Dear Writer, You're NOT Screwing This Up with Author Rachael Herron

The Write It Scared Podcast

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Ready for a dive-deep conversation about the emotional rollercoaster of writing?

In this episode, I’m chatting with Rachael Herron—a trad and indie author who knows her way around multiple genres and isn’t shy about sharing less-than-stellar moments of her writing journey.
We dig into story structure, the ups and downs of writing and revising, and the emotional twists that come with the territory of trying to write your first novel.

Rachael opens up about her move to New Zealand, her battles with creative burnout, and how she handles imposter syndrome. Plus, we’ll unpack some practical advice for handling self-doubt, writing shitty drafts, and learning to believe in yourself and your voice.

Join us for insights that will help you navigate the emotional challenges of writing and remind you that you’re not alone and that you are not doing it wrong!

00:18 Introduction

01:22 Meet Rachel Heron

04:08 Rachel's Writing Journey

11:31 The Importance of Story Structure

17:27 Rachel's Writing Process Today

18:42 Refining the Draft: From Messy to Polished

19:08 The Third Draft: Adding the Final Touches

19:56 Reading and Reviewing: The Final Steps

20:31 Teaching and Sharing the Process

20:53 Creating 'Unstuck': A Unique Journey

25:06 The Challenges of Writing and Creativity

30:42 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome

32:24 Final Thoughts and Advice for Writers

34:26 Current Projects and Closing Remarks

Guest Bio and Links
Rachael Herron is the internationally bestselling author of more than two dozen books, including thrillers (under R.H. Herron), mainstream fiction, feminist romance, memoir, and nonfiction about writing. She received her MFA in writing from Mills College, Oakland, and she’s taught writing extension workshops at both UC Berkeley and Stanford. A dual New Zealand and American citizen, she lives in Wellington, New Zealand with her banjo-playing wife and brick-eating dog.

Books: Unstuck and Fast-Draft Your Memoir, both here

Rachael Herron: Website | Newsletter | Bio | Patreon

Unstuck: An Audacious Hunt for Home and Happiness, available here now!

The Seven Miracles of Beatrix Holland, Coming Spring 2025, Hachette

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