31 Writing Podcasts You’ve GOT to Hear (Best of 2019)

This post is for writers.

Authors of fiction and non-fiction. Freelancers and copywriters. Bloggers and content creators.

We all need information to help us hone our craft, we all crave inspiration when we’re feeling blocked, and we’re all short on time.

It’s no wonder writing podcasts have exploded in popularity the last few years — they’re convenient, portable, and packed with valuable insights.

But with hundreds of great podcasts for writers to choose from, in niches covering everything from self-publishing to freelancing, which podcasts should you listen to, and where do you even start?

Right here.

Because we’ve done the hard work for you.

We’ve listened to over 80 hours of different episodes from around the world to compile this epic list of the best writing podcasts.

It’s the largest, most-definitive guide of its kind, and we’ve organized it to help you answer the only question that matters:

Which podcasts are right for me?

How to Find Your Perfect Writing Podcasts

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To make it as easy as possible to find the best writing podcasts for you and your unique situation, we’ve divided our list into 6 categories:

1. Making a Living as an Author or Writer
2. Advice and Support for Freelance Writers and Content Creators
3. Improving Your Writing Skills
4. Finding Inspiration, Support, and a Writing Community
5. Self-Publishing and Book Marketing
6. The All-Rounders: The Craft, Business, and Process of a Writer’s Life

You can save time by jumping to the podcast category that best fits your needs. Or, dip in and out of a couple of categories to get a feel for content and style before you subscribe to your favorites.

Each podcast listing provides you with:

• A brief introduction on what to expect;
• Links to all sources where you can listen and/or download episodes;
• An audience reference guide to judge if this podcast is relevant to you;
• The reasons why we think you’ll love it;
• The average length of each show (based on the 10 most recent episodes);
• A link to a standout episode so you can take the podcast for a quick spin.

Plus, we have a bonus writing podcast at the end. (More on that later.)

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your AirPods and let’s dive in.

#1: Create If Writing Podcast

Cute name, huh?

Hosted by Kirsten Oliphant, Create If Writing is a weekly podcast for writers and bloggers who want to build an online platform “without being smarmy.”

Chock full of practical episodes (“How to Cut Your Business Expenses” and “A Simple Book Launch Framework” are two standouts), Kirsten also does regular interviews with successful writers and bloggers who share tips on everything from the importance of community to copywriting basics.

#2: Ditch Diggers

Ditch Diggers, launched in 2015, is about the business of writing.

It’s aimed squarely at writers who are facing deadlines, rejections, and everyday bills.

Presented in a conversational tone by Hugo Award Finalist, Mur Lafferty, and co-host Matt Wallace, Ditch Diggers is raw and honest and often sprinkled with colorful language.

You have been warned.

#3: High Income Business Writing Podcast

Ed Gandia is a successful copywriter and coach who shares actionable advice, ideas, and interviews with industry experts in this monthly podcast.

Ed is a systems man who talks about processes and strategies — which he has applied to his own writing business — as well as real case studies from the industry to help you propel your writing business to the next level.

Or, in Ed’s own words:

“In this nuts-and-bolts, no-nonsense podcast, you’ll discover how to get better clients, earn more in less time, and bring more freedom and joy into your writing business.”

#4: The Copywriter Club Podcast

The Copywriter Club is hosted by Kira Hug and Rob Marsh, who interview talented copywriters, copy editors, and other professional content creators.

The results are weekly snapshots of the successes, failures, processes, and habits of talented writers, and plenty of other ideas worth stealing.

Recent episodes have included “Symphonic Copywriting With Doug Pew,” “Telling the Truth About Advertising With Bob Hoffman,” and “What Copywriters Need to Know About Design with Lori Haller.”

#5: Copyblogger FM

Copyblogger FM is hosted on Rainmaker.fm — a podcast network from the people behind Copyblogger.

Presented by Sonia Simone, along with the occasional guest expert, each episode focuses on an aspect of content marketing, copywriting, managing creative slumps, mindsets, and more.

Recent episodes have tackled topics such as moving from “making a living” to driving real revenue, how to reenergize your email list, and the reasons good writers sometimes have trouble finding good clients.

#6: Hot Copy Podcast

Presented by co-hosts and Australian copywriters Belinda Weaver and Kate Toon, Hot Copy is chock full of copywriting techniques, interviews with other successful copywriters, advice on how to find and manage clients, and more.

According to their podcast description, it’s “perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about copywriting, the writing bits and the running a business bits.”

Recent episodes have included “How to Work With Agencies,” “Super Tips from the Experts,” and “Sweary Copy: Smart Tactic or Trying Too Hard?”

#7: B2B Writing Success Podcast

This one is for freelance writers who specialize in the business to business (B2B) niche.

Hosted weekly by copywriter Steve Slaunwhite, topics include copywriting tips, landing new clients, finding your niche, and growing your copywriting business.

Recent episodes have tackled topics such as how to raise your rates, getting better paying gigs, and Zig Ziglar’s 5-step process for overcoming any challenge.

#8: Writing Excuses

Writing Excuses is a weekly podcast by writers, for writers. It’s all about the craft of writing.

Launched in 2008, it began introducing season-long themes in 2015, each one focused on a different aspect of the writing process. Themes have included structure, character, elemental genres, and how to write a novel. The current theme is worldbuilding.

The podcast is presented in a conversational format by a group of six, plus the occasional guest writer, and each episode comes with a writing exercise and a book of the week.

#9: Writing Class Radio

Writing Class Radio is a podcast of a writing class.

Or rather, it originated from a writing class and continues to broadcast real-life stories from students and any aspiring writer who wants to submit their story.

Created and presented by writers and teachers Andrea Askowitz and Alison Langer, Writing Class Radio covers the art and process of writing, by analyzing individual stories, as well as discussions with editors and publishers.

#10: Helping Writers Become Authors

Want to learn how to write a book?

How to outline and structure your story, and polish your prose?

Then this podcast is for you.

Presented by award-winning and internationally published author, Karen (K.M.) Weiland, each episode focuses on a different aspect of the craft of writing.

And with 465 episodes broadcast to date, you’re sure to find something of value.

#11: Ann Kroeker, Writing Coach

Ann Kroeker is a published author, professional speaker and writing coach who shares her love of writing through her podcast.

She keeps each episode to around 15 minutes and focuses on writing tips, ideas, and concepts to help writers at all stages, interspersed with longer interviews with publishing professionals.

Subjects include everything from outlining and editing, to goal setting and writing schedules.

#12: Story Grid Podcast

This podcast takes the form of a one-on-one coaching session between Shawn Coyne, a successful author and editor, and Tim Grahl, a self-confessed struggling writer, as they discuss Tim’s progress and road bumps on his way to becoming a published author.

The Story Grid is a tool developed by Shawn to analyze stories and provide helpful editorial comments. It tells the writer what’s working, what’s not, and how to fix it.

Tim is both brave and lucky. It’s hard for him to hide his fears and struggles, but wow, what great advice he’s getting.

It’s like being a fly on the wall. But what’s going to happen when Tim finishes his book?

#13: The Creative Writer’s Toolbelt

Presented by British writer and creative writing mentor, Andrew J Chamberlain, this podcast combines practical teaching and interviews with writers, editors, and authors.

Each episode explores an aspect of the creative writing technique, with examples, allowing you to apply what you learn immediately to your writing.

Topics include story, style, character, and the writing process.

#14: The Taylor Stevens Show

Taylor Stevens is an award-winning, New York Times bestselling author.

And she has one of the most interesting backstories in the business.

Taylor presents this podcast with co-host and indie author, Steve Campbell. They talk about all things writing, research, publishing, productivity, mindset, and more.

Recent episodes have tackled topics such as generating emotion in your reader, what happens when you let plot drive your characters, and the importance of understanding your audience.

#15: Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

Presented by Mignon Fogarty, Grammar Girl was the winner of the best education podcast in the 2017 podcast awards.

Mignon describes herself as “your friendly guide to the English language: writing, history, rules and cool stuff,” and that’s exactly what she delivers.

In recent episodes, she’s discussed dangling participles, what it’s like to be an editor and translator, and how to find work as a freelance writer.

#16: Story-A-Day Podcast

Storyaday.org is an online hub for writers who want to “write every day, not someday.”

It sets creativity challenges, provides writing prompts, and publishes posts on creativity and the craft of writing.

The podcast, presented by Julie Duffy, was launched in 2010 and provides 15 minutes of pep talks and writing prompts every second Saturday. Recent posts have included “Finding Support” and “Goals vs. Reality.”

#17: Beautiful Writers Podcast

Presented monthly by author, Linda Sivertsen, together with different co-hosts, the podcast presents in-depth conversations with some of the world’s best-known writers.

Recent interviewees have included:

• Candice Bergen;
• Seth Goden;
• Lee Child;
• and Ann Patchett.

#18: 88 Cups of Tea

88 Cups of Tea (what a great name!) was created in 2015 by actor, producer and writer, Yin Chang. It’s self-described as a safe space for storytellers to ”learn and feel empowered, inspired, and motivated.”

Each weekly episode is an interview with a writer, novelist, literary agent, or storyteller of another kind. Topics cover how-to’s, writing advice, career nuggets, and the highs and lows of being a storyteller.

So pull up a chair and a cup of tea, and enjoy!

#19: Write Now With Sarah Werner

A weekly podcast hosted by podcast coach and writer, Sarah Werner.

Sarah focuses on finding a healthy work, life, and writing balance, by talking about writing struggles, breakthroughs, and sharing writing tips and secrets.

Episodes are interspersed with “Coffee Breaks,” which are conversations with other writers.

Recent episodes have discussed burnout, how to handle it when someone steals your idea, and affirmations for writers.

#20: Reading and Writing Podcast

It’s a very simple concept:

Host Jeff Rutherford interviews published authors who share their writing experiences and life stories. Occasionally, writers will read excerpts from their novels.

It’s like a cross between your favorite book club and the insider secrets of successful authors.

Episode schedule is intermittent, with new episodes sometimes published weekly, but usually monthly.

#21: Story Makers Podcast

Presented by published writers Angie Powers and Elizabeth Stark, Story Makers Podcast mainly features interviews with other writers, filmmakers, and industry experts.

These interviews are intermingled with conversations between the two presenters about their current projects, what they’re struggling with, tips and advice, and their love of writing.

Recent topics have included simplicity in storytelling, setting goals, revisions, and writing humor.

#22: Write-minded Podcast

Write Minded describes itself as “weekly inspiration for writers.”

It’s presented by co-hosts Brooke Warner of She Writes and Grant Faulkner of National Novel Writing Month.

Brooke and Grant interview published writers and industry professionals, and tease out a weekly “green light” moment.

The podcast is professionally produced and provides valuable insight, while still sharing the hosts’ spirit of community and collaboration.

#23: The Worried Writer

This monthly podcast is stuffed full of tools, techniques, and inspiration to help you overcome your self-doubt and fear of writing.

Presented by author, Sarah Painter, each episode has a motivational title (“Just Keep Swimming,” “Little and Often is the Key”), and comes complete with show notes and links to resources.

Sarah also interviews other writers about their processes, their mindset, and their writing life.

#24: Write or Die

Very edgy, fly-on-the-wall style podcasting by two young debut authors, Claribel Ortega and Kat Cho.

Recent episodes start seemingly mid-conversation with guest writers, and with little introduction.

It’s like listening to friends hanging out in a café talking about writing and publishing.

Often funny and brash, the girls are bitingly honest about the real, unglamorous side of writing. And they love to champion the underdog.

#25: SPA Girls Podcast

The SPA (Self-Publishing Authors) Girls Podcast is presented weekly by four romance and urban fantasy writers from New Zealand.

While it’s aimed at those who want to self-publish, it covers all aspects of the craft and process of writing.

For example, recent episodes have included: “Facebook Ads with Maria Luis,” “Learn Dictation with Kilby Blades,” and “How to Write a Regency Romance.”

#26: Book Marketing Mentors

Book Marketing Mentors is a weekly podcast presented by international best-selling author, Susan Friedmann.

It’s dedicated to helping writers market and sell their book.

Susan interviews marketers and publishers, and presents proven strategies, tools, ideas, and tips.

Recent episodes have included selecting the right niche, embracing change, and attracting more readers.

#27: The Self Publishing Show

The premise of this podcast is there’s never been a better time to be a write.

Why? Because the world of publishing is changing: “No more barriers or gatekeepers between you and your reader.”

It’s presented by two Brits: Mark Dawson, a renowned success story in the self-publishing industry, and James Blatch, a wannabe author who is currently writing his first novel.

Together, they explore all topics in the world of self-publishing, with a focus on actionable tips for new and experienced indie authors.

#28: The Well-Storied Podcast

Presented by Kristen Kieffer, an author of fantasy fiction and creative writing resources, The Well-Storied Podcast has been running since early 2017.

Kristen sets out to encourage and inspire fiction writers across all aspects of the writing life.

Recent episodes have included “How to Rediscover Your Love for Writing,” “Why I Set & Quit a Hundred Book Reading Challenge,” and “Do You know What Drives Your Story’s Narrative?”

#29: The Writer Files

The Writer Files is the second podcast on this list hosted on Rainmaker.fm — brought to you from the people behind Copyblogger.

Presenter, Kelton Reid, interviews authors, journalists, and even a neuroscientist, to study the “habits, habitats, and brains” of renowned writers.

Recent episodes have included “How to Stay Creative with Bestselling Author Austin Leon” and “The Writer’s Brain on Productivity v. Creativity.”

#30: The Creative Penn Podcast

The Creative Penn is hosted by British author Joanna Penn, who writes fiction (as J.F. Penn) and non-fiction for authors, so she knows her stuff.

The weekly episodes cover everything from improving your writing skills to publishing, book marketing, and making a living as a writer.

Topics in recent episodes have included voice search for authors, how to pitch your book for television and movies, and the importance of self-publishing.

The Bonus Writing Podcast

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We promised you a bonus podcast, and here it is.

To be included in our epic compilation, the 30 podcasts we’ve listed above are all current, with new episodes uploaded at least monthly.

This bonus podcast is no longer running, but we still think it’s worthy of your attention.

Here’s why:

#31: Zero to Book

Zero to Book ran for 26 episodes during 2016 and followed the process of turning an idea into a published book in real time.

Bestselling author Jeff Goins and Pamela Wilson hosted an on-going conversation in the Rainmaker.fm network about Pamela’s journey to become a published author.

While the show is no longer running, the episodes are still available and make for compelling listening.

Which Writing Podcasts Will You Listen To?

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It’s hard to choose, isn’t it?

Do you want to grow your freelance business? Want to improve your craft? Or maybe you need inspiration and guidance to write your first book, and successfully launch it to a multitude of devoted fans.

But whatever your need, know this: you’re not alone.

There’s a whole community of like-minded writers out there, just waiting to provide you with the support, insight, and motivation you need.

They’ve got your back. And they share the answers and advice you’re looking for, week in, week out.

So, go on. Sign up to a few writing podcasts today. Find some new friends and take your writing to a whole new level.

And if there’s a great writing podcast we missed, be sure to tell us about it in the comments.