Craft Chat Chronicles
Craft Chat Chronicles
Podcast Description
Join J.D. Myall from Writer's Digest and Drexel University on 'Craft Chat Chronicles' for interviews with New York Times best-selling authors. Delve into the art of writing, uncover insights and tips on crafting bestsellers, as well as effective publishing and book marketing. Perfect for aspiring and seasoned writers, and students alike, this podcast combines creative writing expertise with real-world publishing experience. Tune in for transformative literary guidance.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to the craft of writing and publishing, including personal storytelling, character development, and marketing strategies. Episodes delve into themes such as navigating creative partnerships in co-writing projects, strategies for mastering media appearances as an author, crafting engaging narratives, and addressing representation in literature, with specific episode examples like discussing YA fiction trends and analyzing gripping openings from bestselling novels.
Bestselling romance author Zeo Axelrod takes listeners behind the scenes of contemporary romance writing in this candid, insightful conversation about creativity, publishing paths, and authentic storytelling.
Axelrod reveals her unique ”ZeoVision” approach—visualizing characters and scenes like Netflix in her brain—which allows her to deeply inhabit her fictional worlds before writing. Her journey from rewriting a Buffy the Vampire Slayer episode she disliked to becoming a Target Book Club selection demonstrates there's no single path to publishing success.
The contrast between traditional and indie publishing experiences offers valuable perspective for authors navigating both worlds. As a hybrid author, Axelrod discusses how the ”hurry up and wait” nature of traditional publishing challenges her creative process compared to the immediate gratification of self-publishing. She shares practical advice on formatting, distribution, and marketing across platforms while emphasizing the importance of building genuine community connections.
Most compelling is Axelrod's perspective on diversity in romance. As a Black female author, she advocates for stories that reflect real-world experiences of marginalized characters without reducing them to their struggles. ”These are the same kissing books,” she notes, ”they just happen to have brown people in them.” Her approach to contemporary romance balances acknowledging societal challenges while centering joy and authentic relationships where characters complement rather than complete each other.
For writers at any stage, Axelrod's core message resonates: ”Write the book of your heart.” Despite industry trends and publisher hesitations, authentic storytelling ultimately finds its audience. Whether crafting conflict, developing characters, or building worlds, the key is creating stories that feel true to your vision while engaging readers seeking both escape and emotional truth.
Ready to bring your romance writing to the next level? Visit jdmyall.com for workshops, show notes, and more resources to help you craft your own bestseller.
https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat
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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.
About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.
Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.
When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.
💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
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Watch episodes on YouTube as well.
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Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
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