-Writer-
CRYSTAL McQUEEN
On the Everyday Writers Podcast, we hope to share our experiences and tips, answer your questions about writing and publishing, talk about books, and of course, encourage you to dream big and become an Everyday Writer.​​​​
Coming Soon to Everyday Writers
LISTEN FREE ON YOUTUBE OR SPOTIFY!
Meet Your Co-Hosts:
Crystal McQueen
​
-
Author of short works in literary fiction, nonfiction and poetry​
-
MFA grad from EKU's Bluegrass Writers Studio
-
(and I also love my dog)
Jordan S. Keller
​
-
Author of the Ashes Over Avalon Series
-
Lover of Stories
-
Dog Mom
Check out our Latest Episodes
Bobi Conn on Unreliable Memory and Magical Realism (E18.5)
March 3, 2026
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller talk with Bobi Conn about the unreliability of memory and the ways we reshape the past. Bobi shares how her life influences her storytelling, why magical realism feels like an honest language for emotional truth, and what it means to move between fiction and nonfiction when lived experience refuses to stay in a single genre.
Learn more about Bobi at bobiconn.com.
​​​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
How to Weave Romance Into Any Genre (E18)
February 17, 2026
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller explore why romance keeps finding its way into their stories, no matter the genre. They break down how to weave compelling romantic threads into fantasy, mystery, sci‑fi, and beyond, and share practical tips for crafting chemistry that feels alive on the page. A fun, craft‑focused conversation that just might spark your next great story.
​​​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
James B. Wells on Memory, Mystery, and a 30‑Year Search (E17.5)
February 3, 2026
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller talk with James B. Wells about his decades‑long search to uncover the truth about his father. James shares how letters, interviews, and the art of “perhapsing” shaped his book and his understanding of memory, loss, and narrative. A thoughtful conversation about research, personal history, and the stories we inherit.
​
Learn more about James at jamesbwells.com.
​​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Setting Writing Goals You’ll Actually Keep (E17)
January 20, 2026
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller discuss how to set writing goals that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with your creative life. They share their own 2026 goals, talk about what derails writers, and offer strategies for staying motivated without burning out.
​​​
Everyday Writers is a podcast for writers by writers. Your hosts can be found on Instagram @Crystal.McQueen and @JordanSKellerAuthor. Follow the podcast on Facebook! #Writing #Writers #WritingAdvice
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Jane Ann Turzillo on True Crime, Deadlines, and a Lifetime of Writing (E16.5)
January 6, 2026
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller interview Jane Ann Turzillo about her shift from journalism to true crime. Jane shares how she researches unsolved mysteries, manages tight deadlines, and approaches storytelling with clarity and compassion. A fascinating look at a writer who has spent a lifetime chasing the truth.
​
Learn more about Jane at janeannturzillo.com.​
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Our 2025 Writing Year in Review: Wins, Losses, and Lessons (E16)
December 16, 2025
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan look back on their writing year: the wins, the setbacks, the surprises, and the lessons learned along the way. From querying to publication, they reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how they’re carrying those insights into the new year.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Sherry Robinson on Inspiration, Craft, and Complicated Women (E15.5)
.jpg)
December 2, 2025
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan talk with Sherry Robinson about her award‑winning novel Shadows Hold Their Breath, her sources of inspiration, and the craft choices that shape her work. A warm, insightful conversation with a writer who knows how to build atmosphere and emotional depth.
Learn more about Sherry at sherryrobinsonauthor.com.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Our Best Books of 2025 and What They Taught Us About Craft (E15)
November 18, 2025
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan share their favorite reads of 2025 and talk about the craft lessons they took from each one. From structure to character to voice, they explore how great books can shape and sharpen your own writing.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
Michael Colon on Fantasy, Inspiration, and The Gift of Aelius (E14.5)
.jpg)
November 4, 2025
​​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan interview Michael Colon about his novel The Gift of Aelius, his creative process, and the real‑life sparks behind his ideas. Michael shares how he approaches world-building, character, and the joy of writing fantasy.
Learn more about Michael at twbpress.com/authormichaelcolon.​​
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
How to Write a Killer First Page (E14)
October 21, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan break down what makes a strong first page, and the pitfalls that can lose a reader before the story even begins. They discuss opening scene strategy, voice, tension, and their own approaches to revising those crucial first lines.​
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
​
R. Dean Johnson on Teaching, Time, and the Stories That Haunt Us (E13.5)
.jpg)
October 14, 2025
​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller talk with R. Dean Johnson about directing the Bluegrass Writers Studio, finding time to write, and the inspirations behind his fiction. A thoughtful conversation about balancing teaching, writing, and creative curiosity.
Learn more about Rob at https://rdeanwriter.com.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
7 Ways to Add Tension to Your Novel (E13)
September 23, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan share seven practical ways to add tension to your novel. From secrets and broken promises to obstacles, pacing, and emotional stakes, they also discuss how they build tension in their own work.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​
​
James R. Gapinski on The Uncanny, Editing, and Future Mistakes (E12.5)
September 9, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan interview James R. Gapinski about their upcoming novel The Museum of Future Mistakes, their love of the uncanny, and their work as a teacher and managing editor. A lively conversation about craft, imagination, and the strange.
Learn more about James at jamesrgapinski.com.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
​​
​
How to Build Writing Credits: Contests, Anthologies, and More (E12)
August 19, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan discuss how to build writing credits through contests, anthologies, and short story submissions. They share where to find opportunities, what to watch out for, and how to choose the right places to submit your work.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!​​
LPM Sinclair on Chaos Writing, Music, and Mythic Worlds (E11.5)
.jpg)
August 5, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan talk with LPM Sinclair about her novel Songs for Dead Gods, her “chaos writing” approach, and the music and real‑life inspirations behind her work. A creative, energetic conversation about embracing the unexpected.
Learn more at linktr.ee/LPMSinclair.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Find and Grow Your Ideal Audience (E11)
July 22, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan share strategies for building an authentic audience through social media and online presence. They discuss best practices, burnout prevention, and how to create meaningful connections with readers.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Nick Greenberg on Food, Humor, and Crafting Cozy Mysteries (E10.5)
July 8, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan interview Nick Greenberg about his cozy mystery The Culinary Caper, his love of food, and how real‑life conversations spark his ideas. A fun, flavorful conversation about writing with joy.
Learn more about Nick at nickgreenberg-author.com.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Write a Query Letter That Gets Attention (E10)
June 17, 2025
From metadata to pitch to bio, Crystal and Jordan break down the anatomy of a strong query letter. They share tips, watch‑outs, and examples to help you craft a query that gets noticed.
​​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Nick D. Girard on Writing for Peace, Purpose, and Possibility (E9.5)
June 3, 2025
​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan talk with Nick D. Girard about his novel In the Beginning, the motivations behind his work, and how he found time to write during his commute. A heartfelt conversation about purpose, peace, and persistence.
Learn more about Nick at iamforworldpeace.com.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Choosing the Right POV and Tense for Your Story (E9)
May 20, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan explore the nuances of point of view and tense. How to choose the right one; how to avoid common pitfalls; and how POV shapes the emotional core of a story.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Jordan S. Keller on Failing Gravity, Music, and Writing Through Hard Times (E8.5)
May 6, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal interviews co‑host Jordan S. Keller about her novel Failing Gravity, the difference between writing a standalone and a trilogy, and how music influences her work. A candid conversation about creativity, resilience, and obsession.
Learn more about Jordan at jordanskellerauthor.com, and check out her gruesome short story “Upgrade” at https://www.jordanskellerauthor.com/post/upgrade-a-horror-short-story.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Build a Writing Community That Lasts (E8)
April 22, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan discuss the importance of writing communities. From how to start one to how to sustain one, they reminisce on how the right group can transform your writing life. They also share tips for retreats, accountability, and creative support.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Wes Blake on Ideas, Obsession, and the Making of Pineville Trace (E7.5)
April 8, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan talk with Wes Blake about his novel Pineville Trace, the ideas that drive him, and how to decide which story sparks are worth pursuing. A grounded, generous conversation about writing what obsesses you.
Learn more about Wes at wesblake.com.
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Create Characters Readers Won’t Forget (E7)
March 18, 2025
From voice consistency to meaningful goals to putting your characters under pressure, Crystal and Jordan break down how to create compelling characters. A practical, craft‑rich episode for writers at any stage.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
David Washburn on Horror, Screenwriting, and Breaking Genre Rules (E6.5)
March 4, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan interview David Washburn about his novel Kill for Me, his shift from screenwriting to fiction, and how he lets go of genre expectations to write the story he wants to write.
Learn more about David on Instagram @washburnwrites.
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Build Immersive Worlds Readers Believe In (E6)
February 18, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan explore how to build immersive worlds through character interaction, detail, and emotional logic. They discuss common pitfalls, techniques that deepen setting, and the worldbuilding behind Jordan’s upcoming sci‑fi novel.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Jenna Beall Mueller on Turning Real Life Into Fiction (E5.5)
February 4, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller interview Jenna Beall Mueller, author of Pop, Clink, Fizz. Jenna takes us through her journey of writing, editing and publishing. Join us as we learn more about how Jenna took her personal experiences and turned them into a novel.​​​
​
You can find out more about Jenna and her work at https://www.jennabeallmueller.com.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Writing Rules That Matter and When to Break Them (E5)
January 21, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller break down the writing rules every author hears and talk candidly about when to follow them and when to break them. From filter words to active voice, from “show, don’t tell” to dialogue clarity and avoiding clichés, this episode offers practical guidance you can apply immediately.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Mark E. Scott on Ideas, Process, and Crafting the A Day in Life Series (E4.5)
January 7, 2025
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller interview Mark E. Scott about his A Day in Life series and how a single idea on a hike up Pikes Peak sparked an entire trilogy. Mark shares his approach to planning, structure, and sustaining momentum across multiple books.
​
Learn more about Mark at markescottauthor.com.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Top 10 Writing Questions Answered (E4)
December 17, 2024
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan answer the ten writing questions they hear most often — from drafting and writer’s block to character development and voice. A wide‑ranging, practical episode packed with advice for writers at every level.​
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Holiday Book Recs and the Craft Lessons Inside Them (E3.5)
December 3, 2024​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller share their favorite holiday reads and the craft lessons they took from each one. They discuss how publishers choose release timing, why certain stories resonate during the holidays, and swap recommendations live on air.
​​​​​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
The Best Writing Tools for Staying Organized and Inspired (E3)
November 19, 2024
From software to craft books to old‑school methods, Crystal and Jordan share their favorite writing tools and talk about how each one supports a different part of the creative process. They also discuss the ethical use of AI and how to stay motivated.​
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Write to Your Strengths: Finding Your Own Creative Process (E2)
October 29, 2024
In this episode of Everyday Writers, hosts Crystal McQueen and Jordan S. Keller talk about writing to your strengths, trusting your natural creative rhythm, and resisting the pressure to adopt someone else’s process. A grounding, encouraging episode for writers who want to honor the way they work best.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
Inside the Cincy Book Crawl: 14 Bookstores in 1 Day (E1.5)
October 11, 2024
​
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan recap a whirlwind day at the Cincy Bookstore Crawl. Fourteen bookstores, endless discoveries, and a celebration of local literary community in the vibrant book-loving community in Cincinnati.
​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!
How to Start Writing And Keep Going (E1)
September 24, 2024
In this episode of Everyday Writers, Crystal and Jordan share their writing journeys, early struggles, and the lessons that helped them finally put words on the page. A welcoming first episode for anyone beginning or, perhaps, beginning again.
​​
Find us on YouTube and Spotify or Click on the image to listen now!