Pete Aldin and Bryan Chaffin discuss why every writer needs good critique partners—and how to find them. They explore what makes a critique relationship work, why different partners bring different strengths, how to give and receive useful feedback, and why critiquing someone else’s work can make you a better writer. Plus, they look at how many outside readers a manuscript needs and the value of seeking perspectives beyond your usual circle.
## Chapters:
00:00 Introductions
00:20 What Is a Critique Partner?
04:47 Different Critique Partners, Different Strengths
11:20 How to Find Critique Partners
17:44 Building Your Critique Network
22:47 Why Critiquing Makes You a Better Writer
27:22 Critique Etiquette and Building Trust
32:34 How Many Critique Partners Do You Need?
39:25 Why Human Feedback Matters
40:09 Getting Perspectives Outside Your Bubble
42:47 Outro
## Links from This Episode:
- AbsoluteWrite Water Cooler
### Follow Working Writers
- [Working Margins Newsletter](/newsletter/)
- Threads
- Bluesky
- Instagram
- YouTube
### Pete’s Socials
- PeteAldin.com
- Threads
- Bluesky
- Instagram
- Facebook Author’s Page
### Bryan’s Socials
- GeekTells.com
- Threads
- Bluesky
- Instagram
- Facebook Author’s Page
