Episode 190: Tips, Tools, and Support for Neurodivergent Authors

Episode 190: Tips, Tools, and Support for Neurodivergent Authors

by | Nov 7, 2025

Enjoy the written recap of Episode 190 of Alexa’s Publishing Chat where Alexa Bigwarfe was in conversation with book coach Kate Allyson.

Writing a book is challenging enough. But when you add ADHD or autism into the mix, it can feel nearly impossible to stay focused long enough to finish what you start.

That’s why this week’s episode of the podcast with book coach and editor Kate Allyson is a must-listen for neurodivergent authors.

Kate specializes in helping writers who struggle with attention, structure, or overwhelm—and she proves that your brain’s quirks can actually become your creative edge.

🧩 The Challenges of ADHD Writers

Many neurodivergent authors experience what Kate calls shiny object syndrome: a flood of ideas that keeps them from finishing one project before starting another. Instead of fighting it, Kate suggests harnessing it. Let yourself explore new ideas, but devote most of your time to your primary work in progress.

⚙️ Find Systems That Work for You

Forget the “you must write every day” advice. Some writers thrive on daily routines; others crumble under that pressure. Kate encourages finding your rhythm—whether it’s dictating scenes while driving, batching ideas once a week, or hiring an accountability coach.

💬 Tools to Make Writing Easier

  • Voice Memos + Transcription Tools: Record thoughts on the go and have them transcribed automatically.
  • AI Editing Support: Use ChatGPT ethically to clean up transcripts, remove filler words, or brainstorm titles—without rewriting your voice.
  • Accountability Partners: Writing coaches or weekly check-ins can help ADHD brains stay on track. 

🧑‍💻 Working with the Right Editor

Kate emphasizes that neurodivergent authors should find editors who adapt to their needs, not the other way around. For some, that means reviewing chapters one at a time; for others, it’s more hands-on coaching through the drafting process.

🌟 The Big Takeaway

You don’t have to “fix” your brain to be a great writer. You just have to learn to work with it. As Kate says, “Anyone can be an author.” And with the right tools, support, and mindset, your book can come to life exactly the way you envision it.

 

 

👩‍💼 About Kate Allyson

Kate Allyson is a certified book coach and editor who helps neurodivergent authors turn their ideas into finished books. She’s edited over 50 published titles across memoir, nonfiction, and speculative fiction, and she’s passionate about making the writing process accessible for all. Her upcoming book, Happy Dog, Happy Human, explores the deep connections between humans and their canine companions.

Kate Allyson’s website: https://www.kateallysoncreative.com/ 

Listen to the full episode on Alexa’s Publishing Chat.

Write Your Way: Writing Tips So Neurodivergent Authors Can Focus and Finish a Book

Write Your Way: Writing Tips So Neurodivergent Authors Can Focus and Finish a Book

by | Nov 7, 2025

This blog post topic was inspired by Episode 190 of Alexa’s Publishing Chat where Alexa Bigwarfe was in conversation with book coach Kate Allyson.

If you’ve ever sat down to write and thought, “Why can’t I focus like other people?”—you’re not alone.

Many creative minds—especially those who are neurodivergent or simply wired a bit differently—struggle with traditional productivity advice. “Write every day.” “Stick to an outline.” “Just focus.”

Sound familiar? That kind of rigid advice can backfire for authors with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, or even just busy, nonlinear brains. The good news? There isn’t one “right” way to write—and your process doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Let’s explore how you can focus and finish your book by writing your way—not the “normal” way.

Redefine Focus

Focus doesn’t always mean sitting still. For neurodivergent authors, the best concentration often happens when your hands—or mind—are moving in another direction.

Try these creative focus hacks:

  • Record voice notes while walking or driving.
  • Brainstorm while doing dishes or folding laundry.
  • Use tactile fidgets or background music to channel extra energy.
  • Work in short “power bursts” (15–25 minutes) instead of long sessions.

Your brain may not focus the way productivity gurus expect it to—and that’s okay. Focus on flow, not stillness.

Write How You Think

Linear outlines don’t work for every writer. Some of us see scenes like a movie. Others think in bullet points, metaphors, or sound bites.

Instead of forcing structure early, capture ideas in your natural format first:

  • Voice memos or video reflections
  • Sticky notes or whiteboards for mapping scenes
  • Mind-mapping tools like Miro or Milanote
  • ChatGPT or AI brainstorming to help you organize scattered thoughts

Once you have ideas captured, then worry about organizing. Your messy, creative process is valid.

Create “Accountability with Compassion”

Deadlines don’t work if they only trigger shame. But accountability—done with empathy—can be life-changing.

Find accountability that motivates, not pressures:

  • A writing buddy you check in with weekly
  • A writing coach who understands neurodivergent needs
  • Co-writing sessions or writing sprints (like those in WIP Society!)
  • Progress trackers that reward small wins

Remember: accountability is a support system, not a punishment.

Harness “Shiny Object Syndrome”

If your brain constantly floods you with new ideas, that’s creativity at work—not failure.

Instead of trying to suppress new ideas, create a system for capturing them:

  • Keep a “parking lot” document for new ideas.
  • Schedule one “idea day” each month to explore new concepts.
  • Use unused ideas later for short stories, newsletters, or workshops.

This turns distraction into a content goldmine.

Use Tools That Work with Your Brain

The right tools make a world of difference. Try these:

  • Talk-to-text for fast, pressure-free drafting.
  • Focus apps like Forest or Freedom to block distractions.
  • AI tools (like ChatGPT) to clean up drafts or brainstorm titles—ethically.
  • Timers or “body doubling” videos for working in bursts.

Technology can help your brain stay in motion—and get your words on the page.

Celebrate Small Progress

Creative work happens in layers. Your draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist.

Reward yourself for every milestone:

  • Wrote 200 words? That’s a win.
  • Finished a chapter outline? Celebrate it.
  • Hit “save” instead of “delete”? Progress.

Consistency isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence.

Final Thought: There’s No One Right Way to Write

Thinking differently doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you bring something original to the page that no one else can.

When you stop forcing your brain into someone else’s process, writing becomes less of a battle—and more of a joy.

Find your rhythm, use your tools, and most importantly—give yourself permission to write your way.

For a full conversation on writing with ADHD, listen to Alexa’s chat with Kate Allyson.

How to Plan a Writing Retreat That Actually Works: Recharge, Refocus, and Write More

How to Plan a Writing Retreat That Actually Works: Recharge, Refocus, and Write More

by | Oct 29, 2025

This blog post topic was inspired by Episode 188 of Alexa’s Publishing Chat where Alexa Bigwarfe was in conversation with Rhonda Douglas of Resilient Writers.

Why Every Writer Needs a Retreat

Let’s be honest: the dream of writing full-time is usually far more romantic than the reality of writing in the cracks of your day. Between work, family, and life’s never-ending noise, creativity can start to feel squeezed into the margins.

That’s where a writing retreat comes in.

A writing retreat isn’t just a getaway—it’s an intentional pause from your regular routine to refocus, refill your creative well, and make real progress on your writing goals. Whether it’s a weekend alone at a cabin or a week with other writers, retreats create space for focus and flow.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need a big budget or a plane ticket to make it happen.

What a Writing Retreat Can Do for You

A well-planned writing retreat can:

  • Help you reconnect with your creative voice
  • Provide long stretches of uninterrupted writing time
  • Offer perspective on your project or career goals
  • Reduce burnout and reignite motivation
  • Give you accountability and community (if you retreat with others)

Writing retreats can be deeply restorative—a reminder that your writing life is worth prioritizing.

The Two Main Types of Writing Retreats

1. DIY Writing Retreats

These are self-designed getaways where you control everything: location, schedule, budget, and goals. You can do them solo or with a writing buddy.

Here are some affordable options:

  • Staycation retreat: Block off a weekend at home, unplug from social media, and treat your writing like your only job.
  • Hotel or Airbnb escape: Use loyalty points or off-season discounts to book a night or two away.
  • Library and coffee shop tour: Spend a day hopping between inspiring spaces in your own city.
  • Friend swap: Trade houses or pet-sit for a friend who’s away—and use that time to write.

Pro Tip: Add accountability. Tell a friend your goal for the weekend or meet another writer for a short check-in session mid-retreat.

2. Organized Group Retreats

If you crave structure or community, consider attending a guided writing retreat or conference. These often combine workshops, feedback, and uninterrupted writing time.

Look for retreats that align with your genre and goals. For example:

  • A poetry retreat for creative inspiration
  • A memoir workshop for emotional depth and feedback
  • A publishing-focused retreat for authors ready to market their books

These experiences often blend mentorship, education, and connection—and can lead to lifelong writing friendships.

How to Plan Your Own Writing Retreat

  • Set a clear goal.
     Decide whether your retreat will focus on drafting, revising, or planning future projects.
  • Choose the right setting.
     Think about what kind of environment fuels you—solitude, nature, city energy, or creative company.
  • Make it restorative.
     Don’t overbook yourself. Include breaks for walks, naps, journaling, or simply thinking. Rest is part of the creative process.
  • Plan your meals ahead.
     Whether you’re home or away, prep simple meals so you can stay in flow and avoid the “what’s for dinner?” distraction.
  • Unplug.
     The purpose of a retreat is to reconnect with your inner voice—not your inbox. Set boundaries with loved ones and silence notifications.
  • Reflect afterward.
     Take a few minutes to note what worked, what didn’t, and how you can bring that focused energy into your regular routine.

How to Afford a Writing Retreat on Any Budget

Writing retreats don’t have to break the bank. Try:

  • Travel points for hotels or flights
  • Midweek bookings (cheaper than weekends)
  • Local scenic spots instead of faraway destinations
  • Shared rentals with other writers
  • Public library rooms for day retreats

Even if you can only get away for 12 hours, that intentional break can re-energize your creativity more than a month of forced daily writing sessions.

The Takeaway

You don’t have to wait for permission—or a luxury writing retreat in Italy—to claim focused, creative time for yourself.

Start small. Book a weekend. Go somewhere quiet. Bring your notebook, your laptop, and your favorite snacks.

Your story deserves space to breathe—and so do you.

For a full conversation on DIY writing retreats, listen to Alexa’s chat with Rhonda Douglas of Resilient Writers.

Transform Ideas Into Bestsellers with Your Book Is Your Hook

Transform Ideas Into Bestsellers with Your Book Is Your Hook

by | Dec 1, 2024

At the Women in Publishing Summit, we are big fans of Your Book Is Your Hook. We know the value of having industry experts on your side, and this team is the go-to resource for anything publishing-related, from helping you refine your book concept to planning and executing a marketing strategy.

The best thing that Your Book Is Your Hook does is streamline the entire process of turning a book idea into a published product in as little as 90 days. Their unique “Thought to Sales” process ensures that authors can go from having an idea to seeing their book in the marketplace in as little as three months. 

They also offer private consulting, literary agent matchmaking, ghostwriting, and collaborative editing services. This holistic support system is designed to help authors navigate the complexities of the publishing industry and achieve their goals.

What does Your Book Is Your Hook do?

Your Book Is Your Hook is a full service consulting practice serving book writers, screenwriters, playwrights, and wannabes, as well as the entire publishing industry. Services include 1:1 consulting for writing, marketing, and getting published.

What kind of author needs Your Book Is Your Hook?

Whether your project is fiction, non-fiction, or for children, they can help you make it happen. Their consulting services fill in the gaps and help you understand the industry, access the resources you need at the right time, and organize your approach so you can get your project done and out properly into the marketplace in as little as 90 days or with a literary agent, publisher, or producer.

How can I learn more about Your Book is Your Hook?

To learn more about Your Book Is Your Hook, you can visit their website: Your Book Is Your Hook.

Female Founder and CEO

The female founder and CEO of Your Book Is Your Hook is Jennifer S. Wilkov. She is a dynamic keynote speaker, multi #1 international best-selling award-winning author, spokesperson, award-winning freelance writer, and impactful business consultant. Jennifer is also the host of the “Your Book Is Your Hook!” podcast, where she provides valuable insights and interviews with industry professionals to help authors and writers succeed.

Check out their webinar: 5 Ways to Publish your Book with Jennifer Wilkov 

Join us March 25, 2025 for the WIP Sponsor Series: Marketing Your Book to Success: Before, During and After You Publish with Jennifer S. Wilkov from Your Book is Your Hook

Join us at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit!

PublishHER Podcast Episode 116: Writing Tip: Showing vs. Telling with Sara Letourneau

PublishHER Podcast Episode 116: Writing Tip: Showing vs. Telling with Sara Letourneau

by | Jan 10, 2024

Alexa Bigwarfe interviews Sara Letourneau of Heart of the Story on this episode of the PublishHer Podcast, where they discuss a key writing tip; showing vs. telling in your writing and when it’s appropriate to use one over the other.

Sara Letourneau is the book editor, writing coach, and workshop instructor at Heart of the Story Editorial & Coaching Services. She works with authors and writers to help them develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need so they can finish their manuscripts, polish them for publication, and stay focused and motivated as they reach for their writing goals and embrace their creativity. Sara is also an award-winning poet and the cofounder of the Pour Me a Poem open mic in Mansfield, Massachusetts. Her debut poetry collection, Wild Gardens, will be published by Kelsay Books in 2024.

Showing is all about description. It’s a way of writing that allows the reader to experience what is happening in the story and to help them feel immersed in the scene. – Sara Letourneau

In this episode, we discuss:

    • Sara’s upcoming poetry collection Wild Gardens, which is coming out through Kelsay Books in 2024
    • Sara’s take on a key writing tip: “show, don’t tell”. She shares why it’s important to use both showing vs. telling in your writing and when it’s appropriate to use one over the other.
    • Her work as a book coach and editor
    • Get her special offer for our Women in Publishing Summit Community

The Art of Showing vs. Telling

Join writing coach Sara Letourneau as she guides writers through the art of showing vs. telling, weaving sensory details and immersive action to balance pacing and engage readers in this compelling exploration of storytelling techniques and valuable writing tip.

Key Takeaways

  • Writing Tip: Showing vs. Telling to Elevate Your Writing Craft
  • Achieve Balance and Depth in Your Writing Through Skillful Showing and Telling
  • Immerse Readers with Vivid Sensory Details for Enhanced Storytelling
  • Maintain Engaging Pacing in Your Narratives by Using Showing and Telling
  • Hone Your Storytelling Skills with Expert Tips on Showing and Telling Incorporation

Memorable Moments:

00:04:49 – Writing Tip; Showing vs. Telling in Writing
Sara explains the concept of showing versus telling in writing, emphasizing the importance of description, sensory details, and character dialogue. She provides examples of how to incorporate showing in different settings and character interactions.

00:10:07 – Challenges of Showing in Writing
Alexa discusses her struggles with transitioning from nonfiction writing to fiction writing and the difficulty of incorporating emotions and details into scenes. Sara offers tips for identifying and addressing the challenges of showing in writing.

00:14:58 – Emotions and Actions in Writing
Sara highlights the importance of portraying characters’ emotions through their actions and dialogue. She emphasizes the impact of characters’ feelings on their observations and interactions in different settings.

00:16:35 – The importance of showing versus telling in storytelling
Sara discusses the significance of incorporating actions and emotions to bring characters to life, emphasizing the need to practice showing rather than telling in writing.

00:18:21 – Balancing showing and telling in the writing process
Sara advises not to worry about balancing showing and telling during the first draft, but rather focus on identifying areas for improvement during the revision process using specific exercises.

00:19:35 – Instances when telling is the best option in writing
Sara explains that telling is suitable for sharing background information, events happening off the page, and when excessive detail affects pacing and reader engagement in the story.

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