10 Great Podcasts for Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers

Hi, my name is Bob, and I’m addicted to podcasts.

Okay, my name isn’t really Bob, and I wouldn’t say that I’m “addicted” to podcasts. But with 2 hours of my day spent on rural commutes through Arkansas, and eight hours of it staring at spreadsheets and emails, I find that having something other than Adele or that “I’m sexy and I know it” song stuck in my head is actually quite amazing. (“wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle, yeah.”)

On the other hand, 85% of my sentences start off with, “well I heard on a podcast that (insert random trivia here).” Some people seem to have a problem with this, but who cares what they think, right?

Here’s the deal: I listen to podcasts because they stimulate my brain. As a writer, I’m always looking for ways to get information related to my craft, or information that may inspire my craft. So, with that being said, I thought I would list some of my favorite podcasts below. If you have any you would like to add, please share them in the comments section.

Podcasts on Writing
Writing Excuses
Hosted by Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, Howard Taylor, and Mary Robinette Kowal, this podcast has been quintessential to my development as a writer.

I Should Be Writing
I find myself liking this one more and more. Mur Lafferty hosts the show and often deals with the emotions involved in being a writer. She also has some amazing interviews on tap (Neil Gaiman, Connie Lewis, Tracy Hickman, etc.)

Odyssey Writing Workshop
Odyssey is an annual writing retreat for aspiring fantasy and science fiction writers. Many of their guest lectures can be found on their site’s podcast page.

Short Stories on Audio – Fantasy and Science Fiction
Clarkesworld Magazine
Beneath Ceaseless Skies
Escape Pod
Podcastle

Miscellaneous Awesomeness
Stuff You Missed in History Class
Ever heard of Chicago’s infamous Murder castle? What about the Golem of Prague? Are you looking for awesome characters for your next novel? Stuff You Missed is all the cool stuff they never told you in high school.

Stuff To Blow Your Mind
Will robots be bathing you some day? Can nightmares actually kill you? What’s in a witches brew? Still more cool stuff to get your brain juices flowing

The Geeks Guide to the Galaxy
The guys at io9 never fail to entertain. With episodes featuring George R. R. Martin, Orson Scott Card, and R.A. Salvatore, how could you resist?

Honorable Mention

George R. R. Martin’s Podcast
In October of 2006, Martin conducted eight podcast episodes before the release of “A Feast for Crows.” Episode 3 is specifically geared towards aspiring writers.

The Secrets with Michael A. Stackpole
From what I understand, this is one of the most informative podcasts on writing out there. I’ve seen it referenced many times, but haven’t had the chance to check it out for myself.

Well that’s my list! Hope you enjoy it.