Posts tagged writing tools
#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
#304 – Staying Present as a Writer: Learning by Living and Wisdom from Anne Lamott (Free-Writing Session)
#304 – Staying Present as a Writer: Learning by Living and Wisdom from Anne Lamott (Free-Writing Session)

Welcome to episode 304 of the Spun Today podcast, where we dive deep into the creative life—its challenges, joys, and moments of breakthrough. In this free writing session, Tony Ortiz shares his latest writing stats, practical tips for writers, and an honest look into the ways presence and mindful living can fuel the creative process. This episode explores inspiration from Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird, actionable advice on tackling writer’s block, and the value of noticing the world like a child. Tony Ortiz also introduces a bite-sized writing tool for overcoming stuck points, breaks down actionable writing tips from social media, and spotlights a personal freewriting piece about embracing life’s constant transitions. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or just starting out, this episode is packed with creative motivation, strategies for productivity, and reminders to keep writing—one bird, one story, and one moment at a time.

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Tony Ortizwriter’s block, living with presence, inspiration for writers, creative process, free writing, writing statistics, consistency in writing, writing routines, book marketing, Amazon ads, ChatGPT for writers, Claude AI, self-publishing, A+ Content on Amazon, writing tools, Tome writing app, self-guided writing courses, discovery writing, outlining vs discovery writing, character arcs, plot development, reading for writing improvement, writing tips, School of Plot, short story practice, writing for yourself, thick skin for writers, vulnerability in writing, criticism in writing, presence in storytelling, capturing memories through writingComment
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