Fully Booked EP178: Why Every Writer Needs a Community

This week on Fully Booked, we’re exploring the essential role that community plays in a writer’s journey, particularly in genres that thrive on collaboration and shared passion. Our guest is Clay Vermulm, a dark fiction author and podcaster who shares how he transitioned from a background in wrestling and film to a full-time writing career, and how creative communities helped guide and sustain that path. Clay is not only an active participant in writing communities of all kinds, but also a committed builder who works to ensure these spaces continue to grow, thrive, and support new voices. Clay makes a compelling case for why writers should actively engage with others, whether through local workshops, genre conventions, online spaces, or small presses. He speaks candidly about the power of showing up, volunteering, and contributing authentically to communities that align with your creative goals. From resurrecting a horror writing contest to helping lead regional and national groups, his story shows how investing in community builds opportunity and fosters long-term sustainability in a writing career. Above all, this episode is a powerful reminder that no writer succeeds alone.   Clay Vermulm https://linktr.ee/clayvermulm   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast