Posts tagged time management for writers
#309 – Micro Transformations and Big Lessons Writing Takeaways from Louis C.K.’s Ingram (Free-Writing Session)
#309 – Micro Transformations and Big Lessons Writing Takeaways from Louis C.K.’s Ingram (Free-Writing Session)

Welcome to episode 309 of the Spun Today podcast. In this episode, Tony Ortiz dives deep into the craft of storytelling, sharing the inside baseball of his own creative process—complete with writing stats, recent experiments with AI-powered ads, and a practical tool recommendation for overcoming writer’s block. Through a detailed breakdown of Louis C.K.’s debut novel, Ingram, Tony Ortiz explores how character growth stems from small, meaningful lessons and how supporting characters, symbolic objects, and well-timed revelations fuel emotional storytelling. He also shares an inspiring writing tip from Steven Pressfield that invites creators to protect their work with the dedication of a parent. Plus, Tony Ortiz wraps up with a motivational free writing piece that challenges listeners to seize the present moment and move deliberately toward their creative goals. If you’re a writer or creative looking for motivation, craft insights, and that extra push to get your words on the page, this episode is for you.

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Tony Ortizwriting tips, creative process, character development, story structure, micro transformations, Ingram novel, Louis C.K. book, learning through experience, creative inspiration, motivational writing, creativity tips, free writing, writing stats, time management for writers, writing tools, ProWritingAid, overcoming writer’s block, cross-pollination in creativity, advertising books, Amazon Ads, Facebook Ads for writers, Tome tool, supporting characters, Maslow’s hierarchy in storytelling, objects as symbolism, writing goals, learning from setbacks, story revelations, persistence in writing, creative identity, Steven Pressfield adviceComment
#292 – Motivation for Writers: Tracking Progress and Learning from Noir Fiction
#292 – Motivation for Writers: Tracking Progress and Learning from Noir Fiction

Welcome to Episode 292 of the Spun Today Podcast! In this episode, host Tony Ortiz dives deep into the writing life, inviting listeners into another motivating free writing session. Tony shares his latest writing stats and candidly discusses the ups and downs of creative consistency, including the struggles of writer’s block and the magic of finding inspiration after unexpected detours. He also offers practical writing tips sourced from Sandra Chwialkowska and Jordan Peele, reminding us why showing up to the page matters and why fun should always be at the heart of our creative process.

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Tony Ortizwriting tips, creative process, writer’s block, motivation for writers, inspiration for creatives, Manhattan Noir, Lawrence Block, short story anthologies, New York City stories, pacing in writing, tone in storytelling, character development, ProWritingAid, editing tools for writers, Instagram writing advice, Sandra Chwialkowska quote, Jordan Peele advice, following the fun in writing, novel drafting, perfectionism in writing, objectivity for creatives, dedication to writing, creative breakthroughs, resisting writer’s block, time management for writers, noir fiction, Akashic Noir series, short story exercises, book marketing tools, mockup shots for books, podcast support methodsComment
Welcome back to the Spun Today podcast! In this episode, Tony Ortiz dives deep into the creative process, taking you behind the scenes of his own writing journey. This is a special “free writing

Tony opens up about the challenges of working on his second novel, the importance of letting go of perfectionism, and the power of the so-called “zero-th draft” approach, inspired by N.K. Jemisin’s masterclass on writing. You’ll hear about his ongoing project of translating his book "Make Way for You" into Spanish with a little help from AI, and how tracking writing habits can be both humbling and motivating.

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Tony Ortizwriting stats, free writing, creativity, writer's block, book translation, AI in writing, time management for writers, NK Jemisin, masterclass notes, world building, character development, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, writing goals, publishing, inspiration, motivation, writing tips, substack for writers, reader feedback, self-discipline, writing tools, ProWritingAid, productivity, accountability, fiction writing, non-fiction writing, translating books, creative process, imposter syndrome, personal growth, recurring writing habitsComment