#55: [ENCORE EPISODE] Writing Beyond Your Own Experience — Respectfully Portraying the “Other”

If you've ever had a story idea that included a character or culture outside of your own — and then hesitated — this episode is for you. Especially if you've asked questions like,

"What if I get it wrong? What if readers call me out?"

I hear these doubts often. And honestly, to me, they show you care about getting it right.

This week on The Confident Fiction Author Podcast, I'm bringing back one of my favorite episodes: Writing Beyond Your Own Experience — Respectfully Portraying "the Other."

In this encore episode, you'll discover:

• Why authenticity matters even in fiction — and how readers feel it when it's there (and when it's not)
• Practical steps for writing characters from other cultures with depth, respect, and realism
• Why you should use caution with sensitivity readers

Writing beyond your own experience isn't just possible — it's one of the most powerful things you can do as a storyteller. And when it's done with care, it builds deep trust with your readers while giving them richer, more immersive story worlds.

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Free resources for you:

The Confident Fiction Author Toolkit: fictioncourses.com/toolkit

Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo Mini Course: fictioncourses.com/dictation

Dictation for Authors: Tools and Tips of the Trade: fictioncourses.com/dictationguide

5 Stereotypes to Avoid When Writing about Native Americans: fictioncourses.com/stereotypes