What makes someone become a writer? For the three Gen X hosts of Women Are Plotting, their creative origins trace back to childhood—creating elaborate storylines for Barbies, convincing neighborhood kids a shark lurked in a backyard pond, and discovering the thrilling power of bringing imaginary worlds to life with nothing but words.

This debut episode reveals the fascinating, often winding paths that led Etienne, Jane, and Heidi to writing. From the four-year-old who realized she could transport others with her stories to the aspiring filmmaker who discovered screenwriting through a scheduling conflict, each journey demonstrates that creativity finds its expression against all odds. They share how writing became not just a hobby but a necessity—a balancing force that, when abandoned, leaves them feeling "unmoored" and slowly "going insane."

The conversation explores those magical moments of validation that kept them creating even without an audience: the high school teacher who predicted publication, a second place in a short story contest coming at the perfect moment, and the experience of having others truly connect with their words. They debunk the myth of writer's block (it's really just perfectionism in disguise) and reveal their techniques for pushing through creative obstacles.

With delightful asides about Stephen King sleeping with the lights on and Ray Bradbury being "knighted" by a carnival performer, this episode celebrates the quirky inspirations that fuel creativity. The hosts make a compelling case for why authentic human storytelling—born from lived experience—will always connect with readers in ways artificial intelligence never can.

Whether you're a writer yourself or simply curious about the creative process, this warm, honest conversation invites you into the world where ideas exist as living entities, searching for the right vessel to bring them to life. Subscribe to The Women Are Plotting for more insights into creativity, writing, and the stories we tell ourselves.

Our hosts share personal stories about their experiences with psychedelics, from accidental first trips to intentional journeys with shamans, including insights on therapeutic potential and safety.

• Etienne, Jane, and Heidi share their fun and/or interesting facts for this episode
• Jane's first LSD experience happened accidentally at a Grateful Dead concert at age 16
• Etienne's three-day acid trip at 21 with the "Ken Kesey acid" led to a surprising romance and creative epiphany
• Heidi didn't try psychedelics until age 50 but has had profound experiences with mushrooms and ayahuasca
• Ayahuasca ceremonies provided healing, visions of fractal patterns, and spirit guide encounters
• Recent research shows psychedelics' therapeutic potential despite their Schedule 1 classification
• Mushrooms rank as one of the safest substances, contradicting their legal status
• Safety tips: have trusted companions, a sober trip sitter, and approach with intention