Dan shares his experience of rebuilding and reinventing his writing career from his section of our forthcoming book Now Go Write. Our hosts walk through practical ways that writers can diversify their work— from writing for RPGs and video games to writing in a new genre like middle grade or nonfiction — and why having multiple, truly separate revenue streams matters. They also dig into the psychological work of redefining yourself as a writer (not only a novelist), staying flexible when setbacks hit, and protecting time for the projects that keep your heart in the work. Listen for concrete strategies and encouragement to lean into new formats without losing sight of why you write.

Homework: Write something in a genre or format you’ve never tried before — a single TV episode scene, a short RPG adventure, a tie-in short story, a script, or a 500–1,000-word nonfiction piece. And see how it feels!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Call for Writing Breakthroughs

Have you had a breakthrough in your writing because of Writing Excuses? If so, we want to hear about it. Fill out this Writing Breakthroughs Google Form for a chance to be featured in a WX Newsletter!

Last Annual Cruise

The final WXR cruise sets sail for Alaska in September 2026—don’t miss your chance to be part of it. Learn more and sign up here.

*Scholarship applications for our cruise are open now until December 31st, 2025. You can learn more and apply here.

Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Dan Wells, Erin Roberts, Mary Robinette Kowal, Hoard Tayler, and DongWon Song. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.

Join Our Writing Community!

Bluesky

Facebook

Our Sponsors:
* Check out MasterClass: https://masterclass.com/EXCUSES
* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/WX

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/donations

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

20.47: Now Go Write- All the Eggs in All the Baskets

Writing Excuses