to Joe be horrified by the phrase “refilling your creative cup” and discover why Vicky has been writing and recording tiny songs. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Joe is reading the gender-neutral Left in the Darkness, an aged Christie spoiler, and Vicky’s non-fiction fix is Furiously Happy.
[6:03] Songwriting with Ben and Joel: Will the Deadbeats be a hit?
[8:16] Vicky introduces us to her giant purple Yeti of resistance.
[11:24] Tips and techniques for pushing through resistance to jump-start your writing.
[17:31] One thing that works for almost everybody… try habit stacking.
[21:39] Complete a decent writing session? Reward yourself.
[22:08] How to fill your creative cup.
[24:04] Don’t beat yourself up when you come up against resistance when writing. It’s hard sometimes.
[26:53] Weird and Wonderful Season 3 is open and Book Breakthrough is on. Reach out to Vicky.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson
This week on the podcast Vicky and Joe discuss idling, mowing the lawn (or not as the case may be), never-ending bathrooms, and the worst. writing. advice. EVER. Listen up as Vicky has opinions on the idea that writers have a muse and the muse bestows ideas. Joe weighs in on the topic of motivation. And at the end, as a special treat, Vicky interviews Joe in rapid-fire styleeeee so come and learn a little more about him!
Key Takeaways:
[2:05] Joe is reading Of Women and Salt and Vicky is reading her second Agatha Christie, an Idler’s Manual, and My Left Foot.
[4:26] If you are one of the very few people who do not know about My Left Foot, Vicky describes it.
[5:47] Vicky makes a -50 degree mistake.
[7:24] At Dom’s Impact event, Vicky spoke about the magic of writing books.
[10:01] Vicky’s favorite bad writing advice.
[11:58] What happens when you ‘write when you are inspired’.
[13:00] The idea of inspiration comes, not from the gods, but from hallucinogens.
[16:12] Vicky reveals where inspiration truly comes from.
[17:56] Look at things. Because a drop of water can contain an entire universe.
[20:02] How Vicky gets motivated to write.
[22:17] Joe reminds us of the power of habits.
[25:01] Joe sums up this show’s takeaways, or does he?
[26:36] Vicky turns her rapid-fire questions toward Joe.
[28:55] How Joe makes Vicky laugh.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Join Vicky as she talks to Kim Krause Schwalm about dildo stories! Oh, wait—sorry—CHILDREN’S stories. (Vicky learns not to mumble into the mic...) In this week’s episode, Vicky asks Kim all about moving from full-time copywriting into copy mentoring, building a list and brand, and taking a stab at a totally new kind of writing: screenplays and children’s books.
Key Takeaways:
[2:06] An A-list copywriter describes what gratifies her these days.
[3:52] Why can’t we all just get along? What Vicky likes about Kim’s emails.
[5:40] Female copywriters are so freaking nice.
[7:30] Kim explains her Fast Track to A-list mentoring program and the advice she gives to mentees.
[14:20] The ingredients Kim uses to make magic.
[16:48] Joining Vicky’s Power Hour was a game-changer for Kim’s personal projects.
[19:11] The importance of writing a little bit every day, and the book Kim reads once a year.
[21:49] The inside scoop about Kim’s children’s books.
[23:48] The Big Reveal: Kim’s current read, favorite reads, favorite song, and binge-worthy show.
[26:58] Optimistically speaking, Kim is grateful for her health and her amazing kids.
[29:46] Find out more about Kim.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Join Vicky and Joe as Vicky freaks out about a horror movie they watched—and get a few brilliant book recommendations. (Not horror.) Then sit back and relax as they ask: so what does a book coach actually DO anyway? Good question. For Vicky, there are 10 main areas of support—tune in and find out what they are, and what to look out for if you’re thinking of working with a book coach to write your book.
Key Takeaways:
[5:25] Did you know people who were born deaf can still learn how to hear vibrations?
[9:00] Vicky is still having nightmares from a recent horror film she watched.
[9:35] What does a book coach actually do?
[11:20] Vicky looks at different ways you can make your book unique and stand out.
[12:15] A book coach should take care of the writer.
[13:55] A book is a big project and you don’t want to sacrifice your life to get it done.
[14:00] A great quality about Vicky is that she will always tell you the truth!
[17:35] Vicky wants to see you make progress.
[22:35] Vicky gets a lot of joy seeing her writers get their work done and published.
[25:40] What makes a potential client not a good fit for her?
[28:45] Vicky breaks down her process as a book coach.
[30:10] Want to work with Vicky? Reach out to her!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Do No Harm Book by Henry Marsh
This week Vicky goes solo and runs her mouth off about how traditional publishers need to BLOODY DO BETTER. She got a message after the last episode, and that message inspired this little rant about a bunch of problems that traditional publishing needs to fix. Tune in and find out why independent publishing is so crucial for writers and readers, and what needs to change in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Joe is gone off to Germany and Vicky is fighting with sheep.
[2:45] Vicky is back with a follow-up episode to her last week’s podcast episode. Vanity publishing!
[3:30] How diverse are these big publishers’ editors?
[4:40] Including a ‘token’ character in your book because you think it ought to be there, is a problem.
[6:00] How do you write an authentic character?
[7:55] Most people want to read books from other diverse people, not just from rich white people!
[9:25] Don’t wait to be given permission.
[10:50] Want to know what a book coach does? That’s Vicky’s next episode!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Do No Harm Book by Henry Marsh
This week, Vicky and Joe talk about why we shouldn’t burst our own balloons and downplay our achievements. That’s after Vicky goes on a 5 minute rant about why The Wheel of Time is not something you should read if you want good epic fantasy. So: if you’ve ever thought that self-publishing is “vanity” or that you need a book deal to make your book “worthy,” grab a cup of tea, settle down, put aside your prejudices, and listen to this. Maybe we’ll change your mind.
Key Takeaways:
[4:15] Vicky explains why she couldn’t get behind the Wheel of Time book series.
[9:45] Self publishing vs. traditional publishing? What’s right for you?
[11:25] Publishing a book, doesn’t matter in what way, is a big deal! Don’t discredit it if it’s self published.
[14:45] Why is self publishing a cool, and completely legitimate, thing to do?
[16:05] What is the reason why you want to write a book?
[18:50] Traditional publishing doesn't always know what they’re talking about/doing.
[20:00] Are straight white male authors at a disadvantage?
[23:50] You will not make money off of your book if it’s traditionally published.
[24:00] There are pros and cons to both methods of publishing. Choose with intention, not with vanity.
[26:15] Interested in working with Vicky? Reach out!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Boyhood, Childhood, Youth by Leo Tolstoy
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’ by Robert Jordan
How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Attempts at an Answer by Sarah Bakewell
OMG it’s the 301st episode! Question: do you dream about getting onto the New York Times bestseller list? Don’t bother mate. Bestseller lists are balls—and if we write a book with the aim of getting onto such a list, our book ain’t gonna cut it. This week, Vicky and Joe take a peek into the world of bestseller status, rip it a new one, and natter about The Wheel of Time. Again.
Key Takeaways:
[1:25] Vicky is thinking about changing the name of this podcast…again.
[2:10] Can you believe Vicky and Joe have been podcasting since 2015?
[5:35] Quick update on project dingle.
[6:15] Everyone wants to be a bestseller. Why!
[8:15] Don’t look at other people’s best sellers and assume it’s a good book.
[10:35] Just because you have a best seller doesn’t mean you’ve sold a lot of books, or made any money.
[13:05] Although sales might be great, you have to look at why you’re writing this book.
[16:30] Vicky will help you write the best book you can write, and have a book you’re really proud of.
[17:50] Marketing takes longer, but you’ll have a better and more targeted audience by the end of it.
[19:55] Want to write a book but don’t know how? Book a free call with Vicky!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Boyhood, Childhood, Youth by Leo Tolstoy
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’ by Robert Jordan
How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Attempts at an Answer by Sarah Bakewell
Tune in for Vicky and Joe’s hot take on hot takes! Yep, this week our hosts have Opinions on other people’s opinions. With the internet crammed full of knee-jerk reactions and instant outrage, what’s the cost to us as a society? How can we slow down and think things through? What can a noble dude from the 1500s teach us about life? And what does all this have to do with books, anyway?
Key Takeaways:
[1:00] It’s April but it’s snowing! Vicky and Joe are freezing in their home office.
[2:35] Joe reads out the title of the book Vicky is reading in his best radio presenter voice.
[03:30] We think of essays as the dry and boring academic stuff that was forced on us during school, but Vicky shares why essays are great!
[05:05] Montaigne’s essays are all about figuring out how to live a good life.
[06:15] Update on casa dingle! Let’s build some stud walls in the bathroom.
[09:00] What are hot takes? Vicky uses the example of Will Smith’s slap at the Oscars.
[10:40] ‘Hot takes’ take away the attention of what should’ve been a really amazing moment.
[11:45] ‘Hot takes’ usually happen in social media. Vicky shares what really frustrates her about it.
[12:45] There is a lot of pressure to have an opinion on something. Vicky talks about Jameela Jamil as an example.
[14:30] Books give you space to think and put forward a considered opinion.
[15:20] Montaigne wasn’t very bright and forgot things a lot. Vicky explains why she likes his essays.
[16:40] Vicky reads out Mark Manson’s email called, The Life Cycle of Outrage, and explains why she recommends it.
[19:20] Joe wonders what the motivation is for the person that puts these stuff out.
[21:50] Vicky can’t imagine one’s life having to comment on everything that’s happening. It must be exhausting!
[22:35] Opinions get taken as facts but the two are not the same thing.
[24:05] We need to be able to entertain an idea that we might profoundly disagree with. The world is not binary.
[24:50] Vicky explains why she’s a fierce advocate of writing and reading a book or other longer forms of way to consume news vs social media.
[26:00] And if you would like to write a book, Vicky is still looking for two beautiful weirdos to come with her to her book coaching event!
[27:05] Think slower, go beyond the knee-jerk reactions and take your time to ponder.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Boyhood, Childhood, Youth by Leo Tolstoy
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’ by Robert Jordan
My Mess is A Bit Of A Life by Georgia Pritchett
How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Attempts at an Answer by Sarah Bakewell
We’ve just been in a hot air balloon and be warned, we rave about it for quite a lot of minutes before we get into this week’s episode—an enthusiastic chat about grammar. Does it matter? Is it elitist? Should we throw the whole lot in the bin? And what does it all mean for marginalized writers? Tune in and find out what it’s like being in a hot air balloon, what Joe thinks about class and grammar and cutlery, and why Vicky thinks the publishing industry desperately needs more people who don’t look like her.
Key Takeaways:
[1:00] Vicky and Joe woke up really early today and jumped into a hot air balloon!
[04:15] Joe gave up reading The Pillow Book. He found it culturally difficult to connect with it.
[05:25] Joe moved on to reading Boyhood, Childhood, Youth and Vicky asks him if he is enjoying this one.
[06:55] Georgia Pritchett is such a sparse writer and Vicky just gushes about her!
[07:50] Is grammar elitist? Vicky talks about the article she read by Leone Ross.
[11:30] As long as the meaning comes across, the grammar really doesn’t matter. Vicky expounds on this further.
[15:05] People in the marketing industry say you should write like you speak but Vicky disagrees.
[16:35] Grammar rules are there for clarity but the main point is to be understood by the person you are writing to and for.
[18:05] Part of the snobbishness of grammar is the rejection of the unfamiliar and unwillingness to change.
[19:00] Vicky talks about the podcast, The Allusionist, where they interviewed somebody from Iceland and how their language has changed.
[20:50] The world is changing and for a language to survive, it has to change with it.
[21:20] What’s the point of this episode? Vicky shares the dreams of her future publishing business.
[23:45] Whatever language we’re using to write, we need to be skilled in it and that’s not being elitist.
[26:05] Vicky shares how Leone Ross summed up her article and why she really likes it.
[27:30] Broaden your horizons and accept that there are voices different from your own. Let it go and rather focus on honing your skills in writing.
[29:00] Vicky is looking for two people to work with for her next six month creative book coaching program!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon
Boyhood, Childhood, Youth by Leo Tolstoy
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’ by Robert Jordan
My Mess is A Bit Of A Life by Georgia Pritchett
Is Grammar Elitist? By Leone Ross - Mslexia Magazine
A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
Today’s episode is brought to you from an idyllic sun-soaked, palm-fringed shore and also a grey drizzly field—join Vicky as she talks to writer, educator, and anti-racism activist Sharon Hurley-Hall about her upcoming book. Vicky and Sharon talk storytelling and how it has the power to change the world; the empathy gap; and the sorry state of traditional publishing (and what needs to change apart from everything). Tune in and find out why storytelling is the answer to everything (and get a bunch of amazing book recommendations to broaden your reading horizons).
Key Takeaways:
[02:50] A little bit about Sharon and the list of things she does.
[03:50] What prompted Sharon to write about diversity and anti-racism?
[05:25] Sharon talks about her book, I’m Tired of Racism and why she titled it that.
[07:35] Writing a book vs writing essays. Sharon shares her book writing process.
[8:50] She talks about the different themes suggested to her by professional editors to draw out the commonality in the different stories she could tell.
[10:50] How was it like working with an editor?
[12:35] Telling stories can help people feel empathy. Sharon expounds on this further.
[14:30] The difficulty with white people in regards to the empathy gap is the white supremacy system.
[16:20] Sharon believes in the power of the collective and explains why she thinks that.
[17:15] Sharon is still working on the nitty gritty of her book and is excited to see when she can announce the pre-order!
[19:00] Why did Sharon decide to independently publish? She shares what her journey has been like.
[23:00] Vicky loves indie publishing. She asks Sharon what should change in the traditional publishing industry.
[24:30] Traditional publishing needs to recognize the other ways of publishing that are valid. Sharon shares that numbers don’t define success.
[27:20] Sharon talks about the Hollywood model being applied in traditional publishing and how indie publishing disrupts that.
[28:10] Writers should not wait for traditional publishing to decide they are worthy of being published.
[29:00] Sharon shares one of her pet-peeves around anti-racism writing.
[32:00] Sharon can’t find a go-to author because she has a lot of them. She shares her top list of books instead.
[34:20] Sharon also shares what she is reading right now!
[34:40] Vicky also asks Sharon what’s one of her favorite books, films and places.
[36:20] Sharon shares what she’s most thankful for and it’s about her podcast.
[37:00] Sharon has a lot to be proud of and she shares what they are.
[37:45] What is on Sharon’s bedside table?
[40:05] Vicky shares what’s up for next week!
Mentioned in This Episode:
That's What She Said: Tales of Business Success from Women Just like You by Vicky Fraser & Audiobook
Join Vicky's Weird and Wonderful Writing Society
Banish the Blank Page of Doom Fast
Grab Vicky’s Book Template Bundle
Come Join Vicky’s Writing Challenge
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
I’m Tired of Racism by Sharon Hurley Hall
How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge
The Wake Up by Michelle MiJung Kim
The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones
The Lincoln Rhymes Series by Jefferey Deaver
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach
This week Vicky and Joe talk about extremely expensive poo and then move onto the writer’s most important tool of all. Tune in to find out what it is—and discover why one of Vicky’s habits is eavesdropping on strangers, what Joe’s bedtime reading routine is, and why memory is a treacherous beast.
Key Takeaways:
[0:50] Vicky wants to do something different and not have a welcome preamble!
[01:30] Now that Joe has given up on Umberto Eco, what is he reading?
[02:40] Vicky defends Umberto from Joe and encourages him to read his essays on coffee pots.
[04:00] All books are worthy but Joe wants to be satisfied with his six and a half minutes of reading time.
[04:40] The Wheel Of Time Book 2 is annoying Vicky. Does she need to keep reading?
[05:20] Vicky realizes that Georgia Pritchett is British! She’s loving her book as it’s very funny and morbid.
[7:10] Update on The Dingle: compost heaps and waste sewage treatment systems.
[11:10] What is a writer’s most important tool?
[12:15] Vicky has many notebooks and she shares what each of them are.
[13:20] Notebooks, sticky notes, and highlighter pens are all part of Vicky’s complex system.
[14:15] What are the things you need to capture as a writer?
[17:20] After stories and anecdotes that can also go in your notebook, Joe reads out “the list of transgressions by your husband” and Vicky explains.
[18:50] Why do we write all these ideas down?
[19:55] Record the context of your ideas as well. Vicky expounds further.
[21:40] These notes will be delightful when you read them in the years to come.
[22:55] Vicky shares her top tip explaining why she has a tiny notebook by her bed.
[24:30] Vicky also records stuff that hurts and explains why she wants to remember that stuff.
[26:05] Vicky tells a story through applying what she learned from the book, The Art Of Noticing.
[27:00] Joe summarizes the key takeaways for today’s topic and Vicky shares her recommendation for notebooks.
[28:40] Vicky asks you to join Team Moxie, her wonderful writing group, and what it’s all about.
[30:35] It’s gonna be Vicky’s ten year business anniversary! What is she going to do on that day?
[32:00] A little teaser for next week’s episode.
Mentioned in This Episode:
That's What She Said: Tales of Business Success from Women Just like You by Vicky Fraser & Audiobook
Join Vicky's Weird and Wonderful Writing Society
Banish the Blank Page of Doom Fast
Grab Vicky’s Book Template Bundle
Come Join Vicky’s Writing Challenge
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon, translated by Ivan Morris
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’, by Robert Jordan
Imposter syndrome: is it a bug, or a feature? Vicky and Joe talk self-doubt, evolution, and go on a side-quest about what kind of tail they’d have if they could switch those tail genes back on. They also confirm, once again, that Joe is in fact a robot, albeit a very lovely and handsome one. Tune in and find out how you can use your self-doubt as a tool to do the things that matter to you, rather than letting it shit in your milk.
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] The cats are gonna be a part of this week’s podcast! They’re looking for a fight!
[01:30] Vicky talks about renaming the podcast. What would it be this time?
[02:20] Vic ky shares about her last Write Night and sends thank you’s to everyone!
[02:50] Joe says he’s not smart enough to read Umberto Eco. Why is that?
[04:40] Spoiler alert: Vicky shares the ending of The Wheel of Time Book 1!
[06:10] Vicky’s anxiety has its own entity which draws her to Georgia Pritchett’s book.
[7:30] Vicky and Joe talk about their poopocalypse.
[10:05] What are the two choices you have if you have imposter syndrome?
[11:00] Vicky defines what imposter syndrome is. She shares her own experience with it.
[13:50] Seventy percent of the population feels like a fraud. Joe also shares his own experience.
[15:15] Maybe it’s not a syndrome at all but a feature of being human. Vicky expounds further.
[18:30] Imposter syndrome must serve a useful function. What would that be?
[21:46] Vicky asks herself, “What if my imposter syndrome is right?”. She shares what her thought process would then be like.
[24:20] Vicky talks about her internal filters when she shares about something that she really cares about.
[26:15] When your self-doubt is kicking in, don’t fight it. Vicky shares a little reminder.
[27:20] We care about what people think about us.
[28:10] Vicky shares the questions she asks herself when she is self-doubting.
[28:35] Joe summarizes the key takeaways.
[29:20] Here’s what’s coming up next week!
Mentioned in This Episode:
That's What She Said: Tales of Business Success from Women Just like You by Vicky Fraser & Audiobook
Join Vicky's Weird and Wonderful Writing Society
Banish the Blank Page of Doom Fast
Grab Vicky’s Book Template Bundle
Come Join Vicky’s Writing Challenge
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
How To Travel With A Salmon & Other Essays, by Umberto Eco
The Great Hunt: Book Two of ‘The Wheel of Time’, by Robert Jordan
My Mess is A Bit Of A Life, by Georgia Pritchett
Ooooh there are OPINIONS in this week’s podcast. Opinions on idleness, the Protestant work ethic, capitalism, and the state of the world in general. There are a few facts, too. And possibly we’ve got some stuff wrong, but that’s what having time to think and learn and listen is all about. Which was the point of this episode: the virtue of idleness and time to THINK and write. Enjoy—and remember to write in and let us know what your thoughts are!
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Vicky and Joe talk about their tiny sheep and the gusts of wind that are about to come.
[04:10] Vicky disagrees that you have to finish reading a book once you’ve committed to it.
[05:40] Vicky also shares that she got 79% on her poetry assignment!
[07:00] Vicky introduces today’s topic. She got this idea from listening to The Slightly Foxed podcast.
[07:50] Did you know where the five hour work week originated?
[09:55] Joe talks about the comment he made on reddit saying, “Do you think people who work hard make more money?”
[12:20] Henry Ford did not introduce the 5-hour work week in any sense for niceness. Vicky shares what the motivation behind it was.
[14:55] There are elements of socialism, capitalism, and all those other things that we can use to build a better economic system.
[16:05] The world is changing and we now need people who are thinking and innovating. That’s not going to come if everybody is too busy.
[16:20] Idleness is not the same as being lazy. Vicky explains why.
[17:30] In 1675, King Charles II banned coffee in England. Why?
[20:30] Vicky likes stuff. But she doesn’t want to buy things that she doesn’t want, need or like.
[21:10] Vicky also shares that she feels guilty doing nothing but being productive doesn’t just mean doing some work.
[22:40] Joe also talks about the things that attack our idle time nowadays with the internet and smartphones.
[23:20] Newer generations have a real discomfort with sitting with their feelings and thoughts and Vicky wonders how much mental health issues come up from it.
[25:30] Not all writing is physical writing. Vicky shares how this relates to your idle time.
[26:25] Joe shares about his thinking time and compares it with Vicky’s.
[27:00] The world does not need robots. It needs thinkers, innovators, weirdos and change makers.
[28:05] Rest is legitimately okay! Vicky has that written down.
[28:45] Vicky shares quotes from Victor Wild who was a big fan of idleness.
[30:10] Laziness is only a misconception from different cultures.
[31:20] Vicky shares the teaser for next week’s episode and her next Write Night!
Mentioned in This Episode:
That's What She Said: Tales of Business Success from Women Just like You by Vicky Fraser & Audiobook
Join Vicky's Weird and Wonderful Writing Society
Banish the Blank Page of Doom Fast
Grab Vicky’s Book Template Bundle
Come Join Vicky’s Writing Challenge
Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast
Email Vicky about 1:1 coaching at: vicky@moxiebooks.co.uk
Mistborn: The Final Empire (Book No. 1) by Brandon Sanderson