6 Writing & Author Oriented Podcast To Listen To | My Favorite Writer & Author Related Podcasts
- Bair Klos
- Apr 14
- 5 min read
Over the course of my writing journey, I’ve explored a lot of writing resources—from books and blogs to videos and communities. But one of the most consistent and comforting tools in my creative toolkit? Podcasts.
There’s just something about tuning in to a conversation between fellow writers or industry professionals while you’re walking, cooking, cleaning, or even worldbuilding that makes you feel seen. Podcasts can be equal parts educational and inspirational—and they have an uncanny ability to sneak into your creative subconscious and stir things awake.
And while I’ve listened to dozens of writing-related shows over the years, these are the ones that have consistently stayed in my rotation—the voices I turn to when I need insight, encouragement, strategy, a laugh, or just a bit of “you’re not alone.”
If you're looking to level-up your craft, navigate publishing, or simply surround yourself with creative energy—these are for you.
1.) Kobo Writing Life
This podcast is brought to you by the team at Kobo and features interviews with bestselling authors, publishing insiders, and industry experts. Whether you're indie, traditionally published, or hybrid, there's something here for you.
Kobo Writing Life tends to offer a more global perspective on publishing, which I personally love, and their episodes strike a great balance between practical advice and inspiring storytelling. You’ll hear about marketing strategies, writing habits, platform building, and the ups and downs of an author career.
2.) ALLi's Self-Publishing Advice Podcast
This one’s from the Alliance of Independent Authors, and it’s basically a goldmine for indie writers. With multiple shows a week, each hosted by a different expert, the topics range from legal rights and distribution models to author mindset and craft tips.
What I love most is the no-fluff approach—it’s incredibly practical. If you’ve ever wanted a podcast that speaks directly to the real-world mechanics of making a living as a writer (without the overwhelm), this is the one.
3.) The Art of Worldbuilding Podcast
Fantasy and sci-fi writers, this one’s for us! If you’ve ever asked yourself questions like, “How do I make my geography more realistic?” or “How can I make my societies feel authentic?”, this podcast dives into all of it.
Each episode is packed with clear, digestible advice for creating immersive settings and believable cultures. It’s methodical without being dry, and thoughtful without being preachy. I find it particularly helpful for fleshing out magic systems, religion, history, and language in fantasy realms.
4.) Wish I'd Known Then… For Writers
This podcast is like a heart-to-heart with wiser versions of yourself. Hosted by authors who openly share their mistakes, growth, and ongoing lessons, it blends the emotional journey of being a writer with real-world experiences about publishing, contracts, burnout, branding, and more.
It’s authentic, comforting, and filled with those “me too” moments that help you feel less alone. Highly recommended for mid-career writers trying to stay grounded or newer writers looking to avoid common pitfalls.
5.) Writing Excuses
A classic for a reason. “Fifteen minutes long, because you're in a hurry, and we're not that smart.” Except, spoiler alert: they’re actually geniuses.
This roundtable podcast features authors Brandon Sanderson, Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Wells, and others, covering everything from worldbuilding and plotting to character arcs and pacing. The episodes are fast, focused, and packed with value.
There’s also a wonderful sense of camaraderie and collaboration in this show—it reminds you that writing can be fun, and that there are many different ways to succeed at it.
6.) The Rebel Author Podcast – Sacha Black
Saving the best for last, The Rebel Author Podcast is hands-down my favorite and ride-or-die listens. It is where I learned the majority of my publishing and industry knowledge. Sacha Black delivers thoughtful, actionable, and often hilarious interviews with writers, editors, and creative professionals.
Whether she's diving into topics like villain creation, non-fiction publishing, time management, or building a creative business, her energy is magnetic. Sacha brings big rebel energy to every episode—empowering writers to own their space and build a bold, unapologetic author career.
She is hilarious but also swears (in the best way), so if you want advice with bite, this is the place.
Bonus: The Tired Writers Podcast
This one is incredibly special to me because it’s my podcast! The Tired Writers Podcast is a writing podcast that I co-host with my best friend Kimberly Herbstritt. We created it as a space to talk honestly about our creative lives, writer’s block, accountability, burnout, joy, and everything in between.
It’s cozy, real, and full of love for the writing community. If you want to feel like you’re chatting with writer friends over a cup of tea, come hang out with us.
Honorable Mentions
Next Level Authors – A great behind-the-scenes podcast where two indie authors hold each other accountable and tackle real-life creative challenges.
Draft2Digital’s Self Publishing Insiders – Perfect if you want to learn more about indie publishing, discover helpful tools, and stay updated on platform changes.
The Creative Penn Podcast – Hosted by Joanna Penn, a legend in the indie-author space, this long-running podcast is full of insightful interviews and helpful publishing advice. Especially great if you're looking to build a career as a writer-entrepreneur. Joanna Penn is the GOAT for indie writers.
Concluding Thoughts
Whether you’re plotting your first novel, in the middle of a messy draft, querying agents, or building your indie author empire, these podcasts are like creative fuel.
So go ahead—grab a notebook, a warm drink, and your favorite headphones. Let these voices be your writing companions.
Got a favorite podcast I missed? Drop it in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for more!
Happy listening (& happy writing)!
—Bair✍︎
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Okay, I'm gonna have to check out the Writing Excuses podcast for sure! I'm always looking for new writing resources that I can digest rather quickly, which this one seems right up my alley.