Writing Excuses - Podcast Rankings and reviews

I enjoy this podcast a great deal and appreciate how they break complex topics into bite-size, actionable recommendations. A good listen for writers but book-lovers of all stripes.

I like the content of this podcast and the hosts are good. However— you know the type of radio ads that actively make you want to jump out of your car into moving traffic? The kind with screeching voices or sounds that are drastically different than the show you’re watching? This show has those. I wish they would be careful about what they pick.

The podcast provides great discussions and tidbits to help take that next steps in becoming a better writer. Love the homework assignments.

I have been a fan of Writing Excuses for years. I have gone back and listened to every episode from the beginning until now. In recent years, I must admit, while the later seasons were still good I had divided the overall product into two distinct eras: WB and AB, meaning “With Brandon” and “After Brandon.” After Brandon, while still worth a listen, seemed to wonder far from being the program I first discovered and loved. This year has been different and I am declaring the beginning of a third era: BOT, “Back On Track.” This season has SO been worth the wait. :)

While the podcast used to be a source of great inspiration and practical writing advice, the podcast has declined in quality over the past season. One major issue is the sheer amount of time spent on ads and self-promotion. It feels like a third of the episode is dedicated to ads, pitching their latest packages or exclusive content, which detracts from the insightful discussions that once made the show so valuable.

Another point of frustration is the increasingly academic tone of the podcast. I appreciate deep discussions, but the emphasis on close readings and literary analysis has become overwhelming. Many of us are busy writers who tune in for actionable advice, not in-depth dissections of texts we don’t have the time—or interest—to study. The episodes now seem geared more toward advanced literary analysis than practical, real-world writing tips.

It’s clear that their target audience has shifted, and unfortunately, I no longer feel like I’m part of it. Writing Excuses has lost much of what made it engaging and accessible, leaving it a lesser version of its former self.

I’ve listened to every episode since season 1. I’m sad to say it’s gone downhill a lot, and not just because Brandon left (though this was a major loss). What ever happened to “fifteen minutes or less?!” Now there are nearly 10 minutes of ads in a 30+ minute episode?? But more importantly, the actual educational value of the podcast has declined. Wish I felt differently given how important a role this podcast has played in my writing journey, but this is the truth :/