Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers: Recent Episodes
Sara Rosett and Jami Albright
Welcome to the Wish I'd Known Then podcast. Join authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett as they interview self published authors about how they found success as well as what they've learned from their missteps. Because being an indie author is about being innovative and creative and learning from your mistakes.
329 / Have you ever wondered what it takes to narrate or produce an audiobook—and whether you should record your own? Todd Eflin shares insider secrets from his journey as a voice actor, audiobook coach, and narrator, including what authors need to know before jumping into audio.
- Common misconceptions about audiobook production
- When to produce an audiobook
- What authors should consider before narrating their own books
- Technical setup basics for home audiobook recording
- The five essentials of recording quality audio for authors
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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⚡Links:
- SPONSOR LINK
- https://diy-audiobooks.com
- https://gift.toddeflin.com/wikt
- https://narratortodd.gumroad.com/l/bibhr
- diyaudiobooks.substack.com
- https://buydirectfromauthors.com
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
327 / How can you make one piece of content do more for you? What does it take to juggle fiction, nonfiction, and podcasting? Matty Dalrymple shares tips on how she builds an audience on multiple platforms, collaborates on nonfiction projects, and streamlines her business strategies.
- Streamlining social media to focus on meaningful engagement
- Leveraging Substack for podcasting and community building
- Collaboration tips for co-authoring nonfiction
- The mindset shift from scattered efforts to strategic synergy
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
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⚡Links:
- Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- https://www.mattydalrymple.com/about
- https://www.theindyauthor.com/authority
- Ep 241: Platform Building: Matty Dalrymple & Michael LaRonn on Platform Building for Your Personality Episode 241
- Ep 117: Focus on the Writing ttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/episodes/13287805-matty-dalrymple-on-keeping-your-focus-on-the-writing
BookFunnel does it all: delivering your reader magnet, sending out advanced copies of your book, handing out ebooks at a conference, or fulfilling your digital sales to readers. They’re in the business of making readers happy.📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
327 / How do you show you’re human and connect with readers in a digital age? Damon Courtney, creator and CEO of Book Funnel, discusses evolving tools for indie authors and strategies for building strong reader relationships.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- Prioritizing ideas for authors with too many stories
- Personalizing your author brand
- Luck versus fortune in self publishing
- Trends in author marketing: newsletters, crowdfunding, direct sales
- The importance of authenticity, connection, and finding the right marketing tools for each individual author
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
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⚡Links:
- Sponsor: Bookfunnel https://bookfunnel.com
- Ep 310: I'm a Real Human, Not AI: 20 Ways Authors Can Signal Humanity and Build Reader Trust https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2121723/episodes/18871647-i-m-a-real-human-not-ai-20-ways-authors-can-signal-humanity-and-build-reader-trust
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
326 / How do you build a writing career while juggling multiple passions, a day job, and changing marketing strategies? Lars Headbore shares his one-book-a-year strategy as a historical fiction author and how he connects with readers at in-person events.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- Starting a writing career later in life
- Defining success beyond sales numbers
- The power and limitations of in-person book selling
- Navigating major shifts in social media and advertising
- Creating unique reader subscriptions and resources for educators
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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⚡Links:
- Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- larsdhhedbor.com
- https://tfar.us/rar
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
325 / Can a slow writer find success in the current market? We dive into that listener question today and also share a summer catch-up after our June break.
Hear about Jami’s book launch and what she wishes she’d known about launching wide and in a new genre. We also answer listener questions about slow release strategies, writing without burnout, and content ideas to share in your newsletters.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
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📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
324 / This week we’re sharing Jami’s discussion with Joanna on The Creative Penn Podcast about rebuilding your writing business after a break.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- Waiting to publish and business planning
- Impact of personal loss and grief
- Writing through and about grief
- Decision to fictionalize real experiences
- Balancing therapy and storytelling in writing
- Concerns over reader and family reactions
- Rebooting an indie author business
- Future writing plans and creative change
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
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⚡Links:
- Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
- The Creative Penn Podcast: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/the-creative-penn-podcast-for-authors/
- Jami on Bradley Charbonneau’s Repossible podcast: https://pod.link/1358802479/episode/aHR0cHM6Ly9wZXJtYWxpbmsuY2FzdG9zLmNvbS9wb2RjYXN0LzI3MS9lcGlzb2RlLzI0OTM4Njg
- Jami on Zen and the Art of Self-Publishing: https://pod.link/1896901898/episode/OThlMjBlNzAtY2I1Zi00OTQ3LWE3MWItMWU1Y2M4YWUwNjdi
- Jami on Seriously Sandra:
- https://www.youtube.com/@Sandrasvision
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
323 / Jami and I are on a summer break, so we’re sharing guest episodes we did on other podcasts. This week, it’s my discussion with Matty on the From Expertise to Authority podcast.
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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⚡Links:
- From Expertise to Authority Podcast: https://mattydalrymple.substack.com/
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
322 / Jami and Sara are on a summer break, so we’re sharing guest episodes we did on other podcasts. This week, it’s our discussion with Richie on the Fantasy Writers Toolshed podcast.
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
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⚡Links:
- Fantasy Writers Toolshed podcast: https://pod.link/1485743319
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
321 / Sara and I are on a summer break, so we’re sharing guest episodes we did on other podcasts. This week, it’s my discussion with Doug and Nick on the Two Authors’ Podcast
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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⚡Links:
- Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
320 / Jami and I are on a summer break, so we’re sharing guest episodes we did on other podcasts. This week, it’s my discussion with Joanna on The Creative Penn Podcast about low-key marketing.
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- The Creative Penn Podcast: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/the-creative-penn-podcast-for-authors/
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
319 / What marketing strategies are working for authors right now? Ferol from Written Word Media shares the lessons he’s learned helping authors succeed, the mistakes to avoid, and actionable advice for building your own writing business.
- Transitioning from the music industry to serving indie authors
- What sets successful long-term indie authors apart
- Common marketing mistakes authors make
- Trends in AI, audio, and global book promotion
- The power of connection: conferences, community, and authenticity
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
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⚡Links:
- https://www.writtenwordmedia.com
- https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/podcast/
- Written Word Media A10 Algorithm Podcast: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/the-amazon-a10-update-3-things-every-indie-author-needs-to-know/
- May Pod-Pal Shout-Out: Two Authors’ Podcast
- InkersCon: Use code JAMI26 at https://inkerscon.com/2026-digital-conference (Affiliate code)
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
318 / How do you craft a pitch that gets Hollywood's attention and translates your book to the screen—or just want to network and pitch yourself more effectively as an author? Story coach Lindsay Hughes shares insider strategies from the entertainment industry and lessons from Hollywood.
- Lindsey’s "cocktail pitch" formula that grabs attention
- How to talk about your story in a way that intrigues (good for pitching or writing blurbs)
- Why authors should balance craft development with marketing
- Understanding how Hollywood evaluates books and stories
- The real-world impact (and limits) of social media on book sales
- Trends in AI, indie publishing, and what’s next for authors and adaptations
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast
*Don’t miss our recent supporter episodes:
- What Asian Dramas Teach Writers About Conflict And Emotion
- More Truth about Book Marketing: 5 More Publishing Myths
Become a supporter to get all 20+ supporter episodes:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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⚡Links:
- https://thepitchmaster.com
- Sell Your Book to Hollywood: How to Pitch Your Book, Find the Right Producer, and Navigate the Deal will be coming out this summer! Listeners can sign up to be notified when it is published at bookintohollywood.com
- Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768
- Belinda Kroll’s Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/worderella/an-uncanny-bargain?ref=7gqgmq
- Ep 294: Bart Baker on Pitching Your Book to Hollywood https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/episodes/18196372
Podcast Repurposing Ideas That Aren’t Blogs Or Social Posts https://buzzcast.buzzsprout.com/231452/episodes/19143524-podcast-repurposing-ideas-that-aren-t-blogs-or-social-posts
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
317 / Debut author Michelle Park Lazette shares how she’s building a brand along with the lessons she’s learned about writing, marketing, and connecting with readers as a debut author.
- Building buzz for your book
- Starting a newsletter list and finding ARC readers
- Head hopping and point of view issues
- Challenges with interiority and emotion
- Using analytics for book promotion
✨ May Pod-Pal Shout-Out: Two Authors’ Podcast - Psychology of a Psychological Thriller with Robyn Harding
*Don’t miss our recent supporter episodes:
- What Asian Dramas Teach Writers About Conflict And Emotion
- More Truth about Book Marketing: 5 More Publishing Myths
Become a supporter to get all 20+ supporter episodes:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768
- Create Summit: https://createsummit2026.heysummit.com/?ac=ScVPVkA8 (Affiliate Link)
- InkersCon: https://inkerscon.com/2026-digital-conference (Affiliate Link) Use coupon code: JAMI26
- Michelle’s website, Flying Snake Press: https://flyingsnakepress.com/shop/
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
316 / What does it take to trust your intuition as a writer—and how can you find true joy in the crazy unpredictability of publishing? Amy Robinson shares her path from medical editor to romance novelist and the power of mental rest for authors.
✨ May Pod-Pal Shout-Out: Two Authors’ Podcast - Wheel of Life with Adrienne Giordano
- Trusting your intuition instead of following all the writing “rules”
- Redefining success and making family a priority
- Learning from (and letting go of) others’ marketing formulas
- Finding joy with passion projects and creative freedom
- The importance of mental rest and slowing down
*Don’t miss the Supporter Episode: What Asian Dramas Teach Writers About Conflict And Emotion. Become a supporter to get all 20+ supporter episodes:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- ✨ May Pod-Pal Shout-Out: Two Authors’ Podcast - Wheel of Life with Adrienne Giordano
- https://www.aimeerobinsonromance.com/
- Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768
- Create Summit: https://createsummit2026.heysummit.com/?ac=ScVPVkA8 (Affiliate Link)
- Sisters in Crime Writers’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1565859080/episode/MDEyNWVjMjctNDRiYS00N2JmLWIzYjMtYWU4MTdjZTY0NmU3
- MBP S7 E3: From Miss Marple to Modern Cozies: A Guide to Amateur Sleuth Mysteries https://www.buzzsprout.com/1311757/episodes/19071210
- Healer, Competency, and the Bodyguard Trope with Aimee Robinson https://www.buzzsprout.com/2435348/episodes/16967375
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
315 / How can authors find their reader community on Substack while balancing life’s big changes? Jolie Tunnell shares her transition from years of blogging and waiting for permission to publish to indie success and serializing mysteries.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Balancing writing with life changes
- Waiting for gatekeepers vs. giving yourself permission
- Using Substack for serialized fiction
- Creative marketing ideas, including membership drives and interactive reader experiences
- Incorporating graphics and interactivity
- Building community and engagement on Substack
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
- Thank you to long-time supporter: KP Turner
🎯 Got a question? We’ll answer in a Q & A episode: Send us your questions!
⚡Links:
- http://tryvellum.com/wish
- https://jolietunnell.com/
- https://jolietunnell.substack.com/
- Create Summit: Get your free ticket here: https://createsummit2026.heysummit.com/?ac=ScVPVkA8 (Affiliate link)
📥 Send us a Text Message
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
314 / Tee Harlowe, a fantasy romance author, shares tips for successful Kickstarters as well as how she’s adapting to market shifts and why diversification is key to surviving income drops.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Rapid release publishing strategies
- Instagram tips for authors
- Fallacies in assumptions about genre size equating to sales
- Challenges with Kickstarter fulfillment
- Diversifying author income streams, including through traditional publishing and direct sales
- Running a successful Shopify store
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Shoutout on a future episode
- Thanks to new supporter: 🐱Katherine Dotterer
🎱 Publishing or writing questions? We’ll answer in an upcoming Q & A episode: Send us your questions!
⚡Links:
- http://tryvellum.com/wish
- www.teeharlowe.com
- Sara Rosett mystery and thriller tropes on the Indy Author Podcast: www.theindyauthor.com/show-notes/331-sara-rosett
- Kevin McLaughlin: context around Draft2Digital fee: https://www.facebook.com/kevins.studio
- PublisherChamp https://www.publisherchamp.com/
- ScribeCount: https://scribecount.com/
- CrowdControl: https://apps.shopify.com/crowd-control
- Ember Mae on Simple Kickstarters: 18702381-kickstarter-for-beginners-how-to-start-small-and-launch-successfully-with-ember-mae
- Rachel Hanna on Direct Sales: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/episodes/13075849-rachel-hanna-on-direct-sales-success-and-writing-women-s-fiction
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
313 / How do you balance the demands of a full-time job with launching a romance writing career? Finley Daniels shares her lessons learned in writing and marketing.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Balancing writing with a full-time job
- Challenges in marketing and ads
- Importance of book titles and tropes
- Building an email newsletter
- Finding editors and cover designers
- Success with TikTok and BookBub
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- Thank you to long-time supporter: Angel Lawson
- angellawson.com
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- https://www.finleydaniels.com
- Sara on The Creative Penn talking about special editions, direct sales, and low-key marketing: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2026/04/13/special-editions-seasonal-podcasts-and-the-art-of-low-key-book-marketing-with-sara-rosett/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
312 / What are the creative lies writers tell themselves, and how can reframing your mindset lead to a long-lasting, resilient writing career? Katherine Collette shares her insights and lessons from both podcasting and publication.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Why resilience matters more than talent or craft
- The pitfalls of tying self-worth to external validation
- Reframing the role of social media and visibility
- The archetypes of post-publication response
- Finding joy and sustainability in your writing journey
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
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- Thanks to long-time supporter Tricia O’Malley https://www.triciaomalley.com/
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- https://www.instagram.com/katherinecollettewriter/
- Free 'long game' strategy call: Strategy Call
- The Inner Game of Writing (mini-course)
https://info.katherinecollette.com/the-inner-game-of-writing-2026/ - Sara on From Expertise to Authority: https://mattydalrymple.substack.com/p/from-cozies-to-coach-with-sara-rosett
- Sara with Jennifer Hilt on The Two Authors Podcast: https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com/e/tropes-with-jennifer-hilt-and-sara-rosette/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
311 / Think you need to be on every platform, spend big on ads, or release a book every month to succeed as an indie author? We’re busting some of the most common publishing myths.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
But first, we catch up on life after a writing retreat: the post-draft crash, newsletter plate-spinning, and the genuine weirdness of evaluating promos when the market keeps shifting
- Honest BookBub promo numbers and why results look different now
- Why discoverability matters more than "good enough" writing
- Why you don't need every social media platform to succeed
- Newsletters, Goodreads, and BookFunnel as practical visibility tools
- Why direct sales and Kickstarter can work even with a small audience
- Why rapid release is optional and genre dependent
- Why ads don't require huge spend, and how AI is changing targeting
- Genre zeitgeist: how trends like cozy and romantasy impact your strategy
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- Thanks to long-time supporter Delaney Smith 💜
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- Alessandra Torre on Goodreads: https://open.substack.com/pub/wishidknownthenpodcast/p/alessandra-torre-on-goodreads-movie-10c?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
310 / AI is getting better at producing words, audio, and even video, which raises the question for authors: how do readers know there’s a real person behind the book?
In this episode, we talk about how writers can stand out in a sea of AI content through leaning harder into trust, voice, and real connection. We share concrete ways to signal “I’m a real person” without forcing yourself to overshare or turn your life into content.
✨ This week’s sponsor is: Reedsy https://reedsy.com/studio and https://reedsy.com/studio/templates
- Why authenticity and connection matter more as AI output scales—and what history tells us about tech panic cycles
- How parasocial relationships work, where they go sideways, and how real-world interaction cuts through the noise
- Practical ways to show your humanity: imperfection, process sharing, physical objects, and curation
- Protecting your author voice and using credibility signals to build lasting reader trust
📌 Get a PDF download of all the ideas: Real, Not AI: 20 Ways Authors Signal Humanity and Build Reader Trust
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast If you've gotten value from the podcast and would like to share back with us, you could support the podcast. You'll get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes and a shoutout on a future episode.
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We’d love to hear from you. Comments will be open on this episode in Substack: https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
⚡Links:
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- Patty McGree on using grammar as your paintbox:
- https://pod.link/1495247798/episode/QnV6enNwcm91dC0xODY2MDEzOA
- Joanna Penn and The Creative Penn Podcast: https://pod.link/309426367
- Thanks to long-time supporter Parker Finch: https://parkerfinch.com/
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
309 / Lona McCombie, social media marketer for authors, unpacks essential strategies for authors looking to promote their work, especially on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
✨ This week’s sponsor is: Reedsy https://reedsy.com/studio and https://reedsy.com/studio/templates
- Starting out in social media marketing
- Promo strategies for book releases
- Best practices for TikTok marketing
- Cross-posting content on social platforms
- Results of paid promo vs. organic reach
- Trends in book promo content
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- Private slack group
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💙 Thank you to long-time supporter Kathleen Bailey: https://kathleenbaileyauthor.com
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
308 / Serial fiction expert, Kimboo York, joins us to discuss building long-term reader relationships, letting go of perfectionism and fan fiction, including insights on transitioning fan fiction to original works. We also talk about balancing productivity with kindness and allowing room for mistakes to set yourself up to have a resilient author career.
✨ This week’s sponsor is: Reedsy https://reedsy.com/studio and https://reedsy.com/studio/templates
- Serial fiction business models
- Transitioning from fanfiction to original fiction
- Productivity and project management advice
- Community and discoverability on Substack
- Monetization methods for serials
- Legal concerns with fanfiction writing
🚨 Win a paperback copy of Trope Thesaurus: Mystery and Thriller by yours truly (Sara) and Jennifer Hilt. Comment on this episode on Substack with your favorite trope to write to be entered in the random drawing. Open until March 17, 2026.
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⚡Links:
- houseofyork.info
- serial-nation.com
- scriptorium.kimbooyork.ne
- houseofyork.info
- scriptorium.kimbooyork.net
- https://newsletterninja.net/solutions/email-storytelling-pantry/
- Ingram Launches New Digital Catalog, DRC, and Ordering Platform: https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/99760-ingram-targets-edelweiss-with-new-catalog-drc-and-ordering-platform.html
- Thanks to long-time supporter Christa Bakker https://christabakker.com/
- Archive of Our Own https://archiveofourown.org
- FOOTLOOSE! https://archiveofourown.org/tags/Footloose%20(1984)/works
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
307 / How can automation, AI, and genuine relationships help you thrive as an author? Chelle Honaker shares her insights on blending creativity and business, building community, and navigating the ever-changing publishing world.
✨ This week’s sponsor is: Reedsy https://reedsy.com/studio and https://reedsy.com/studio/templates
- Flywheel marketing instead of funnel marketing
- Building community and collaboration
- Social media burnout and challenges
- Discoverability and reader relationships
- Trends in publishing and tech for authors
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⚡Links:
- https://reedsy.com/studio
- https://reedsy.com/studio/templates
- Author Automations Substack
- Indie Author Training
- Indie Author Magazine
- Author Nation
- StorytellerShowcase
- ChelleHoniker.com
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
306 / How do you get your first reviews? And what do you do about collating feedback from multiple beta readers? Evan Gow, creator of StoryOrigin, has solutions to these author problems. Plus we explore why building your mailing list is the number-one way to connect with readers and future-proof your business as well as discussing direct sales options and the perennial topic of AI impact on publishing.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Importance of reviews for book sales
- Cross-promotions and newsletter swaps
- Beta reader management with StoryOrigin
- Direct sales trends and challenges
- AI’s impact on the publishing landscape
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- https://storyoriginapp.com/
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
305 / Ember Mae shares lessons learned about starting small with crowdfunding as well as managing fulfillment. We also talk about marketing without succumbing to the pressure of conventional social media wisdom.
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
- Tips on setting up your first Kickstarter campaign and keeping it manageable
- Making marketing personal and connecting individually with readers
- Why ditching social media is freeing
- Intuitive storytelling
- In-person event strategies
- Neurodivergence as a writing superpower
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- https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/embermaeauthor/the-crowdfunded-author
- http://tryvellum.com/wish
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
304 / Are you curious how understanding grammar—not just as a set of rules but as a tool for creative expression—can transform your writing and help you find your unique author voice?
✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
We talked with Patty McGee, a literary consultant and author of Not Your Granny’s Grammar to unpack why grammar isn’t about memorizing rules, but about developing your unique voice.
Patty shared tips on building foundational skills, using grammar to enhance your writing’s rhythm, and why it’s totally normal to make mistakes.
- Finding your writing voice through sentence rhythm
- Overcoming grammar embarrassment as an author
- Practical resources for learning grammar
- Effective strategies for giving and receiving feedback
- Trends in grammar and punctuation in modern writing
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http://tryvellum.com/wish
Amazon algorithm changes and tips: https://thenewpublishingstandard.com/2026/01/24/a10-sales-rankings-explained/
Joanna Penn’s 2026 trends and prediction: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2026/01/05/2026-trends-and-predictions-for-indie-authors-and-the-book-publishing-industry-with-joanna-penn/
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
303 / Are you curious about how to find your writing voice, handle feedback without losing your vision, and thrive in today’s ever-changing publishing world? Nicole Meier shares what she wishes she’d known as both an author and developmental editor, plus key insights for writers at every stage.
✨ This week’s corporate sponsor:http://tryvellum.com/wish
- When to seek feedback and the stages of editing
- Common mistakes authors make and how to avoid them
- Avoiding the trap of rushing
- Feedback as a listening device so you don’t lose your voice
- Emerging trends and the power of authenticity in storytelling
- How to get over being stuck in your revisions
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- https://nicolemeierwrites.substack.com/
- http://tryvellum.com/wish
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
302 / We’re talking about the power of tropes in storytelling with Jennifer Hilt, uncovering why elements like scars, secrets, and shame drive compelling mysteries and thrillers—and how they show up in every genre.
Jennifer shared insights from her Trope Thesaurus series, and both guests revealed how understanding and leveraging tropes isn’t just a writing shortcut—it’s a way to deepen character, amp up conflict, and even supercharge your marketing.
- Tips for handling co-writing and collaboration
- Breaking down “scars and secrets” as trope superstars
- How to make the tropes unique and memorable to your story
- Using tropes to analyze popular media with examples from Severance, The Housemade, and Justified
- The storybeats of tropes
- Plus we brainstorm a story with the armenia trope
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⚡Links:
- www.jenniferhilt.com
- Mystery and Thriller Trope book: https://books2read.com/MysteryandThriller
- Jennifer Hilt on Trope Con and Planning Online Events: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/262-2/
- How to Use Tropes to Create Strong Characters and Deepen Conflict with Jennifer Hilt: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/155-2/
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
301 / In this 301st episode, hear from listeners (thanks for the voicemails!) about their favorite topics and takeaways and another long-time supporter, Belinda Kroll joins us. Belinda is a cozy fantasy romance author and illustrator, and shares how she's streamlining her business to lean fully into her artisan side.
- Shifting from serial to artisan-focused publishing
- Leveraging Kickstarter and Shopify for book launches
- Balancing writing and business with family life
- Learning from setbacks and focusing on what works for you
- Adapting to industry changes and technology, including AI
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes but the 200 episodes in the vault
- Shoutout on a future episode
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⚡Links:
- Trope Book: https://books2read.com/MysteryandThriller
- Jami’s branding workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- Aimee Robinson: https://www.aimeerobinsonromance.com
- Stephanie Faris: https://www.stephaniefaris.com
- Stephanie Faris on Steamy Instalove Shorts, Sweet Romance, and Dictation:https://wishidknownforwriters.com/278-2/
- Belinda Kroll:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/worderella/an-uncanny-bargain
https://worderella.com
https://worderella.com/links
https://brightbirdpress.com/
Writing Cozy Fantasy as a Joyful Side Hustle with Belinda Kroll: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/171-2/
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
300 / In this 300th episode, we take a walk down memory lane, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the early days of the podcast and reflecting on how far we’ve come—with over 500,000 downloads and listeners tuning in from all around the world. We chat about the most popular episode, our sometimes dodgy sound, and the connections we’ve made with authors and vendors in the indie publishing community.
Joining us is long-time listener and sports rom com author Parker Finch, who shares how staying reader-focused has helped her build a sustainable writing career. We discuss the ever-changing publishing landscape, creative fulfillment, and why mixing panic with positivity is totally normal for writers.
In the next episode, we’ll hear more from listeners (thank you for the voicemails!) and have another special author interview.
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Parker Finch Parkerfinch.com
Melanie Harlow episode: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/209-2/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThen
299 / Do you ever wish you had a clear, actionable way to understand book trends and make smarter publishing decisions? Nat Connors of Kindle Trends shares insights on the power of market awareness, how to focus on your “author neighborhood,” and why success is more about craft than chasing trends.
- Why market awareness empowers authors, not confines them
- Finding and using your author “neighborhood”
- The importance of craft and authentic voice for long-term success
- Avoiding overwhelm by choosing marketing and sales channels that work for you
📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThen
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- https://kindletrends.com/infographics/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
298 / We continue our discussion about what’s working in the indie author space. We join Douglas Pratt and Nicholas Harvey and share insights on navigating newsletter platforms, maximizing translations, and adapting to the changes in audiobooks and direct sales. This episode is full of practical nut-and-bolts tips and ideas.
- Newsletter platform pros, cons, and cost-saving tips
- Subject lines, open rates, and optimizing reader engagement
- Using AI and hybrid methods for international translations
- Selling audiobooks direct, wide strategies, and the rise of AI narration
- Planning for balance, productivity, and sustainability in a changing market
📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThen
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Sara on the Christian Publishing Show: https://www.christianpublishingshow.com/why-every-author-should-try-writing-a-mystery-at-least-once/
Two Authors Podcast: https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
297 / How are authors adapting in 2025's changing publishing world? Sara Rosett, Jami Albright, Nicholas Harvey, and Douglas Pratt share lessons learned, trends they’re seeing, and practical strategies from their own writing careers.
- Sales trends and challenges in 2025
- Experimenting with book marketing
- Special editions and direct sales
- Using Patreon and subscriptions
- Impact of AI on publishing
- Social media strategies for authors
- Facebook ads and Amazon changes
- Reader engagement and superfans
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Two Authors Podcast: https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
296 / Do you want to leverage your author website, use AI tools efficiently, and prune your tasks strategically so you can sell more books and focus your creative energy where it counts?
Thomas Umstattd Jr. shares insights on optimizing your book pages, using AI wisely, and making tough choices to thrive in a crowded publishing world.
- Why your book page matters for both readers and AI discovery
- Tips to optimize book pages for GEO (generative engine optimization)
- Innovative uses of AI tools for marketing and productivity
- Strategies for pruning projects and focusing your efforts
- Evolving business model for nonfiction and why community matters now more than ever
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Author Media: https://www.authormedia.com
Jami’s workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
Sara’s letter subscription: https://sararosettbooks.com/products/mysteries-in-the-mail (Preorder open until Dec 8, 2025)
Affiliate signup for letters: https://sararosettbooks.affiliatery.staqlab.com/partner/signIn
How to Create a Sales-Optimized Book Page for Your Website: https://www.authormedia.com/how-to-create-sales-optimized-book-pages-for-your-author-website/
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🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops:https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
295 / Curious how authors can build thriving, sustainable careers—even without rapid releases or a huge backlist?
Matthew J. Holmes shares how he transformed his wife’s books into a six-figure business, the realities of book advertising, and the mindful strategies indie authors need now.
- Turning a single slow-release series into a profitable business
- Simplicity vs. complexity in book marketing and ads
- Importance of advertising platform focus
- Common mistakes in author advertising strategies
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⚡Links:
- https://www.matthewjholmes.com/
- https://www.matthewjholmes.com/courses
- Sara’s Mysteries in the Mail letters: https://sararosettbooks.com/products/mysteries-in-the-mail
- Jami’s workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- Joanna Penn’s podcast about Author Nation Lessons Learned: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2025/11/17/lessons-learned-from-author-nation-2025-with-joanna-penn/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
294 / Do you want to pitch your book to Hollywood? Screenwriter, playwright, and novelist Bart Baker shares how authors can position their books for adaptations. He also gives us the story behind Honeymoon With Harry, a movie deal twenty-plus years in the making, which will go into production in 2026, starring Kevin Costner and Jake Gyllenhaal for Amazon/MGM.
- Lessons from writing plays, scripts, and novels
- What authors should know about adaptation and selling movie rights
- When to get legal advice
- The business side: money management finding trusted advisors
- Why following trends is unhelpful—and what to do instead
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⚡Links:
- www.bartvbaker.com
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
293 / Curious about how conferences can spark inspiration, build connections, and transform your author business? We recap our experiences at Author Nation, share some lessons learned, and highlight community connection possibilities.
- Panel insights: romance, rom-com, cozy, and more
- Direct sales, Kickstarter, and translations for authors
- New tech for signed ebooks and social media marketing
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⚡Links:
- Bookfunnel https://bookfunnel.com/
- Melissa Storm https://www.melstorm.com/
- Rebecca Brokaw Sands https://rebeccabrokawsands.net/
- Story Origin https://storyoriginapp.com/
- Christine Wellert https://www.christinewellert.com/books
- Dianna Xirassa https://www.dianaxarissa.com/
- Kevin McLaughlin https://kevinomclaughlin.com/
- Lulu https://www.lulu.com
- Author Scale https://www.authorscale.com/
- Draft 2 Digital https://draft2digital.com/
- Vanessa Kier https://www.vanessakier.com/
- Self Publishing with Dale https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
292 / Are you curious about when to work with a developmental editor, how to get unstuck in your manuscript, and what actually helps authors succeed for the long haul?
Editor and book coach Sarah Elle shares insights on the editing process, author mindset, and the strategies—plus pitfalls—every writer should know.
- When to bring in a developmental editor vs. a book coach
- The most common manuscript mistakes—and how to fix them
- Tips for breaking out of endless revision loops
- Mindset, habits, and routines of successful writers
- Trends in fiction and how author “voice” matters more than ever
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⚡Links:
- https://plumeeditorial.com/
- Sign up for the FREE mini email course, Outline the Five Key Beats of Your Novel:
- https://plumeeditorial.myflodesk.com/fivebeatsmini
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
291 / Are you struggling to navigate burnout, industry shifts, or simply want to future-proof your writing career?
Becca Syme returns to share lessons from her own journey with burnout, sustainable author success, plus actionable advice for writers at every stage.
- Understanding and recovering from burnout
- Making mindset changes for autonomy and sustainability
- Streamlining your author business for joy (not just income)
- The real value of Strengths and Enneagram for writers and relationships
- What Becca is hopeful about with the future of publishing
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⚡Links:
- http://betterfasteracademy.com/links
- Ep 85: Becca Syme on Empathy, Energy Pennies, and Expectations: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/85-2/
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
290 / If you missed the first part of our interview with Lee and Russell, scroll back to the previous episode in your podcast feed and catch up. Part II of our conversation with Russell and Lee continues in this episode as we talk about money mindset, sustainability, collaboration, and more.
Lee Savino, seven-figure romance author and mastermind founder, and Russell Nolte, USA Today bestselling fantasy author and co-host of the Six Figure Author Experiment podcast, discuss the realities of building and maintaining an author business.
- Redefining "hard" and "ease" in writing and business
- Choosing the right kind of hard—and what to walk away from
- Letting go of past successes and recalibrating your goals
- Collaboration, co-creation, and building creative partnerships
- Structuring your business for happiness and sustainability
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⚡Links:
- Sixfigureauthorexperiment.com
- TheAuthorStack.com
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/millionaireauthormastermind
- Jami’s next workshop: Oct 23rd, 6pm Central, discount code: JAMI20: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- FloDesk 50% Off: https://flodesk.com/c/T5WJY3 (Affiliate code)
You can still get the unlimited plan, if you subscribe by November 28 – get unlimited emails and subscribers. After that, the new pricing model kicks in and future plans will scale with subscriber count.
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Did you know we have a supporter episode out? This short highlight reel gives you a preview of our chat about symbolism. From Pride and Prejudice to Monk, we've got tons of insights and examples that show how symbols can deepen your stories.
- Different types
- How we use it in our books
- Favorite examples from television and movies.
💙 Thanks to all our supporters who made this episode possible!
If you’d like to become a supporter and get your private RSS feed with access to this episode as well as the backlist of supporter episodes go to https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support.
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
289 / Are you struggling to find ease, joy, and sustainability in your writing career as the industry keeps evolving?
Lee Savino, seven-figure romance author and mastermind founder, and Russell Nolte, USA Today bestselling fantasy author and co-host of the Six Figure Author Experiment podcast, discuss the realities of building and maintaining an author business.
- Redefining "hard" and "ease" in writing and business
- Choosing the right kind of hard—and what to walk away from
- Letting go of past successes and recalibrating your goals
- Collaboration, co-creation, and building creative partnerships
- Structuring your business for happiness and sustainability
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- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
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⚡Links:
- Sixfigureauthorexperiment.com
- TheAuthorStack.com
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/millionaireauthormastermind
- Jami’s next workshop: Oct 23rd, 6pm Central: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
288 / Have you ever wondered how to build a writing career that’s both creatively fulfilling and financially sustainable in today’s fast-changing publishing world?
Douglas Pratt shares the real markers of success, tips on seeking feedback, and why he moved away from strictly following “write what you know.”
- The importance of letting go of your “darlings”
- Defining success beyond book sales and fame
- Mistakes and lessons in craft, marketing, and series building
- Building a supportive writing community and finding mentors
- Adapting to industry changes in publishing
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⚡Links:
- www.douglas-pratt.com
- patreon.com/TheTwoAuthorsPodcast
- https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com/
- Oct 23rd, 6pm Central: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- Author Nation: https://www.authornation.live/plan-your-visit-2025
- Ines’ Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/romancewriteclub/page-turner-planning
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
287 / Bestselling rom-com author Jeré Anthony shares about embracing your unique voice, the power of niche marketing, and why your book shouldn’t be for everyone.
We tackled topics like overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of taking risks, and making peace with the messiness of the creative process.
- Finding your niche and accepting your book isn’t for everyone
- Leaning into your book’s uniqueness and “repelling” the wrong readers
- Managing ADHD and the myth of writing “ease”
- The value of taking risks and revising boldly
- Strategies for covers, newsletters, and marketing that fit your readers
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⚡Links:
- www.jereanthony.com
- Jami’s next workshop: Oct 23rd, 6pm Central: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- FloDesk 50% Off: https://flodesk.com/c/T5WJY3 (Affiliate code)
You can still get the unlimited plan, if you subscribe by November 28 – get unlimited emails and subscribers. After that, the new pricing model kicks in and future plans will scale with subscriber count.
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
286 / What happens when a fantasy author brings a soundtrack to storytelling—and what can writers and readers learn from merging music, world-building, and social themes?
Richie Billing shares his innovative journey blending original soundtracks with fiction, the challenges of marketing across genres, and the lessons learned from a decade of writing.
✨Podcast Sponsor: Ingram Spark: https://www.ingramspark.com/learnmore
Topics discussed in interview:
- Writing social justice and controversial themes and underdog stories in fantasy
- When to get feedback on your drafts
- Subscription model using novelettes and connecting directly with readers
- Incorporating soundtracks into fantasy books
- Where to start with wordbuilding in fantasy
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⚡Links:
- Richie Billing website: https://richiebilling.com/
- Richie’s Patreon: Patreon.com/richiebilling
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
285 / Are you curious about how to move to a new genre? Fiona Marin shares her experiences switching from traditionally published middle grade to indie contemporary romance and the marketing strategies that have helped grow her readership.
✨Podcast Sponsor: Ingram Spark: https://www.ingramspark.com/learnmore
Topics discussed in interview:
- Biggest differences between writing for middle grade and contemporary romance
- Group texts, podcasts, and other mixed media storytelling techniques
- Growing a newsletter from scratch and connecting with readers
- Lessons learned about craft, revision, and adapting writing routines to fit life stages—especially juggling creativity with parenthood and ADHD
- Finding editors and cover artists as an indie author
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⚡Links:
- https://www.instagram.com/fionamarenauthor/
Anthropic Court Case Links:
- https://writerbeware.blog/2025/08/15/bartz-v-anthropic-find-out-if-you-may-be-part-of-this-class-action/
- https://thenewpublishingstandard.com/2025/08/29/anthropic-settlement-copyright-ai-training-authors-pyrrhic-victory/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
283 / Curious about how to create a one-of-a-kind book that only you can write? John Gaspard joins the show to discuss his latest passion project, a photo-rich, locally inspired book, and sharing lessons learned.
✨Podcast Sponsor: Ingram Spark: https://www.ingramspark.com/learnmore
Topics discussed in interview:
- Behind-the-scenes of researching a 50-year-old story, including tracking down interview sources, online resources, and family archives
- Issues related to licensing photos
- Organizing research with tools like Scrivener
- Creative and technical considerations when bringing a photo-heavy coffee table book to life—rights, layout, and design choices
- Leveraging local interest for book marketing
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⚡Links:
- https://www.albertsbridgebooks.com
- https://www.youtube.com/@behindthepagetheelimarkspo5241
- https://BookHip.com/JHTFVZR
- Sara on The Two Authors podcast:
- https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com/e/income-beyond-the-books-with-sara-rosett/
- Jami’s launch workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
- FloDesk 50% Off: https://flodesk.com/c/T5WJY3 (Affiliate code)
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
283 / Have you ever wondered how to have a joy-filled writing career, especially when the publishing landscape is always changing? Jill Shalvis discusses her transition from traditional publishing to indie, what success means to her, and the writing and marketing lessons she wishes she'd known earlier.
✨Podcast Sponsor: Ingram Spark: https://www.ingramspark.com/learnmore
Topics discussed in interview:
- Why writing “rules” held Jill back
- Trusting your instincts over rigid craft advice
- Experimenting with first person POV
- Overcoming the anxiety of switching from trad to indie
- How shifting from trad to indie opened new opportunities
- The importance of writing what you love, not just to market
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- Jill’s website: http://www.jillshalvis.com
- Jill’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jillshalvis
- Jill’s Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jillshalvis
- Jill’s TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@jillshalvis
- Jami’s launch workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
282 / Are you curious how in-person events and writing retreats can transform your writing journey, expand your community, and inspire new connections?
Jami Albright and Sara Rosett dive into the benefits of stepping out of the writing cave, share insights from podcasting conferences, and reveal what really happens at writing retreats.
- Sara’s takeaways from Podcast Movement conference that can be applied to writing and publishing
- Strategies for podcast merch and building community
- How to organize and get the most out of writing retreats
- The difference between conferences and small-group retreats
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⚡Links:
Cover design workshop: https://covervillain.com/how-to-speak-like-a-designer/
Jami’s launch workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
281 / Shannon Lynn, middle grade sci-fi author and educator, shares how she found time to write while working full time, insight on launching your first book, and small marketing steps that add up over time.
- Balances a day job with writing
- Tips for middle grade authors: marketing to parents and kids
- Lessons learned about pacing
- Print formatting and getting set up with Ingram Spark
- Making strategic choices–and sometimes saying no–to new opportunities
- How Shannon found her editor, cover artist, and illustrator
- Adding skills as you need them
- Building an audience without burning out
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- https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
280 / Melissa Bourbon, multi-series mystery shares how she leverages Pinterest to find readers and sell books.
- Trusting your intuition and staying true to your creative vision
- Rethinking Social Media and Embracing Pinterest for Book Marketing
- Why Pinterest is great for long-term book visibility and discoverability
- How Melissa manages multiple pen names
- Diversifying income through nonfiction for authors
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⚡Links:
- www.melissabourbon.com
- www.ivycassidybooks.com
- www.writersparkacademy.com
- www.writersparkbookcovers.com
- https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
279 / Ember Scott, multi-genre author (also writing as MJ Caan), shares his journey from the medical field to full-time indie author and unpacks how he successfully transitioned across genres and managed his author IP.
- Finding and trusting your author voice
- How audience expectations shape the writing process
- Why it's okay not to master every platform and the importance of playing to your strengths
- Selling a backlist to a traditional publisher
- How Ember transitioned to thrillers and how he found his subgenre
- How and why Ember handed over his self-published titles for longevity and peace of mind
A great listen for indie authors looking to future-proof their career and learn how to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing industry.
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⚡Links:
- https://mjcaan.com
- Estate Planning For Authors: Your Final Letter by M. L. Buckman: Estate Planning for Authors eBook by M. L. Buchman
- Goodreads changes: https://www.goodreads.com/blog/show/2984-introducing-our-new-logo-and-more-ways-we-continue-to-improve-goodreads
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
278 / Stephanie Farris, bestselling romance author, pivoted between genres and platforms, and found her stride with short, market-savvy romance fiction. She shares how she moved from traditional publishing to indie success and details her approach to writing both steamy and sweet romance, with a deep dive into writing successful short "insta-love" romances.
- Finding your writing voice, and why it's more important than nailing craft rules
- How she’s embraced her ability to write fast
- Stephanie’s advice for writing in the sweet/clean/wholesome category
- Writing one-hour romances—practical tips for writing and marketing short, high-heat books in Amazon’s “short reads” category
- How Stephanie uses dictation to get her drafts done at the same time she gets her steps for the day
If you’re looking to adapt, find your niche, and thrive in shifting markets, this is a great episode for you!
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- https://lilahhart.com/
- https://www.stephaniefaris.com/
- How To Get More Book Reviews With Joe Walters: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2025/07/14/how-to-get-more-book-reviews-with-joe-walters/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
277 / Alyssa Archer, longtime indie author and editor, shares how she blended editing, writing, and community-building to create a sustainable, meaningful writing life.
- Navigating a career shift from fiction writing to editing and nonfiction projects, including the story behind her work on the Book of Birth.
- The challenges and gifts of living and working with ADHD, from late diagnosis
- Practical steps to find and connect with other writers to create community
This episode is a fantastic listen for indie authors and creatives looking for honest insights about career pivots, building a supportive writing community, and rethinking productivity.
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⚡Links:
- Book of Birth: https://www.newlifebirthservices.com/the-book-of-birth
- Mystery Birthday Club: https://dashboard.bookfunnel.com/bundles/board/pecvzbq4nl
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
276 / Ryder O’Malley, gay romance author cover designer, shares his path from art to indie publishing and the lessons learned along the way. He unpacks redefining success as an author, developing an authentic writing voice, and treating writing as a true business.
- Moving the goalposts on success and learning to celebrate wins
- The realities of marketing your books and understanding your audience
- Navigating the transition from day job to full-time author and the emotional aftermath
It’s a great listen for anyone struggling with defining success, balancing art with business, or figuring out how to sustain a creative career in indie publishing.
Plus look for the supporter greenroom chat about covers.
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⚡Links:
- www.authorryderomalley.com
- www.covervillain.com
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
275 / Nicholas Harvey, adventure, suspense, and thriller novelist and digital nomad, shares his journey from race car driver and motorsports professional to full-time author. He discusses how his unique background shapes his storytelling, the challenges of writing female protagonists, and navigating the ever-evolving indie publishing landscape.
- Transitioning from a racing career to writing
- How his motorsports background fuels his creative process
- Lessons learned about genre, marketing
- What he wishes he’d known before launching his first series
- Realities of digital nomad life
- Managing collaborations
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⚡Links:
- https://www.harveybooks.com
- https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Harvey/author/B077W5KDV3
Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
274 / We’ve had a month-long break and are back with a catch-up chat about what’s been going on with our writing and our lives, including ADHD and productivity, juggling creative projects, and book launches.
- Sara: special edition pre-production and timelines, launching on her direct store
- Jami: ADHA update, drafting a new novel, ads
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SaraRosettBooks.com
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Ep 273 / Trixie Silvertale joins us to discuss resilience and adaptability in business. Trixie shared how a personal tragedy shifted her writing and publishing and resulted in her leveraging her backlist. Plus keeping a long series fresh, and writing interesting small town settings.
Topics:
- Trixie’s dictation process, which involves roller skates 🛼
- Dealing with tragedy and loss, and how Trixie shifted away from rapid release to making the most of her backlist through repurposing her IP
- Allowing yourself to have a bad day
- Deciding on spin-offs vs. new series
- Translations
- Balances humor, suspense, and paranormal elements
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⚡Links:
- Spark Story Summit with Sara’s interview: https://sparktostory-summit.heysummit.com/?ac=gG5Wyq2k (Affiliate link)
- The 2025 Inkers Con Digital Conference: June 7–20 https://inkerscon.com/2025-digital-conference (Affiliate Link) Use Discount code: JAMI25
- https://trixiesilvertale.com
- Follow Trixie’s Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/trixiesilvertale
- Follow Trixie on BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/trixie-silvertale
- Trixie’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trixiesilvertale/
- Ep 140: New Author Series: Trixie Silvertale on Secret Pen Names https://wishidknownforwriters.com/140-2/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 272 / Andi Arndt joins us to discuss audiobook narration, including tips for finding and working with a narrator, how to write with narration in mind, and audiobook trends.
Topics:
- How Andi preps to narrate a book
- Mistakes authors make when it comes to picking narrators
- Tips for writing with narration in mind
- Benefits of having a long-term relationship with a narrator or production company
- Trends in audiobook production, including duets and multicast productions
- The impact of AI on audiobooks
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⚡Links:
- andiarndt.com
- Narrator.life
- Lyricaudiobooks.com
- Spark Story Summit: https://sparktostory-summit.heysummit.com/?ac=gG5Wyq2k (Affiliate link)
- Tara’s gofundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-tara-sivecs-battle-against-breast-cancer
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 271 / Jennifer Marchman, who combines historical fiction and time travel in her books, joins us to discuss embracing your own writing process, dealing with the constant changes in publishing, and the importance of community in the indie author space.
Topics:
- Writing time travel historical fiction
- Influence of Texas history and Outlander
- Personal writing process and habits
- Setting realistic writing and publishing goals
- Founding Austin Indie Authors group
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⚡Links:
- www.jennifermarchman.com
- Inkers Con: https://inkerscon.com/2025-digital-conference Discount code: JAMI (Affiliate link)
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 270 / Katy Cocking is multi-passionate creative who found the advice to “stay in her lane” constricting and to a writing-adjacent career, selling cozy subscription boxes, which combines the knowledge from her publishing background with her activator and ideation strengths.
Topics:
- Transition from author to book box business
- Defining personal and financial success
- How Katy built and audience through giveaways and ads
- Challenges with physical product shipping
- Advice for authors creating one-time boxes
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⚡Links:
- https://www.cozybookscorner.com
- Discount code: WISH20
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 269 / Christina Hovland shares how she moved out of KU and built a thriving direct sales store for her books.
Topics:
- Transitioning from KU to direct sales
- Setting up a Shopify store for books
- Bundling books and pricing strategies
- Defining personal success as an author
- Why Christina likes working with coaches and mentors
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⚡Links:
- Christinahovlandbooks.com
- Bookfunnel podcast: https://pod.link/1798781637
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 268 / Legal thriller author Aime Austin joins us to discuss writing legal thrillers, discovery writing, and blending psychological suspense.
Topics:
- Choosing writing over practicing law
- Realities of learning writing craft and why writing is sometimes a “plumber job”
- Aime’s writing process and discussion of pantsing/discovery writing
- Crafting legal thrillers and legal details
- Insights from podcast conversations
- Committing to one creative path
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⚡Links:
- https://aimeaustin.com
- https://aimeaustin.com/podcast/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 267 / T. Thorn Coyle writes several magic-filled series with diverse casts and is the author of The Midlist Indie Author Mindset. Thorn shares their journey of learning how to embrace curiosity to the importance of simply finishing what you start. We also dive into modular work strategies, leveraging Kickstarter, and the power of building genuine connections.
- Learned which marketing tactics work for you
- Building connections with readers
- Free first in series and small paid newsletters for sales and discoverability
- Gauging your energy and matching tasks to your energy level
- Multiple income streams, including newsletter and Patreon
- Strategies for successful Kickstarter campaigns
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⚡Links:
- https://www.thorncoyle.com
- https://thorncoylebooks.com
- Midlist Indie Author Mindset book: https://thorncoylebooks.com/products/the-midlist-indie-author-mindset-ebook
- What If Podcast - What if AI Replaces Me: https://pod.link/1750288736/episode/06892eab03a5deb51d3e361e4683b71d
Novel Marketing Podcast - How to Write Stories Readers Will Love by Knowing the Zeitgeist: https://pod.link/721122555/episode/11b53f1397d93fea087fb3575364f776
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The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 266 / Cozy mystery author Diana Xarissa joins us this week. With over 150 books in her backlist, Diana shared how she found success through rapid release (but she works a year ahead) and why embracing her passion was the key that helped her find and connect with readers.
Topics:
- Diana's unique process for building a year-long advance writing schedule to maintain a steady release pace
- Tips for creating likeable characters and a “Scooby gang” that keep readers coming back and also keep Diana excited to write their stories
- Diana’s advice around ambition, goal setting, dreaming big, and celebrating success
- Dealing with imposter syndrome
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⚡Links:
- www.dianaxarissa.com
- Sara’s How I Met My Kdrama podcast
- Historical Cozy Mystery Book Box (Affiliate link)
- Trope Con: https://trope-talk-jennifer-s-school.teachable.com/?affcode=1589366_yo0_fyjf (Affiliate link)
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 265 / Jen discusses how she found her passion for working with authors, her experiences in developmental editing and coaching, and the importance of aligning your business with personal visions of success.
- Tips on how to find an editor
- Frequent mistakes she sees authors making
- Trends Jen sees in publishing
- Alternate pathways to success
- Effective social media use
- Different types of support teams and why you need them
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⚡Links:
- https://www.jengraybeal.com/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 263 / Do you want to make your newsletters more personal and connect with readers? Bev Feldman, an email marketing strategist at Your Personal Tech Fairy, joins us today to share how to do just that through the type of content you share as well as sequences and segmenting.
- Setting expectations in a welcome sequence
- The value of letting subscribers go
- Basic ways to segment your newsletter list
- Tips to make resending to unopened more effective
- Common mistakes Bev sees people make with their newsletters
- Subject lines and ALT text tips
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⚡Links:
- https://yourpersonaltechfairy.com
- https://yourpersonaltechfairy.com/newsletter
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 262 / Jennifer Hilt shares how her writing career has evolved since she was with us in 2023, including expanding her trope thesaurus books to specific genres and her thoughts on launching an online event, TropeCon. She also shares her lessons learned for planning online events. If you want to connect with your readers through an online event, Jennifer has plenty of tips and ideas.
Topics:
- The messy path to achievement and why you shouldn’t overthink or underestimate yourself
- How tropes relate to different genres like horror, romance, and fantasy sci-fi
- The art of making mistakes and bouncing back
- Understanding tropes across genres and insights into tropes in different genres
- Tips for setting up and running an online event, including platform and logistic choices, pricing strategy, and promotion possibilities
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⚡Links:
- www.jenniferhilt.com.
- https://jenniferhilt.substack.com/
- https://www.youtube.com/@TropeTalk
- https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hilt.
- 2025 Trope Con Registration Link: https://trope-talk-jennifer-s-school.teachable.com/?affcode=1589366_yo0_fyjf (affiliate link)
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 261 / Elizabeth O’Roark shares about tapping into her creativity during the pandemic, tackling the ups and downs of switching genres, the power of tropes, and breakout success.
Topics:
- Chasing success
- What Elizabeth wishes she’d started earlier
- Assessment of opportunity cost
- Benefits of shifting to a new genre
- How Elizabeth incorporates tropes and microtropes into her plan for a new book
- Moving into special editions and direct sales
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⚡Links:
- www.elizabethoroark.com
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 259 / Cat Johnson shares about writing resilience and creative innovation. We discuss Cat’s diversified distribution strategy that includes wide retailers as well as KU and her innovative promotion idea that lean into the personal and real life connections.
Topics discussed:
- The power of pivoting in an unpredictable industry
- The value of building a strong backlist
- Out-of-the-box marketing ideas
- What Cat wishes she’d known about being a hybrid author
- Writing and promotion tips for multi-author projects, like her interconnected series with several other authors
- Incorporating real places into your fiction and promotion: what it’s like to live in a Hallmark-type town in real life–and write about it!
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⚡Links:
- https://catjohnson.net/
- Trope Con: https://trope-talk-jennifer-s-school.teachable.com/?affcode=1589366_yo0_fyjf (Affiliate link)
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 258 / We delve into your responses from our previous episode, "What Do You Want?" We’re all ears and sincerely grateful for the feedback!
You shared your love for the podcast and some brilliant suggestions. We unpack your ideas, which range from having more diverse author guests to potential coaching sessions with listeners. You also chimed in with some fantastic new questions to ask guests.
📢 Suggest authors or volunteer to be on the podcast! https://bit.ly/WishGuests 📩
✍️ Thank you for all the wonderful comments and engagement. It fuels us!
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⚡Links:
- SPA Girls interview with Amy Award: https://www.selfpublishingauthorspodcast.com/spa-girls-podcast-ep484-interview-with-amy-award/
- Death in the English Countryside - mass market paperback subscription edition: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781335425454_death-in-the-english-countryside.html
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 257 / Catharine Bramkamp is a writing coach, workshop facilitator, poet, traveler, and has authored 27 fiction, non-fiction and poetry books. She joins us to share about creativity, finding joy in the process of writing, and common mistakes she sees as a writing coach.
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⚡Links:
- www.Catharine-Bramkamp.com
- https://sierrawritersconference.wordpress.com/schedule/
- https://www.sierrapoetryfestival.org
- Flutter Romance Bookstore: https://flutterromancebookstore.company.site/
- Everylibrary.org Library Lover’s Event with Sara Rosett and Jennifer Hilt:
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/events/1129658792042176
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qE-Srqv34lE
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 256 / Cozy fantasy author and illustrator Hanna Sandvig joins us to talk about working with illustrators to create gorgeous special editions. We also chat about how Hanna’s business has evolved over time as she’s incorporated illustration into her own books and begun using Kickstarter and Patreon.
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⚡Links:
- HannaSandvig.com
- https://www.patreon.com/Hannasandvig
- https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/hannasandvig/created
- https://www.instagram.com/hannasandvig
Sample illustration contract: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I0D4JyHdwJC3i002y0TIgnBxnTnPpHrGPDL_Pu9an-s/edit?usp=sharing
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 255 / It’s time for a heart to heart. Jami and Sara want to hear what you want from the podcast. Are you still finding value in the podcast? Do you want to see a change in format or focus? Let us know!
Sara also answers questions about her mystery letters.
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⚡Links:
- Ep 181: Cat Maura on Discoverability and Creating a Compelling “mini-series” Drip Campaign https://wishidknownforwriters.com/181-2/
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 254 / Samatha Cummings writes YA fantasy chock full of magic, myths, and monsters and also hosts a podcast for writers, Pen to Paycheck.
Topics:
- Samantha’s approach to treating NaNoWrMo as a game
- Why Samatha wishes she’d leaned into newsletter marketing earlier in her career
- How even one other person can be a community for you
- Mindset changes Samantha made around imposter syndrome and knowing her true value
- Starting a discord community for Young Adult Fantasy authors
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⚡Links:
- Podcast: pentopaycheck.podbean.com
- https://www.samantha-cummings.com
- https://www.instagram.com/sammowrimo/
Ines’ Kickstarter: https://ineswrites.com/Kickstarter
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 253 / It’s a Jami and Sara episode this week as we break down the recent chaos with TikTok (It’s gone! It’s back!) and what actions authors can take to make sure they’re able to connect with readers despite the unpredictable nature of social media platforms.
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📥 Send us a Text Message Will you do anything differently after the reinstatement of TikTok?
⚡Links:
Ines’ Kickstarter: https://ineswrites.com/Kickstarter
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 252 / Has your well run dry when it comes to newsletter and social media content? Sara Shea has fresh ideas for you. Sara works full-time as the assistant (and sister) of author K.M. Shea. She's been lurking in the indie author shadows for over a decade and is here to share her love of content creation with everyone.
Topics:
- Tips for working with assistants and contractors
- Creating an asset list to help you with your content creation
- Ideas for incorporating tropes and micro tropes
- How authors can use Pinterest to drive interest to content like reader magnets and audiobooks
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⚡Links:
- KMShea.com
- 2025 Survey. Tell your suggestions for episode topics and guests - open until Jan 30th: https://forms.gle/jk23rkqTW9sfqMEp8
- How I Met My Kdrama podcast: https://howimetmykdrama.buzzsprout.com/
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 251 / Do you want to cut back on the time you spend on social media? Sandy Cooper and Mary K. Tiller have left social media altogether and have tips and how to cut back or depart social media.
Topics:
- Benefits and drawbacks of leaving social media
- Advice for someone wanting to reduce time on social media or leave altogether
- Ways to promote without social media
- How to stay in touch with friends/author communities if you’re not on social media
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⚡Links:
- https://writingoffsocial.com/
- Podcast: https://writingoffsocial.com/podcast/
- https://writingoffsocial.com/27-ways/
- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/66cdfcc7e5e15300153a06c1
- 2025 Survey. Tell your suggestions for episode topics and guests - open until Jan 15th: https://forms.gle/jk23rkqTW9sfqMEp8
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 250 / Guest: Sharmyn McGraw, mystery author and creator of planner/organizers for discovery writers.
Sharmyn shares the challenges of dyslexia and how she became a successful writer. We also get into marketing hurdles, strategies for staying organized, the benefits of not being a full-time writer; and we also geek out over our love of office supplies.
Topics:
- Tips for writing with dyslexia and the tools Sharmyn uses most
- How to find an editor if you have dyslexia
- Discovery writing
- How a print organizer helps Sharmyn keep track of details in her story and the genre-specific organizers she created to help authors who are “pantsers” or discovery writers
- Diversifying through multiple businesses, and why Sharmyn doesn’t want to become a full-time writer
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Giveaway! Send us a text with your email address for a chance to win one of two organizers that Sharmyn is giving away to WIKT listeners.
Links:
- www.SharmynMcGraw.com
- Buzzcast podcast about creative marketing ideas: https://buzzcast.buzzsprout.com/231452/episodes/16229495-25-creative-podcast-marketing-ideas-that-will-grow-your-audience
- https://blog.bookfunnel.com/2024/truly-universal-book-links/
Sara’s Bookfunnel UBL: https://buy.bookfunnel.com/nn0nh4s37y
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📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 249 / Guest: Matilda Swift, cozy mystery author and co-host of the Pen to Paycheck podcast
Topics:
- Finding your genre: identifying and embracing what truly fascinates you
- Overcoming self-doubt
- Why releasing more books isn’t always the path to success
- Time and schedule management challenges
- The creative process behind Matilda’s engaging book titles and unique warm reader magnet
- Working in your “zone of genius,” (i.e. What is easy for you?)
- The story behind the Pen to Paycheck podcast and how it helps with accountability and community
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⚡Links:
- https://www.MatildaSwift.com
Pen to Paycheck Authors podcast: https://www.pentopaycheck.podbean.com
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 248 / Fantasy author and Kickstarter expert Anthea Sharp joins us to share tips on running crowdfunding campaigns as well as how Kickstarter has helped her move toward a mindset of relaxed prosperity.
Topics:
- Relaxed prosperity
- Finding your voice
- Having the confidence to pick yourself
- Why Anthea has a “pruning list” and how she motivates herself to cut back instead of adding tasks to her writer life
- Advice for new authors
- Kickstarter tips
- Writing fantasy and romantasy
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⚡Links:
- https://fiddleheadpress.com/
- Kickstarter for Authors https://www.facebook.com/groups/429764288910415
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 247 / We’ve both been traveling, so this week is a catch up episode about Jami’s experience at Author Nation, the biggest author conference in the world, and Sara’s cruise in the Mediterranean. Plus, details on Jami’s surprise European vacation.
Join us for a chat about connecting with other writers, author business phases, and special editions as well as the dangerous combo of wide-leg pants and escalators in Roman train stations.👖
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⚡Links:
Ep 92: New Author Series: Victoria Tait on Focusing on Email and Writing the Next Book https://wishidknownforwriters.com/92-2/
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 246 / It’s a Jami and Sara episode this week as they discuss the importance of endings, their favorite (and not-so-favorite endings) as well as the six different types of endings.
Spoiler warning for these books/shows we discuss:
Extraordinary Attorney Woo
Pride and Prejudice
Sugar Daddy
Sixth Sense
Ted Lasso
The Partner
Nobody Wants This
Fourth Wing
The Serpent and the Wings of Night
Truly Devious
Cheat on Me, If You Can
And Then There Were None
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📥 Send us a Text Message: What is your favorite ending? Or what ending did you find unsatisfying?
⚡Links:
https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-end-a-story/
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 245 / Ines Johnson joins us and shares strategies for book marketing in the age of direct sales. We discuss:
- Testing and tweaking to increase backlist sales
- Importance of thinking of your customer in marketing to create a personal connection
- Effective ad strategies using purchase ads
- Special editions and direct sales, including incorporating elements like foiling and character art in special edition books to attract high-value readers
- Leveraging direct sales platforms and tools like Payhip and Shopify to boost book sales
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⚡Links:
- https://www.authoradsintensive.com/a/2147845324/RXrpFFEh (Affiliate link)
- Ineswrites.com
- Page Turner Pacing
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 244 / Is it too late to plan holiday promotions? Nope. You still have plenty of time–and holiday promotions don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
We delve into what tactics we’ve used and found effective for marketing to cold, warm, and hot audiences.
-What we wish we’d known about marketing during the holidays
-Group promos ideas -> warm/cold audience
-Solo promo ideas -> hot audience
Bookish Wish List – your favorite books/bookish things
https://www.sararosett.com/bookish-wish-list/
Mystery Lover’s Gift Guide: https://www.sararosett.com/gift-guide/
-Last Minute ideas -> cold and warm audiences
-Newsletter content ideas -> hot audience
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⚡Links:
- Post from Written Word Media for promotion ideas and consumer mindset: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/book-promotion-for-holiday/
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 243 / We are thrilled (pun intended!) to chat with contemporary crime and conspiracy thriller author Nick Stevens.
We talk about anti-heroes, setups and payoffs, Tremors, and why sometimes you just have to publish the book.
10:58 Why emotional connection is better than perfect structure in storytelling
14:00 Using multiple formats to diversify
17:18 Marketing mistake: starting too early
23:00 Getting ratings and reviews
29:26 Finding community for writers of mystery/thrillers
34:09 Setups and payoffs in thrillers
37:20 Incorporating real-life details into fiction and authenticity that grounds stories
46:12 Nick Stevens books and social media
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⚡Links:
- https://nickstevensbooks.com
- Facebook – Nickstevens Books
- nick@nickstevensbooks.com
- https://sararosettbooks.com/products/croquet-murder-mystery-game-printable
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 242 / We're diving deep into listener questions about everything from drafting and editing techniques, tackling imposter syndrome, and decoding our strengths.
🥤☕️ So grab your favorite beverage—be it Diet Coke or a cup of comforting coffee–and join us for a Wednesday chat about writing.
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⚡Links:
Ep 15: Elana Johnson on Finding Success in Small Genres
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/finding-success-in-small-genres-with-elana-johnson/
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❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 241 / Whether you're an introvert or extrovert you can develop a platform to grow your author brand. Learn how with authors of From Page to Platform: How to Succeed as an Author Speaker, suspense and thriller author Matty Dalrymple and science fiction & fantasy author M.L. Ronn (Michael La Ronn).
Topics:
- How to match your platform to your personality
- Tips for effective public speaking
- Common mistakes authors make when it comes to platform as well as public speaking
- Why the time you spend behind the microphone or on stage is often the least important part of the event
- Simple steps you can use to get started building your author brand
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
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- Shoutout on a future episode.
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⚡Links:
- https://www.theindyauthor.com/from-page-to-platform.html
- https://books2read.com/FromPageToPlatform
- https://authorlevelup.com
- https://MattyDalrymple.com
- https://www.theindyauthor.com
- Speaker’s Notes: https://www.theindyauthor.com/from-page-to-platform.html
Send us a text
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 240 / In 2024, Lynn Morrison and Anne Radcliffe paired their love of regency romances like Bridgerton with their bad habit of killing people in their books to create a new series that they rapid-released, the Crown Jewels Regency Mystery Series.
Topics:
- Why brutal honesty is critical for collaboration
- How to spot trends
- Tips on how to incorporate trends into a genre and still meet reader expectations around tropes
- How Lynn and Anne leveraged interest around Bridgerton to market the new series
- Using beta readers to verify the book was on target
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Private slack group
- Shoutout on a future episode.
- 🌟New: writing sprints on Tues and Thurs at 9 Eastern. Link in the slack group
📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- lynnmorrisonwriter.com
- anneradcliffe.com
- Cozy Mystery Clubhouse Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cozymysteryclubhouse/
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 239 / Want to make a big impact with your book? Publicist, award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and author of Make a Big Impact with Your Book, Melanie Herschorn, has tips to help you stand out.
Topics:
- Beyond the Launch: keep promoting—your book is new to someone who hasn’t read it yet
- Misconceptions around marketing: engage beyond bookstores
- Building a community and relationships
- Don't fear oversharing
- Alternative and creative marketing strategies: speaking and podcasts
- Build reader communities: engage people around your book’s themes—create a sense of belonging that AI can't mimic
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Private slack group
- Shoutout on a future episode.
- 🌟New: writing sprints on Tues and Thurs at 9 Eastern. Link in the slack group
📥 Send us a Text Message
⚡Links:
- website: yourbigimpactbook.com
- Instagram: @bigimpactbooks
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 238 / Want some ideas on how to get readers on your newsletter list? On this Ask Us Anything episode, we have SO MANY ideas for you!
Topics:
- Expectations for earnings
- Building a List
- Preview Promos
- Reader magnets
- Difference between pre- and post-novel reader magnets
- Creative reader magnets
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Private slack group
- Shoutout on a future episode.
- 🌟New: writing sprints on Tues and Thurs at 9 Eastern. Link in the slack group
📥 Send us a Text Message What’s your reader magnet? What ideas are your favorite from this episode?
⚡Links: 33 Reader Magnet Ideas for Authors: https://www.paulinewiles.com/articles/reader-magnet-ideas
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 237/Guest: Luke Mitchel, science fiction and fantasy author
Topics:
- Luke’s transition from KU to wide and direct sales
- Self-editing and revisions and accepting your writing style
- Writing short stories to refresh the creative process
- Moving away from social media and focusing on email marketing and direct sales
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Private slack group
- Shoutout on a future episode.
- 🌟New: writing sprints on Tues and Thurs at 9 Eastern. Link in the slack group
📥 Send us a Text Message What is the best or worst advice you’ve received about writing or publishing?
⚡Links:
lukemitchellbooks.com
Bookfunnel Promo for historical mystery authors: https://dashboard.bookfunnel.com/bundles/board/b5mfo5llm1
Jami’s online workshop: https:www.JamiAlbright.com
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 236 / Ever wondered why certain characters steal your heart? This week we chat with Jessica Firpi, a TV and movie reviewer as well as a K-drama enthusiast and podcast host. We explore everything from effective "save the cat" moments to why a sunshine character can make a dark character shine.
If you've ever wondered how to make your characters compelling, relatable, and unforgettable, we’ve got some ideas for you. Plus, we've got examples from your favorite Kdramas and blockbuster movies.
Topics:
- How a Save the Cat moment gets the audience to root for a character
- Our favorite Save the Cat moments why they worked for us
- Genuine vs. manufactured conflict
- Creating complex backstories
- Pitfalls writers should avoid with Save the Cat moments
- Jess’s tips for bloggers and podcasters
💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
- Private slack group
- Shoutout on a future episode.
- 🌟New: writing sprints on Tues and Thurs at 9 Eastern. Link in the slack group
📥 Send us a Text Message Send us your questions about writing and publishing for an upcoming Ask Us Anything episode. We love to hear from you!
⚡Links:
- Jess’s podcast: daebak-krambles.com
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@daebakpod
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daebakpod/
- Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/daebakpod
- Better-Faster Conference 2024 in Minnesota
https://classes.betterfasteracademy.com/courses/bfacon-2024-in-minnesota--6084b57c-5905-472f-a1dc-c180d44a2f6e/salespage
Send us a text
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 235 / Fantasy romance author Penn Cole shares tips on writing to market in a way that goes beyond the usual analysis of trends and tropes, patience in the writing and publishing process, and translations using an agent.
Topics:
- Penn’s tips on prepping for publication and ARC teams
- How to research and write to market in a deep way, focusing on why certain books resonate with readers
- Putting your blinders on and having the self confidence to go with your intuition
- Special editions from trad publishers
- Translations–why using an agent who specializes in sub-rights can be helpful
- The power of kindness, especially toward readers
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Links:
https://www.penncole.com
https://classes.betterfasteracademy.com/courses/bfacon-2024-in-minnesota--6084b57c-5905-472f-a1dc-c180d44a2f6e/salespage
Send us a text
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 234 / Liz Shipton is a freelance writer, hybrid author, and full-time, off-grid, liveaboard sailor. She shares how changing her lifestyle to become a digital nomad created more time for writing and how she uses Tik Tok to market her books.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- Going viral on Tik Tok
- How become a digital nomad created more time for writing
- Why Liz creates two versions of her books, a new adult version and a YA version
- Pros and cons of writing a long series as your first series
Links:
https://lizshipton.com
https://tiktok.com/lizshipton
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGZPK9NX
https://instagram.com/lizshipton
Joe Solari interview: Ep. 211: Financial Freedom, Direct Sales, and Author Nation with Joe Solari https://wishidknownforwriters.com/211-2/
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Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
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🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 233 / Ever wished you had some writing hacks to make your drafting and editing go more smoothly? (And who hasn’t?) Then this episode with cozy author Barbara Emodi is for you! Barbara is a developmental editor for emerging writers and has great insights.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast and get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- Writing hacks
- Streamlining social media
- How to write authentically
- Letting go of the thought that you have to plot to write a book
- Tips for writing humor
Links:
https://www.Babsemodi.com
Send us a Text Message.
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 232 / Jessie Kwak writes supernatural thrillers and sci-fi crime as well as nonfiction productivity books including, From Chaos to Creativity and From Big Idea to Book.
Topics:
- Trusting your own process, reassessing expectations, and enjoying the writing process
- How Jessie blends sci-fi and crime genres and found her second series easier to market with a clearer target audience
- How Jessie integrates her fiction and nonfiction in her promotion and marketing
- The power of showing up consistently and focusing on daily work to achieve long-term success
- Author Alchemy Summit - February 14th-16th in Portland, a small, intimate conference focused on marketing and business, with plenty of opportunities for networking
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months.
Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Links:
www.jessiekwak.com
Conference: www.authoralchemysummit.com
Send us a Text Message.
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 231 / Dr. Nick Courtright of Atmosphere Press, a literary hybrid publisher dedicated to author rights, joins us to discuss different publishing options, letting go of the mindset that you must have an agent, and the importance of a personal brand.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
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Topics:
- The rise in indie and hybrid publishing
- Tips on navigating the industry
- Common mistakes Nick sees authors making
- Letting go of the mindset that you must have an agent to be successful
- Atmosphere Press’s commitment to transparency and author rights
Links:
https://www.atmospherepress.com
https://www.atmospherepress.com/call-for-submissions/
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Subscriber-only episode
In this supporter-exclusive chat, we broke down the Enemies to Lovers trope–and it’s not just for romance novels!
From Pride and Prejudice to You've Got Mail, we've got tons of insights and examples that show how friction and chemistry can turn rivalry into romance.
- Why readers love this trope
- The need to maintain the core characteristics of your protagonists
- The difference between Opposites Attract and Enemies to Lovers
- Variations/subtypes of the trope
- Story beats of the Enemies to Lovers trope
- Using the Enemies to Lovers story beats for bromance or reconciliation plotline
- Common mistakes to avoid
What are your favorite examples of the Enemies to Lovers trope? Let us know with a text message.
Links mentioned:
https://denton.bibliocommons.com/list/share/1251047067/1899729279
Jami and Sara on Creating Sympathetic and Intriguing Characters with Examples from Ted Lasso: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/168-2/
💙 Thanks to all our supporters who made this episode possible! If you’d like to become a supporter go to https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support.
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 230 / A.B. Herron blends elements of fantasy and romance in her fiction. She shares about balancing a full-time job while diving headfirst into the world of writing, the joy of connecting with readers at book fairs, and the critical role a supportive community plays in overcoming challenges, especially for authors with dyslexia.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- Forming and maintaining a tight-knit writing group, which Amanda formed through a combo of accidental encounters, the NextDoor app, and a bit of subterfuge
- The necessity of ongoing learning in the writing and publishing industry
- Launching with stand-alones instead of a series
- The importance of figuring things out on her own along the way
- Advice for overcoming obstacles and believing in your story
Links:
https://www.abherron.com/
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 229 / Learn about the four basic types of relationship arcs from freelance developmental editor and writing writing instructor, September C. Fawkes.
Discover how mapping arcs can define the direction and evolution of your characters' relationships and create a dynamic, zigzag narrative.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
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Topics:
- The four types of relationships arcs with examples from across genres
- How to use external factors, internal conflicts, and the right antagonistic forces to create believable relationship challenges
- How to apply relationship arcs to multi-book series
- Relationship arc variations
- How to use tropes to label relationship arcs
Sponsor:
Xero Accounting Software
(See script) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-hvFLrOc069GSjMc8vRwQX9nVE6LasBWwqATt8XxLLU/edit
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Links:
https://www.septembercfawkes.com/
https://www.septembercfawkes.com/2022/10/the-4-basic-types-of-relationship-arcs.html
Inkers con links:
Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 CODE: SARA24
Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/1 CODE:JAMI24
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 228 / Kemper Donovan is the host of the All About Agatha podcast and author of The Busy Body, a USA Today bestseller on launch earlier this year. Kemper shares tips for querying and how podcasting about Agatha Christie helped him connect with mystery authors and also provided a built-in audience for his book.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
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Topics:
- Tuning out the noise and finding your own writing process and voice
- Benefits of podcasting: social interaction with less stress than social media, audience building, and connection with other authors and readers
- Tips for finding agents and querying and insight into traditional publishing
- How Kemper drew on Agatha Christie’s influence
- Navigating writing, promotion, and self-doubt as an author
Links:
http://www.kemperdonovan.com
Kemper Donovan Books - Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100095414958480/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/allaboutthedame?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutagatha/
Sara’s 1920s mystery, Murder Among the Pyramids, direct sales launch: https://sararosettbooks.com/collections/lady-traveler
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 227 / Liz Long shares her journey of embracing her own uniqueness, particularly in relation to ADHD and finding peace and growth after personal loss.
Quick note: the language in this episode isn’t as family-friendly as our usual G/PG episodes, so just be aware of that.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
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Topics:
- How mental health advocacy intersects with Liz Long's writing career
- Approaching social media through the lens of helping people
- Liz’s late in life ADHD diagnosis
- Drafting tips and and Liz’s personalized coping mechanisms
- Overcoming self-doubt as well as finding and using your inner voice
- How naming concepts de-stigmatizes mental health and starts conversations
Links:
https://lizlongwrites.com
Jami on Romance Writer’s Therapy Podcast: https://pod.link/1595202492/episode/870c1827d8f5d5268f51f6a752c230a5
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 226 / Author, musician, and marketer, Paul Indigo shares insights on seeking validation, embracing our voice, and the unconventional use of an Excel spreadsheet for writing and marketing. If you’ve tried all the writing software and haven’t found one that works for you, perhaps your answer is a spreadsheet!
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- The power of authenticity and vulnerability in fiction writing
- Reader feedback as validation
- Why the “vein of truth” must run through both your book and your marketing
- Having the confidence to trust in your voice
- Tips on using a spreadsheet to write a book
- How a spreadsheet allows you to see the structure or visitual tapestry of a book
- The interconnectedness of writing and music, which are both forms of artistic expression driven by emotion and structure
Links:
paulindigo.com
Bookfunnel as an ads landing page: https://blog.bookfunnel.com/2024/katie-cross-bookfunnel-as-a-landing-page/
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 225 / Megan Vernon, author of over 40 romance novels, joins us to talk about starting over after a difficult experience of being publicly criticized. We talk about the need to give ourselves grace and the importance of a supportive community for navigating the ups and downs of a writing career. Megan shares about her creation of the Mojo Dojo Casa House, a supportive space for published authors and shares her insights into ghostwriting.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- The importance of not rushing to judgment on social media
- Megan’s reflecting on self-doubt and overcoming imposter syndrome
- Ads: Turning aversion into appreciation
- Handling backlash
- How ghostwriting led to new opportunities and recovery for Megan
- Megan’s supportive writers' group for authors getting back into writing
Links:
www.maganvernon.com
Inkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024
Affiliate links: Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/
Discount codes: JAMI24 or SARA24
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 224 / Kate Johnson is the co-founder of Zory, an interactive reading app that merges the depth found in fiction with the choose-your-path-style plotlines of narrative video games. Kate shares details about Zory and craft tips about GMC as well as the All Is Lost moment. Plus we talk about trends in genre blending, and what Kate sees coming in the publishing industry.
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- Adaptation of existing books for fiction apps
- Customizable and immersive reading experience through story loops and endings tailored to each individual
- Predictions and trends in the publishing industry
- Legal considerations in international contracts
- Setting boundaries and saying no to reduce stress and increase meaning
- Importance of goal, motivation, and conflict in writing
Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Links:
Zory.app
Discord: https://discord.gg/CXwKCvQV
Inkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024
Affiliate links:
Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32
CODE: SARA24
Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/14
CODE:JAMI24
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 223 / Do you like to discover the plot as you write? Do you get bored if you know where the story is going? Then a skeleton draft might be what you need.
Paranormal and gothic romance author Steffanie Holmes joins us to talk about how discovery writers can use a skeleton draft to get their ideas down on paper and avoid writer’s block. We also talk about rebranding, Kickstarter tips for authors outside the US, and bust some publishing myths. 🥊
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
Introduction to Skeleton Drafting
- Why Stephanie shifted away from dark romance to her Nevermore Bookshop series, which features a magical bookstore and a blind heroine who teams up with famous literary villains to solve mysteries
- How Stephanie found success with skeleton drafting, not rigid outlines
- Using TikTok for market research
- How she rebranded her series
- Partnering for order fulfillment to reduce shipping costs and increase sales
- Creating a unique fan experience for achieving success
Links:
www.steffanieholmes.com
https://www.rageagainstthemanuscript.com/skeletondraftcourse
Inkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024
Affiliate links:
Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32
CODE: SARA24
Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/14
CODE:JAMI24
Ep 161 - Nell Goddin on How Direct Sales Helped Revive her Author Business https://wishidknownforwriters.com/161-2/
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Subscriber-only episode
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Ever wondered how to add a twist of mystery to your narrative?
Find out exactly what mystery elements are, how to sprinkle them into your narrative, and why they keep readers turning the pages.
Whether you're writing romance, sci-fi, or fantasy, a mystery can add layers of intrigue and depth to your story.
I'll be sharing some practical tips, examples from popular books, TV shows, and movies, and some ideas on how to hide clues and create satisfying reveals.
Links:
How To Outline A Cozy Mystery: Book One in the Genre Fiction How To series by Sara Rosett
https://books2read.com/howtocozy
This month's sponsor is Xero accounting software:
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 222 / Jessica Renwich, who writes fantasy and horror for kids ages 9-12, joined us to share her experience as an indie middle grade author.
She has terrific insights on approaching schools for author visits and the impact of creating whimsical and fun content to appeal to young readers.
In addition to discussing how marketing middle grade books differs from marketing adult books, we also get into the things that often hold us back: perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and dealing with rejection. And also the lure of magical chickens! 🐓
💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting Software
Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcast
Topics:
- Jessica’s experience with the middle grade market: 95% of her sales are print books
- Why Jessia focuses on creating spooky and whimsical books for middle grade and how she layers in themes like strong maintaining strong friendships
- Jessica’s recommendations for school visits: how and when to approach schools, her media package, and how she handles direct sales at schools
- Dealing with impostor syndrome and perfectionism
- How Jessica uses targeted ads and book blurbs that focus on themes, which help her market to parents, teachers, and librarian
- The influence of awards on book legitimacy and author credibility in children’s literature
Links:
www.jessicarenwickauthor.com
✨ Inkers Con digital conference: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 (Affiliate link)
Use JAMI24 or SARA24 and get $50 off registration!
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 221 / Looking to grow a community around your books? Romance author Amy Pine shares how she and her co-hosts created a podcast and built a vibrant community around Korean dramas. We also dive into craft book recommendations, beat sheets, and combining tropes in unexpected ways.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Topics:
- The importance of celebrating achievements
- Benefits of beat sheets, Save the Cat, and Save the Cat Writes a Novel for creating a story framework
- The influence of Korean dramas on Amy’s writing and how she infuses Kdrama-inspired elements into her books
- How Amy and her co-hosts have nurtured the Afternoona Delight podcast Patreon, creating a supportive community
- Tips on starting a podcast and navigating audio editing challenges
- Juggling a community, writing, day jobs, and family responsibilities
Links:
https://www.ajpine.com/
https://www.afternoonadelight.com
Support the Show.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
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Episode 220 / KimBoo York joins us to share how to embrace flexibility and spontaneity in your writing process through discovery writing. Whether you thrive on outlining or prefer a more free-flowing approach, there are different techniques to suit your writing style.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Topics:
- What discovery writing is and how it’s different from free association writing
- Misconceptions about discovery writing
- Incorporating spontaneity and intuition in our writing routines
- Common mistakes authors make around discovery writing
- Techniques to get started with discovery writing
- Reverse outlining as a problem-solving tool
- Leveraging different formats for diversification
Links:
https://houseofyork.info
https://houseofyork.info/1mwc
WIKT Episode 189: KimBoo York on Writing Serials and Trusting your Intuition https://wishidknownforwriters.com/189-2/
Cozy article on Reedsy: https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-write-a-cozy-mystery/
Send us a Text: Did you have a character or plot twist that surprised you as you were writing? Be sure to include your name in your text!
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Episode 219 / Martha Carr is a journalist who now writes escapist fiction in the urban fantasy genre with a lot of magic, some action and adventure, and a little romance.
Martha shares about beating health challenges, changing her business model, and dealing with the ups and downs of publishing. We also talk about leaving regret behind, her Kickstarter preparation, and how learning about her Enneagram type helped her make healthy decisions.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Topics:
- Writing urban fantasy trilogies
- How Martha transitioned from collaboration to a solo publishing model
- Her first edition printing strategy with her upcoming Kickstarter campaign
- Her Kickstarter preparations, which included author shout-outs, podcast appearances, and reaching out to influencers
- Setting a sustainable pace and finding the joy and fun in writing and marketing
Links:
www.authormarthacarr.com
www.marthacarr.com (Kickstarter site)
WIKT Ep 12 Martha Carr on Defining Success and Enjoying Where You Are Right Now: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/martha-carr-on-defining-success-and-enjoying-where-you-are-right-now/
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Episode 218 / Julie Duffy has long been involved in the publishing industry, but she found herself not actually writing fiction due to the demands of school and work. This realization led her to challenge herself with a "story a day" project in order to get back to writing and creating fictional stories.
Julia joins us to talk about A Story A Day in May, a creative writing challenge, as well as the benefits of flash fiction for honing writing skills and providing quick wins in the writing business, while also emphasizing the importance of mindset.
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- Embracing short stories as a creative outlet
- The challenge of writing without fearing imperfection
- How flash fiction can enhance writing skills
- Overcoming writer's block by knowing your direction
- Keys to finding a writing group that’s a good fit
- Details on A Story A Day community
Links:
https://storyaday.org/
Https://storyaday.org/signup
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Episode 217 / Writing under two pen names, Celeste Barclay has penned over 50 books in historical and mafia romance. She shares insights on the writing process, the challenges of juggling multiple book brands, the importance of flexibility, and why universal themes resonate across genres.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Topics:
- Balancing marketing efforts for established and potential readers
- Understanding different market segments and reader loyalty
- The concept of "us against the world" theme and how it transcends genre
- The connection between universal themes in mafia romance and historical romance
- How binge writing resulted in better continuity and high quality for Celeste
- The importance of taking time to rest and recuperate
- Celeste's direct sales strategy for signed paperbacks through her website
Links:
www.celestebarclay.com
https://www.facebook.com/celestembarclay
https://bit.ly/clubhousecelestebarclay
https://www.instagram.com/celestebarclayauthor/
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Episode 216 / Mystery author Abigail Keam shares how she embraced the digital landscape and incorporated direct sales into her business model. From historical accuracy to adapting to technology, she shares her lessons-learned.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Topics:
- Challenges Abigail faced with publishers and how she found success with indie publishing
- How Abigail weaves historical events and people into her novels
- The importance of accuracy in historical fiction and her process for research and fact-checking
- How she uses merchandise (calendar, mug, and book boxes) to add another stream of income
- Embracing technology to connect with her readers
- The evolving landscape of writing, marketing, and the need for constant adaptation
Links:
Author website: https://www.abigailkeam.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/author.abigailkeam/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/abigailkeamauthor/
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/abigailkeam/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@abigailkeam
BookFunnel Video Webinar Library: https://bookfunnel.com/videos/?ck_subscriber_id=521109338
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Episode 215 / When it comes to your author business, a bargain sometimes costs money in the long run, but other times it pays to splurge instead of scrimp. Join us as we discuss tips for saving money as well as when we’re willing to pay more.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Use a “savings triage,” a list of ways to save money on business expenses
- Innovative side-hustles
- What items we’re willing to spend more on
- Tips on saving on editing, cover design, and marketing
Links:
https://www.sararosett.com/author-business-expenses-save-splurge/
https://blog.reedsy.com/save-on-your-self-publishing-budget/
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Episode 214 / How do you pull in readers who will love your books and push away those readers who won’t enjoy your book? Branding.
Branding is more than colors, fonts, and covers.
Join us for an in-depth discussion on how to determine your brand and carry it through in everything from your voice to ad copy to covers. And you know we’re always here for food analogies so the alternate title of this episode is “Why branding is like a layer cake.” 🍰
- What is a brand promise?
- Uniqueness
- Using comp authors
- Does your voice need to match your brand?
- Creating an author tagline that reflects your brand
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
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Subscriber-only episode
The sage. The rebel. The everyman. These are a few character archetypes that resonate with readers.
We discuss fifteen character archetypes, their common characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and their desires along with examples in popular culture.
We also discuss the difference between an archetype and a stereotype and how to avoid cliques.
And quick note: Jami said "Xander" but meant "Xaiden." :)
Links mentioned:
List with definitions from Kindleperuner:
https://kindlepreneur.com/character-archetypes/
Some examples from: https://www.scribophile.com/academy/what-are-character-archetypes
Strengths/Weakness/Desires:
https://blog.reedsy.com/12-common-character-archetypes-every-writer-should-already-know/
How to Write Funny by Scott Dikkers
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 213 / We’re sharing an interview Sara did with Matty Dalrymple on the Indy Author Podcast last year. Sara and Matty go deep on the topic of how to structure a series so that it works for your writing style and your genre.
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- The three types of series
- Extending your series
- Spin-offs
- Using short stories to enhance your series
- Dealing boredom in writing in the same story world again and again
- Challenges around ending a series
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett: https://books2read.com/howtowriteaseries
Buy the print version of How to Write a Series direct from Sara:https://sararosettbooks.com/products/how-to-write-a-series
Sara’s website: https://www.SaraRosett.com
This podcast originally aired on the Indy Author Podcast on 10/31/23: https://www.theindyauthor.com/210---constructing-a-compelling-series.html
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Episode 212 / Claire Taylor, humor and mystery author and Enneagram expert, shares how authors can use the Enneagram to create a resilient approach to the often chaotic writer lifestyle. We also discuss Claire’s successful track record on Kickstarter, and she tells us what she wishes she knew about using the crowdfunding platform.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- How the Enneagram can help authors with sustainability
- Most common mistakes authors make in regard to sustainability
- The superpower each Enneagram has that helps with resilience
- Typical blocks authors struggling
- What Claire wishes she’d known about running Kickstarter campaigns
www.kickffs.com
www.ffs.media
www.liberatedwriter.com
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Episode 211 / How do you live your best life through your writing career? We talk with Joe Solari about how to achieve author goals and how various business models, including direct sales and subscriptions, play into reaching those goals. We also discuss Author Nation, the largest indie author conference, and tips on how to have a great conference experience.
- New business models: direct sales, subscriptions
- Impact of AI across industries
- The single factor that will attract readers to you
- Structure of Author Nation conference tracks
- What to do after the conference ends: why narrowing your focus is important
Author Nation: www.authornation.live Nov 11-15, 2024
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
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Episode 210 / M.K. Williams writes suspenseful literary fiction and helps aspiring authors. M.K. shares how she writes and markets books across different genres, using Payhip for direct sales, the drawback of a surprise launch, and why delusion is sometimes a good thing. 🌀
- Why M.K. has specific goals for each book
- Why M.K. recommends purchasing your ISBNs
- Why authors should “pack their patience” when it comes to writing and publishing
- Mindset shift M.K. had to go through in considering the tradition route with a book
- The problem with a “surprise” book launch
- Common mistakes aspiring authors make
- How M.K. uses Payhip for her direct sales
Links:
https://1mkwilliams.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@1MKWilliams
Ebooklaunch covers: https://ebooklaunch.com/?ref=32 (Affiliate)
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🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 209 / How do you get to the point that your readers “one-click” the buy button for your books? Join us as we chat with small town romance author Melanie Harlow. Melanie shares what she learned about giving readers what they want—and what that has to do with spaghetti versus cake. 🎂
- Knowing how to market the book before you write it
- Discovering micro-tropes that appeal to readers (and one disadvantage of focusing too much on tropes)
- How to keep your writing creatively interesting when you’re staying in your lane
- Repackaging books when trends change
- Why she’d be more intentional about planning series if she were starting over
- How she uses bonus scenes to get readers on her newsletter list
- Alternate special edition paperbacks
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Links:
www.melanieharlow.com
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Episode 208 / Want to write something a little bit different? How do you appeal to readers in one of the main genres, but also forge your own path?
Margaret Lashley joins us to share how she created a subgenre of wacky, humor-filled mysteries that appeal to cozy readers as well as women’s fiction readers.
- How Margaret’s background in advertising helps her write fiction
- Why Margaret only uses one social media site
- How she markets her genre-adjacent fiction
- Writing humor as well as crafting quirky, but relatable characters
- Why a backlist is important for longevity
Author website: https://www.margaretlashley.com https://www.facebook.com/valandpalspage
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/B06XKJ3YD8
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Links:
Findaway Voices by Spotify current TOS: https://my.findawayvoices.com/terms-of-use#
Buzzcast’s episode about Spotify: https://buzzcast.buzzsprout.com/231452/14513452-spotify-s-new-podcast-strategy
Author’s Republic: https://www.authorsrepublic.com
Spoken Realms: https://spokenrealms.com
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Episode 207 / Do you want to create a loyal readership interested in you, not just your genre? Do you want to up the romantic tension in your books? Rom-com author Emma St. Clair shares tips on these topics, plus much more:
- The minefield of romance terms used to describe heat level and tone
- Weighing the cost of taking a break from a series
- Handling the pressure that success brings
- Email building tips
- Adding emotional connection to deepen swoony scenes
- Planning an in-person reader retreat
- Going hybrid with a traditional book deal for diversification
Links:
http://emmastclair.com
http://instagram.com/kikimojo
WIKT Ep 9: Clean Romance, Sustainability, and “Pantsing” books with Kirsten Oliphant
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Episode 206 / Leslye Penelope, author of fantasy and paranormal romance, joins us and shares how she builds rich story worlds.
- How the worldbuilding can connect to plot, character, theme, and conflict
- Using Payhip to sell signed paperbacks
- Leslye’s course on Worldbuilding
- How Leslye went from indie publishing to being a hybrid author
- How she transitioned from rapid release to a slower release schedule
- Leslye’s recommendations for helpful writing craft books
https://lpenelope.com/
https://myimaginaryfriends.net/footnotes
Worldbuilding course: https://learn.myimaginaryfriends.net
Podcasts:
https://lpenelope.com/podcast/
https://www.inkandmagic.net
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
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Subscriber-only episode
How do you structure your novel so the middle is as page-turning as the beginning and the end? How do you write a strong heroine? What are content buckets and how can they help with your newsletter?
We dive into these topics with the wonderful Ines Johnson, who joins us to answer your questions! Ines is an expert at breaking down story structure. She shares insights on:
- How Try/Fail cycles help you avoid a saggy middle
- What types of obstacles your protagonist can face
- Where to find inspiration for strong heroines and why character agency is critical
- What to avoid to create likable strong heroines
- Different types of content you can share and how you can share variations on those major types of content
- Writing shorts for subscriptions and then selling them direct
Ineswrites.com
ineswrites.com/ptp - Page Turner Pacing course
If you’re already a supporter, you should have received an email from Buzzsprout with a link to your private RSS feed for the supporter episodes. If you don’t have the link, contact support@buzzsprout.com.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 205 / This episode is all about harnessing the power of direct connection with your readers. Matt Briel from Lulu discusses the value of direct sales as we move away from a distribution-first publishing model.
- Importance of owning customer data
- Why you should start building your direct audience even if you only have one book
- Using Lulu for Kickstarter fulfillment
- Order Import Tool: upload csv files for order fulfillment of crowdfunding or direct sales that Lulu prints and ships for you
- New features that are coming to Lulu, including ribbons and endpapers
- Lulu’s website plug-ins for direct sales
Website: Lulu.com
Lulu’s Publish & Prosper Podcast: https://www.publishprosperpodcast.com/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 204 / Having trouble getting words on the page? Erin P.T. Canning has strategies to help! We delve into how to let go of perfectionism and give yourself permission to write a “bad” first draft. Erin also shares how writing helped her with depression.
- Why it’s important to look backward as well plan for the future
- Making time to write as a busy at-home and working mom
- Turning off the inner critic
- Embracing you genre
- Daydreaming: mentally draft and revise before writing
- Placeholder as the first chapter
Erin’s website: https://erinptcanning.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinptcanningauthor;
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinptcanning
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentswhowrite
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Subscriber-only episode
Opening lines, where to start the book, and prologues
How do you start your book in a way that hooks readers? In this month’s suporter-only episode, we look at compelling beginnings.
We cover the heavy lifting that the open line does, where to start your book, and (controversy!) prologues.
- Famous first lines in literature and why they work
- Some of our personal favorite first lines in books we love
- First lines we’ve written and why we decided on them as our openers
- Using conversation in a first line: yea or yay?
- Where to start your book
- Prologue pros and cons
February’s supporter episode will be a conversation with the fabulous Ines Johnson! What questions do you have for her? Let us know here: https://forms.gle/BjUJVPPgRacJm9dq8
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 203 / Do you want to simplify marketing? Do you want to take your branding up a notch? Do you want to know the trends in writing and publishing? Clayton Noblit of Written Word Media has answers about these topics and also shares tips on where to start with branding and common mistakes new authors often make.
https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support.
Links mentioned:
Instalove course: https://instalove-university.teachable.com/p/ilu?affcode=1725974_-clezvvk
ACFW Virtual Conference - Swoony in the Sweet session on Saturday with Jenny B. Jones: https://acfw.com/acfw-virtual-conference/
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 202 / It’s part two of our trope series–very appropriate for episode #202!
What’s your favorite trope? We asked a range of authors this question, and we’re here to share the answers.
We unpack the benefits of writing tropes, why we love specific tropes, and where to find the favorite examples of the specific trope in books, movies, and television.
💡 We hope this episode sparks inspiration for you!
Tropes discussed:
- Crouching moron/hidden hero
- Second chance romance
- Amnesia,
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Chosen one
- Found family
- Intrepid sleuth
- Inheritance
Authors included in this episode:
- Jo Lallo
- Kait Nolan
- Jennifer Hilt
- Elena Johnson
- Anton Eine
- Lynn Morrison
- Adriana Locke
- Heather Day Gilbert
- Greta Boris
- Deanna Roy
Listen to Part 1: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/195-2/
Instalove course: https://instalove-university.teachable.com/p/ilu?affcode=1725974_-clezvvk
Ink and Magic podcast: https://pod.link/1714112525
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 201 / Mystery author S. L. Hansen shares how she hacked her writing process. She figured out how to fit writing in with her full-time job and also learnedhow to work with her Clifton Strengths to draft her books faster.
Stephanie shares so many great tips that you can personalize to fit your writing personality. We talk about how starting with a log line or blurb can help you stay on track in your writing, why linking habits and strengths helps develop consistency, tracking energy to find your optimum time to write, and different types of rewards you can use for motivation.
Stephanie also shared a pdf: Discover Your Personalized Strategy for Writing Success.
Author website: https://slhansenbooks.com
https://www.subscribepage.io/s5l2w7 - newsletter
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Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 200 / We’re celebrating 200 episodes with a look back (what we learned in 2023) and a look forward to 2024 (trends that matter to authors).
We’re so happy to have such a warm community around the podcast! Thanks for listening and supporting us during the last four years.
Here’s to the next 200 episodes! 🥂
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Top Episodes in 2023:
- How to Thrive in a Flooded Market: Discussing Becca Syme’s New Rules of Publishing
- Angel Lawson on Learning to Use Tropes and Universal Fantasy
- How to Use Tropes to Create Strong Characters and Deepen Conflict with Jennifer Hilt
- How to Pace Your Novel with Ines Johnson
- Olivia Hayle on Reader-Centric Books and Promotion
First episode released on Jan 15, 2020!
Top episodes (All Time):
- Zoe York on Secret Pen Names, Iterating Your Goals, and Tik Tok for Authors
- Holly Darling on the Power of an Email Welcome Sequence
- Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode (Reair)
- Tammi Labrecque on What to Email to Newsletter Subscribers
- What We Wish We’d Known About Creating Characters
Life Trends from Accenture: “trends that will give businesses a way to navigate change in the next 12 months and beyond.”
Trend discussed that impact authors:
-Customer service
-Branding
-Disengaging from tech
Link to article: https://www.accenture.com/us-en/insights/song/accenture-life-trends
Link to Infographic:
https://www.accenture.com/content/dam/accenture/final/capabilities/song/communicate/imagery/LifeTrends24-Infographic.pdf
Year in Review Sell More Books Show episode:
https://www.sellmorebooksshow.com/episode-507-self-publishing-2023-the-year-in-review-with-becca-syme/
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 199 / Julia Stirling is a German romance author of over twenty books. She shares tips for when to go into translation, German covers, and connecting with German readers.
Julia also has some fantastic ideas on newsletter bonus content and a unique book giveaway that brings her new readers and also creates bonds between her readers.
We delve into giving ourselves permission, knowing yourself so you can judge what will work for you, and trusting yourself.
Author website: www.juliastirling.com
German conference for indie authors: Romancecon.de
Links mentioned:
WIKT Episode 51: Zoe York on Goal Setting: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/zoe-york-on-goal-setting/
WIKT 114: Episode Zoe York on Secret Pen Names, Iterating Your Goals, and Tik Tok for Authors: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/114-2/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shout-out on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 198 / Claire Kohler writes Scottish fantasy romance and is also an editor, tutor, and neurodiversity advocate. Claire shares how her autism and ADHD can be both a positive and a negative in her writing career and encourages neurodivergent writers to pursue their goals.
We also talk about slowing down, the power of writing routines, how to connect with other writers, and why representation of neurodivergent characters is important.
Sara is now all-in on Kdramas, and she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to ask Claire for some Kdrama recommendations, which include Extraordinary Attorney Woo, The King’s Affection, Goblin, and several others.
Claire’s website: www.clairekohlerbooks.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 197/ Tara Cremin is the Director of Kobo Writing Life and has great tips for how to go wide, how to reach readers globally, and how Kobo Plus, their non-exclusive subscription platform, helps authors reach new readers.
We also talk about common mistakes Tara sees authors make as well as library distribution and cover trends.
Kobo website: www.kobo.com/writinglife www.kobo.com/p/kwlpodcast
Other links mentioned:
Get Jami’s branding special: jamialbright1@gmail.com
Jami on the Indy Author Podcast: https://www.theindyauthor.com/214---your-persona-is-your-brand.html
Afternoona Delight Podcast: https://www.afternoonadelight.com/podcast
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 196 / Bestselling fantasy author, Helen Scheuerer joins us to discuss the many ways to launch a series and how to craft your launch strategy so that it meshes with your personality, goals, and schedule.
We dig into ARCS, preorders, mindset, dealing with disappointing launches, and common mistakes authors make when launching a series.
Helen’s website: https://helenscheuerer.com/series-launch-bonus/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJVHJMYM
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: The Two Authors Chat Show
https://thetwoauthorschatshow.podbean.com
Jami’s interview on the Two Authors Chat Show podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768/episode/734263342e60729be17faedacd41b408
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Subscriber-only episode
In this supporter-only episode, Jami and Sara discuss one of the most popular tropes, Fish out of Water. They "dive" (see what we did there?) into why the trope is popular across all genres, the plot elements of the Fish out of Water trope, and how several different Fish out of Water subtypes can be layered into a single story.
Then, because Sara loves a list and Jami humors her, they run through subtypes of the trope and list examples from popular entertainment, including:
- Different/Foreign Location
- Tech
- Time Travel
- Expert/Novice
- New powers
- Rich/Poor
- Plus many more . . .
If you're already a supporter, check your private RSS feed for the full episode.
If you're a supporter and don't have the private RSS feed, please email support@buzzsprout.com to get access to your private RSS feed.
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 195 / What’s your favorite trope? We asked a range of authors this question, and we’re here to share the answers as well as unpack the benefits of writing tropes, why we love specific tropes, and where to find the best examples of the specific trope in books, movies, and television.
Tropes discussed: found family, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, grumpy sunshine, and marriage of convenience.
Authors included in this episode: Wendy Vella, Ines Johnson, Becca Syme, Daniel Willcocks, Matty Dalrymple, and Megan Haskell.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Our Sponsor: Bookfunnel.com
https://www.bookfunnel.com/wikt-podcast
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 194 / Patrick O’Donnell is a retired Milwaukee Police Department sergeant with a 25-year career as well as an author and podcaster.
He shares common mistakes he sees in characterization and police procedure in genre fiction. We discuss how to go beyond overused tropes and how to get the details of investigations right without boring the reader.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Links:
Patrick O’Donnell’s Links: https://www.copsandwriters.com
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Patrick-ODonnell/author/B01N1RBP40
Cop Camp: https://sleuthsandstorytellers.com/cop-camp
Our Sponsor: BookFunnel.com/WIKT-Podcast
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 193 / Kat Addams is an author of contemporary romantic comedies and women empowerment non-fiction titles. She shares how her career path looks different than she expected, but after learning she didn’t have to stay stuck in a toxic relationship or stay in a genre lane, she’s now where she’s supposed to be.
We discuss giving yourself permission, self worth, confidence, and how important it is to realize that you can change your situation whether it's writing in a different genre or leaving an abusive relationship.
Author website: kataddams.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Our Sponsor: Bookfunnel
https://bookfunnel.com/wikt-podcast/ - $50 off the yearly fee for new accounts excluding the first time author plan
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 192 / Dark romance author Natlie Knight joins us to share how she sells to readers first on her website and uses the retail platforms for discovery.
We also talk about the importance of highlighting back catalogue books, why you should start your newsletter early, and how Natalie uses branded merchandise to promote her books.
Links:
Jami on Two Authors Chatting podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768/episode/734263342e60729be17faedacd41b408
Sara on Indy Author Podcast: https://bit.ly/TIAP210
Author website: www.realtabooromance.com www.natalieknightromance.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Sponsor: Bookfunnel https://bookfunnel.com/wikt-podcast/
Damon’s Interview
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 191 / Historical fiction author Karen Heenan shares how her writing career started with a Tweet that drew the attention of a publisher, and how she eventually transitioned from working with a small press to indie publishing.
We also talk about focusing on building a backlist, validation, and learning to filter out advice and writing practices that don’t work with your strengths.
Author website: https://www.karenheenan.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
⭐️ Podcast sponsor this month is BookFunnel! Get $50 off the yearly fee for new accounts. (Excludes the first time author plan.) https://bookfunnel.com/wikt-podcast/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 190 / Arlene McFarlane shares some unusual promotion ideas, including in-person sales and co-writing. We also talk about perfectionism and incorporating your background and interests into your writing and promotion.
Links:
Author website: https://www.arlenemcfarlane.com/
Jami on the Two Authors’ Chat Show:
https://pod.link/1671876768/episode/734263342e60729be17faedacd41b408
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
00:39 Introduction
13:21 Hitting Milestones
15:15 Listening to Feedback
20:11 Battling Perfectionism
23:11 Not for the Faint of Heart
27:14 Different ways to Market
28:28 Authenticity
33:02 CoWriting
Transcript:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/190-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 189 / KimBook York writes across multiple genres including romance, fantasy, and non-fiction. We talk about why there’s no “correct” way to write a book and why it’s important to trust your instincts in both writing and marketing.
We also discuss the structure of serials and how that can apply to other genres, how to be a discovery writer and maintain a subscription, and how to avoid burnout.
Links:
KimBook York website: https://houseofyork.info
https://houseofyork.substack.com
Kimboo’s spreadsheet for outlining a serial: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1E6I6Z4TwKgVtUTaid28J2ng_tSxU0HjauV9OievkcTE/edit#gid=0
Kimboo’s Podcast: Around the Writer's Table https://pod.link/1615627520
Joanna Penn's Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thecreativepenn/writing-the-shadow-turn-your-inner-darkness-into-words
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
0:37 Introduction
9:56 3 Fs of Success
11:32 No One Way
14:25 Consistency in Marketing
18:55 Joy of Writing
22:41 Don't Stop
27:03 What's a Serial?
35:03 Structuring a Serial
39:33 Serial Length
42:10 Keeping Serials Fresh
44:35 Ream & Subscription Tiers
50:17 Avoiding Burnout with Subscriptions
53:25 Subscriptions for Discovery Writers
56:09 Importance of Community
Transcript:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/189-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 188 / Contemporary romance author Cadence Keys has only been publishing for a few years. She describes how she's found success publishing wide and selling directly to readers.
We also delve into the topic of setting back from social media, something Cadence has chosen to do. Instead of using the social platforms, she’s investing in her newsletter and in her Ream subscribers.
https://www.cadencekeysauthor.com
Links mentioned:
https://heartbreathings.teachable.com/p/hb90-bootcamp
Ream
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
0:28 Introduction
9:26 Cadence's Bio
12:19 Definition of Success
13:14 Integration of timelines & rewriting
16:16 Opting out of Social Media
18:36 False assumptions
22:41 Cadence on the Comparison Game
24:38 Connecting to readers through Direct Sales
26:05 Various Direct Sales platforms
30:53 Pivoting & Direct Sales Bundles
33:08 Klavio and Sequences
38:43 Time Management
41:48 Ream
47:08 Set up for Success
Transcript:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/188-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 187 / Do you need help with your branding, ad copy, or writing career strategy? Do you have questions or ideas that you’d like to brainstorm with another author about? Jami has helped many authors with everything from overwhelm to sales pages to branding.
Jami shares the questions and topics that come up most often, the common mistakes she sees, and tips on when it’s time to ask for help. We talk about making money as an author, series creation, pen names, newsletter building, launching and much more.
Author website: JamiAlbright.com/authorservices
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
0:05 Introduction
10:54 Supporter Chat
12:05 Jami's Consulting
14:54 Who can Jami help
21:33 Should you go full time?
27:19 When should you get help?
28:18 Common issues
37:31 Amazon Sales Pages
44:11 Author Websites
Transcript:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/187-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 186 / Would you like another stream of income that doesn’t involve ads or writing new content? In-person events like craft fairs and farmer’s markets might be a good option for you. Lisa Bourchard is a paranormal cozy mystery author who sells direct to readers at local events and shares her tips and lessons learned for in-person events.
Author website: LisaBouchard.com
Lisa’s schedule: https://lisabouchard.com/meet-lisa/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
Transcript:
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 185 / Do you want a better work/life balance? Would you like to declutter and systematize your life? ⚖️
Katlyn Duncan, multi-published author of adult and young adult fiction, joins us today to talk about how creatives, especially mom writers, can create a lifestyle that fits with their values and not be stressed out. 🦸♀️
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
[00:10:47] Strategic quitting
[00:13:50] Avoiding the regret circle
[00:16:10] Balancing children, school, relationships, self, decluttering, and well-being
[00:21:49] Simplify by prioritizing, automating, and delegating
[00:26:57] How time tracking and streamlining tasks lets you relax
[00:29:36] Parenting challenges: adaptability, multiple schedules, asking for help, and self-care
[00:34:30] Boundaries, communication, prioritize work and family.
[00:39:11] Creating efficient systems
[00:42:44] Importance of community support
Katlyn’s website: www.katlynduncan.com
From Chaos 2 Control Method: Fromchaos2control.com
Support the show
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices ❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5 🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/ The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 184 / Sara’s second Kickstarter closed out over $20,000 (🎉) and she shares what she’s learned from her second campaign.
If you’re thinking about running a Kickstarter campaign, you’ll want to hear Sara’s tips for creating a compelling Kickstarter Story page, staying organized, and info on changes to the Kickstarter platform.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Lessons Learned from a Second Kickstarter: * Launch/planning * How Sara kept track of everything * What Sara did differently and what she repeated * Kickstarter changes
Links mentioned:
Sara’s Kickstarter page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sararosett/murder-in-the-alps
Author Ecosystem https://authorecosystem.com
Time Stamps:
0:27 Introduction
4:03 Launch/planning
11:16 Recruiting other authors
17:04 How Sara kept track of everything
19:46 What Sara did differently
26:59 Kickstarter changes
31:39 Tips on Fulfillment
Transcript: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/184-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 183 / Do you want to move away from depending on ads and social media for books sales? Marketing, business, and visibility strategist Kerrie Fitzgerald joins us to share six ways to grow your author business organically.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Intro Links:
❤️ Jami speaking September 9th at League of Romance Writers in Houston: https://www.leagueromwriters.com/monthly-speaker/
Interview Links:
👉 Kerrie’s website: www.kerriefitzgerald.com
📌 The 6 Figure Product Business Podcast: https://pod.link/1539990265
📚 Kerrie’s book: Customer Obsession https://books2read.com/u/brBwWe
🎧 Kerrie’s podcast episode: 8 Ways to expand your product brand to next level beyond social media that inspired our episode: https://pod.link/1539990265/episode/a0f3bea3586d2a340014f9190e7c640a
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Chapter Markers:
00:40 Introduction & Updates
6:39 Interview Begins
10:36 Kerrie's Books
14:49 Common Entrepreneur Mistakes
20:33 Podcast Appearances
28:07 YouTube & Google Searches
34:47 Pinterest
39:06 Gift Guides
47:44 Influencers
52:39 Customer Created Content
Transcript:
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Support the show
Episode 182 / A.G. Riddle shares his definition of success and discusses how he balances creative fulfillment with the demands of the writing business. We also discussed a slower release schedule and how he transitioned from indie to traditional publishing.
Author website: agriddle.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 181 / Contemporary romance author Catharina Maura shares how she combined her favorite trope, marriage of convenience, with lessons she learned writing her early books to create a best-selling series.
We also delve into why marketing is an extension of storytelling, why you don’t have to do everything yourself, and how to keep readers thinking about your books and talking about them, using bonus material and a drip campaign.
Catharina Maura’s website: https://catharinamaura.com/
https://www.instagram.com/catharinamaura/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
We have a supporter chat - Aug 27th at 3pm CST. Link will be in the group.
Transcript:
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 180 / Do you want to reach library readers? Erin Wright is here to help us understand how libraries buy books (ebooks, audio and print), what formats libraries prefer, and how to let libraries know about our books.
Author website: https://erinwright.net/authors
*Supporter chat Aug 27th at 3pm CST.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Transcript: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/180-2
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 179 / We dug into the archives this week and pulled out one of our early episodes with David Gaughran, which is full of helpful and relevant advice.
David decodes Amazon and breaks down Bookbub ads for authors in addition to writing historical fiction and sci fi. David shares how his mistakes have shaped his decision to reboot his fiction and nonfiction books.
Supporter chat Aug 27th at 3pm CST.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
InkersCon: https://learn.inkerscon.com/inkers-con-2023-digital-launch/ You can get a discount with one of our codes: JAMI23 or SARA23
Historical Mystery Day Bookfunnel Promo in Sept https://www.sararosett.com/HMD23
Sara’s 2023 Kickstarter: https://www.sararosett.com/ks
Links:
David Gaughran’s website: https://www.DavidGaughran.com
Starting from Zero course: https://courses.davidgaughran.com/courses/starting-from-zero
Transcript: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/179-2/
More links:
🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 178 / Do you want to improve the dialogue in your novels? Author and dialogue coach Jeff Elkins shares tips on differentiating character voices and tips for using (or not!) dialogue tags. We also touch on the “rules” of writing versus reader expectations.
Author website: https://jeffelkinswriter.com/
https://dialoguedoctor.com/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Transcript: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/178-2/
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 177 / Podcaster and mystery/ suspense author Matty Dalrymple joins us to talk about what she’s learned about how she’s learned to focus on writing her novels. We also chat about the benefits of writing short stories and podcasting for authors.
Author website: https://www.mattydalrymple.com/
https://www.theindyauthor.com/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Other links mentioned:
Link to download Matty’s Writer's Digest article "Creating Your Story Frame": https://www.theindyauthor.com/creating-a-story-frame.html
Link to more on Podcasting for Authors: https://www.theindyauthor.com/podcasting-for-authors.html
Link to more on short fiction: https://www.theindyauthor.com/short-fiction.html
Matt Holmes’ Facebook ads class https://www.matthewjholmes.com/jumpstart-facebook-ads
Our Sponsor: BookVault.app
Link: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/BookVault
WIKT podcast episode with BookVault: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/162-2
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 176 / Direct sales is the current hot topic in the author community, but there’s lots of choices to be made. Landing page or store? Kickstarter or subscription? And taxes–what about taxes? Hello, decision fatigue. Fear not, we've got your back.
In this episode, we break down direct sales into five main types 🖐️. We'll walk you through the difficulty level of each type, explain what kind of authors are best suited for each, and share some invaluable resources 🧰.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time Stamps:
Buy Button
Difficulty: Easy
Software options: Bookfunnel, Payhip, WooCommerce, Lulu
Best for: Authors who want to add direct sales to their income stream, but don’t want to spend time on ads
Recommended resources: Bookfunnel integrations guide https://authors.bookfunnel.com/help/delivery-actions/
- Podcasts: most recent podcast with Jami Davis (WIKT Episode 170) https://wishidknownforwriters.com/170-2/
Landing Page
Difficulty: Medium
Software options: Bookfunnel, Lead Pages, ThriveCart, etc with BookVault, Lulu
Best for: Authors who have either a few products and don’t want to create a store or authors with a huge backlist who want to sell direct, but don’t want to spend a massive amount of time uploading backlist to a store
- Podcast: Nell Goddin (WIKT Episode 161) https://wishidknownforwriters.com/161-2/
Recommended resources:
Russell and Monica’s Author Ecosystem https://authorecosystem.com/overview/
Store (usually Shopify)
Difficulty: Advanced
Software options: Payhip, Gumroad, Shopify, etc along with email providers like Klaviyo and ConvertKit along with BookVault or Lulu
Best for: Authors who have multiple series and enjoy ads
Podcasts:
- Morgana Best (WIKT Episode 136) https://wishidknownforwriters.com/136-2/
- Rebel Author Podcast with Morgana Best https://pod.link/rebelauthor/episode/e446454bee2596c7a50843f72a8bee65
- Rachel Hanna (WIKT Episode 172) https://wishidknownforwriters.com/172-2/
- The Creative Penn interview with Katie Cross https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2022/06/20/selling-books-direct-on-shopify/
Recommended resources:
Morgana Best’s Stop Making Others Rich (book) and Authors Selling Direct (course) https://best-business-for-authors.teachable.com/p/authors-selling-on-shopify?affcode=1328780_rjjijgkt (Affiliate Link)
Kickstarter
Difficulty: Medium to Difficult
Software options: Bookfunnel, Backerkit, BookVault
Best for: Authors who want to sell to their own audience plus gain new readers using the Kickstarter algorithm; authors who don’t enjoy ads
Podcasts:
- Russell and Monica on Kickstarter (WIKT 105) https://wishidknownforwriters.com/105-2/
Recommended resources:
Author Ecosystem https://authorec
Support the show
Episode 175 / Romance author and creator of the Wide for the Win Facebook group, Erin Wright, shares a blueprint for going from KU to wide as well as marketing tips for selling wide–without ads!
Erin’s website: https://erinwright.net/
https://erinwright.net/authors
https://erinwright.net/consulting
Wide for the Win Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/wideforthewin
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/175-2/
Our Sponsor: Bookvault.app
Link: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/BookVault
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 174 / We attended Inkers Con Author Conference in Dallas a few weeks ago and we’re here to share our favorite moments and our biggest takeaways on taglines, tropes, direct sales, productivity, backlist sales, and so much more.
The digital version of the Inkers Con conference is already open. Grab your ticket here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/Inkers23 (Affiliate link). Use either one of our codes, Jami23 or Sara23, for $50 off.
You can watch the recorded sessions or participate in the live online events like roundtables, author Q & A, as well as networking and co-writing sessions.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Our Sponsor: BookVault.app
Link: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/BookVault
WIKT Episode 162: Print Books: Adding Extra Value and Maximizing Profit with Alex Smith of BookVault https://wishidknownforwriters.com/162-2/
Transcript:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/174-2/
Support the show
Episode 173 / Raythe Reign writes in the gay paranormal genre and joins us to talk about writing serials, podcasting audiobooks as a lead magnet, and running a membership on her own site.
Author website: www.RaytheReign.com & https://www.youtube.com/@RaytheReign
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Our Sponsor: tryvellum.com/wish
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
H. Claire Taylor, owner of FFS Media and versatile writer of humor, paranormal police, procedural, paranormal cozy, mystery, and crime fiction, joins us for our May supporter chat.
We discuss using the Enneagram for plotting and character development.
We also answer listener questions, including decisions about timelines in fiction series and promotion options for new authors.
Episode 172 / Women’s fiction author, Rachel Hanna shares about writing women’s fiction and branching out into direct sales using Shopify and Klaviyo.
Author website: www.RachelHannaAuthor.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
How do you balance writing, motherhood, and finding joy in your craft? Today, we had the pleasure of chatting with the talented Belinda Kroll, a cozy fantasy writer who's mastered the art of the joyful side hustle. Belinda shares her journey from vanity press publishing to indie success, and how she's cultivated a thriving newsletter and community along the way.
Discover Belinda's efficient writing process that keeps her joy intact, and learn how her current lifestyle influences her writing and fits in with her busy life. We also explore her journey of utilizing Canva Pro to create a content calendar on Instagram and compose for TikTok, maximizing her social media presence to market her work to readers.
Join us as we dive into the world of cozy fantasy and paranormal elements, examining the rules and distinctions within the genre. Belinda shares her experience building a community on Patreon, the importance of setting expectations, and her all-in-one planner for Discovery Writers. Don't miss this insightful conversation with the brilliant Belinda Kroll!
Author website: https://worderella.com/links
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Thanks to our industry sponsor, Vellum. You can build, style, and preview your book, then purchase when you’re ready to publish. tryvellum.com/wish
Support the show
Episode 170 / Fantasy and sci-fi author Jamie Davis joins us to share insights on author branding, diversifying income, plus the best and worst advice he’d been given.
Find out how Jamie reaches his core readers and stays engaged with his audience, while also branching out into diversifying his income streams. Learn about promoting Kickstarter with additional content, and why failure can be a necessary step for growth.
We also talk about his upcoming Kickstarter, selling direct through his WooCommerce shop on his website, and how he plans to add subscriptions to his author business.
Author website:
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Jamie Davis website: https://jamiedavisbooks.com
Jamie Davis Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/podmedic/created
Support the show
Episode 169 / Historical mystery author SarahWoodbury shares how she researches and writes her novels set in medieval Wales. We also delve into writing a long series, the power of a free first in series book, and creating Youtube videos for readers.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show highlights:
- Indie publishing, the stigma around it, its benefits and challenges
- Challenges in finding a cover artist with the desired flexibility
- The freedom and possibilities in writing series
- The mistake of focusing on a small number of books and not continuing to produce content
- The importance of accuracy in historical fiction and the thrill of research
- Creation of video content for a Youtube channel based on a map of 500 places to be visited
- Sarah's focus on presenting interesting facts and stories while her husband handles the video production
- The challenge of being the face of the YouTube channel and the passion for storytelling
- The importance of consistency in writing every day
Sarah Woodbury: https://www.sarahwoodbury.com/
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
We had a fantastic chat with H. Claire Taylor as our guest.
Classes: ffs.media/classes
Retreat: https://www.ffs.media/liberated-writer
Topics covered:
-Handling time in a book series
-Pantsing/Discovery writer and creating character using the Enneagram
-Writing across genres
-What new authors should watch out for
-How new authors can find readers
-Where do subscriptions fit in the business model of new authors
Episode 168 / Jami Albright and Sara Rosett discuss how to create compelling characters. We look at the pilot episode of Ted Lasso and delve into why the characters of Rebecca and Ted are fascinating and how the writers made them well-rounded characters.
Special supporter event: chat with H. Claire Taylor on May 28th. Watch for info in your private RSS feed.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Time stamps:
[00:01:32] Sara attended the Subscription for Authors (https://subscriptionsforauthors.com/) summit and learned about different subscription models, including the tactic of giving every tier the same thing.
[00:07:15] How the first episode of Ted Lasso introduces Rebecca and Ted and contrasts their personalities through action, small details, and dialog
[00:14:19] Hints about backstory without info dump
[00:16:10] Ted Lasso is a flat arc character who evolves in Season 2. The show is an intriguing concept that blends both flat arc and robust character arc
[00:30:51] Flipping a trope is attractive to people readers
[00:32:26] Using a “train wreck” scenario and underdog trope, and how Rebecca’s actions create sympathy for Ted
[00:39:41] How the reveal of Ted’s problems in his marriage and separation from his son compounds our desire to see Ted do well
[00:41:20] How Roy’s interactions with Phoebe soften his character
[00:44:55] Unlikable characters can be fascinating and pull in readers. Examples: House, Snape, Agatha Raisin
[00:46:02] Using the same techniques to make villains three-dimensional
[00:50:47] Gradual change in characters is effective and easily noticed by readers
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://books2read.com/u/mVKoJJ
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett: https://books2read.com/howtowriteaseries
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
H. Claire Taylor will join Jami and Sara for the next Private Supporter Chat on Sunday, May 28th at 3pm CST.
Listen for the link to join.
H. Claire Taylor writes satire and cozies and uses her knowledge of the Enneagram to help authors write compelling characters and series. She's the author of Reclaim Your Author Career, an Enneagram-based approach to aligning your author career. And she's run two successful Kickstarters.
Link to the chat is in the episode.
If you're a supporter, but don't have access to your private RSS feed to listen to this announcement with details on joining the chat, email support@ buzzsprout.com for help.
Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Episode 167 / Is it time to hire an author assistant? Jenna Lee answers our questions about outsourcing, work/life balance, NDAs, and so much more.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Highlights:
- Jenna’s background as an author and how it helps her as an author assistant
- How to know when to outsource
- How to decide what tasks to outsource
- How to interview of an assistant
- Tips for giving feedback to a team member
- Dealing with fear of handing off tasks to someone else
- Tips for an author to build a team to support them
- Key things to look out for when outsourcing
- Commonalities in writers who have been successful over the long haul
Timestamps:
[00:10:25] Jenna Lee is an author and owner of The Daring Press. She started off as an author and had success with their first book, a reverse harem paranormal romance.
[00:16:51] To get support for your author business, make a list of tasks and identify what you love and dislike doing. Outsource tasks you dislike, and create a job application for the person you need, considering their personality and strengths. Conduct a video interview to ensure they are the right fit.
[00:20:55] Set up processes and systems before bringing in a new team member to ensure a smooth start; trial period of the first month involves establishing communication, apps, and tasks; regularly check in to ensure the person is doing a satisfactory job.
[00:23:57] Focus on one thing at a time for success rather than overwhelming yourself with multiple “shoulds.”
[00:28:53] Managing workload to avoid burnout and mistakes when hiring help for your author business.
[00:35:49] Meeting on Zoom is important to assess fit and skills. Ask thought-provoking questions and consider sample tasks.
[00:41:10] Setting work hours and communication boundaries with clients and team members to manage expectations and avoid emergencies in non-life-saving industries.
Links:
Daring Press: www.thedaringpress.com
Jenna Lee’s books https://jennalee.biz/product-category/books/
Morgana Best’s class on Building a Shopify Store: (Affiliate Link) https://best-business-for-authors.teachable.com/p/authors-selling-on-shopify?affcode=1328780_rjjijgkt
Episode 20: How to Find and Work with an Author Assistant with Adriel Wiggins: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/how-to-find-and-work-with-an-author-assistant-with-adriel-wiggins/
Episode 37: Zara Keane on Nurturing Your Newsletter https://wishidknownforwriters.com/zara-keane-on-nurturing-your-newsletter/
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan
Support the show
Episode 166 / From testing out book covers to using spreadsheets to track release dates, Romantic comedy author Deanna Roy shares her tried and tested marketing strategies for self-publishing success. But it's not all about marketing tactics–Deanna also shares her personal story of finding success in the ever-changing world of publishing and the importance of finding a supportive community of fellow authors.
Intro:
Jami’s author consulting: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- From 350 rejections to self-publishing success
- Advice to new authors: publish a short story first
- Lessons learned about marketing: books that appeal to warm vs. cold audiences
- How Deanna conducts a cover test for each book
- Tactics to keep income up during emotionally trying times
- Imposter syndrome
- Indie author JJ. Knight's journey into traditional publishing
- Exploring a new genre with women's fiction and the benefits of “hobby books”
- Using retailer recommendation engines to maximize book sales
Author website: http://www.deannaroy.com
J.J.Knight.com
ReadlaughSwoon.com
Other mentions:
Julia Kent on the Emotional Needs of Readers https://wishidknownforwriters.com/julia-kent-on-the-emotional-needs-of-readers-writing-ahead-and-opportunities-in-audio/
How Pippa Grant Revolutionized her Writing Career with a New Pen Name
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/how-pippa-grant-revolutionized-her-writing-career-with-a-new-pen-name/
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Support the show
Episode 165 / Thriller writer Amanda Traylor shares:
- The challenges of writing commercial fiction
- How she shifted from romance to thrillers with romantic subplots and why that genre is a better fit for her
- How she licensed a thriller series to a publisher then got the rights reverted
- Writing as a parent of a young child
Intro link: Greta and Megan’s kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/authorwheel/preparingtowrite
Timestamps:
[00:17:40] Marketing success varies due to individual circumstance and timely changes in the industry. Best practices may not work for everyone, and it's important to remain patient and pivot to new methods when necessary.
[00:20:31] Amanda reflects on her past assumptions about her craft and the publishing industry. She learned that having education in the area was not enough.
[00:24:05] The publishing industry is a hard business and rejection is common. To succeed, you must divorce yourself from the outcome and be willing to learn and grow from mistakes.
[00:26:28] Write what you want, but it may not sell. Don't assume you are your audience, and be willing to make changes to appeal to them. Follow established tropes to succeed.
[00:28:29] Amanda advises writers to be open-minded towards feedback and marketability of their work.
[00:29:58] Amanda transitioned from young adult romance to romantic suspense, where she enjoyed playing with tropes. She focused on the mystery/thriller aspect while still including a romantic subplot.
[00:36:15]Amanda signed over her crime thriller series to a publisher but ultimately took the rights back due to lack of marketing success. The experience was a good learning opportunity and the split was amicable.
[00:43:39] Amanda took a year off due to lack of help during pandemic.
[00:45:27] Amanda shares her struggle with balancing motherhood and writing but finds success in separating her time and being present in the moment. She also learned to write on the go, utilizing time during her child's preschool commute to dictate words into her phone.
[00:38:44] Networking with fellow writers and publishing professionals is crucial for support, understanding, and career advancement.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Amanda Traylor website: www.amandatraylor.com
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 164 / We delve into writing craft this week with mystery author and podcaster John Gaspard, who shares how to use filmmaking techniques in novel writing.
We also discuss finding unique aspects of our lives and using them in our books. We also cover some practical tips like the importance of eliminating unnecessary details between scenes and chapters, as well as cutting the last sentence or two of a scene, a technique recommended by Aaron Sorkin.
John also shared how he uses existing content to create podcasts for readers.
Links:
Save the date: Written Word Media series: What We Wish We’d Known About Publishing With Sara Rosett and Jami Albright (April 27th, 2023 at 12:00pm ET): https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/speaker-series/
Show notes:
Timestamps:
[00:00:52] Writing Veteran Transitions to Fiction Novelist
[00:09:04] Don't encourage friends and family to buy
[00:11:32] Author Buys Back Rights From Publisher: Success Story
[00:19:17] Shifting Perceptions of Traditional Publishing vs Self-Publishing
[00:21:27] The Popcorn Principles: Filmmaking Techniques for Writing"
[00:23:33] Exploit Your Unique Perspective in Filmmaking
[00:27:12] Maximize Impact: Lessons on Scene Structure
[00:32:44] Leveling up: Revealing Character and Backstory through Dialog
[00:36:38] Podcasting Chapters of Your Novel
[00:42:31] The Timeless Podcast: Evergreen Content
Author website: https://www.albertsbridgebooks.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Support the show
Episode 163 / Dark reverse harem romance author Angel Lawson shares the importance of understanding and applying tropes and universal fantasy concepts in her angsty novels of atonement. Angel describes past struggles with burnout and anxiety, and how she navigated through it. We also talk about co-writing, Kickstarter, consistency, and how bookplates and stickers helped her build a loyal fanbase.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode!
Subscriptions for Authors Summit 2023
Written Word Media series: What We Wish We’d Known About Publishing With Sara Rosett and Jami Albright
Timestamps:
- [00:58] From Fanfiction to Indie Author Success Story
- [07:08] Overcoming Anxiety and Creativity Burnout
- [16:56] Learning to Write with Instinct and Trope
- [21:47] Creating Dark, Trauma-Filled Romance Novels
- [29:55] Building a loyal fanbase
- [36:36] Genre Switch Proves Costly
- [41:37] Learning to Stay in Your Lane as an Author
- [50:19] Co-writers push genre boundaries with dark romance
- [53:03]Co-Writing Success
- [57:22] Readers Love for Free Bookplates and Kickstarter
Angel Lawson’s website
Angel Lawson’s consulting
More links:The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
It was so great to chat with you all! 💜
Topics we covered:
Question from Dee: How do you get a newsletter e-mail list started before you have a book? Where do you get the initial e-mails for people who might be interested in your genre?
BookFunnel
Story Origin
Prolific Works
AuthorXP
Episode 141:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/tammi-labrecque-on-what-to-email-to-newsletter-subscribers/
Episode 64: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/jami-and-sara-dish-on-newsletters-and-answer-other-burning-questions/
What would Jami do if she were launching today?
Email list
Network with other authors
KU Express Facebook group
Book Sirens
LibraryThing.com
Advertising sites:
RobinReads
BookSpry
FussyLibrarian
Freebooksy
Written Word Media
Writing a Series:
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett https://books2read.com/howtowriteaseries
Print Sales:
BookVault
Shopify
Woocommerce
LemonSqueezy
Etsy
Jot Forms
Printful
Printify
See you next time!
Support the show
Episode 162 / Alex Smith shares how BookVault prioritizes the quality of the book and the reader's experience. He details a new American print partner that will enable faster and cheaper shipping as well innovations with color printing, distribution, and bundling. We also discuss direct sales, mistakes authors make with their printed books, and–wait for it–ribbons! Yes, bespoke options are coming to BookVault.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
[00:02:04] Book Vault history and how they came to work with indie authors.
[00:03:57] Print on demand quality has improved, offering comparable results to offset printing.
[00:06:09] Indies focus on quality, adding value, and providing a premium product.
[00:07:31] Invested in inkjet technology; billed on ink usage, which allows BookVault to print single color pages.
[00:09:01] How attending author conferences allows BookVault to quickly adapt to new ideas that indie authors are interested in.
[00:13:25] How BookVault can help authors bundle products for direct sales with fake ISBNs. They also can shrink wrap or send bundles in one big box, and they offer discounts for large quantities.
[00:17:06] Common mistakes authors make with printed editions.
[00:18:46] How to maximize profits through staggered distribution with exclusive release in our own direct stores first and then wider release.
[00:23:53] Trends: People less reliant on Amazon, bypassing retailers; print on demand for children's books.
[00:24:52] US print partner coming soon to fulfill US orders for quicker and cheaper shipping.
BookVault: https://bookvault.app/
BookVault Promo Code: BV-WIKT for 100% off a title on Bookvault (It can be used by existing customers too!)
Keywords:
Print on demand, indie publishers, spiral bound, wire bound, hard back, stamping, jackets, shipping, inkjet technology, bundles, shrink-wrap, fake ISBN, children's books, Alex Smith, Book Vault platform, offset printers, direct sales, maximizing profits.
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
🎉 We’re looking forward to chatting with you on April 11 at 7pm CST. Bring your questions and topics!
If you're a supporter of the podcast, listen to the super-short message for details on how to get into the chat.
🙋♀️ If you can’t be there but want your question answered, you can fill out this form: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/questions
See you soon!
Support the show
Episode 161 / Nell Goddin experienced long Covid and wasn’t able to write or release books for several years. Now she’s using direct sales to revive her author business. We also talk about the importance of persistence, not limiting ourselves when it comes to mindset, and asking for help.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Jami’s author consulting https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices
📣 New Date!! First private Zoom chat for supporters – April 11th at 7pm CST
Show notes:
- How Nell moved from literary writing to genre fiction later in life
- Why Nell layers elements like a French setting and French food into her mysteries, which appeal to readers and keep her series interesting to write
- How Nell learned to allow herself to make mistakes
- How Nell uses a simple set up for her direct sales: landing page and a checkout page
- How she sources text for her landing pages from comments on her Facebook ads
- The link between doing direct sales and an increase in sales on the major retailers
You can find Nell at https://goddinbooks.com/
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 160 / How do you succeed in a market flooded with books? The Gold Rush in publishing is over and authors have to adjust. Sara and Jami discuss Becca Syme’s “New Rules of Publishing,” which gives three business verticals authors can lean into to be successful when the water is more red than blue.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
First Private Zoom Chat for supporters - April 6th at 7pm CST https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Author Wheel - 7 Days to Your Author Brand: https://www.subscribepage.com/authorbrandchallenge
Show notes:
New Rules of Publishing Video from Becca Syme:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-I_LwrV2rA
- Market has changed - flooded, not the “gold rush” anymore/Red water not blue water
- Horizontal vs. vertical platforms
- First Private Zoom Chat - April 6th at 7pm CST. We’ll send out that morning, so check your inboxes.
- https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
- Primary types of vertical platforms for authors and examples
Books
Sara
Lindsay Buroker https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/12119656-lindsay-buroker-on-pen-names-podcasting-and-rapid-release-reair
Marie Force
Person
Jami
Lucy Score https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/12119725-lucy-score-on-building-a-backlist-with-series-as-well-as-standalones
Tonya Kappes https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/12119723-tonya-kappes-on-reader-focused-promotion
Pippa Grant https://www.buzzsprout.com/2121723/12119778-how-pippa-grant-revolutionized-her-writing-career-with-a-new-pen-name
World
The Witcher
Marvel
Twilight
50 Shades of Gray
Sherlock Holmes
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 159 / Do you want to connect with readers and create a new income stream that’s consistent and independent of the giant corporate tech companies? Join us as we talk with Emilia Rose and Michael Evans of Ream.ink about how to create a subscription for your readers.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How Emilia and Michael came to work with Ream
- What they wish authors knew about subscriptions
- Why focusing too much on pricing is a mistake
- Understanding where subscriptions fit in the reader journey
- Why consistency is key
- How authors use their subscriptions to test ideas
- How to promote subscriptions to your readers
- Trends in subscriptions and what’s on the horizon for creators
Subscriptions for Authors subscriptionsforauthors.com
Ream ream.ink
Emilia’s website Emiliarosewriting.com
Episode 134: Emilia Rose on Subscriptions: How to Connect with Readers and Diversify Your Income https://wishidknownforwriters.com/134-2/
Top 500 Fiction Authors in Subscriptions 2022 https://subscriptionsforauthors.com/top-fiction-authors-in-subscriptions-2022/
Jami will be at Charm City Romanticon in Baltimore, March 24-26, 2023 https://www.facebook.com/CharmCityRomanticon/
Links:
More links
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 158 / Do you want to change genres, but aren’t sure if your readers will follow you? Dark romance author Maria Luis shares how she brought her contemporary steamy romance to her new dark romance books. We also delve into reader expectations and moving away from a rapid release schedule.
Maria’s website: www.marialuis.org
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How focusing on living in the present and spending less time on social media helps produce better mental health
- How Maria became more intentional about incorporating tropes into her books and how it pays off in marketing
- Maria is a mood writer and describes how she leans into that when planning and drafting a book and how it helped her when she transitioned to a new genre
- Maria’s advice for new authors and what she’d do differently if she were starting over today
- How Maria mines the “popular highlights” of her current books to create blurbs and ad copy and research what her readers want
- How Maria used free short stories in her newsletter for a year prior to changing genres to bring her readers along to the new genre
Private Zoom Chat for supporters on March 15 at 5pm CST. Check your email for a link!
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
___________________________________
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 157 / Romance author, screenwriter, and educator Ines Johnson joins us to talk about why pacing is so important when crafting your novel as well as self care, direct sales, and her new podcast, Ines Johnson is Having a Breakdown.
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How Ines rescheduled her time to include self care
- Her best business lesson: selling direct
- How Ines uses Facebook ads to reach new readers with her direct sales
- Using a print omnibus for direct sales
- Why mistakes are “little gifts” because we can learn from them
- How Ines took her knowledge as a screenwriter and created the Page Turner Pacing course
- The most important thing authors need to know about pacing
- How genre a pacing gives you guide rails and teaches rules
- You're doing a podcast too. Tell us about how that's going and why you're doing a podcast in addition to the course.
Author website and other links mentioned:
Ineswrites.com
ineswrites.com/ptp
Ines Johnson is Having a Breakdown Podcast: https://ineswrites.com/breakdown/
Episode 99: Ines Johnson on Happiness, the Surprising Benefits of Failing, and Tips to Organize Your Writing Life: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/99-2/
Episode 145: Becca Mysoor, the Fairy Plot-Mother, on Collaboration https://wishidknownforwriters.com/145-2/
Buzzcast Podcast: https://buzzcast.buzzsprout.com
Pirate Ship: PirateShip.com
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
___________________________________
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 156 / Do you want to get your book into other languages? This week Sara and Jami dive into the various options available to indie authors for translations, including licensing your rights to a publisher and doing it yourself (project-managing the translation of your books).
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How to vet translation inquiries
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate
- How to find a translator if you want to do it yourself
- German site to promote books: buchdeals.de
- Research covers in other languages
- Sara’s tips:
-Commit to at least three books
-Use batching in the translation process
-Create a metadata sheet in each language for your books that includes blurb, tagline, series name, subtitles, author bio, etc.
Episode 58: 100+ Translations: Tanya Anne Crosby on Lessons Learned
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/100-translations-tanya-anne-crosby-on-lessons-learned/
Episode 99: Ines Johnson on Happiness, the Surprising Benefits of Failing, and Tips to Organize Your Writing Life https://wishidknownforwriters.com/99-2/
Reedsy
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
___________________________________
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
Support the show
Episode 155 / You can hook readers with a few words or a concept when you use tropes. Romance and non-fiction author, Jennifer Hilt, shares tips on how to recognize tropes, how to bake them into your writing to make marketing easier, and how to twist tropes so they’re fresh for both readers and authors.
Author website: www.jenniferhilt.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/survey (Closes 2/24/23)
Show notes:
- Why it’s a good idea to consider marketing before you write the book
- Thinking beyond the basic genre expectations (i.e. “happily ever after in romance)
- The importance of guarding your time
- What Jennifer would do if she were starting over today
- Why you don’t have to rush
- Tropes as building blocks for relationships
- Incorporating tropes with goals, motivations, and conflict
- Twisting tropes
- Jennifer’s Kickstarter for The Trope Thesaurus Romance and her tips for authors thinking of doing a Kickstarter
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
___________________________________
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Support the show
Subscriber-only episode
🎉 In our first bonus episode for subscribers, we share the best and worst advice we've received when it comes to writing craft and book marketing.
As with everything, your mileage may vary. The writing practices, tactics, strategies, tips, and ideas we share are specific to us--what's worked and what hasn't. Take into account your personality and strengths (#take a drink🍸) as you consider whether or not to follow advice.
No "shoulds," "musts," and definitely no "secret sauce" 🥫in this episode, just our personal experiences with finding what works for us.
🙋♀️Do you have questions or a topic for the next bonus episode? Perhaps a guest suggestion? Let us know at https://wishidknownforwriters.com/questions
Support the show
Episode 154 / Swag can be a great way to engage with readers. Hybrid young adult author and BookBrush COO, Dana Claire, shares how to create swag that will help you contect with readers and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Author website: https://www.danaclairebooks.com/
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How Dana’s writing is a legacy from her mother
- What Dana learned working with branding for corporations and how she used those tactics in marketing for her self-published books
- Developing relationships with readers by following and interacting with them on GoodReads and Bookbub
- How to pick swag items that are reusable and keep you top of mind with readers
- What assets to ask your cover artist for to make creating swag easier
- How Dana automates merchandising through Printful
- Why you should pick items that have a higher perceived value for merchandise
- How Dana uses exclusive items for live events
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
___________________________________
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing
Support the show
Episode 153 / Cozy mystery author Traci Andrighetti joins us to talk about how changing her covers, going wide, and collaborating with other authors on a series have been game-changers for her writing career.
Links:
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Traci’s website: https://traciandrigehetti.com
WIKT Podcast survey: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/survey
Show notes:
- How Traci moved from academia to writing mysteries
- Why Traci enjoys having a day job and writing on the side
- How she infuses a sense of fun into her comedic mysteries
- How a change to her covers and going wide helped her gain readers find readers
- How she collaborates with three other mystery authors to write a co-write a series that features each one of their sleuths as POV characters in each book
- Benefits of collaborative project when it comes to marketing
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then!
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
More links
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist https://www.sararosett.com/timeline
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Support the show
Episode 152 / Olivia Hayle, author of contemporary romance, joins us this week to discuss how her shift to focusing on what her readers want in both her writing and her promotion helped her author career.
Oliva’s website: http://oliviahayle.com
💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
Show notes:
- How Olivia learned about branding and applied it to her stories as well as her covers, titles, and book page
- How she writes in the same sub-genre without getting bored
- Why writing is all about crafting an experience for your reader
- The question she asks herself about each book, “Do the readers want it?”
- Downhill vs. uphill marketing
- How Olivia thinks like her reader in storytelling, newsletters, and bonus content
- How authors can build in “fail-safes” into books to make sure you can end a series if it’s not performing
- How Oliva’s wide audio is a way to reach new readers while her ebooks are in KU
✨ Support Wish I’d Known Then
If the podcast has helped you and provided value to you and you’d like to give back, become a supporter! (https://www.SaraRosett.com/support)
We’ll give you a shoutout in a future episode.
Learn more here: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support
More links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist https://www.sararosett.com/timeline
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 151 / Do you want to write a memoir? Joanna Penn joins us to share her lessons learned about writing memoir and other nonfiction. Joanna is a discovery writer and shares how the structure and content of the book evolved. We also delve into overcoming fear around Kickstarter and launches as well as what’s on the horizon for authors related to A.I. and direct sales.
Intro links:
Gift books for authors blog post from Alli: https://selfpublishingadvice.org/why-indie-authors-should-publish-gift-books/
Show notes:
- How Joanna’s memoir evolved as she wrote it and how it became a very different book than she expected
- Why you time and perspective when you write a memoir
- Why we need to honor the intuitive urge to write something even if it may not seem like the best strategy
- Dealing with fear of judgment when writing personal stories as well as fear around running a Kickstarter (Joanna’s kickstarter: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/pilgrimage)
- The possibilities beautiful print books
- Direct sales and the empowered mindset
- Incorporating A.I. into our writing routines so that it helps us be more creative and productive
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Joanna’s Kickstarter: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/pilgrimage
The Creative Penn: https://www.thecreativepenn.com
The Minimal Viable Store: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2022/08/12/selling-books-direct-with-shopify-minimum-viable-store/
Furistist episodes: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/future/
Interview with Morgana Best on Selling Direct with Shopify: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/136-2/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist https://www.sararosett.com/timeline
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 150 / Cozy and romance author Kate Baray joins us this week to talk about how she focuses on productive longevity and creates a sustainable author career.
Show notes:
- Kate’s unusual path to being an author
- Why it’s important to tune out writing and craft advice that doesn’t apply to your genre or your personality type
- Kate’s method of trying and testing ideas
- The biggest mindset shift Kate has had to make: identifying as a creative
- Balancing running a business and being a creative
- Being wide with a paranormal cozy pen name
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author websites:
Catelawley.com
Gemmacates.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist https://www.sararosett.com/timeline
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 149 / Megan Haskel, co-host of the Author Wheel podcast and fantasy writer, joins us this week. We delve into defining success when you’re an achiever, going wide, selling direct, and helping new authors.
Show notes:
- Tips for getting writing done with kids at home
- Setting goals and defining success when you’re an achiever
- Why marketing and career growth isn’t alway linear and how to deal with that
- How Megan splits her time between fiction and nonfiction and her tips on being a multi-passionate creative
- Being a “tortoise” writer – slow and steady
- Going wide
- How Megan transitioned her website to a Shopify store and what she sells, including bundles (ebook, audiobook, and signed paperback) as well as merchandise
- How the Author Wheel helps authors who are just starting out
Resources mentioned:
- Greta’s episode on the WIKT podcast: Small Press to Indie Publishing: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/146-2/
- ToDoist organizer: https://todoist.com
- Flat Tomato pomodoro app: https://appadvice.com/app/flat-tomato-time-management/719462746
- Printify.com: https://printify.com
Links:
Author website: www.MeganHaskell.com
The Author Wheel website: www.authorwheel.com
The Author Wheel Podcast: https://authorwheelpodcast.buzzsprout.com/share
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist https://www.sararosett.com/timeline
Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 148 / Want to get your mind right for the New Year? Then join us as we talk with romance author Renee Rose about mindset, abundance, and how we can stop holding ourselves back.
Show notes:
- Renee’s definition of success, “Are you joyful?”
- How Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes helped her with the craft of writing
- Why being fearless is critical when it comes to marketing
- Crafting our marketing as an invitation, a pull, instead of pushing our book on readers
- The most common mindset blocks and money blocks that hold writers back
- How to deal with negative self talk
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Renee’s website: www.write2riches.com
http://write-to-riches.teachable.com/p/write-to-riches-8-week-immersion
Author Abundance Central Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorabundance/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 147 / Anton Eine, a science fiction and nonfiction author who lives in Ukraine, joins us this week and shares his experience of being a writer living in Kiev and Lviv during the war and how he translated those experiences into a documentarian war diary, The Thin Blue-Yellow Line Between Love and Hate.
Show notes:
- Why Anton decided to take a break from fiction and write a war diary documenting his life and the stories of his fellow Ukranians in the months after Russia invaded Ukraine
- How the creative project gave him a type of creative freedom he hadn’t experienced when writing fiction
- How writing about painful experiences can be a cathartic experience
- How Anton gets his books translated and how works with Ukrainian creatives through his writing and publishing process
- How he focused on a creative project in the middle of the uncertainty of war and how he used that uncertainty as motivation
- How fragile peace is and how we should value it
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Anton’s website: https://antoneine.com
The Thin Blue-Yellow Line Between Love and Hate: https://mybook.to/TBYLKn
United 24: “UNITED24 was launched by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the main venue for collecting charitable donations in support of Ukraine. Funds will be transferred to the official accounts of the National Bank of Ukraine and allocated by assigned ministries to cover the most pressing needs.”
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 146 / Mystery author Greta Boris joins us to talk about the benefits of publishing with a small press for her first series, and how she transitioned to self publishing with her new series. She also shares about collaborating with another writer for nonfiction and their podcast, The Author Wheel.
Intro links:
PirateShip https://www.pirateship.com
Show notes:
- How Greta learned the craft of writing fiction
- Why getting a publishing deal isn’t the ticket to the big time
- The steps Greta took to prepare for her transition from traditional publishing to indie publishing
- The benefits of publishing with a small press
- How Greta works with her small press publisher to market her books
- Important mindset changes Greta had to make
- How the Author Wheel Podcast helps authors as well as the plans Greta and Megan have for community building
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website: https://www.gretaboris.com
https://www.authorwheel.com
https://authorwheelpodcast.buzzsprout.com
https://the-author-wheel-school.teachable.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 145 / Becca Mysoor is a Fairy Plot-Mother and developmental editor. She joins us this week to share how she works with bestselling authors on their stories from conception to marketing strategy.
Intro links:
Spotify Promo Cards - Example: Murder at Archly Manor
Show notes:
- What Becca wishes authors knew about developmental editing
- What she’s learned about separating business and friendship
- What Becca sees authors doing that isn’t producing results
- The most common mistake she sees
- Commonalities Becca sees in writers who have been successful over the long haul
- Trends in reading and publishing
- Advice for newer authors
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Becca’s website
Becca’s Free Character Building Sheet
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 144 / We’re answering your questions this week as we dig into launching prep and what to do after a launch plus more questions about direct sales, winter promos, and how to handle disruptions in your schedule.
Submit your questions: https://forms.gle/Q1viJahz4o5dsqda8
Questions answered this episode:
- Planning your future releases
- After the book launch? What to do next
- Winter holiday promo
Episode 34: Is it too Late to Plan Holiday Promotions?
- Book Vault
- Setting up a Shopify store
Episode 136: Getting Started with Direct Sales for Authors with Morgana Best
On the Creative Penn Podcast:
- Morgana Best: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2022/08/08/selling-books-direct-on-shopify-with-morgana-best/
Morgana’s Course: Authors Selling on Shopify (Affiliate Link)
- Katie Cross:
https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2022/06/20/selling-books-direct-on-shopify/
- Navigating a period of turbulence successfully - mental health and maintaining income
3M’s 15% Rule
Google Side Project - 20% - Wikipedia article
- Craft: What do you do when your characters want to change the book’s genre on you?
Creative Penn Podcast: The Long Game with Dorie Clark
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 143 / Tess Thompson, author of small town romances and American historical romances, joins us to talk about mindset changes she made that have helped her achieve career goals. We delve into resistance, limiting beliefs, and discoverability. Tess also shares tips for writing a small town romance series.
Intro links:
Subscriptions for Authors
Show notes:
- How Tess was traditionally published and then went indie in 2017, essentially starting over from scratch
- What Tess has learned that helped her writing career take off: finish a series, find your genre sweet spot, use cover styles that readers expect
- Why the thing that we resist is often the thing we should be doing
- The discoverability problem and how Tess fixed it
- How Tess moved from a fear-based mindset to a mindset of letting her dreams live
- Why conferences are a good investment even when your revenue is low
- Small town world building
- How Tess researches her historicals
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Tess’ website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 142 / Karen McQuestion shares how she successfully writes across different genres and how that has contributed to her longevity in publishing.
Show notes:
- Trusting your instinct when it comes to storytelling
- Marketing tips for authors who’d rather do online promotion instead of in-person events
- Following the story idea even if it takes you to a different genre category or genre-adjacent category
- How the abundance mindset helps break the habit of “comparison-itis”
- How Karen propelled one of her books to #3 in the Kindle Store overall for 2021
- Her hybrid approach for translations (doing it herself as well as having a foreign rights agent)
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website https://www.karenmcquestion.com/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 141 / Do you want to up your newsletter game? Newsletter expert Tammi Lebrecque joins us to discuss building an email list, automations, reader magnets, the unique value you provide to readers, and much more.
Intro links:
Kickstarter Accelerator - open until Nov 23rd (Affiliate Link)
Show notes:
- Tammi’s definition of success
- How Tammi went through burnout and what she learned from the experience
- What to write in your newsletter
- Why it’s important to define the unique value you give to readers
- Why new authors need a list, even a small one, when they launch
- Newsletter recommendations for:
-New authors
-Established authors
-Authors who haven’t emailed in a while
- Tammi’s Freebie: https://newsletterninja.net/newsletter/
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Tammi’s website: newsletterninja.net
https://newsletterninja.net/newsletter/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 140 / Paranormal cozy mystery author Trixie Silvertale joins us to discuss secret pen names. This episode is part of our New Author series.
Show notes:
- Marketing and promotion tips for introverted authors
- Holding back books for a rapid release launch
- Shifting from monthly releases to quarterly releases
- Benefits and challenges of a secret pen name
- Working with other authors on a shared world series
- Tips for writing a long series (20+ books)
- Why it’s important to be a functional creative
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website: http://trixiesilvertale.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Trixie-Silvertale/e/B07XGGRTWK
BookBub Author https://www.bookbub.com/authors/trixie-silvertale Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trixiesilvertale/
Facebook Author https://www.facebook.com/TrixieSilvertale/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 139 / Jami updates us this week, sharing about the difficult time her family has been through as well as how grateful she is to be an indie author, which allowed her to spend extended time with her sister before she passed away.
Sara’s Kickstarter is over and it exceeded all her expectations! Sara shares what she learned from running her first Kickstarter, including:
- She needed more graphics than she realized
- It’s a good idea to run the pre-launch page for weeks or even months
- A low funding goal can help your launch
- Sara had to help her list understand what Kickstarter was, how it worked, and why she was doing it
- She created stretch goals on the fly and will put more planning into it next time
- Sara took the Kickstarter Accelerator course and recommends it (#affiliate link)
Links:
Becca Syme’s YouTube Quitcast episode
Sara on The Rebel Author podcast talking about cozy mysteries
Daniel Willcocks’ 50K Writing Camp for NaNoWriMo
Kickstarter Accelerator course (Affiliate link)
Episode 138 / We’re going back to the archives this week as we re-air an episode with J. Thorn. Sci-fi author, podcaster, teacher, and event organizer J. Thorn joins us to discuss creative ways to diversify your author income, podcasting, and what he wishes he’d known about co-writing.
Intro links:
Sara’s Kickstarter
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How J. came to creative writing after teaching
- J.’s transition to full-time writing
- What he wishes he’d known about creative writing
- The difference between developmental editing and proofreading
- J.’s dislike of running paid ads and how he runs his business so that he doesn't have to use them
- Why podcasting is better for lead-generation than revenue generation
- Why it’s not too late to get into podcasting
- The downside of completely original ideas
- How being a musician influences J.’s co-writing projects
- J.’s long-running collaboration with Zach Bohannon and what J. wishes he’d known about co-writing
- How J., a self-identifying introvert, runs writing events
- The most difficult aspects of planning author events
- J.’s mistake of quitting his full time job without a financial safety net, and how that turned out to be a good thing
- Changes J. has seen and how he’s adapted to them
- Thinking outside the box to create multiple streams of income
Genres discussed include science fiction, horror, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic.
Links:
AuthorLife.com
On Writing by Stephen King
GoFundMe for Jami’s sister: Joni’s Hospice Journey
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 137 / Helen Scheuerer, bestselling fantasy, joins us this week to talk about writing a series. We also discuss finding breathing room in your career, reaching out to other authors to develop friendships in the writing community, and work/life balance.
Intro links:
Author Wheel podcast
Sara’s Kickstarter
Show notes:
- How Helen learned to love her own writing process
- Why the groundwork of learning the market before writing is so important
- How Helen reached out to other authors and developed friendships in the writing community
- How she came to write a book for authors about writing a series
- Why the book includes tactics for outliners as well as discovery writers
- Helen’s tips for creating a series bible
- How Helen outlines her books and plans her series
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
www.helenscheuerer.com
https://helenscheuerer.com/for-authors/
GoFundMe for Jami’s sister: Joni’s Hospice Journey
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 136 / Cozy mystery author Morgana Best joins us today to talk about direct sales. We discuss how to get started as well as advanced tactics like SMS marketing and influencer marketing.
Intro links:
GoFundMe for Jami’s sister: Joni’s Hospice Journey
Sara’s Kickstarter
Show notes:
Why Morgana looks at mistakes as opportunities for discovery
What authors should consider before starting direct sales
Who shouldn’t go all-in with direct sales
Why starting slowly is a good thing when it comes to direct sales
Considerations when it comes to organizing your store
How authors can us SMS (Text) marketing as well as influencer marketing
Helpful links:
Payhip
Shopify
Klaviyo
ShoutCart
Lulu Express
Book Vault
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Morgana’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 135 / Brad West, one of the creators of Vellum software, joins us to talk about how authors format their books, both ebook and print, what’s changed in the publishing industry, and unique ways authors are using Vellum.
Intro links:
Troy Lambert WIKT interview - promotion idea: bookstore giveaway copies
Free Little Library
Show notes:
- Brad shares how he came to work with authors after working at Pixar
- Why authors don’t need to know every small detail about the formatting software to have beautiful books
- A common mistake of new authors when it comes to publishing their first book
- How Vellum expanded from ebook formatting into print formatting
- How authors are using Vellum to create special editions
- What’s changed in publishing and what’s stayed the same
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Vellum website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 134 / Do you want to add subscription income to your business? Emilia Rose, USA Today bestselling author of steamy romance, joined Sara to give tips and ideas on how authors can include a recurring income stream in their business models.
Intro link:
Bookvault.app
Sara’s Kickstarter
Show notes:
- How Emilia uses subscriptions to connect with readers
- Why your story isn’t for everyone
- How writing organically helps Emilia bring out emotions in her characters and in her readers
- Why going from a one-time payment for content to a subscription is a big mindset shift
- Why subscription models are great for authors: connections with readers, recurring income, and stability
- Tips for getting started with a subscriptions
- What to watch out for if you’re thinking of using subscriptions
- How to attract people to your subscription– hint: free content and cliffhangers are excellent at pulling readers to your subscriptions
- Tips to maximize your subscription
- Ream - Patreon but for fiction authors is coming soon!
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 133 / Jami is flying solo in this week’s interview with Katlyn Duncan, who writes suspense thrillers, young adult fiction, and nonfiction for writers. They discussed the ins and outs of getting your rights back from traditional publishers. As well as Youtube for Authors and ghostwriting.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Katlyn’s website
Twitter handle: @katlyn_duncan
Instagram handle: @authorkatlynduncan
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/duncankatlyn/
Youtube: youtube.com/katlynduncanauthor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 132 / This week Jami and Sara are re-airing an early episode with Kait Nolan, who talks about getting through burnout and writing during stressful times--whether that stress is coming from your own personal situation or world events.
Intro links:
Sara’s Kickstarter for her special edition hardcover - sign up to get notified when it goes live
Morgana Best on selling direct - interview on The Creative Penn Podcast
Show notes:
- Tips for marketing a series--grouping books and banking books for a rapid release
- How expectations about productivity and major upsets in her personal life lead to burnout
- Why burnout is becoming more common in the writing community
- How Kait sets goals to write a certain number of days per month instead of a certain number of words per day
- Building in some grace into our schedules and adjusting our expectation
- The tyranny of the “shoulds”
- Recommendations for writing during trying times
- How a “just for fun” project can help you when the world is crazy
- What Kait has discovered isn’t worth her time and effort
- How Kait went against the prevailing wisdom and didn’t use paid ads. Instead she built a career with paid newsletters and free forms of promos
- Changes Kait has seen in her genres and her level headed advice on dealing with changes
- How Kait’s focus on one thing at a time helped her succeed
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 131 / Historical cozy author Benedict Brown joins us to talk about writing mysteries, transitioning from one genre to another, and how he learned to lean into the tropes and expectations of the genre.
Show notes:
- How Benedict started writing children’s books and why he shifted to contemporary cozies and then later transitioned to historical cozies set in the 1920s
- How he researches his historial series
- How Benedict and his cover artist developed the cover concept for the historical series
- How he uses first readers and an ARC team for his editing process
- Why he thinks it healthy to have two contrasting series to work on
- How “failure” helped set him up for success
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Benedict’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 130 / It’s back to the archives this week for one of our most popular episodes. Jami and Sara share how they launch a book, covering tactics for low-, medium-, and high-budget launches as well as sharing beau·coup tips about what’s working for book launches right now.
Intro links:
Kickstart Your Book podcast
Link (To be added) - Sign up to be notified when Jami’s book about launching comes out
Show notes:
- KU or wide - weigh pros and cons of each
- Price point - consider typical price of genre and goals to pick the best price point (99 cents can generate preorders and sales while a higher price point give you a higher royalty and the option of dropping it for sales later)
- Preorders - a preorder lets you capture sales and get your sales pages live on the vendors, but some authors won’t do preorders because they feel Amazon doesn’t weight the preorder sales as heavily as purchases/borrows made after the books releases, which may impact rank.
- Don’t forget the impact of your newsletter to launch
Low-cost Launch Tactics for a New Author * Blog tours * Newsletter swaps * Goodreads giveaways * Library Thing giveaways * Newsletter * Connect with authors in genre groups * Lower price * Paid newsletter promos
Small-to-medium Budget Launch Tactics: * Newsletter giveaway like Booksweeps * Paid newsletter promos * Ads, like a small Amazon ads
Big budget Launch Tactics: * Facebook ads * Newsletter swaps * Discount previous books in the series
Bonus Launch Tips: * Focus on getting your book in front of the right readers * Learn/use one ad platform at a time * Pick about three things to focus on for your launch (don’t try to do all the things) so you’re not so scattered and so you can track results * Backmatter matters -- make sure it’s up-to-date and include link to next book/second epilogue/etc * Goodreads giveaway sends an email on release day to everyone who entered your giveaway
Jami’s Launch Plan: * Use tagline in graphic teasers/promo images * Shared prologue/early chapters * Release paperback a week ea, call Author Central to merge ebook and paperback, and then readers can post review--you’ll have reviews on the sales page when the book launches * Add “follow” links (Bookbub, Goodreads, Amazon, etc) to promo and those sites will send a new release alert * Preorder email on Bookbub * Contact authors in genre and ask if they will share and if they want an Advance Review Copy * Giveaways in author groups to create buzz * Remind readers of release date so they can post a review if they’d like * Segment newsletter list and email over several days, then mail to unopens
Sara’s Out-of-the-Box Launch Tactics for a First-in-Series Book: * Set up a print preorder through Ingram Spark * Send opening chapters to readers over weeks leading up to release to get them hooked on story * Blog tours give you reviews and quotes you can use for graphics and editorial reviews * Book box giveaway * Advance Review Copies sent to reviewers * Kobo Netgalley promotion * Bookbub New Release Feature * Staggered Audiobook release * Long preorder on Book 2 so readers could order immediately when they finished Book 1 * Patreon * Amazon ad - low-budget auto-targeted
Sara’s launch philosophy: pull out all the stops with Book 1; subsequent book launch -- quieter launch, focuses on sale on Book 1 to pull readers into the series
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 129 / Dark fantasy author Kerstin Espinosa Rosero joins us to talk about bootstrapping her first book, lessons she’s learned about marketing, and tips on writing fantasy.
Intro links:
Sara’s interview on Behind the Book podcast
Show notes:
- How Kerstin’s art led her to write her first book
- Her advice for new authors when it comes to marketing
- How Kerstin found her cover designer
- How she decides how much backstory and worldbuilding to include in her fantasy books
- Tips for authors who want to create maps for their books
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Kerstin’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 128 / We’re headed back to the archives for a fun interview with Lindsay Buroker. Lindsay talks about the benefits and drawbacks of pen names, the advantages of podcasting for writers, and how she writes and releases books into Kindle Unlimited using the rapid release model, then goes wide later.
Intro links:
Timeshifter app
Claire’s Kickstaster
Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: ALBRIGHT22)
Show notes:
- The importance of embracing the entrepreneurial mindset when you’re an indie author
- Advantages of using Patreon before a launch to let wide readers get a book before it goes into KU
- Why Lindsay is glad she did a writing workshop before she published
- The benefit of giving your cover artist freedom to be creative
- Why first-in-series-free book still works
- Lindsay’s lessons-learned about writing in multiple genres and pen names
- Advice for writers who want to start a podcast
- Rapid release and how Lindsay writes the books back-to-back before launching Book One
- The power of using “open loops” in a series and how it boosts readthrough of a series
- Focusing on what you’re good at and leaning into that whether it’s writing fast or marketing
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Lindsay Buroker
Six Figure Authors Podcast
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 127 / If you’re looking for a way to attract readers that doesn’t involve paid advertising, podcasting might be for you. Podcaster Diane Nue shares how she’s connected with readers through podcasting and the bookstagram community. We also discuss some of the reasons for the enduring appeal of Jane Austen, branding, and super practical things like software recommendations.
Show notes:
- How Diane and her co-host, Zan, came up with the concept for The Thing About Austen
- Why niching down helps you find your audience
- Diane’s advice for specific gear and podcast editing software
- Diane shares how she and Zan work together to handle podcast tasks
- Solo podcasting versus co-hosting
- How podcast branding can convey the content of the podcast
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Thing About Austen podcast
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 126 / In this re-air episode we discuss expectations, common mistakes, and understanding our motivation to write. Claire is also an expert on applying the Enneagram to story structure. She has a kickstarter preview up for her book Reclaim Your Author Career, which uses the Enneagram to help authors align their careers.
Intro link:
Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: ALBRIGHT22)
Show notes:
- Why it’s crucial to know what your story is about so you can “steer the ship” in the direction you need to go and save time on revisions
- How knowing what you want out of your writing career impacts your expectations and your marketing plans
- Common mistakes Claire sees as she works with authors
- How understanding your motivations and needs as a writer helps you set your goals
- Using tension and power in your writing
- How Claire uses the Enneagram to help writers discover their character’s motivations and needs
- Creating flaws that make characters likable
Claire’s website
Episode 125 / Jami and Sara share the tips and ideas they got at Inkers Con then discuss how to connect with writers at in person events as well as how to connect online.
Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: JAMI22)
Show notes:
Merchandising - Kimbra Swain
Patreon - Emilia Rose
Translations - Tanya Anne Crosby
Get backlist selling and email autoresponders - Elana Johnson
Audiobooks - Penny Reid
Finding blue water so we can stand out - Becca Syme
Are you the decider for your marketing - Becca Syme
Keywords and A+ Content - Self Publishing with Dale
TikTok tips - Ana Huang
Advertising - Malorie Cooper and Becca Syme
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 124 / We’re taking this week off for a summer break, but we’re giving you a quick recap on Inkers Con (it was great!) and then replaying one of our early episodes. Historical romance author Cecelia Mecca what she learned when she changed genres and how she now reverse engineers her books before she writes them.
Intro links:
Sara’s interview with Findaway Voices about writing mysteries, publishing, and audiobooks: https://youtu.be/RL3lTq0Rix8
Show notes:
- Cecelia’s mistake involving releasing her prequel novella on Super Bowl Sunday
- The challenge of replicating success
- Ceclia’s love of plotting books and how she wishes she’d read more craft books before writing her first novel
- How important packaging is for your book (cover, title, blurb, trope) and reverse engineering your novel, including considering how to marry what her muse wants her to write with considerations about cover and marketing
- Tips for using free marketing strategies including Facebook Live and Facebook groups (types and timing of posts)
- How to get to know your readers
- An incredibly simple, yet effective tip on how to to be successful on social media
- How not using a pen name can be a mistake and lead to confused also-boughts on the ebook stores
- Learning not to be so hard on yourself when things don’t as you expect
- Strategies to reach new readers including being a hybrid author and using print, including hardbacks and large print
Links/Mention:
- Cecelia’s website http://ceceliamecca.com
- Launching Indie Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/263060221047105/
- Romancing the Beat https://books2read.com/u/mBgGGD
- Rock Your Plot https://books2read.com/u/mYp77P
- Book Faces Live podcast https://nathanvancoops.podbean.com/e/cecelia-and-nathan-compare-favorite-plotting-methods-and-their-strategies-for-structure/
- Podcast deliberate actions for success in Facebook group https://www.amyporterfield.com/2019/10/284/
- Colleen Hoover - collaboration with American Idol https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/6553539
- Smarty Pants podcast on outpost social media channels http://smartypantsbookmarketing.libsyn.com/episode-50-how-to-set-up-pinterest-as-an-outpost-channel
- Genres discussed include historical romance, paranormal romance, vampire, Regency, and mystery.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 123 / Mike Stop Continues, founder of SiteArcade, joins us to talk all the things related to author websites: why you need a website, what should be one it, branding, and the benefits of a press kit for authors.
Links of interest:
Sara will be chatting with Findaway Voices next week Wednesday (June 8th) about mysteries and audiobooks at 11:00 AM (EDT). You can register here: https://app.livestorm.co/findawayvoices/cozy-mystery-with-author-sara-rosett?type=detailed…
Show notes:
- How Mike got started working with writers
- What Mike wishes authors knew about websites
- What he sees authors doing that they do because they think they have to, but aren’t producing results
- The most common mistakes he sees related to author websites
- Trends in author websites and what he sees for the future of author websites
- How to use your website to build your list, sell your books, send people to your social platforms
- What should be in your press kit
- What’s coming on the horizon in writing and publishing
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
SiteArcade: Websites for Authors
Mike's 20Books Vegas Talk, One Day to a Great Author Website
Damon Suede & Heidi Cullinan's Your A Game
Arvid Kahl's The Embedded Entrepreneur
OpenAI's Dall-E Image, Generation AI
Google's Imagen Image, Generation AI
SudoWrite, AI Writing Assistant
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 122 / Romance author and email expert Holly Darling joins us to share how we can connect with readers from the moment they opt-in to our emails. There’s so much good info in this episode! We guarantee you’ll come away with so many ways to improve your welcome sequence.
Show notes:
- Creative ways to use double opt-in as part of the welcome sequence
- What happens in each email inside a welcome sequence
- How to use the welcome sequence to create engagement
- What to do if someone doesn't engage
- How to create a custom experience for your readers inside the welcome sequence
- Common mistakes authors make with their emails
- Ideas for lead magnets for new authors without a lot of intellectual property
- Trends in newsletter marketing including customization, paid newsletters, and video
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Holly’s website: HollyDarlingHQ.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 121 / Daniela Romero, new-adult and paranormal romance author, joins us to talk about why it’s important for readers to have books and characters that reflect their experiences and how authors can write diverse characters. We also delve into Daniela’s principle of having many streams of income, so that if one stream wanes her overall revenue isn’t impacted. She tell us how she’s creating multiple streams of income through merchandise, book boxes, and Pateron.
Intro links:
Inkers Con
Show notes:
- How Daniela went from book blogger to author
- Why she wishes she knew more about story structure and how she learned about it
- How Daniela uses preorders to increase her production
- Why she writes diverse characters and her tips on how authors can write diverse characters in their novels in a way that’s satisfying to readers
- How she uses book boxes, merchandising, and Patreon to create multiple streams of income
- What Daniela wishes she’d known about creating a subscription book box
- Her tips for pricing tiers on Patreon
- Why she focuses on one big takeaway from the conferences she attends and how that has shaped her business
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Daniela’s website: Daniela Romero
Book boxes and merchandise
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 120 / Lisa Suzanne, sports romance author, joins us to talk about how a pivot to writing shorter sports romance books, banking them, and releasing rapidly took her career to a new level. We also talk about how she brands her series as well as using cliffhangers to keep readers coming back to a series.
Show notes:
- How Lisa shifted from pantsing to plotting her books
- The importance of trope in branding
- Banking books and Lisa’s release schedule
- How Lisa brands the covers of her books to create a recognizable look
- Writing interconnected series
- Tips on writing cliffhangers
- The value of persistence
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Lisa’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans
Episode 119 / Southern urban fantasy author Kimbra Swain joins us this week to share tips on connecting with your readers and expanding your income streams. Kimbra creates jewelry, book boxes, tumblers, and many other items for her readers. Learn how she uses physical items to deepen her connection with readers and create life-long fans through her books, merchandising, and Pateron.
Intro links: Kickstarter webinar (affiliate link)
Inkers Con - June 3-5, Dallas TX
Show notes:
- Why you can’t sit still when it comes to marketing your books
- How Kimbra used reader feedback to learn how to write marketable books
- How the switch to full-time author impacted Kimbra’s outlook and writing
- Kimbra’s tips on merchandising to create an extra layer of connection between you and your reader
- How Kimbra uses Pateron: exclusive serial story, early access to her books and merchandise, and a more personal connection with her
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Kimbra’s website: https://www.kimbraswain.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Episode 118 / Orna Ross, author and poet as well as director of the Alliance of Independent Authors, joins us this week to talk about writing across multiple genres and planning for authors. So much wisdom on how to learn from mistakes and grow in your career in this episode!
Show notes:
- How Orna transitioned from teaching to writing fiction and poetry
- The advantages of writing in multiple genres
- Identifying the three kinds of marketing (access, influence, and algorithmic)
- Why bringing the same passion you have for writing to your marketing is a game changer
- Why we often make perception mistakes and how to step back and assess the situation so we can learn from those mistakes
- The “one book at a time” rule
- Orna’s tips for planning, including the three hats authors wear (Producer/Maker, Promoter, and Manager)
- The importance of making time for rest and play
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Orna’s website is www.ornaross.com
Orna’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/OrnaRoss
Twitter: @ornaross
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Episode 117 / Do you want to use TikTok to grow your readership? BookTokker Sarah Thompson shares tips for authors who want to get started as well as insights on how she picks and reviews books.
Show notes:
- How Sarah got started reviewing books
- How Sarah picks and reviews books
- Tips for authors who want to reach out to BookTokkers
- Mistakes authors make when they reach out to BookTokkers
- How to get started on BookTok
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Twitter: @Biracialbooty
Instagram: @Biracial_booty
Tik tok: sarah_thompson25
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Episode 116 / Do you want to pitch your books to Hollywood for film or television? Entertainment attorney Maggie Marr is here to share insight on how to find and vet and entertainment attorney. Plus she shares tips on negotiation as well as why now is a good time to delve into screenwriting, if you’ve always wanted to adapt your novel.
Intro links: InkersCon - Jami and Sara will be in Dallas in June. Connect in the WIKT Facebook group if you’ll be there.
Show notes:
- Why you never finish learning as an author
- Lessons learned around branding and genre hopping
- How factors beyond your control (pandemic, economic downturn) may impact a book release
- Why everything Maggie does comes back to story
- Why authors need an entertainment attorney
- How to vet a literary or entertainment attorney
- Why negotiation is a good thing and why authors need to overcome their fear of negotiating
- Why film and TV adaptations require the author to let go of some creative control
- Why the need for content makes it a good time to adapt your novel into a screenplay
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Maggie’s attorney website: www.maggiemarrlegal.com
Maggie’s Youtube Channel
Maggie’s books: www.maggiemarr.net
Twitter: @maggiemarr
Instagram: maggie_marr_legal_pc
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/maggiemarrlegal
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Episode 115 / Cindy Burnett, host of the Thoughts from a Page Podcast, joins us this week and shares tips for authors who want to pitch book reviewers, podcasters, or bookstrammers. We also talk about Cindy’s Patreon and how she’s structured it to appeal to readers.
Show notes:
- How Cindy’s love of reading launched her into reviewing books, writing columns about books, and eventually podcasti
- How she decides which books to read and review
- What Cindy wishes authors knew about book reviewers/bloggers/podcasters
- Common mistakes authors make when they reach out to podcasters and reviewers
- Common mistakes Cindy sees in books that are a turn off
- How Cindy’s set up her Patreon to attract readers
- The advantages and challenges of in-person book events
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Cindy’s podcast website: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com
Twitter: @burn555555
Instagram: @thoughtsfromapage
Facebook Author Page: @thoughtsfromapage
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Jami’s books
Sara’s books
Episode 114 / Do you wonder if a secret pen name is for you? Do you want a sustainable long term writing career? Romance and nonfiction author Zoe York joins us to discuss secret pen names, how she iterates her goals, and gives out of the box marketing tips. Also why Tik Tok is working now and Facebook is stagnating for authors
Show notes:
- Why Zoe started a pen name and why she keeps it secret
- Why she writes nonfiction for authors and why she recommends other authors give nonfiction a try
- What tools Zoe uses for goal-setting
- The Series 2.0 concept and how it gives you progressive career growth
- When it’s time to change your goals
- The importance of understanding your goal profile
- Where social media like Tick Tok fits with your goals
- Out of the box marketing ideas
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Episode 51, Zoe York on Goal Setting:
https://wishidknownforwriters.com/zoe-york-on-goal-setting/
Books:
Writing from the Middle
Romancing the Beat
Build a Book
Zoe’s Websites:
www.romanceyourbrand.com
www.zoeyork.com
www.ainsleybooth.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 113 / Are you looking for a new revenue stream? Selling in person at shows is an option to add to your list of possibilities. Young adult science fiction and fantasy author Clare C. Marshall joins us today to share her tips for selling in person at craft shows, festivals, and comic conventions.
Intro links:
The Thing About Austen podcast
The Thing About Austen Instagram
Nightingale: An Anthology for Ukraine
Resources to Help Ukrianians
Show notes:
- How Clare pivoted from planning a career in journalism to writing and self publishing
- Why her goals have changed and how the pandemic helped her fall in love with writing again
- How outlining has helped her writing process - Resource mentioned: Take Off Your Pants by Libby Hawker
- How she interacts with people at shows to give them easy choices
- Why going to shows is a type of performance and how she mentally prepares for that aspect of selling in person
- How Clare recovered from a mistake that involved her books not arriving for one of her shows
- Specific tips on booth set-up, estimating how much stock you’ll need, taking payments, and interacting with customers
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
https://faeryinkpress.com - Clare C. Marshall’s YA science fiction & fantasy publishing brand.
https://faeryinkpress.com/post-mortems/ - Clare’s experiences selling books at shows, comic conventions and festivals
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 112 / We get an update from Jami on her vacation, check in on how the writing community is helping Ukrainians, and answer listener questions.
Intro links:
Writers For Ukraine
Wish I’d Known Think Mini-sode: Writers Helping Ukrainians
Show notes:
Listener questions:
How do you record audio yourself? What is the equipment you need, how do you edit etc.
- Zoom
- Hindenburg
- Wish I’d Known Then Episode 100: Behind the Scenes of the Podcast Plus How to Work With Teams: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/100-2/
Does the death in a cozy mystery always have to be someone who was bad or villainous?
Is there an ideal number for books for a series?
- Sara’s book How to Write a Series
Can you describe your revision processes? Lots of people say they revise in passes, but what passes and in what order? What exactly do you look for in looking for plot holes, character arcs, world building, etc.
- Wish I’d Known Then Episode 98: Writing and Publishing Tools We Use, Favorite Craft Books, and Organization Tips : https://wishidknownforwriters.com/writing-and-publishing-tools-we-use-favorite-craft-books-and-organization-tips/
I’m beginning a new pen name and I will need to set up a FB author page for it. How do I do this? From my current profile or another way?
- 6 Figure Author Podcast about pen names: https://pod.link/1480978629/episode/d8eab32f82a81d9833f27f13ebafdc8a
What's the best way to get ARC readers if you're new?
- Wish I’d Known Then Episode 31: How to Get and Use Reviews: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/how-to-get-and-use-book-reviews/
- Booksprout
I'd love to know more about marketing on a budget and finding readers (especially how it might look in a post-COVID world).
- Wish I’d Known Then Episode 64: Jami and Sara Dish on Newsletters and Answer Other Burning Questions: https://wishidknownforwriters.com/jami-and-sara-dish-on-newsletters-and-answer-other-burning-questions/
When/how do you know that you're done with a book - that you've done all your research (no more rabbit holes), you've adjusted what you can, readers you trust have read it and you can finally let it go (cue Disney GIF)?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Resources to Help Ukrainians Ways to help, sourced by author Sara Rosett, from the writing community:
Fundraisers from Writing Community Author Daniel Willcocks has set up a fundraising writing challenge: Writers for Ukraine, the One Million Word challenge. The charity drive runs March 9th-15th www.activatedauthors.com/ukraine Author Cecelia Mecca has set up a reader giveaway of fiction books to promote charitable giving.
Authors & Readers Stand with Ukraine {Giveaway}
Charities Ukraine Crisis Fund - European Christian Mission of North America One of my (Sara’s) reades, Ken Sears, has been a missionary to Zaporozhye, Ukraine for over 25 years. He was in the US on leave when the attacks began so he’s safe. He forwarded me what he posted on his Facebook page:
"From Ken Sears, missionary to Ukraine since 1995, commissioned by the Evangelical Congregational Church, 100 W. Park Avenue, Myerstown PA 17067.
I am a seminary teacher and pastor in the city of Zaporozhye, Ukraine. My personal e-mail address is seaken57@yahoo.com
My mission, European Christian Mission of North America, is setting up a "Ukraine Crisis Fund." We will convey funds as fast as we can to contacts who can then direct them further to people in critical need.
Checks should be made payable to "European Christian Mission" and, VERY IMPORTANT, then designated in the notes section for "Ukraine Crisis Fund." Please do not make the check payable to the Ukraine Crisis Fund or the mission will have to return it to you. So both points are critical: payable to European Christian Mission, and "Ukrainian Crisis Fund" in the note space at bottom left.
The mission's address is:
ECM, N.A., PO BOX 1006, PT ROBERTS WA 98281
The mission's phone number is 1-604-946-6236.
This is the mission's Canadian address: 5097 47A Avenue, Delta BC V4K4G5
All funds directed to my mission's funds will be routed to our contact who is responsible for humanitarian aid in the region of Ukraine where I work, and applied to the most dire needs.
Thank you so much for your help."
World Kitchen Author Jenny B. Jones recommends World Kitchen, which mobilizes chefs and volunteers to feed people. Chef Andres’ Instagram account: @WCKitchen.
Additional Recommended Charities Author author's husband is from the Ukraine and many of his family still live there. Her husband has been researching charities, and here is his list of recommendations:
Come Back Alive Foundation
Voices of Children
United Help Ukraine
CARE
Save the Children
Prayer Greater Europe Mission has a recurring livestream, PrayforEurope.live, where “missionaries share specific updates on what is unfolding in the Ukraine and guides to how we can pray and help.”
Links also listed at SaraRosett.com/Ukraine.
Episode 111 / Paranormal romance author Krystal Shannan joins us this week to talk about how shifting to writing intuitively was freeing for her and revitalized her writing process. We also talk about whether or not you should cull your newsletter, what Krystal does when she gets stuck, and why readers want specific emotional payoffs in each genre. Plus, mythology and unicorns!
Intro links:
Intro links:
Sara’s How to Outline a Cozy course sale
Author Consulting with Jami
Show notes:
- How Krystal got started writing through entering writing contests
- Why she recommends the Margie Lawson Academy to learn about writing craft
- Why Krystal wishes she’d developed her brand sooner
- How she came back after a sabbatical and revived a “dead” newsletter list
- Why culling her newsletter is one of her biggest regrets
- Krystal’s process of writing into the dark
- Why thinking/brainstorming time is so important
- What Krystal does when she gets stuck
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
www.krystalshannan.com
Authors A.I.
Market Better Faster
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 110 / Do you want to simplify your publishing process? Evan Gow joins us to talk about how Story Origin can make things easier in your writing life. Story Origin has been around since 2018 and has created a list of features to help authors including, reader magnet distribution, email integration, beta copy and ARC copy distribution and tracking, cross promo opportunities, and more.
Intro links:
Author Consulting with Jami
Sara’s How to Outline a Cozy course sale
Show notes:
- Why Evan created Story Origin
- Why you need to view your writing career as a marathon
- Why being too complex in your plans can be a roadblock
- Evan’s recommendations for how to get started with Story Origin
- Using previews and free books as a reader magnet to grow your newsletter list
- Possible trends in publishing, including serialization and gamification
- Why a newsletter is a key to Evan’s success
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Story Origin
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 109 / Jami and Sara talk about creating compelling characters sharing their lessons learned. They give examples of how they created specific characters and delve into naming characters, backstory, and physical description.
- How they developing a main character
- Ways to create characters:
-
- Character sheets/study/history
- Images
- Enneagram
- Astrological signs/Tarot
- Strengths
- Biographies/Memoirs
- Characters names
- Backstory/Physical description
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Rebel Author Podcast - interview with Jami
Episode 039: Understanding Your Motivation to Write with H. Claire Taylor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 108 / Mark McGuinness joins us this week to talk about poetry and it’s a fascinating discussion. We chat about the multiple ways to experience poetry as well as how writing first thing in the day has been a key to Mark’s success.
Show notes:
- Why you sometimes have to get out of the way and let the poem or prose come through
- Why it’s much better not to treat marketing as something separate from the creation process
- How a “mistake” led Mark to an unexpected career path
- Mark’s poetry podcast, A Mouth Full of Air, where each episode focuses on one poem and the inspiration and writing process behind it
- How poets bring their poetry into physical world, including his collaboration with a sculptor to produce concrete poetry
- A common mistake poets and writers often make
- Why writing first is a key to his success
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Mark's poetry website
A Mouthful of Air
https://amouthfulofair.fm/
Instagram: @airpoets
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 107 / Kate P. Adams joins us this week as part of the New Author series. She’s a newly published cozy mystery author and shares how she researched the genre and self publishing as well as how she rapid-released her series. Show notes:
- How Kate began writing nonfiction and shifted to fiction
- Expectations of cozy readers
- Why Kate wrote a reader magnet before writing her first novel
- How Kate used rapid release to launch her series
- Why not rushing it has been a key to her success
- Why the “school of podcasting” is a great way to learn about self publishing
- Her interesting experience of writing short stories on a manual typewriter
- How she incorporates elements from her work experience into her books
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Kate’s links:
- Website: www.katepadams.com
- Instagram handle: @katepadams
- Facebook Author Page: @katepadamsauthor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 106 / Do you think being a hybrid author is the best of both worlds? Join us this week as we chat with romantic comedy author Stefanie London about balancing traditional publishing with indie publishing. Intro links:
Ines Johnson Metadata Sheet
Market Better Faster
Jami’s interview on the Rebel Author Podcast
Body Beats to Build On by April W. Gardner
4000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
Show notes:
- Stefanie describes how she learned that her organic writing process is just as legitimate as a planned (or outlined) writing process
- Why quality matters more than quantity when it comes to marketing
- Tips on how to pivot to attracting quality newsletter subscribers
- Why the writing is like the stock market
- The mindset changes Stefanie had to make to go from the corporate world to the creative world and then from traditional publishing to indie publishing
- What to look out for in contracts
- How Stefanie, an Australian living in Canada, writes books for the U.S. market
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Stefanie’s website: https://stefanie-london.com/
Instagram: @stefanielondon
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/StefanieLondonAuthor/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 105 / Do you want to get off the new release treadmill? Are you looking for a way to connect with your readers and keep your backlist alive without writing additional books? Monica Leonelle and Russell Nohelty have a possibility for you: Kickstarter.
Monica and Russell gave us so many fantastic ideas for how to add Kickstrater to your author platform. Our minds are blown with the possibilities!
Show notes:
- Why boundaries and structure boosts creativity
- Why you sometimes have to “blow everything up” in your creative life
- Why you can’t do it all at once and suggestions for keeping your readers engaged while you rotate between projects
- The difference between Patreon and Kickstarter
- Why authors would want to use Kickstarter
- Creative ideas for what authors can put on Kickstarter
Links:
https://www.kickstartyournovel.com
Books Sales Supercharged Facebook Group
TheWorldNeedsYourPassion.com
www.russellnohelty.com
Twitter: @russellnohelty
Facebook: @russellnohelty
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 104 / Do you wish there was an easy way to keep track of your sales on all platforms? Phillipa Werner joins us today to share how Scribecount solves this problem for indie authors. Phillipa is a prolific author and the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Scribecount.
Phillipa gives us the details on Scribecount, which collects and collates sales data for authors, and we learn what she wishes she’d known about writing and publishing as well as the mindset shifts she’s made for her health and happiness.
Intro links:
6 Figure Author podcast about selling direct
Show notes:
- How she transitioned from sales in financial services to ghostwriting
- How she learned to embrace tropes in her writing
- How backlist is a great marketing tool
- The mindset shift she went through as she learned that you can hustle too much
- How Scribecount helps authors sort data and make good decisions about marketing
- Scribecount’s Four Clicks Or Less Rule
- Scribecount hacks
- Features that are on the horizon for Scribecount 📖🎙
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Scribecount.com
Phillipa websites: moirakatson.com
Phillipa on Facebook
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 103 / Do you struggle to outline? Are you an organic writer who writes into the dark? Then you’ll enjoy this episode with thriller author Kevin Tumlinson who is a discovery writer. We talk about his process of writing, what he does when he gets stuck, and how he edits as he goes. Kevin also describes how he uses crossovers to build his series world and gives tips for anyone aspiring to be a digital nomad. Plus what’s new at Draft2Digital.
Show notes:
- How Kevin recycled unfinished stories to write his first thriller
- How Kevin writes books without an outline and edits as he goes
- What he does when he gets stuck when writing a draft
- Why putting “Book 1 of 3” on a cover was a mistake and why it turned out to be a good thing in the end
- How Kevin embraced a mistake and created a whole new series around it
- How he uses crossovers to draw readers to his other series
- Draft2Digital’s updates around print and Universal Book Links
- Kevin’s tips for being a digital nomad
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Kevin’s website: KevinTumlinson.com
Draft2Digital.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 102 / Do you want to promote your audiobooks? Or are you just getting started with audio and aren’t sure how to create an audiobook? Will Dages, Head of Findaway Voices, joins us talk all things audio. Will tells us about Findaway’s new Marketplace, which helps connect narrators and authors. He also shares tips about how to work with narrators, how to promote your audio on all platforms, and why you want your audiobooks in libraries.
Intro links:
Goal-setting for Authors: Episode #154 of the Successful Writer Podcast with Alana Terry
Show notes:
- Why it’s easier to make an audiobook than you might think
- Why audio is a long-term income generator for authors
- Why social media isn’t the “holy grail” for authors
- How diversifying in format widens your audience
- Tips on how to work with a narrator to get a great audiobook
- Trends on what is selling in audiobooks
- Changes in the audiobook industry: short term promos, stair-step pricing, and uptick in sales of shorter audio
- Findaway’s Marketplace and how it helps connect audiobook narrators with authors
- How to promote your audio to libraries
- Audio preorders and how they help promote your audiobooks
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Website: findawayvoices.com/marketplace
Findaway blog
Facebook Wide for the Win group
Headphone report 2021
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 101 / Do you want to be more organized in 2022? Do you love planners, calendars, and notebooks? Then this week’s episode with author and creator of The Author’s Planner, Audrey Hughey, is for you. If you’re not a fan of planners, don’t tune out. Audrey has a great perspective on making your plans work for you so that you’re not stressed out. We chat about what to do if you’re not a planner, how to handle it when plans change, and getting specific with targets so you can meet your goals. And Audrey introduces us to erasable pens–what magic is this?
Show notes:
- How Audrey set up a library of videos to help authors with their marketing
- Why Louis L'amour is an inspiration for her in her writing
- Why Audrey focuses on freedom and fulfillment instead of a financial number as her measure of success
- “Planning Fallacy” – why we don’t allow enough margin in our plans and how to account for delays and unforeseen interruptions
- The difference between a goal and a target
- How The Author’s Planner grew out of Audrey’s need for a way to organize multiple areas of her life
- Why Audrey prints out her targets for each year and puts them in her office
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Audrey’s website, The Write Services
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWriteServices
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewriteservices/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audreyiswriting
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 100 / 🎉 It’s our 100th episode and we’re celebrating with a look behind the scenes. Join us as we talk all things podcasting with Alexa Larberg and Adriel Wiggins, who make sure the podcast goes out each week. If you’re thinking of starting a podcast, you’ll find this episode full of useful tips. We also pick their brains for tips on working with a team and how to stay organized.
Show notes:
- Tips for pitching a podcast for a guest appearance
- How we schedule guests using Calendly
- How we record using Zoom
- How handle post production and the tools we use:
-
- Dropbox
- Garage Band
- Auphonic
- Libsyn
- Group text
- Tips for working with a team
- How Adriel and Alexa stay organized
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 099 / Romance author Ines Johnson joins us this week. So much goodness in this episode. We cover everything from coupling your financial goals to your happiness, the upside of trying and failing, and tips on organizing metadata as well as your writing schedule.
Show notes:
- How the music of her dad’s funk band helped Ines learn about story
- Ines mindset shift that involved coupling monetary goals to happiness
- Examples of how to use storytelling in your marketing
- Why her approach is to fail faster and its surprising benefits
- Tips for organizing book metadata
- How Ines’ approach to translations has evolved and her favorite way to approach translations now
Ines’s Book Metadata Template
TekTime
BabelCub
Draft2Digital
Reedsy Marketplace
Upwork
Sarra Cannon’s HeartBreathings Youtube channel
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Ines’ websites:
https://ineswrites.com/
www.shanaejohnson.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 098 / In this post-Thanksgiving show we walk through our writing and publishing process, delving into the tools we use from software to dictation apps.
We also chat about our favorite craft books, then we wrap up with some tips for keeping everything organized.
QOTW: What organizational tips do you have for writing and publishing?
Show notes:
Jami’s Cyber Monday consulting sale: contact her at: jamialbright1@gmail (dot) com.
Episode 26 - Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode
Dragon Dictation
Easy Voice Recorder
Scrivener
Vellum
Draft2Digital
Pacemaker Planner
Plottr
Grammarly
Pro Writing Aid
Authors AI
Romancing the Beat
Save the Cat
Something Startling Happens
My Story Can Beat Up Your Story
Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
You Can Write a Mystery by Gillian Roberts
Show note bonus: more recommendations from Sara (books she thought of after they stopped recording):
Screenwriting Tricks for Authors (and Screenwriters!) by Alexandra Sokoloff
If you’re writing a mystery, check out Sara’s How to Outline a Cozy Mystery
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books previously mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 097 / Romance author Theodora Taylor, author of 7 Figure Fiction: How to Use Universal Fantasy to Sell Your Books to Anyone, joins us this week. She shares her top tips for new authors and she breaks down the universal fantasies of four movies: Beauty and The Beast, Knives Out, Notting Hill, and Crazy Rich Asians.
Show notes:
- Why your writing career is progressive and it’s important to not let perfectionism stop you in the early stages
- Theodora’s top tips for new writers: writing in a series and setting up your backlist to work like an annuity
- Why writing a single book is not the usual path to success
- How genre-hopping can diversity your writing portfolio
- Theodora’s list of universal fantasies in Beauty and The Beast, Knives Out, Notting Hill, and Crazy Rich Asians
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
- Taylor’s website: 7figurefiction.com
Twitter handle: @7figurefiction
Facebook Author Page: www.facebook.com/groups/7figurefiction/
Substack: : https://7figurefiction.substack.com/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 096 / Troy Lambert, author, editor, freelance writer, and lead educator for Plottr joins us this week. We had a wide-ranging conversation including what he’s learned from interviewing authors who use Plottr. Troy also gives some out of the box tips for getting your books in bookstores.
Intro links:
Jami’s talk, What I Wish I’d Known about Indie Publishing, at 20Books Vegas conference 2021
Advance Reader Copies panel at 20Books Vegas conference 2021
Plottr interview with Sara about writing a cozy mystery
Jami’s interview on Not Your Average Lives podcast
Spotify acquires Findaway (TechCrunch article)
QOTW: Talk to us about conferences. What are your tips for having a good conference? Which conferences do you recommend?
Show notes:
- Why Troy works to educate the educators about writing careers
- Troy’s tips for pitching your book to your local bookstore
- Why Troy is a hybrid author and how you chooses which projects to publish himself and which to hand off to a traditional publisher
- How to deal with writer’s block so that you get “unstuck” in your creative process
- How Plottr helps authors plan their books and what Troy has learned from interviewing authors who use the platform
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Troy’s website: troylambertwrites@live.com
Twitter handle: tlambertwrites
Instagram handle: authortroy
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/troylambertwrites
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 095 / Cozy mystery and historical fiction author Heather Day Gilbert joins us to talk about the challenges of moving from a traditionally published author to an indie author. We touch on the mindset shifts she had to go through, and she gives us an overview of how she launched a successful indie cozy mystery series. Plus we delve into one of her lessons-learned that involves a snake. :)
Show notes:
- How Heather got started writing through NaNoWriMo
- Why Heather doesn’t recommend writing in several different genres at the beginning of your writing career (but sometimes we can’t help ourselves!)
- Why Heather goes against the advice to not read reviews and how she uses them to get feedback on her books
- The relationship she has with her readers and how they provide feedback for her on blurbs and titles
- The mindset change she had to make regarding awards and “fame fog” to become an indie author
- How Heather used a rapid release model that fit her life and writing habits to launch a new indie series
- Heather’s book for writers, Indie Publishing Handbook
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Heather’s website: https://heatherdaygilbert.com/
Twitter: @heatherdgilbert
Instagram: @heatherdaygilbert
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/heatherdaygilbert
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 094 / Romantic comedy author Tru Taylor shares how she stays positive and how she successfully launched a new pen name in 2021.
QOTW: How do you stay positive? Do you use affirmations, meditation, or something else?
Show notes:
- Tru’s shift from new reporter to author
- The books that helped Tru develop her writing craft and understand how to plot a book: Save the Cat and My Story Can Beat Up Your Story
- Why she recommends new writers move on to another book instead of continuing to revise the same “first” book
- How her marketing plans changed with the launch of her new pen name
- How she stays positive and uses meditations and affirmations
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Tru’s website: https://trutaylor.com/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Tru-Taylor-Author-107664454229005
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/trutaylorauthor/
Mailing list signup: https://bit.ly/TruTales
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tru-taylor
Amazon Author Page: Amazon.com: Tru Taylor: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 093 / Paranormal cozy author Lynn Morrison joins us this week for the second installment of our New Author series. We talk to Lynn about her first series that was five years in the making.
QOTW: How did you find your cover artist and editor?
Links mentioned in the intro:
FreeThesauras.com
Apple Books Promotion Tips
Show notes:
- How Lynn shifted from writing a parenting blog to writing fiction
- The grassroots marketing tactics she used to launch Book 1 in her first series
- How Lynn researched the paranormal cozy market before she began writing
- How she found her editor and cover artist
- Why the term “Your Milage May Vary” has been the hardest thing for Lynn when it comes to indie publishing
- How much it really costs to launch a book in 2021
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author website: lynnmorrisonwriter.com
Twitter: @nomadmomdiary
Instagram: @nomadmomdiary
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NomadMomDiary
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 092 / We kick off our New Author series with cozy mystery Victoria Tait, who began writing in 2019. She published her first book wide in 2020. She now has several books out in that series and is starting a new series.
Show notes:
- How wrote her first book, including the resources she used to learn the craft of writing
- Her marketing plan for launching her book and series
- Why she’s focusing on building her email list
- How she found her editor and cover designer
- How she’s pivoting with a new series
- And how she’s publishing on a shoestring
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include cozy mystery.
Links:
Victoria’s website: https://victoriatait.com/
The Creative Penn podcast
SPA Girls Podcast: Episode with Rosanne Cheng about Pinterest for Authors
Sara Rosett’s cozy course
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 091 / Romantic comedy author Adriana Locke shares how she maintains balance in her life, shares some great tips on branding, and tells us how trauma in her life helped her make a big mindset shift.
Intro notes:
The Creative Penn podcast about using mystery in all genres
Six Figure Author podcast with Mark Leslie Lefebvre about his new book with Joanna Penn, The Relaxed Author
Sara will be on Clubhouse October 14th, talking about translations with Ricardo Feyet of Reedsy and Dan Wood from Draft2Digital.
Question of the week: How would you like to edit your life?
Show notes:
- Adriana started writing on a dare
- Why it’s important to not get stuck in a box of set expectations when it comes to marketing--why it’s good to question the premise
- A cover mistake that taught Adriana about branding
- The isolation of writing and why community is important for everyone--even introverts!
- Why asking “What should this book achieve for me?” helps Adriana keep her perspective and helps with work/life balance
- Why you sometimes have to “edit your life” to stay in balance
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Adriana’s website: www.adrianalocke.com
Twitter handle: @authoralocke
Instagram handle: @authoradrianalocke
Facebook Author Page: /authoradrianalocke
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 090 / Steamy rom com author Kayley Loring joins us today to talk about how she went from writing screenplays to writing novels.
Intro link:
Historical Mystery Day
Show notes:
- How Kayley got into screenwriting in Hollywood
- Kayley’s “under the radar” marketing plan of writing several books before focusing on marketing
- The power of series when it comes to marketing
- Why responding to readers is a great form of marketing
- Kayley’s reader-focused podcast, Multiple Eargasms, and how she uses the podcast to share bonus material with her readers
- Kayley’s thoughts on the chances of a rom com books being picked up by Hollywood for options and adaptations
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Kayley’s website: https://www.kayleyloring.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/authorkayleyloring/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 089 / Science fiction, fantasy, and horror author Angeline Trevena joins us today to talk about worldbuilding and being a discovery writer.
Intro links:
Jami Albright free book
Historical Mystery Day
Show notes:
- The value of a university degree in writing versus the value of experience when it comes to novel writing
- The pros and cons of not writing specific tropes
- How Angeline came to run a sci fi/fantasy convention for her local library
- Why Angeline doesn’t have a reader Facebook group
- Angeline’s three rules of worldbuilding
- Myths about discovery writers
Question of the Week: Are you a discovery writer or an outliner?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include science fiction, fantasy, urban fantasy, and dystopian
Links:
Angeline’s website: https://www.angelinetrevena.co.uk
Twitter: @angelinetrevena
Instagram: @angelinetrevena
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/angelinetrevena/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 088 / In this podcast we chat with dark urban fantasy author H.B. Lyne, who also writes nonfiction for authors as Holly Lyne, including Goal Setting for Writers. Additionally, she co-hosts the Unstoppable Authors podcast.
Intro links:
Behind the Book podcast interview with Jami Albright
Historical Mystery Day - Sept 29th
Question of the week: How far in the future do you plan for your writing business?
Show notes:
- The importance of getting feedback
- When not to set goals
- First steps for authors getting started with goal setting
- Tips for authors who have a hard time envisioning long-term goals
- Tools for goal setting, including bullet journaling
- Holly’s advice for writers who want to podcast
- How Holly, who is a #1 Furistic in the CliftonStrengths assessment, deals with the uncertainty associated with the pandemic
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
H.B. Lyne
www.unstoppableauthors.com
Instagram: @hblyne
https://hblyne.com/goal-setting-for-writers
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 087 / Pricing expert Sally Farrant joins us this week to discuss how authors can find the best price point for their books plus so much more. It was a great interview with lots of tips and ideas for authors.
In this podcast you’ll discover:
- The relationship between confidence and pricing
- Common pricing myths
- Sally’s suggestions for “big ticket” products authors can create that have a higher price point than ebooks
- Whether or not you should price your books according to length
- Sally’s advice on price research and using comp authors and genres standards to set prices
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thepricingqueen (best place to find Sally)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepricingqueen
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sally-farrant
Sally’s website: https://www.businessgrowthbynumbers.com/
The Pricing Queen Podcast: https://thepricingqueen.com/podcast
Pricing calculator: https://thepricingqueen.com/pricing-calculator
Pricing personality quiz: https://thepricingqueen.com/quiz
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 086 / In this podcast with historical mystery author Jane Steen you’ll discover:
- Why Jane feels that a permafree book is still a good marketing tactic
- Her mindset shift from being a writer to the publisher
- How she’s found success with her slow-and-steady production schedule
- Details on her cover rebrand for the House of Closed Door series and how it’s helping new readers discover her books
QOTW: How do you come up with your publishing plan?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Jane Steen’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 085 / Becca Syme from the Better Faster Academy joins us to talk about the impact of the pandemic on our writing lives and give us some coping strategies.
In this podcast you’ll discover:
- How the extensive time of dealing with trauma and stress from the pandemic is impacting us
- What energy pennies are and how traveling to “pandemic land” produces a currency exchange that reduces their value, causing us to use more energy to get the same amount done
- The danger of black and white thinking
- Why some people are more productive during stressful times
- Tips for how to create more energy pennies
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
WIKT 002 - Leaning into Your Strengths in your Writing Business with Becca Syme
WIKT 048 - Becca Syme on Unrealistic Expecations and JOMO (the Joy of Missing out)
Unstoppable Authors podcast - interview with Sara about writing a series and podcasting for readers
Better Faster Academy
Quitcast Youtube Channel
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 084 / Thomas Umstattd Jr., CEO of Author Media, joins us today to talk about mistakes authors make with social media and how to avoid them. We delve into the world of ubiquity and scarcity and discuss how to use scarcity to sell your books. He’s also got some great ideas on how to find and get to know your readers. We wrap up by talking about trends in publishing in general and in the Inspirational market in particular.
Question of the Week: What innovative marketing technique have you used that’s been successful?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Author Media
Ubiquity and scarcity podcast
Novel Marketing Podcast
Christian Publishing Show
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 083 / Nicholas Erik shares tips on branding and discusses how to use your backlist for long term success. We also talk about the importance of testing when it comes to ads as well as productivity and the power of focus.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Nicholas Erik Website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 082 / How do you take a germ of an idea and shape it into a full-length novel? It’s not a clean-cut process, and it changes with each book, but we share what we wish we’d known about developing story ideas as well as series ideas. And also we discuss the joys of sticky notes. :)
QOTW: Do you link your series books?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 081 / Romance and cozy author Tricia O’Malley shares how she designed her perfect day and then created a writing lifestyle that gave her freedom and flexibility.
Plus:
- Tricia tells us how a stolen dog launched her writing career
- The importance of backmatter and the unique thing Tricia did with her backmatter that has engaged her readers
- How Tricia intentionally incorporated her passion into her writing
- Working with your spouse
- Diversification with income with non-writing income streams
QOTW: What does your perfect day look like?
Come over and answer the question of the week in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
www.triciaomalley.com
Instagram: @triciaomalleyauthor
Facebook Author Page: @triciaomalleyauthor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 080 / The romantic comedy writing team of Max Malone shares how they’ve collaborated and produced over thirty five books as discovery writers.
We also talk about the importance of building your newsletter, how to assess negative reviews, and why the quantity of books is critical to long-term success, and being genuine.
QOTW: Have you ever considered co-writing?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Authormaxmonroe.com
Twitter: authormaxmonroe
Instagram: authormaxmonroe
Facebook Author Page: Author Max Monroe
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 079 / Cozy mystery author H.Y. Hanna joins us today to tell us about how she learned to tweak her premise so that her series idea fit the market.
Hsin-Yi shares about dealing with expectations--both familial and personal--when it came to a writing career and how she’s learning to create her own definition of success.
We also talk about how to deal with your internal editor when you’re drafting, why writing a book never gets easier (no matter how many books you’ve written), pricing, and how Hsin-Yi involves readers in her translations and audiobook production.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
https://www.hyhanna.com
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/hyhanna.books
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 078 / Lee Strauss tells us how she found her genre sweet spot in historical mystery. This episode is full of great craft tips including:
-creating character attachment
-the importance of series
-writing spin-offs
We also talk about Lee’s innovative marketing and promotion ideas, including using a journal as a reader magnet and using short stories in your publication schedule.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Twitter: @leestraussbooks
Instagram: lee.strauss
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLeeStrauss
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 077 / Genevieve Jack, paranormal romance, fantasy, and urban fantasy author, shares how writing and releasing three to four books a year has created a sustainable career. We also cover branding, writing series arcs as well as book arcs, and tips for going wide.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
www.genevievejack.com
The Creative Penn Podcast about writing humor
Anne R. Allen’s blog post about writing rules and writing fashions
Learning to Reverse Engineer a Novel with Cecelia Mecca
Cherry Adair
Twitter: @Genevieve_Jack
Instagram: @authorGenevieveJack
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGenevieveJack
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 076 / Contemporary romance author Debra Clopton joins us this week to talk about how she came through a health scare and how her business was set up to run without her. Deb’s story is inspiring (get the tissues ready!) and also gives practical ways to set up business systems for author-preneurs.
We also discuss the importance of preserving your voice in edits, how Debra used paid newsletters to launch a successful indie career, and writing in the Clean and Wholesome subcategory.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
www.debraclopton.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 075 / Michelle Scott writes in contemporary fiction, mystery, and thriller genres. She joins us today to talk about how she learned to treat her author career like a business in both the writing and marketing aspects. Michelle shares about craft, her “marketing Mondays,” mistakes involving a cliffhanger, and branding.
🗄️ Question of the week: What is one thing you can do to treat your author career like a business?
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
- Ads for Authors is currently open
- Daniel Willcock’s Self Publishing BluePrint
- Michele’s website: www.michelescott.com
- Twitter: twitter.com/michelescott1/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelescottauthor/
- Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/akalexanderauthor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group.
Episode 074 / Life is a bit crazy for Sara (moving!) and Jami, so it’s a great week to look back at a favorite episode, the interview with Pippa Grant.
Enjoy the timewarp and travel back to pre-COVID days when travel and meeting with people was the norm, not the exception. :)
This episode is packed with tons of tips and ideas about pen names, the psychology of fandom, and collaboration.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Pippa Grant https://pippagrant.com
Jennifer Barnes https://jenniferlynnbarnes.tumblr.com/post/136121504974/fiction-fandom-and-using-the-term-mary-sue-as
Bluewater Billionaires series https://pippagrant.com/bluewater-billionaires/
NINC https://www.NINC.com
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 073 / Surprise pregnancy. Murder on a train. Rag-tag crew. In this episode Jami and Sara dive into the wonderful world of tropes. They discuss why you want to use tropes in your writing and marketing. They share their personal favorites and then brainstorm creative twists on tropes.
This episode was inspired by two things:
Jami’s interview on Best Book Ever podcast and the Creative Penn podcast episode 513: Writing In The Dark. Horror Writing Tips With Tim Waggoner, in which Tim Waggoner gives some great tips for using tropes in a new way.
Jami’s book recommendation: Romance Tropes & Hooks by Karen Winter
✨ Question of the week: What is your favorite trope to write? Come over and let us know at WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include romance, romantic comedy, cozy mystery, traditional mystery, police procedural, thriller, urban fantasy, and sci-fi.
Other links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
WIKT episode on Paranormal Cozies with Amy Boyles
Headliner app
Episode 072 / Action & Adventure Thriller author Nick Thacker joins us this week to talk about the delicate balance of plot versus character. Nick is also a systems guy and he shares tips on getting a Bookbub and well as what trends for authors he sees on the horizon.
Sara’s in a fantastic nonfiction promo this week: the Writer Blowout 99 cent sale. How to Write a Series is on sale until June 4th along with a slew of other great books from these authors:
- KM Weiland – Structuring Your Novel
- Joanna Penn – The Successful Author Mindset
- Cheryl Bradshaw – Mastering Your Mysteries
- David Gaughran – Amazon Decoded
- Angela Ackerman & Becca Puglisi – The Emotional Wound Thesaurus
- Robert Ryan – Amazon Ads Unleashed
- Sara Rosett – How To Write A Series
- Shea Macleod – Writing Faster With Art Journaling
- Nick Thacker – Platform Mastery
- Zoe York – Romance your Brand
Grab your copies and share the sale with an author friend! :)
Jami’s made it to “the end” of her WIP! She also recommends Renee Rose on the SPA Girls Podcast.
Links:
https://www.nickthacker.com
Author.Email
Bookbub Tips Article from Reedsy
Writer Blowout 99 cent Sale
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 071 / Do you want to cultivate a core readership who will read anything you write? Historical fantasy and historical mystery author C.J. Archer joins us this week to talk about how she’s nurtured a group of readers who will read anything she writes no matter what the genre it is.
We also discuss how discipline and consistency have contributed to her success, overcoming shyness and developing self confidence, and the tactics C.J. uses as a wide author to market her books, including permafree books.
We also talk about translations, the boom in audio, and why she shifted her YA marketing focus to adults. Plus hear which shows Jami and C.J. are streaming.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include historical romance, historical fantasy, and historical mystery.
Author website:
https://www.cjarcher.com
Twitter handle
@CJ_Archer
Instagram handle
@authorcjarcher
Facebook Author Page
https://www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Links:
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 070 / Dan Wood from Draft 2 Digital joins us to talk about how using an aggregator like Draft 2 Digital can make your your life easier. We also talk about the importance of building relationships with author service providers. Plus tips and ideas for using subscription models, book trends, and Dan’s advice for new authors.
Intro links:
Sara on the Self Publishing Show
Finding You movie - adaptation of Jenny B. Jones’ novel
Question about Reedsy and Reviews - Episode 31 - How to Get and Use Reviews and Episode 46 - How Authors Can Use Reedsy
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links:
Draft 2 Digital
Self Publishing Insiders interviews
WIKT podcast with Jen Falls
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist
Episode 069 / Daniel Willcocks, author of dark fiction that spans the genres of horror, post-apocalyptic, and sci-fi, joins us this week to talk about how being authentic attracts your ideal reader. We also touch on how Daniel began his fiction writing career with short stories, why he’s moving away from the rapid release model, and his advice for new authors. Plus live math with authors, which is always entertaining! :)
Intro:
Jami is celebrating the release of a new audiobook, and Sara is deep in plans for a move, but finally has the beginning of her next book planned out. Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include horror, sci-fi, and post-apocalyptic.
Links:
Daniel’s website:
www.danielwillcocks.com
Twitter handle
@willcocksauthor
Instagram handle
@willcocksauthor
Facebook Author Page
www.facebook.com/willcocksauthor
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 068 / Thriller, mystery, and horror author Simon Wood joins us this week to talk about how he learned he was his own best advocate in negotiating right and how he’s become a “rights raptor” because he realizes the value of his intellectual property.
We also discuss how his background as a mechanical engineer helps him breakdown stories and reverse engineer his plots. Plus tips on pen names, writing flawed heroes, and dealing with impostor syndrome.
Intro links:
Check out the Wish I’d Known Then Facebook group for the Q&A replay.
Kirsten Oliphant’s Create If Writing podcast:
Lessons Learned in Three Years as an Author
How to Write a Bestseller
WIKT Episode 9: Clean Romance, Sustainability, and “Pantsing” books with Kirsten Oliphant
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include thriller, mystery, and horror.
Links:
Simon’s website: http://www.simonwood.net
Twitter handle @simonwoodwrites
Instagram handle @simonwoodwrites
Facebook Author Page @simonwoodwriter
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 067 / Mystery author Nancy Warren has been publishing for 20 years and has over 100 books out. She joins us to chat about writing mysteries and explains how her Vampire Knitting Club series came about and how she’s kept the series fresh and interesting for readers for 13 books. We talk about finding joy in writing and taking care of yourself so you can have a long career. Nancy also gives some great tips on including humor in your books.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include romance and paranormal cozy mystery.
Links:
Author website:
www.nancywarrenauthor.com
Twitter handle
Nancywarren1
Instagram handle
instagram.com/nancywarrenauthor
Facebook Author Page
https://www.facebook.com/35585383469
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 066 / Prolific romance author Nana Malone joins us to talk about being a pantser and writing instinctively, how she uses Instagram live to connect with her readers, and why she includes adventure, mystery, or intrigue. We also discuss the difficulties for authors of color and ways to support authors of color, including the gofundme campaign for Audio in Color.
Links:
Audio in Color: https://www.gofundme.com/f/audio-in-color-brownnipplechallenge-audiobooks
Nana website:
www.nanamaloneromance.net
Twitter handle
@nanamalone
Instagram handle
@nanamalonewriter
Facebook Author Page
https://www.facebook.com/nanamalonewriter
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Episode 065 / Paranormal cozy mystery author Bella Falls joins us to talk about how she learned to write to market. Writing with her readers in mind helps Jenn plot a series as well as plan her release schedule. Jenn’s active on Clubhouse, and she tells us how authors can use the new platform. Plus, talking squirrels!
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Intro Links:
BingeBooks Author Registration
Sara’s profile on BingeBooks
Creative Penn Podcast - What Can Authors Learn From Digital Changes In The Music Industry? With Tristra Newyear Yeager
Jami on Best Book Ever podcast
Episode links:
Jenn’s website: http://bellafallsbooks.com
Twitter handle: @bellafallsbooks
Instagram handle: @bellafallsbooks
Facebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/bellafallsbooks
Clubhouse Authors on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320971962548578
Jenn on Clubhouse: @bellajenn
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 064 / We answer your questions about newsletter content and autoresponders plus tips for reviving backlist sales and launch strategies for debut authors and/or first in series books.
Intro links:
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- What kind of newsletters we send to our list and how often we email
- What special things we do for our readers through our newsletters
- Tips and ideas for growing a newsletter
- Launch strategies for debut authors and/or first in series books
- Plus, our tips on how to revive backlist, our favorite conferences, and what we wish we’d know about beta readers and editors
Genre discussed in this podcast: romantic comedy, cozy mystery and historical mystery.
Links:
Jami’s Launch Plan
Sara’s New Release Timeline
Episode 26: Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode
Episode 36: Trends in Selling Direct and Audiobooks with Damon Courtney of Bookfunnel
Episod 28: Make Your Emails to Readers More Effective with Ryan Zee of Booksweeps and Plottr
Tips on reviving backlist from Ricardo Fayet on the Kobo Writing Life Podcast
David Gaughran’s Starting from Zero
SPF 101 Course (affiliate)
NINC
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 063 / Podcaster and historical mystery author Jenny Wheeler joins us on the podcast to talk about podcasting for readers, transitioning to writing fiction after another career, and the benefits of taking time off--a whole month!
Intro links:
Productivity site Jami mentioned: Pacemaker
Sign up for historical mystery book releases and updates on Historical Mystery day: Historical Mystery Day and new release sign up
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Jenny came to writing fiction later in life
- Why developing a following takes time
- What Jenny dropped during lockdown and how that impacted her writing life
- Why Jenny decided to start a podcast for readers
- The benefits of taking time off and how Jenny keeps her listeners engaged during the break
- Why she has two different newsletters, one for her podcast listeners and another for her readers and how she’s built both
Genre discussed in this podcast: historical mystery.
Links:
Jenny Wheeler Author Website
The Joys of Binge Reading
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 062 / Prolific cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes joins us this week and we delve into how her reader-centric focus has brought her success.
Intro links:
Jami has continued writing first each day and her words are adding up. Shout-out to Becca Syme’s video Why Can’t I Hit My Deadlines that helped Jami.
Sara’s revising and editing. She has a new desk stand.
It’s from a company called Harmoni. (#affiliate link). It’s made for use with a laptop, but Sara uses it as a standing with her iMac desktop and the keyboard stand she had made so she can stand while she works.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How a difficult time in her life lead Tonya to discover the joy of book clubs and reading
- Why Tonya wishes she hadn’t been so much of a “squirrel” when it came to writing in different genres
- How Tonya uses out-of-the-box thinking for her promotion
- Tonya’s innovate use of backmatter to motivate readers to sign up for her newsletter
- Tonya’s thoughts on going from indie to hybrid with a traditional publishing contract
- How having a camper helps Tonya her productivity
Genres discussed include cozy mystery and paranormal cozy mystery
Links:
Tonya Kappes website
Waxcreative Design - website designer
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 061 / Do you want your life set up to weather storms like 2020? Adriel Wiggins joins us this week to talk about how she learned to structure her life in a way that helps her get through the tough times.
Intro notes:
Sara’s celebrating completing the first draft of her historical mystery, while Jami shares a video of Becca Syme that’s helped Jami get her words in each day since she watched it. Check out Why Can’t I Hit My Deadlines.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why waiting for “someday” to come isn’t a good plan to achieve your goals and dreams
- How paying off debt from a failed business helped Adriel prepare for 2020
- How Adriel learned what type of business best fit her personality
- Setting up checkpoints that serve as warning signs your getting close to overwhelm
- The Perfect Day exercise
- How automating tasks and events gives your freedom
Links:
Weathering the Storm Workshop - Mention WIKT podcast and get an extra download bonus. :)
Weathering the Storm course waitlist
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 060 / Romance author Lucy Score joined us to talk about how staying in her lane and creating a backlist of titles, all with a similar tone, has contributed to her success. Our conversion ranges from craft to setting boundaries to how Lucy works with her publishing team.
Jami’s novella launched last week, and Sara locked up her computer trying to install an update.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why every detail in a book is a way to deepen character
- How Lucy uses series as well as standalone novels to build her readership
- How she transitions new readers into her back catalog
- Her assumption that writing would get easier and how that was wrong (we all have a good laugh about that one!)
- How she nurtures a positive atmosphere in her reader group
- Lucy also breaks down her publishing team and their roles
- How Lucy uses exercise, meditation, and boundaries to help her handle stress
Links:
Lucy Score’s website
Instagram handle: scorelucy
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/lucyscorewrites
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett
Write Better Faster
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 059 / Thriller author and creative entrepreneur Joanna Penn of The Creative Penn podcast joined us this week to talk about learning from mistakes, the importance of mindset, and taking the long view in your writing career.
The sun is out in Houston and we’re recovering from the great “snow-apocalypse” of 2021. Jami has running water again (yay!) and her lockdown novella, Locked in Love, launches this week and at the end of the novella she’s giving away her brides novella as a lead magnet. Sara is writing and researching a possible French translation.
Question of the week: What is your approach to translations? Did it change after listening to Episode 58 with Tonya Anne Crosby?
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Getting better with practice - the continual opportunity to grow in your craft
- The importance of backlist for established authors
- What Joanna learned from marketing her first book and why she doesn’t use those tactics now
- The assumptions Joanna made in the beginning of her writing career about podcasting and writing fiction and why they were wrong
- How Joanna used what she learned from a failed business to create a business and life she enjoys
- Joanna’s tips on how to choose a pen name
- Why multiple streams of income are so important for authors
- How authors can prepare for the growth in subscription services in
Links:
The Creative Penn
J.F. Penn
Books and Travel podcast
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 058 / Are you thinking about doing translations for your books? Historical and contemporary romance author Tanya Anne Crosby has coordinated over 100 translations across German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch. When a health scare meant she couldn’t write quickly, she focused on translations as a way to exploit her intellectual property. She shares what she’s learned about how to produce translations as well as how to market them.
Intro links:
The winter storm hit both of us hard this week, and we’ve been in survival mode. If you want tips on winterizing southern-style or creative ways to use snow during not-so-rolling blackouts, we’ve got you covered. Not much writing was done, and we talk about how both of us are okay with that.
Sara was on The Creative Penn podcast this week talking about her How to Write a Series book.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Confidence, rejection, and shooting for the top
- After a health scare, Tanya cut back on her production and turned to translations to bring in income
- Why Tanya does some translations direct and does others as royalty share
- Special considerations around copyright for German translations
- The importance of aligning the heat level in romance translations
- How Tanya markets her translations
- Why writing in different genres slows down your momentum
- Learning to let go and not do everything yourself
- Why authors shouldn’t overlook print book sales
Genres discussed include historical romance and contemporary romance.
Links:
Tanya Anne Crosby website
Translations presentation link
Babelcube
Translators Cafe
Shopify
IngramSpark
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 057 / How do you get a fabulous cover for your book? Najla Qamber, cover designer and founder of Qamber Designs and Media is here to answer all our questions about covers, including how to find a cover designer, what to include in your cover brief, and how to give feedback to a designer. Najla also gives tips for custom covers and clues us in on the hot trends in cover design.
Intro links:
Stark Reflections Podcast #174
Locked in Love by Jami Albright
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Genres discussed include romance, psychological thrillers, cozy mystery, and chic lit.
Najla Qamber Designs
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 056 / Do you have financial goals you’d like to achieve in your author career? Romance author L.B. Dunbar tells us how focus and pacing helped her reach her goals. Our conversation also hit on how L.B. went against the conventional wisdom of what sells with her over 40 romance, writing in other authors’ worlds, and transitioning out of a day job into full-time writing.
Intro links:
Jami’s viral video
The Mimosa Tree Mystery
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links atwishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How L.B. got into writing
- The importance of “bank over rank”
- How L.B. decided to write over 40 romance
- Why L.B. considered quitting in 2017 and how she turned things around in 2018
- The steps to she to meet her financial goals
- The importance of her manta, “Why not me?”
Genres discussed include second chance romance and over 40 romance.
Links for L.B. Dunbar:
Facebook * Instagram * Reader Group * Web * Twitter
Mark Dawson’s courses (affiliate)
Sky Warren
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Text faces are small strings of characters that can describe emotions and make your text stand out. Browse them in the gallery.
Episode 055 / NYT bestselling author Gail Carriger joins us this week to talk about The Heroine’s Journey. This episode is a deep dive into story and plotting. Our conversation also touches on the benefits of direct sales, the importance of a newsletter, and how to recover when things that are out of your control go wrong.
In the intro Jami talks about her hand surgery, which went great, and Sara’s email migration is complete. Two helpful links:
The Ultimate Guide to Self-Publishing Audiobooks
AppSumo deal (affiliate link) Optinly
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
https://insights.bookbub.com/outside-box-book-marketing-ideas
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Gail’s background in academia
- Turning serendipity into success
- Embracing failure
- Seeing difficulties as an opportunity - ACX delays as an opportunity to test direct sales
- The benefits of learning how to run a small business
- Learning your book is a product
- How to recover when things that are out of your control go wrong
- The difference between the Hero's Journey and the Heroine's Journey
- Why critics and readers often belittle the Heroine's Journey
Links:
Gail Carriger’s website
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 054 / Do you want to be a successful writer? Friendships with other writers can be a big factor in contributing to a long career. Romance and cozy mystery author Cheryl Phipps joins us this week to talk about how her writer friends spur her on to greater achievements in writing and promotion. We also talk about her move into cozy mystery.
Intro links:
Cincy Book Bus
Jami’s Bernie Sanders meme video
Jami’s New Author Discovery newsletter application form
ScribeCount - New site for wide authors to keep track of sales data
Out of the Box promo ideas from Bookbub Partners Blog - wearable swag from book covers and special editions similar to Sara’s snowflake special edition
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How the definition of success changes over time
- Why needing to improve in writing craft shouldn’t keep you from getting started writing
- Why Cheryl wishes she’d known not to be afraid of marketing--Facebook ads in particular
- Cheryl’s move into cozy mystery
- How to make writer friends
- Why Cheryl prioritizes getting the words down
- How Cheryl juggles writing both romance and cozy
- The difference in the structure of Cheryl’s cozy and romance series
- How Cheryl handles the romance subplot in her cozies
- The importance of surrounding yourself with encouraging people
Genres discussed include romance and cozy mystery.
Links:
Cheryl Phipps websites:
www.cherylphipps.com
www.caphipps.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CherylAPhipps
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.phipps6/
Facebook Author Page: http://www.cherylphipps.com https://www.facebook.com/authorcaphipps
SPA Girls podcast
WIKT Interview with Wendy Vella
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 053 / It may be 2021, but many writers are juggling working from home and caring for their families. Mystery author, editor, and book coach Connie B. Dowell has tips on how to write with the kids at home. She also shares why she created The Messy Author Planner.
In the intro, Sara shares a “wish I’d known then” mistake related to using her website for her business email (not her newsletter emails). Jami shares her plans for a free story she wrote for her newsletter subscribers. And Jami passes on a marketing tip from the SMBS: embedded Amazon links.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Connie went from being a bookmobile driver to teaching writing to writing fiction
- Success and sustainability
- How Connie has tailored her writing style to her readers
- The most important marketing tactic: having a newsletter
- Writing LGBT characters and pros and cons of content warnings
- Tips for writing with small kids
- The Messy Author Planner
- How Connie handles hosting a podcast as well as writing fiction
Genres discussed include cozy mystery, LGBT cozy mystery, and historical mystery.
Links:
Connie B. Dowell’s website
Twitter: @ConnieBDowell
Instagram: @ConnieBDowell
Facebook Author Page
Connie’s Facebook Group
The Messy Author Planner
Book Echos Podcast
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 052 / Do you want to have a long writing career? Prolific historical romance author Jess Michaels is here with tips to help you set yourself up for a long and productive career.
We also talk with Jess about her transition from traditional publishing to indie publishing, how she learned that an 8-month sabbatical was not a good thing for an Achiever, and how she writes now that she understands her process. And the illustration of forest and trees comes up again! Perhaps that’s a theme for 2021?
Intro links:
Historical Mystery Day
Becca Syme’s QuitCast
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Jess got into writing and how she’s been able to retire her husband from his job
- The infinite numbers of ways to find success and discovering your own process
- Finding constants in marketing books in a continually changing industry and how “best practices” can be different in each genre
- Feeling the pain of not hitting goals, but learning from those experiences
- Why taking an 8 month break was not restful for Jess
- How Jess structures her work and and rest as an Achiever
- Why having a platform is a key to longevity
- Being true to your audience and how that helps you have a long career
- Bridgerton! And the show’s possible impact on the romance market
- Continuing to produce books and how that creates a career: using the swing of a front list release to push backlist and then using backlist to push front list
Genres discussed include historical romance
Links:
Jess Michaels’ website
1797 Club books
Twitter: @jessmichaelsbks
Instagram: @jessmichaelsbks
Facebook Author Page
Jess’s podcast: Journeys of Romance
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 051 / Contemporary romance author Zoe York joins us to talk about aligning your current projects with your long-term goals. Plus we dive into author branding and business models and Zoe’s tips for writing a series. This episode is packed with so much good info for writers!
Intro links:
Happy 2021!
How to Outline a Cozy Mystery sale
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Zoe discovered the joy of ereaders
- Why goals are often a moving target
- The benefits of anthologies
- Why real enthusiasm and passion is so important for success
- Breaking the rules of plot structure and starting with the black moment
- Order of operations for writing and marketing
- Assumptions about growth and how it’s not always cumulative
- Getting to the next level if you plateau
- Branding: an oak tree versus a field of poplars
- Series within a series
- Series names and how they impact reader expectations
- Zoe’s tips for writing a series
- First draft mistakes on a Book One in a series
- Different business models for authors and matching your goals to them
- Goal setting: think 5 years in the future then align current project to that goal
- TikTok and authors
- Regions of discoverability
Genre discussed is contemporary romance.
Links:
Zoe York’s website
Twitter: @zoeyorkwrites
Instagram: @zoeyorkwrites
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/zoeyorkwrites
Zoe’s book on writing a series and branding: Romance Your Brand
Becca Syme’s Write Better Faster
The Heroine’s Journey
Sarah Cannon HB90
Sara’s book on writing a series: How to Write a Series
Regions of Discoverability
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 050 / Not to be outdone by the countdown to the new year (and who isn’t ready to wave goodbye to 2020?), Jami and Sara count the top ten episodes of the first year of the Wish I’d Known Then podcast.
In the intro, Sara talks about reading Gail Carriger’s book The Heroine’s Journey. Jami is finishing her story that she’s sending to her newsletter. Jami recommends Warrior Nun and Sara’s binging Hallmark Christmas movies.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Episode with the most comments/interaction:
Ep 44: Narrating Your Fiction Audiobooks with Nikki Haverstock
Episodes with the most Youtube views:
1 -Ep 15: Finding Success in Small Genres with Elana Johnson
2 - Ep 48: Becca Syme on Unrealistic Expectations and JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out)
3 - Ep 41: Robin Cutler on the Advantages of IngramSpark for Print and the Future of Publishing
Countdown of Top 10 Podcast episode downloads:
10 - Ep 5: Learning to Reverse Engineer a Novel with Cecelia Mecca
9 - Ep 24: Why Isn’t This Book (or Series) Selling? Shea MacLeod on Analyzing Backlist Titles
8 - Ep 30: Understanding Your Motivation to Write with H. Claire Taylor
7 - Ep 17: Lindsay Buroker on Pen Names, Podcasting, and Rapid Release
6 - Ep 15: Finding Success in Small Genres with Elana Johnson
5 - Ep 22: How Pamela Fagan Hutchins Turned Her Writing Career Around
4 - Ep 1: Mistakes and Lessons Learned in Indie Publishing
3 - Ep 8: How David Gaughran is Using his Lessons Learned to Reboot his Fiction and Nonfiction Books
2 - Ep 29: Craig Martelle on Pricing Strategies, Making More Money with Less Books, and Writing with Health Issues
1 - Ep 26: Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group.
Episode 049 / Kandi Steiner shares the importance of mindset for writers and how being thankful helps us enjoy writing. Kandi is a wizard on Instagram, and we delve into her top tips. Plus, how to deal with books that don’t live up to our expectations. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro update: Jami is close to finishing her serial and will publish it soon. Jami also shares about her decision to shift her marketing for her latest book and her plan to write a series within a series.
Sara recommended two podcasts: Nathan Van Coop’s Book Faces Live and Julie Strauss’ Best Book Ever. And for anyone debating whether to go indie or traditional, Sara shares her thoughts on the experience of her trad publisher holding her audiobook rights for a decade, then licensing the audio for the first five books in her series.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Kandi’s definition of success and how it’s changed over time
- Writing the “scary” book and how it was Kandi’s first breakout book success
- The most important thing to do while you’re writing your first book
- Making peace with the fact that marketing is never-ending
- Dealing with lack of support from people in your life when you’re writing
- How to deal with books that don’t perform as you expect
- Why mindset is the most important thing in writing and how being thankful changes your mindset
- Being authentic yourself on Instagram and why sharing your passions draws people to you
- Kandi’s Wrangling the Writer tips and the most common questions she gets about time management
Genre discussed: angsty romance
Links:
Kandi Steiner’s website
Facebook group: KandiLand
Kandi’s Instagram with Wrangling the Writer segments
Big Magic
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Episode 048 / We talk to author and writing coach Becca Syme about 2020 about the impact it has had on writers and how we can move into 2021 and thrive in the new year. Plus the 2020 hangover, werewolves, Zoom writing sprints, and books on vinyl.
In the intro Sara reports that direct sales are working and if your audiobooks are stuck in the ACX approval queue, that’s a window of opportunity to introduce your readers to buying direct. Jami is back from the virtual version of Romance Author Mastermind and is inspired! Her takeaways: audiobooks, translations, and print books through Ingram.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Becca’s update since she was our first guest in WIKT 002: Leaning into Your Strengths in Your Writing
- How 2020 brought a lot of stress and frustration in the writer community to a head, and Becca’s upcoming book, Dear Writer, It’s 2020, which breaks down all the different reasons writers aren’t having success and how to overcome those issues
- What Becca learned personally in 2020, including writing sprints on Zoom
- Becca’s plans for the innovative marketing tactic of releasing an audiobook on vinyl
- Tips for building community and using Patreon
- Becca’s answers to questions from the WIKT Facebook: finding an editor and what things a new author should “quit” until they’re more established
- Dealing with unrealistic expectations
- Trends to watch for in 2021
- Dealing with the “cult of speed” that’s so prevalent in indie publishing
- The importance of “JOMO” -- Joy of Missing Out
Links:
Becca’s Youtube - Quitcast
Dear Writer, It’s 2020
Bookfunnel
Ingram Spark
Wide for the Win Facebook group
Becca's Patreon
Reedsy
Print Books: The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 047 / We get a jump on the typical year-in-review podcast episode and do our 2020 retrospective early. (Are we ready for 2020 to be over? Yes, yes we are.) We discuss the mistakes we’ve made and what we’ve learned in this terrible-horrible-very-bad-no-good year. Oddly, it basically turned into a Thanksgiving episode . . . with the bonus of Jami’s North Pole decorating tips thrown in.
Intro recap:
Jami’s 99 cent series promo went great and exceeded her expectations.
Sara’s release of her historical mystery, which went really well and launched with over 3,000 ebook preorder. She talks about the non-trackable things she did, like promoting her special edition hardcover, which brought the happy side-effect of drawing attention to the ebook.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Jami’s thoughts on being happy where you are and avoiding comparison-itis
- How Sara’s pace of writing 2.5 books may seem slow, but it adds up--she just released book #30
- How Covid highlighted things to be thankful for that Sara hadn’t even thought of
- Why pivoting from one subgenre to another can be a mistake
- Sara’s lessons learned on direct sales and why she wishes she’d started doing direct sales earlier
- Sara’s tips on how to get audiobook direct sales
- Jami’s reflections on writing one book a year and the freedom being a writer gives us
Genres discussed include romantic comedy and historical mystery.
Q: What have you learned in 2020? Also, what is your creative way for a bride to run away from a wedding?
Links:
Bookfunnel
Nathan Van Coops interview
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 046 / Founder of Reedsy and soon-to-be published author, Ricardo Fayet joins us to talk about how authors can work with Reedsy to find freelancers, get their books in front of reviewers, and find translators. We also touch on simple ways to improve your sales pages and reach international readers.
Intro recap:
Sara talked about what she’d learned from launching a special edition hardcover: 1) you need a long lead time so you don’t have to pay expedited shipping on the books, and 2) set up a sign-up page first to find out if anyone is interested, then set up a sales page with a “pre-order” before ordering the books from IngramSpark. Sara did the sign-up, but not the sales page and she’d do both if she does it again. Sara’s a founding author at BingeBooks, which recently launched. It’s a bookish site for readers to discover new books, keep track of books they’re reading, and connect with authors. They have a waiting list for authors who would like to claim their profile.
Jami’s 99 cent sale is running and she’s directing clicks to her series page, which is one of David Gaughran’s recommendations for good conversions. Jami gives the tactic a thumbs up. Jami’s also running ads on Facebook and Bookbub.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Ricardo came to create Reedsy, a marketplace to connect writers and freelancers
- Ricardo’s advice for authors who don’t like Facebook
- The difference between having an advertising presence and an organic presence on a social media site
- Common mistakes Ricardo sees authors making
- How Reedsy’s professional review service works
- Why focus and discipline are important for longevity
- Countries that are “ready” for translations and have a maturing digital market
- Reedsy’s translation assessment feature
- Growth of digital sales in Europe because of Covid and lockdown
- Connecting with international authors to market translations
- How to find and work with a translator on Reedsy
- Trends: more translation and continued growth of audio
- Ricardo’s tips for reaching an international readers
Links/tips:
Reedsy
Direct Sales tips: Woocommerce and Paypal.com/shipnow
Sara’s Snowflake Special Edition Hardcover
David Gaughran’s Youtube channel
BingeBooks
BingeBooks Waiting List for Authors
WIKT podcast with Patricia McLinn
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 045 / Sacha Black, author of young adult fantasy as well as non-fiction for writers, joins us this week to talk about how being your authentic self empowers you. We also delve into practical tips on how authors can achieve financial independence. Then Sacha answers questions from the Facebook group about productivity, rebellion, and how to write great villains.
Intro recap:
Sara’s deep in Direct Sales Land, figuring out the Woocommerce plugin and shipping options for her special edition hardcover with hand-stamped end pages. Jami was sick last week, but she’s recovered and is planning a price promotion, dropping her books to 99 cents. She’ll report back on how the sale goes.
Come over and say hey to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How blogging and NaNoWriMo helped Sacha return to her first love of writing
- Why Sacha is passionate about financial independence for authors
- How she paid off her debt so she could leave her day job; plus Sacha’s tips for authors who’d like to do the same
- What Sacha wishes she’d known about craft and how she now dissects the books she reads and does forensic breakdowns to find the patterns and tools the authors employ
- Why everything counts in marketing
- Why Sacha’s assumptions about being a full-time author were wrong
- How having multiple streams of income creates financial stability
- How Sacha accidentally created a pen name for herself
- When you shouldn’t listen to your audience
- Sacha’s tips for focus and productivity
- What Sacha sees people doing wrong when they create their villains and how to fix those missteps
- The benefits of Alli (Alliance of Independent Authors) for authors
- The power of authenticity
Genres discussed include fiction and non-fiction for writers.
Links:
Sacha Black website: https://sachablack.co.uk
Sacha’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sachablackauthor/
Rebel Author Podcast
Next Level Authors Podcast
9 Things Career Authors Don’t Do: Personal Finance
13 Steps to Evil: How to Craft Superbad Villains
Alli - Alliance of Independent Authors
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 044 / Cozy mystery author Nikki Haverstock joins us to talk about how authors can record fiction audiobooks. This episode is packed with Nikki’s practical tips for set-up, tools, and promotion ideas.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Nikki learned she didn’t need a special dispensation to be a writer--that it’s more about hard work
- Why Nikki wishes she’d known that it’s okay that writing is hard
- How Nikki gives away some of her work get her books in front of the right people
- Why finding readers of your genre is critical for getting good feedback
- Why sometimes it's okay to make “bad” business decisions on the basis of personal growth
- Why Nikki decided to narrate her fiction books
- Nikki’s tips for authors who want to narrate their books
-
- Be okay with listening to your voice
- Be reasonably good with hunting out your own information on how to record and edit
- Listen to audiobooks
- Nikki’s recording set-up and tools:
-
- Closet
- Blue Yeti
- Music stand with Kindle app to read from
- Hospital (adjustable height) table
- Audacity
- ACX check
- Set RMS
- Practical tips:
-
- Records when her family is out of the house
- Claps when she makes a mistake so she can find it later
- Recommends recording a couple of minutes, then go through the whole process as if you were going to upload it
- Plan to set aside a few weeks to record and edit
- Do a visual first pass edit to remove mouth sounds and some breaths
- Use a standard amount of time for a scene break
- Do a proof listen after editing
- Keep three versions: raw version, edited version, and final filtered version
- Use Findaway Voices
- Set up Authors Direct storefront
Genres discussed include cozy mystery and paranormal cozy mystery.
Links:
Nikki Haverstock's website
Nikki’s Authors Direct
Nikki’s Youtube channel
Facebook Group: Authors who Narrate Their Own Audio
Sara’s tips/set-up/editing:
Audiobooks Made Easy Course from Derek Doepker (affiliate link)
Audio Technica ATR2100x (affiliate link)
Creative Penn Podcast interview with Derek Doepker
Outsourced audio editing: reid.loessberg (at) gmail.com
Findaway Voices
The Big List of craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 043 / Is it too late to plan holiday promotions? Nope. You still have plenty of time--and holiday promotions don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
We share what we wish we’d known about holiday promos. We delve into what tactics we’ve used and found effective for marketing to cold, warm, and hot audiences.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. New! You can find the WIKT podcast on Youtube: Wish I’d Known Then Youtube Channel
What we wish we’d known about marketing during the holidays: Jami: that it was a thing!
Sara: you don’t have to have a holiday book
Group promos ideas -> warm/cold audience Get together with a group of authors and promote books in your newsletters and on social media
Jami: this has been one of my most effective promotion tactics
Sara: print book sales promotion though BookFunnel - https://books.bookfunnel.com/paperbackcozymysterychristmas/gtsoc2z64x
Solo promo ideas -> hot audience -Bundles: Limited time or bundle whole series (convenience of having them all together)
-Gift Giving lists Bookish Wish List - your favorite books/bookish things
https://www.sararosett.com/bookish-wish-list/
Mystery Lover’s Gift Guide: https://www.sararosett.com/gift-guide/
Last Minute ideas -> Cold and Warm audiences Price Drop - easiest thing to do!
Newsletter content ideas -> hot audience Ideas of things you can give:
Price drop
Exclusive short story/novella
Printables--calendar with release dates
Special editions - print or ebook
Links:
Post from Written Word Media for promotion ideas and consumer mindset: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/book-promotion-for-holiday/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 042 / Science fiction and fantasy author and co-host of the Six Figure Authors podcast, Joseph Lallo joins us to talk about the advantages of planning when it comes to writing books as well as in promotion and marketing. We also delve into how Jo’s prep for NaNoWriMo has changed over the years, his tips for writing short stories, how he commissions art, and his advice on the transition from the day job to full-time writer.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Interview with Sara Rosett and Tonya Kappes for Authors A.I. First Draft Friday
Jump Start Your Cozy Free Mini-Course
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Jo wishes he’d known how to outline at the beginning of his career and how he learned to outline
- How Jo’s prep for NaNo has changed over the years
- Jo’s maintenance advertising strategy
- Why rejections from agents and editors aren’t always a good measure of an authors’ ability to write or a book’s appeal to readers
- How Jo’s “mistake” of writing a book that seemed to fit the steampunk tropes but was a little off in some critical details actually turned out to be a good thing
- Jo deconstructs why one of his releases didn’t do as well as he hoped, even though he did all the “right” things (write to the tropes, rapid release into KU, and run an ad campaign)
- Jo’s advice on writing short stories:
-
- Uses “orphaned ideas” file for starting points
- Can be all premise
- Start in the middle
- How Jo uses short stories in his marketing:
-
- Patreon
- Turns longer ones into novellas
- Bundles into anthologies either for sale or as newsletter signup bundle bonus
- Tips for commissioning art and how Jo uses it for marketing
- Jo’s advice for writers who plan to transition from the day job to a full-time author
-
- Make a financial plans that includes boom years as well as slim years
- Link your transition to full time to the launch of a new book or series and let readers know about the transition
- Create a release calendar and check future release dates for real-world events, such as elections
Genres discussed include science fiction and fantasy, steampunk, and urban fantasy.
Links:
Jo’s website: BookofDeacon.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jrlallo
Six Figure Authors
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes
Episode 041 / Robin Cutler, director of IngramSpark, joined Sara and Jami to talk about how indie authors can expand their readership through print books. They also discussed common mistakes Robin sees authors make, how to set up print preorders through IngramSpark, what genres are selling right now, and future trends in publishing.
Intro recap:
Sara was on the Six Figure Authors podcast (#60-How to Write Series that Sell with Sara Rosett) and her How to Write a Series audiobook just released. Jami’s exciting news: she has a new grandbaby! Jami is grateful for indie publishing, which gives her the ability to spend time with her family and help them out during this time.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- An explanation of the wholesale model and discounting
- Why discounting makes your books attractive to booksellers
- Publisher direct orders - using IngramSpark as your printer and having them dropship your books to readers
- The next iteration of publishing industry: direct sales
- Common mistakes Robin sees authors make
- Top genres right now and future publishing trends to watch for
- IngramSpark’s free formatting tool
- The advantage of print preorders, which are currently only available to indie authors through IngramSpark - Sara’s step by step guide to setting up print preorders through IngramSpark
- Using Bookshop.org for online affiliate sales of print books - Wish I’d Known Then Bookshop.org page of recommended craft and marketing books mentioned on the podcast
- How to use IngramSpark and KDP Print side by side
Links:
SPF 101 - Ingram Spark course
Six Figure Authors Podcast - Writing Series that Sell with Sara Rosett
How to Write a Series audiobook
IngramSpark podcast: Go Publish Yourself
Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast
Episode 040 / It’s Q & A time. We talk about how finding a critique group is similar to dating, how to prepare to go wide, and much more.
Intro:
Sara is planning a limited edition hardcover for the holidays and Jami is signing books for a subscription box. Plus Sara shares about an audiobook giveaway site.
Reveal Book Box
Library Thing Audiobook Giveaway
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Developmental editing and critique groups
-
- Pros and cons of each
- Why finding a critique group is like dating
- Tips for publishing wide
-
- Mindset - long-term thinking
- Why you may need to save up “quit your job money”
- Go wide in format first -- audio, print, large print
- Try a perma-free, either a first book in series or prequeal
- Use smaller paid newsletter sites
- Check price points
- Advice for new writers
-
- Write your best book
- Don’t be in a rush
- Build a newsletter and draw readers to you that are interested in your specific genre
- Branding
- Marketing for writers
-
- Use ads and content marketing
- Newsletter
- Starting over in your author career
-
- Create new IP if you need to
- How to re-engage readers after you’ve been quiet for a while
- Risks of rapid release
- Scaling up Amazon ads
-
- Tactics: Bid high on Book One and get read through; start a new ad; courses
- Reader engagement
-
- Post one thing a day and then respond
- Dealing with FOMO
Links:
Story Alignment with H. Claire Taylor
SPA Girls podcast
David Gaughran’s Starting from Zero course
Ads for Authors course
Mystery Books Podcast
WIKT Podcast with Amy Daws
Nickolas Eric ad courses and resources
Novel Marketing Podcast - Why Rapid Release is a Risky Book Launch Strategy
Episode 039 / H. Claire Taylor joins us to talk about writing satire, creating character flaws, and how Claire helps authors figure out what they really want in their careers. Plus, we delve into the Enneagram and how you can use it to add depth to your characters.
Intro links:
Where We Began by Serena Clark
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Jingle Balls Anthology
Helpful stuff/Podcast round-up:
Rebel Author Podcast - Seasonal Marketing with Penny Sansevieri
Successful Writer Podcast - The Right (and Wrong) Way to Talk about your
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why it’s crucial to know what your story is about so you can “steer the ship” in the direction you need to go and save time on revisions
- How knowing what you want out of your writing career impacts your expectations and your marketing plans
- Common mistakes Claire sees as she works with authors
- How understanding your motivations and needs as a writer helps you set your goals
- Using tension and power in your writing
- How Claire uses the Enneagram to help writers discover their character’s motivations and needs
- Creating flaws that make characters likeable
Genres discussed include satire, cozy mystery, and dark comedy.
Claire’s website
Episode 038 / Horror and nonfiction author Mark Leslie Lefebvre gives tips on using your intellectual property to think beyond the ebook version of your book. Plus Mark shares ideas on how to get your print books into libraries and bookstores.
Intro links:
Sara’s interview on Authors Love Readers podcast
Jami’s interview on Authors Love Readers podcast
Sara’s reader-focused podcast: Mystery Books Podcast
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Finding your tribe through writing critique groups and conferences and learning from other writers
- Why Mark wishes he’d written a series earlier
- Mark and Sara’s advice on creating hardcover large print books for libraries through Ingram Spark
- Draft 2 Digital tools to help authors: epub and mobi creator, Books2Read geo-targeted links, library distribution, print books
- How Mark uses Draft 2 Digital’s paperback wrap creator to bring all his books, even short books, into print and then uses them for promotion
- Why you’re “lying” to your readers when you market to the wrong audience
- First steps to getting your books into bookstores and libraries: signed copies, encourage readers to get your book at libraries, meet your local booksellers, create a one-sheet for libraries with ISBNs--link to Sara’s one-sheet here for an example
- Thinking beyond the book -- ways to license your intellectual property besides ebooks
Genres discussed include horror, ghost stories, urban fantasy, and nonfiction for writers.
Links:
Mark’s website
Stark Reflections Podcast
Ingram Spark
Draft 2 Digital
Kobo Writing Life
The Business Rusch
WIKT Pippa Grant interview
1000 True Fans article by Kevin Kelly
Mark’s nonfiction book for writers: An Author’s Guide to Working with Bookstores and Libraries
Episode 037 / Cozy mystery author Zara Keane shares how changing genres allowed her to write to her strengths. We also delve into nurturing our newsletters, chatbots, and selling direct.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Intro links:
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why finishing that first book is so important
- How our writing processes change and evolve and how we can’t pin down a single system and replicate it again and again
- Why trying to do it all is a mistake and the importance of filtering advice
- How Zara moved from romance to cozy mystery
- Zara’s “experiment budget” and her attitude to testing
- Writing to your strengths--writing in a genre that lets you use your natural talents to their fullest
- Nurturing your newsletter
- Filtering readers who find you through a promotion
- Using a serial novella in your newsletter
- Using content themes to guide content creation for newsletter
- Zara’s recommendations for getting started with chatbots
- Benefits of selling direct with Payhip and Bookfunnel: flash sales, coupons, and built-in discounting
- How Zara created a Christmas in July, promoted it to her newsletter, which gave her a financial return on par with a Bookbub featured deal
Genres discussed include cozy mystery, romance, and romantic suspense.
Links:
Zara Keane
RWA
NaNoWriMo
Bookbub
WIKT Interview with C.C. Hunter
How to Outline a Cozy Mystery
Newsletter Ninja
Mailer Lite
Flo Desk
New Author Discovery
Manybots
Novelbots - Cecelia Mecca’s course on chatbots
Episode 036 / Damon Courtney of BookFunnel joins Sara and Jami to talk about getting books to readers, best practices of successful authors, and trends in audio--and Damon has some exciting news about audiobooks and Bookfunnel!
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Intro:
Condolences to the T.S. Paul family.
Jami’s broadcasting from a closet and is still on grandbaby watch. She’s focusing on writing the next scene. Sara’s working on a solo podcast that will have short seasons and doing exciting admin things like bookkeeping. She’s got plenty of writing quotes. It’s a quote-tastic intro.
Hindenburg - for editing podcast audio
Thomas Umstattd Jr. - Novel Marketing Podcast
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Bookfunnel helps authors get books and bonuses (reader magnets, bonus epilogues, short stories) to readers
- Bookfunnel’s author-driven features like a group promo, integrations for selling direct, and audiobooks
- Damon’s advice to authors who are just starting out
- Mistakes Damon sees authors making and why writing books is the most important thing
- Current trends: increase in readers new to ebooks
- Benefits of selling direct: customer data and reader happiness :)
- The best time to put your books into audio
- What’s coming in the future: Bookfunnel will soon add full-length audio
- Promotion ideas for ebooks and audiobooks
Genres discussed include science fiction and fantasy.
Links:
Bookfunnel
Damon’s author website
Episode 035 / Cozy mystery and sci-fi romance author Laura Durham joins Sara and Jami to discuss how writing in different genres can improve your books plus a lot more including: tips for transitioning from traditional publishing to indie publishing and getting the most out of your intellectual property.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Links from intro:
Kobo Writing Life podcast about audiobook production
Ingram Spark podcast about the state of bookselling during Covid and how to get into print and get books into bookstores and libraries
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Enola Holmes and the Missing Marquess
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Laura transitioned from traditional publishing to indie publishing
- How Laura got her rights back to her traditional books and how she updated those books before releasing them
- The perils of writing a love triangle
- Learning what your readers want
- How Laura juggles the writing and marketing in two extremely different genres, including her thoughts on pen names
- Laura’s tips for translations, selling direct, and creating multiple streams of income
Genres discussed include cozy mystery and sci-fi romance.
Links:
Laura Durham
Dean Wesley Smith courses
Alliance of Independent Authors
Becca Syme Write Better Faster
Romancing the Beat
David Gaughran
Bookfunnel
Payhip
Episode 034 / Authors A.I founders J.D. Lasica and Alessandra Torre join Sara this week. Jami wasn’t able to join them for the recording. Sara, J.D., and Alessandra delved into the topic of artificial intelligence and how it can help authors.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Sara’s news of the week is that her audiobook went live on Audible, which is about four weeks after upload through Findaway Voices (in case listeners are attempting to time an audio release). She’s also working on rebooting a podcast that’s been fallow for years. More on that later.
Jami’s news is that she’s looking into using an audiobook production company. Sara says she stumbled into the benefits of working with an audiobook narrator who has their own following. Jami shares about the challenge of doing audiobooks when your have characters with Texas accents.
Helpful news:
-Findaway Voices launches retail links beta version
-David Gaughran’s post about launching books - that post isn’t live at time of podcast upload, but check out David’s blog with tons of useful information on writing and publishing
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- J.D.’s background in journalism and how he transitioned to writing tech thrillers, inspired by living in the “start-up world” of Silicon Valley
- Alessandrea’s “boring” background in business and banking and how she shifted to writing romance and suspense
- Authors A.I.’s backstory with Matt Jockers, Ph.D., co-author of The Bestseller Code
- How the A.I., called Marlowe, reads and understands novels, and gives feedback to authors
- Fears around A.I. and whether or not authors should be afraid of the technology
- The difference between a human editor and Marlowe
- What level of author can use Authors A.I.
- What’s coming in the future with A.I., including how artificial intelligence can contribute book discovery and the upcoming book site for readers, BingeBooks, which is a mashup of GoodReads, Bookbub, and Netflix
Links:
Authors A.I. - Get 15% off with WITK15
BingeBooks
Authors A.I. Twitter
Authors A.I. Instagram
Facebook Author Page
Episode 033 / Fantasy and science fiction author Jamie Davis joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett this week to talk about those critical times in your author career when you face hurdles and how to get over them. The conversation also touches on tips for new podcasters, the importance of connecting with authors outside your genre, and surveying your readers to understand them better.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Intro recap
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Jamie wrote his first book during NaNoWriMo and why he participates every year
- How Jamie’s background as a journalist was a benefit when it came to writing quickly, but he had to discover his own narrative voice
- What Jamie would do differently if he were publishing his first book now
- Jamie’s advice for new podcasters and why recording your first podcast is like writing your first draft
- Facing hurdles in your writing career
- The importance of connecting with authors outside of your genre
- How to survey your readers to help you understand your readers and what novels they like
Genres discussed include fantasy, science fiction, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance.
Links:
Jamie Davis
Jamie Davis Twitter
Books and Authors Fantasy Podcast
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
Booksweeps
Bookfunnel
Episode 032 / Fantasy author Andrea Pearson joins Sara and Jami to chat about the incremental growth of her writing career and how she learned to trust herself when it came to craft. They also delve into the worst marketing advice Andrea’s heard, how she finds time to write with small kids, and how she collaborates with her spouse. Come over and say hey to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro this week, Jami shared she’s been busy with family-stuff, and Sara shared that her launch of her book went well. Sara’s currently recording her audiobook for How to Write a Series from a blanket fort. Sara also mentioned a book she’s reading, Fanocracy, which is a deep dive into fandom--what it is and how different companies and creatives develop and nurture their fans.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Andrea turned down a traditional deal
- How many small successes have built over the years to give Andrea the career she has now
- How Andrea learned to trust herself when it came to craft
- Why reading “bad” stuff can help you become a better writer
- “Pick one thing you enjoy and focus on it until you master it and you’ll be a lot more successful at it.”
- How Andrea uses download bonuses to drive sales
- How Andrea finds time to write with young kids
- Tips for working with your spouse
Genres discussed include fantasy for kids and adults, including urban fantasy, epic fantasy, western romance, and children’s books
Links:
Andrea’s website
Marketing Courses for Authors
6 Figure Authors podcast
Zapier
Episode 031 / If you want to increase the number of reviews on your books, check out the tips and ideas from Jami and Sara in this episode. They discuss reviews in depth: the difference between reader and professional reviews, how to get reviews, and how to use the reviews for promotion after you have them.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In their personal updates, Jami shared that she’s writing on her new book and working on backlist sales. Sara has a book launch coming up. It’s the fifth book in the series, so it’s a lower-key launch than Jami’s recent Book One in a new series. To promote the launch, Sara’s emailing her list and running paperback giveaways.
Jami’s branding her office with wood-cut letters of her author name. Head over to show notes on the WIKT website to see a photo.
Reader questions:
Allison: Indie market for middle grade and children’s books Children’s author Karen Inglis on The Creative Penn Podcast
Children’s author Karen Inglis on the Self Publishing Formula
Several people asked what classes/courses/books recommendations:
Nicholas Erik
Write Naked by Jennifer Probst
Build-a-Book Erika Kelly
David Gaughran’s blog post - How to Sell Books in 2020
Amazon Ads for Authors: Tips and Strategies to Sell Your Books by Deb Potter
Bookbub Ads Experts by David Gaughran
Self Publishing Formula
Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
You Can Write a Mystery by Gillian Roberts
Screenwriting Tricks for Authors by Alexandra Sokoloff
Something Startling Happens by Todd Klick
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder
Writing a Romance Novel for Dummies byLeslie Wainger
Anita: What would you do differently? Anything that’s less effective?
Luna: What’s the best way you’ve found to connect with other writers?
Juliet: Editing - how do we do it?
All about reviews
- Difference between reader reviews and professional reviews
- Review sites - pay for an opportunity for your book to be reviewed
- ACR teams - different ways to set them up
- Blog tours
- Bookstagrammers
- What Jami and Sara wish they’d known about reviews
- How “bad” reviews sell books
- Pros and cons of professional review sites
-
Professional review sites:
-
NetGalley / Kobo NetGalley Promo Option
-
Reedsy
-
Publishers Weekly / BookLife
-
Kirkus
-
Hidden Gems
-
- BookSprout
- Shifted Sheets
- Professional review - also look for genre specific sites, such as:
-
- Historical Novel Society
- Fresh Fiction
- How to use reviews:
-
- Ad copy
- Editorial reviews
- Add to your book cover
- Create images and post on social media
- Add quotes to newsletter to generate interest for launch
- How to keep track of reviews that you want to use later
Episode 030 / C.C. Hunter joins Jami and Sara this week to talk about how she blends genres. Plus she gives tips on writing humor and how she writes through the tough times.
Jami is working with H. Claire Taylor. Claire does Story Alignments using the Enneagram personality test to help authors with characterization and storytelling. Claire has a free course, Indie Author Alignment. Jami is 30 days out from her book launch and is shifting to advertising all her books instead of focusing on the launch. Now that she’s finished her draft, Sara’s doing admin tasks. She shares she’s seeing a good number of sales through Ingram Spark. Her tip is don’t overlook Ingram Spark. If you’re selling lots of print books through KDP Print, then check out Ingram.
Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How C.C. had initial success and sold a novel, then didn’t sell another for 13 years
- How C.C. learned to find her own voice and trust it
- Tips on writing humor
- C.C.’s writing process of writing one draft, then polishing it
- What C.C. wishes she’d known about marketing: blending genres and knowing where your book fits
- The difference between marketing a book to a publisher and marketing to a reader
- What C.C. thought was a mistake, but turned a good thing
- C.C.’s advice when new writers ask if they should indie publish or go for traditional publishing
- How C.C. writes through difficult times
Genres discussed include young adult contemporary, young adult paranormal, and romantic comedy suspense
Links:
C.C. Hunter
Christie Craig Facebook
C.C. Hunter Twitter
Episode 29 / Science fiction author Craig Martelle joins Sara and Jami to discuss pricing, book production strategies, and writing through health issues.
This week Sara is uploading her Christmas mystery as a preorder. She reports on the new Apple interface for uploading books, authors.apple.books. After listening to The Creative Penn Podcast with Natalie Sisson, Sara looked for the bottlenecks in her processes and decided she was a bottleneck! She created a screenflow of some of her tasks then had her assistant create a workflow and take over those tasks. Jami’s working on her next book, and she shared that she’s creating two different giveaways, one for her newsletter list and another to attract new readers. Jami and Sara discussed the importance of remembering you have two different groups to market to--warm readers and cold (potential) readers--and different ways to reach both groups. Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Craig began writing after he retired
- What Craig wishes he’d known about story: John Truby’s The Anatomy of Story
- Why after writing hundreds of books, Craig hired a development editor for the first time
- How Craig used review feedback to learn which category was the best fit for his series and rebranded the books
- Why writing his first four different books in three different genres was a mistake and how he’s recovering
- Craig’s books for writers on release strategies, collaborations, writing compelling fiction, and pricing strategies
- Pricing at different levels to reach different readers and how to research and find the best price for your genre
- Pros and cons of cowriting
- Why Craig made more money during the second half of the year publishing four books than he did publishing 30 during the first half of the year
- Writing while dealing with health issues
Genres discussed include science fiction, post apocalyptic, and thrillers.
Links:
Craig Martelle
Successful Indie Author series
20Booksto50K
Jami’s talk at 20Booksto50K
Elena Johnson WITK podcast
Episode 028 / Ryan Zee of Booksweeps and Plottr joins Jami and Sara this week and shares tips on how to make your emails to readers more effective. They talk about how marketing, trends, and branding. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Sara has shifted to revision for her WIP and she’s uploading audio to Kobo. Sara recommended The Creative Penn Podcast with Lindsay Buroker about writing a series. Sara has a book on the subject: How to Write A Series. Sara’s also using a pomodoro timer app, Flat Tomato.
Jami’s been helping her daughter move. She started writing her new book and shared that that Homecoming King is still doing great. Jami’s also been enjoying the Wish I’d Known For Writers Facebook group. Drop by and join them!
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Booksweeps helps authors promote their books and grow their email newsletter lists
- How Plottr, a digital plotting and outlining software, can help authors write books
- Common mistakes authors make with email
- Why tenacity and focus are characteristics of successful authors
- Book trends in genres related to the pandemic
- Changes Ryan has seen in the publishing industry
- Trends in voice search
- How focusing on one genre can help you create an author brand and how authors can use diction and word choice in marketing and in newsletters to emphasize their brand
Links:
RyanZee.com
Booksweeps.com
Plottr.com
Episode 027 / Mystery and romance author Patricia McLinn joins Jami and Sara to discuss the pros and cons of traditional and indie publishing, how Patricia writes her books without outlining, and her tips for Bookbub ads. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Sara shares that she’s finished the first draft of her Christmas book, and Jami is seeing read-through from her book launch. There is a Wish I’d Known Then . . . For Writers Facebook group now. Come say hello!
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Patricia learned to trust herself and her process instead of trying to write like you’re “supposed to” (i.e. with an outline, or in order, etc)
- Why learning that we are not our audience is essential to marketing
- Why Patricia is glad the publishing industry changes
- Patricia’s advice on how to get rights back from traditional publishers
- Pros and cons of indie and traditional publishing
- Myths around traditional publishing
- Why it’s key to find readers who are looking for new authors
- Patricia’s podcast for readers, Authors Love Readers
Genres discussed include traditional mystery, cozy mystery, women’s fiction, contemporary romance, historical romance, small town romance, and western romance.
Links:
Patricia McLinn
Survival Kit for Writers Who Don’t Write Right
Bookbub Partners Blog on Running Low-Budget Ads for Steady Sales
Authors Love Readers Podcast
Episode 026 / Jami and Sara share how they launch a book, covering tactics for low-, medium-, and high-budget launches as well as sharing beau·coup tips about what’s working for book launches right now.
In the intro, Sara talks about she’s started a German translation through Reedsy. Jami’s new book Homecoming King launched with a big splash--breaking into the top 100 of the Amazon store, then going all the way to number 81!
You can find show notes and links at https://www.wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover: Things to Consider Before You Launch: * KU or wide - weigh pros and cons of each * Price point - consider typical price of genre and goals to pick the best price point (99 cents can generate preorders and sales while a higher price point give you a higher royalty and the option of dropping it for sales later) * Preorders - a preorder lets you capture sales and get your sales pages live on the vendors, but some authors won’t do preorders because they feel Amazon doesn’t weight the preorder sales as heavily as purchases/borrows made after the books releases, which may impact rank. * Don’t forget the impact of your newsletter to launch
Low-cost Launch Tactics for a New Author * Blog tours * Newsletter swaps * Goodreads giveaways * Library Thing giveaways * Newsletter * Connect with authors in genre groups * Lower price * Paid newsletter promos
Small-to-medium Budget Launch Tactics: * Newsletter giveaway like Booksweeps * Paid newsletter promos * Ads, like a small Amazon ads
Big budget Launch Tactics: * Facebook ads * Newsletter swaps * Discount previous books in the series
Bonus Launch Tips: * Focus on getting your book in front of the right readers * Learn/use one ad platform at a time * Pick about three things to focus on for your launch (don’t try to do all the things) so you’re not so scattered and so you can track results * Backmatter matters -- make sure it’s up-to-date and include link to next book/second epilogue/etc * Goodreads giveaway sends an email on release day to everyone who entered your giveaway
Jami’s Launch Plan: * Use tagline in graphic teasers/promo images * Shared prologue/early chapters * Release paperback a week ea, call Author Central to merge ebook and paperback, and then readers can post review--you’ll have reviews on the sales page when the book launches * Add “follow” links (Bookbub, Goodreads, Amazon, etc) to promo and those sites will send a new release alert * Preorder email on Bookbub * Contact authors in genre and ask if they will share and if they want an Advance Review Copy * Giveaways in author groups to create buzz * Remind readers of release date so they can post a review if they’d like * Segment newsletter list and email over several days, then mail to unopens
Sara’s Out-of-the-Box Launch Tactics for a First-in-Series Book: * Set up a print preorder through Ingram Spark * Send opening chapters to readers over weeks leading up to release to get them hooked on story * Blog tours give you reviews and quotes you can use for graphics and editorial reviews * Book box giveaway * Advance Review Copies sent to reviewers * Kobo Netgalley promotion * Bookbub New Release Feature * Staggered Audiobook release * Long preorder on Book 2 so readers could order immediately when they finished Book 1 * Patreon * Amazon ad - low-budget auto-targeted
Sara’s launch philosophy: pull out all the stops with Book 1; subsequent book launch -- quieter launch, focuses on sale on Book 1 to pull readers into the series
Genres discussed include romance, romantic suspense, cozy mystery, and historical mystery.
Links:
Wish I’d Known Then Facebook Group
Canva
Book Box episode on the Science Fiction and Fantasy Marketing Podcast
Jami’s Launch Plan
How to Set up a Print Preorder on Ingram Spark
Episode 025 / Science fiction author Malorie Cooper joins Jami and Sara this week to talk about advertising as well as the pros and cons of co-authoring books. They also dive into how Mal created a massive literary universe and Mal’s non-fiction books for authors. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Jami talks about her launch, which is happening today! (Congrats!) Jami also shared the title of a book Sara saw mentioned on The Creative Penn’s Twitter feed: 1000 character Reactions from Head to Toe by Valerie Howard.
Sara can see the end in sight for the first draft of what she thought would be a “short 40,000” Christmas mystery. (Current word count is 45,000 and climbing!)
Both Jami and Sara recommend the Six Figure Author podcast with David Gaughran, who has a new update out for Let’s Get Digital.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
-
Why using tropes in ads can be game-changing
-
How reading helped Mal learn how to write and meet reader expectations
-
Challenges around using action tags
-
Inexpensive ways to gain readers
-
How Mal went against type with a cover style and how it paid off
-
Testing Mal’s done around pricing
-
Calculating read-through and using it to assess the best price points for books
-
What Mal wishes she’d known about also-boughts as well as the importance of the quality of the traffic you send to your sales page
-
Mal’s experiment of going wide
-
Tips for working with co-authors
-
How Mal created a sprawling literary universe
Genres discussed include science fiction, space opera, military science fiction, and hard science fiction.
Links:
Malorie’s website
Help I’m An Author series
Episode 24 / Learn how cozy and historical mystery author Shea MacLeod analyzes her books and makes strategic changes to create solid-selling books that satisfy readers. You can find show notes and links at https://www.wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Sara shares that she’s using Reedsy to find translators for foregin editions of her books. Jami had a cover reveal and is trying the new technique of including characters from the next book in her second epilogue. Sara also shared a podcast she found helpful, Kobo Writing Life’s podcast, Selling Audiobooks to the Kobo Customer with Elyse Daniels
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How switching to a new genre helped Shea level up
- Why Shea wishes she’d started her newsletter list earlier
- Why signing with a traditional publisher was a mistake for Shea and the lessons she learned
- How Shea analyzes her books and tries different tactics to increase sales including:
-
- Recovering a cozy series to fix discoverability problems and attract cozy readers
- Rewriting a paranormal romance series to make it a paranormal cozy mystery
- Why reading in your genre can be the key to understanding what changes you need to make to satisfy readers
- Shea’s strategy of having books in Kindle Unlimited as well as wide books
- Why cozies appeal to readers
Genres discussed include cozy mystery, paranormal cozy mystery, historical mystery, and urban fantasy paranormal romance.
Links:
Shea MacLeod
Shea MacLeod Cozy Mysteries - Facebook
Shea MacLeod_Author Instagram
Episode 023 / Contemporary and historical romance novelist and co-host of the SPA girls podcast, Wendy Vella joins Jami and Sara to talk about the mindset shift she had to make as she moved from traditionally published to self publishing as well as how she’s learned to trust her instincts in both writing and promoting her books. They wrap up the podcast with a discussion of how Wendy is maximizing her intellectual property for longevity.
In the intro, Sara shares news about Alli’s (Alliance of Independent Authors) new initiative to help indie authors with rights licensing, including “one-off contract representation” and full rights representation. Sara also shared some fun writerly humor from cartoonist Tom Gauld.
Jami has been re-watching the Hunger Games, getting ready for her book release, and planning her next book. Then they discuss how the pandemic is impacting them as well as other creatives, which sounds pretty highbrow for a chat about stress dreams, memes, and country music. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- The benefits of entering writing contests
- How Wendy transitioned from traditional publishing to indie publishing and the mindset shift change she had to go through
- What Wendy wishes she’d known about editing and marketing
- How Wendy pinpointed what she needed to change about her contemporary covers and the details on how she rebranded her series from the covers to the blurbs
- The struggle to do everything ourselves and how Wendy gave some tasks away to her assistant so she could focus on what she was really good at
- How Wendy went against all the advice about mixing genres and it turned out to be her biggest success
- Learning to trust your instincts and finding the right people to listen to for advice
- How Wendy toggles back and forth between writing historical to contemporary romance
- The challenges of writing from a more remote location
- Why the SPA Girls began podcasting and why podcasts are a great way to up-skill
- How Wendy is maximizing her intellectual property for longevity by putting the product she has into new formats
Genres discussed include historical romance and contemporary romance.
Links:
Spa Girls Podcast
Wendy Vella
Wendy Vella Author
Wendy Vella’s Reading Bellas
Episode 022 / In a mini master class, mystery and thriller author Pamela Fagan Hutchins shares the changes she made to turn her writing career around and go from “in the red” to a very profitable year. We dig into the power of planning a series before writing it, using different ad platforms for specific purposes, and podcasting for readers.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro to the show, Jami talks about making the final changes to her next book. She’s also discovered the delightful and sometimes creepy new show, Dead Still. Sara’s enjoying an unusual (for June) “cool” front and shared news about a new tool for authors, Author A.I.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- What Pamela wishes she’d known about the importance of planning her entire series before writing it
- The advantage of writing multiple books before releasing
- Why it’s critical to know your read-through
- How Pamela has learned to enjoy the journey
- Translations -- what’s worked and what hasn’t
- Why Pamela outsourced tasks and then later pulled everything back so she could manage it herself
- How Pamela turned her income from in the red to six figures a combination of finding new readers, learning ads, cutting deadweight from her newsletters subscribers, creating an advance reader team
- Using different ad platforms for different purposes
- Pamela’s writing retreats on ads and craft
- Podcasting for readers
Genres discussed include mystery, thriller, suspense, and supernatural.
Links:
Pamela:
https://pamelafaganhutchins.com
https://pamelafaganhutchins.com/wine-women-writing-radio-show/
https://pamelafaganhutchins.com/writing-retreats/
Sara’s How to Write a Series
Libby Hawker’s Take Off Your Pants
Pamela’s ad tracker https://bit.ly/PFHTracker
Chirp
Episode 021 / Amy Daws shares her tips for promoting audiobooks, tells how writing in a tire shop waiting room helped her breakthrough writer’s block, and discusses how she shares her personality on social media to attract readers.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Sara and Jami discuss how this week's current events have made it difficult to focus on writing and publishing. Sara found the Creative Penn’s episode on character flaws interesting and she was glad to hear Joanna ask about the topic in relation to writing a series (a topic near to Sara’s heart--so much so that she wrote a book about it: How to Write a Series.) Jami has been reading Nora Roberts' Dark Witch.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Amy is famous for writing in a tire shop
- Why storytelling often trumps craft
- How Amy shares her personality on social media instead of repeating “buy my book”
- The importance of taglines and how Amy creates hers
- How Amy works with her author assistant
- Tips for promoting audio through author groups, giveaways, and your newsletter
Genres discussed include sports romance, contemporary romance, rom com, emotional romance, and memoir.
Links:
https://amydawsauthor.com
Aural Fixation Facebook Group
How to Find and Work with an Author Assistant with Adriel Wiggins
Episode 020 / Author assistant Adriel Wiggins joins us this week to give us tips on how to find and work with an assistant.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro this week, Jami talks about her decision to push back her release date so she’ll have longer to work on her book. Sara shares the results of a promotion on a free book as well as a plotting tip.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Adriel became an author assistant
- Examples of what an assistant can do for authors
- The task that Adriel recommends authors do for themselves
- Signs that it’s time to bring on an assistant
- What Adriel wished she knew about working with authors
- What assistants wish authors knew about working them
- Why email is Adriel’s preferred way to communicate with authors
- A common feature that Adriel sees in all successful authors
- Common mistakes authors make when working with assistants
- Confidentiality and non-disclosure clauses
- Red flags when looking for an author assistant
Links:
Adriel’s Website
Bookfunnel
Vellum
Episode 0019 / Prolific science fiction and epic fantasy author Kevin J. Anderson joins us to talk about how he learned to meet reader expectations as well as how he’s changing his writing to shift with reader preferences. We also discuss Kevin’s involvement in the Superstars Writing Seminar and Western Colorado University’s Master of Arts in Publishing.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Both Sara and Jami have had a bit of a downer of a week, but they’re both pressing ahead. Jami got her revisions done and is looking forward to a June release date for her book.
There is still time to sign up for the free Stay Home Story Summit and get access to great tips of craft as well as promotion.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How reading widely can improve your writing
- The importance of professionalism for both traditional and indie authors
- Collaboration and hybrid publishing
- Why it’s a good idea to stay brand-focused on social media
- Paying it forward through mentoring writers
- The Master degree program in Publishing at Western Colorado University and why it would be ideal for someone who wants to run their own publishing house
- How reader preference for shorter fiction has changed how Kevin plots his books
- How Kevin studies bestsellers to learn why those books resonate with readers
Genres discussed include science fiction and epic fantasy.
Links:
Mastering Amazon Descriptions by Brian Meeks
Twitter @TheKJA
Wordfire.com
Publishing MA (Master of Arts in Publishing at Western Colorado University)
Superstars Writing Seminar
Episode 018 / Romantic comedy author Julia Kent joined us this week to discuss the value of meeting the emotional needs of readers, plus nuts-and-bolts details on writing ahead, audiobooks, and translations.
Sara’s doing the essential (yet boring) task of updating back matter and book descriptions to prep for an upcoming sale. She’s also found a new mystery TV show, The Mallorca Files, which has a Castle and Beckett-type male/female detective pairing mixed with the tropical vibe of Death in Paradise or Burn Notice.
Jami sent her book to the editor and has a release date. She also cut four chapters (!) for pacing. She’s in “launch-mode” as she gets ready for the release. You can get Jami’s launch plan here.
Jami and Sara recorded a video workshop of what they wish they’d known for the Stay Home Story Summit, which is free and there’s no up-sale. Just great info on craft and promotion. Videos start May 18. Registration closes May 25, 2020.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- The importance of understanding the emotional reasons people read a certain genre (i.e. reader needs)
- The assumptions Julia made when she started writing and why they were wrong
- Genre expectations
- Spinoffs and why a spinoff may not draw in new readers
- How Julia broke genre rules and why it worked in her Random series
- What items/tasks Julia has delegated and what tasks she’s cut back on
- Writing in multiple genres, co-writing, and writing ahead
- Audiobooks and how Julia works with a production company to reduce the workload plus details on how she distributes her audio in stages
- How readers’ tastes change as their lives change and how those changes aren’t a reflection on our writing
- The challenges Julia has encountered with translations
Genres discussed include romantic comedy, romantic suspense, and shifter romance.
Links:
Julia Kent
Episode 017 / Science fiction and fantasy author Lindsay Buroker joins us to talk about the benefits and drawbacks of pen names, the advantages of podcasting for writers, and how she writes and releases books into Kindle Unlimited using the rapid release model, then goes wide later.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Jami shares what a struggle it was to write her recent book, but she got it done and it went to beta readers today. Yay! Sara is lost in the complexities of her WIP's plot and trying to find her way out of the tangle. Jami recently listened to the SPA Girls podcast on editing and highly recommends it.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- The importance of embracing the entrepreneurial mindset when you’re an indie author
- Advantages of using Patreon before a launch to let wide readers get a book before it goes into KU
- Why Lindsay is glad she did a writing workshop before she published
- The benefit of giving your cover artist freedom to be creative
- Why first-in-series-free book still works
- Lindsay’s lessons-learned about writing in multiple genres and pen names
- Advice for writers who want to start a podcast
- Rapid release and how Lindsay writes the books back-to-back before launching Book One
- The power of using “open loops” in a series and how it boosts readthrough of a series
- Focusing on what you’re good at and leaning into that whether it’s writing fast or marketing
Genres discussed include science fiction, fantasy, steampunk/epic fantasy, space opera, sci fi romance, and urban fantasy.
Links:
Lindsay Buroker
Six Figure Authors Podcast
Episode 016 / Romance and suspense author Alessandra Torre joins the WIKT podcast for a wide-ranging discussion that covers the benefits of Goodreads, what it’s like to have a book optioned and made into a movie, the importance of knowing readers expectations, and how meeting those expectations consistently contributes to success. You can get Alessandra’s Goodreads tips when you sign up for Jami’s launch plan.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Sara shares some good news about Murder by the Book, a local indie bookstore that’s innovating and surviving during lockdown. Sara also recommends the Novel Marketing Podcast’s episode on Covid-19, which looks at how the virus and the lockdown will impact which genres and types of stories readers will want in the coming months and years.
Jami also liked Novel Marketing Podcast’s episode on Scarcity and Ubiquity and Sara liked the one on Psychographics.
On the writing front, Jami’s finished a book. She talks about how it’s been difficult to concentrate lately, so if you’re feeling the same way, you’re not alone. :) Jami’s novella was featured on Read Me Romance, and she appeared on D2D Spotlight.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why taking a traditional book deal was a mistake for Alessandra
- The importance staying with a niche when you have success and how that helps create a recognizable brand
- Why Goodreads is a great place to promote your books and how to use the site
- Why having author friends is helpful with emotional support as well as gaining knowledge about the industry
- How teaching helps you learn
- The ups and downs of movie options and what it’s like to have your book made into a movie
- What Alessandra’s learned about genre and how important it is for all parts of the book to match the genre
- How Alessandra gets it all done -- “It’s better to do something than nothing.”
- Why having great books is the cornerstone of success and why patience is so important
Genres discussed include romance, romantic suspense, senspense, and romantic comedy.
Links:
Alessandra Torre’s author website
GoodReads
Alessandra Torre’s Inkers Group
Inkers Con
PassionFlix
Alessandra Torre Ink
Episode 015 / Elana Johnson writes Christian cowboy romance as well as clean and wholesome romance. She joins the WIKT podcast and details how she found success in smaller genres. A pen name, writing fast, and understanding read-through all played key roles in helping her achieve and exceed her goals.
In the intro, Jami and Sara discuss how they’re experimenting with serials. Sara sent the first six chapters of her new release to her list "serial reads" style to generate interest in her new book, and Jami is sharing a short story with her list. They’ve both had a great response from readers. Jami talks about her struggle to finish her recent book, and Sara mentions their interview with Kait Nolan about writing during stressful times, which is worth a listen, if you’re struggling with burnout or just having a difficult time getting words on the page.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Elana got her start in traditional publishing and her transition to indie publishing
- How Elana uses her writing as “therapy” to get rid of negative situations in her real life
- Elana’s disappointment with her first attempt at indie publishing and how she turned things around with a pen name and writing fast
- The importance of understanding the concept of read-through
- Productivity tips for being prolific, including writing in short snippets of time
- Giving yourself permission to do what works for you
- Elana’s daily work schedule and how she juggles writing on two different books
- Elana’s layering technique she uses for outlining, researching, and writing
- Why sometimes getting started is the biggest hurdle to getting words on the page
- Elana’s Venn diagram for defining categories (math is involved, but don’t be scared!) and how to use it to find readers
- How to be successful in smaller genre categories
- Giving readers what they want and listening to readers to discover what that is
- Changes she’s seen in her genres
Genres discussed include contemporary romance, Christian cowboy romance, clean and wholesome, cozy mystery, and western.
Links:
Elana’s websites:
http://elanajohnson.com
http://lizisaacson.com
Indie Author Inspiration Facebook group
Episode 014 / Joe Solari joined us this week to help authors create a financial plan for getting through Covid-19’s economic repercussions. We talk about short and long-term strategies and mindset issues for indie authors.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Joe Solari is an author, entrepreneur, and consultant. He graduated with a BFA from the School of the Art Institute and an MBA from Chicago Booth School of Business. Joe helps authors create business systems.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How the economy cycles and what to do if this your first economic downturn
- Strategies for the short term, including continued production of content (story drafts) as well as stress testing your business
- Why cash flow is important in the short term
- Long-term strategies
- Fundamental shifts in marketing that may come in the future
- Considerations around releasing books right now
- What Joe wishes he’d known about getting through an economic downturn
- Benefits of being your own boss during this time
Links:
Joe Solari - author business stress test link is on the home page
Episode 013 / This week Kait Nolan joins Sara and Jami to talk about getting through burnout and writing during stressful times--whether that stress is coming from your own personal situation or world events.
In the intro Jami talks about a writing project she’s working on to send to her list called Love, Quarantine and other Inconveniences. (#greattitle). Sara has a new release coming up, Duplicity, and she’s using the same tactic of serializing a sneak preview for her newsletter readers.
In real-life lockdown news, Jami is watching Tiger King and Family Feud, while Sara talks about her wildflower isolation walks and the exciting thrill-a-minute sport of marble racing.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Tips for marketing a series--grouping books and banking books for a rapid release
- How expectations about productivity and major upsets in her personal life lead to burnout
- Why burnout is becoming more common in the writing community
- How Kait sets goals to write a certain number of days per month instead of a certain number of words per day
- Building in some grace into our schedules and adjusting our expectation
- The tyranny of the “shoulds”
- Recommendations for writing during trying times
- How a “just for fun” project can help you when the world is crazy
- What Kait has discovered isn’t worth her time and effort
- How Kait went against the prevailing wisdom and didn’t use paid ads. Instead she built a career with paid newsletters and free forms of promos
- Changes Kait has seen in her genres and her level headed advice on dealing with changes
- How Kait’s focus on one thing at a time helped her succeed
Genres discussed include contemporary romance, small town, and romantic suspense.
Links:
Kait Nolan’s website
Kait’s Free Books Page
Larry Brook’s Story Engineering
Becca Syme’s Write Better Faster
Nathan Van Coops interview
Episode 012 / Martha Carr joines Jami and Sara to chat about defining success and how she’s learned to enjoy where she is right now. She also gives some practical tips on craft, including how to make your story compelling and worldbuilding mistakes to avoid.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Jami and Sara are under a local Stay-at-Home order and have no idea what day it is. Sara’s routine hasn’t changed that much and she’s happy she was able to get the draft of her new book completed during this crazy time. She also created a series of videos on how to use Ingram Spark for the Self Publishing 101 course. If you already have the course, you can log in and find the sessions in the Tech Vault. If you’re interested in buying or signing up for the waitlist for the course, there’s a link below. Jami news was a bright spot in a week of bleak news--she has a new grandson! The baby arrived a few weeks early and during the middle of a pandemic. Everyone is healthy and back home now!
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Martha transitioned from being a stockbroker to writing, first in newspapers then in fiction
- Martha’s experience being traditionally published
- Why character development is key
- How setting can become a character as well
- How Martha plays to her strengths when it comes to marketing
- How humor can be used in any genre and how it’s can be used for pacing
- Work/life balance: how Martha came to a place where she learned she didn’t want to work harder to make more income
- How comparison can steal our joy
- Setting reasonable goals
- Tips on running literary universes
- The lesson Martha learned in worldbuilding
- What Martha wishes she’d done differently
- Defining success in a way that’s broader than just financial
- How finding out what you don’t enjoy doing can help you define what makes you happy
- Why it’s okay to redefine success
- Changes Martha has seen in urban fantasy
- Creating trends instead of chasing trends
- The power of saying yes
Genres discussed include urban fantasy, epic fantasy, and thriller.
Links:
Self Publishing 101 Course (affiliate link)
Martha Carr https://marthacarr.com
LMBPN https://lmbpn.com
Episode 11 / With so many tips, ideas, and tactics in the author-sphere, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. In this episode that was recorded several weeks ago, Jami Albright and Sara Rosett tackle the subject of how to filter advice and give tips on ways to figure out which shiny new ideas will work for you and which ones you should consider skipping.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, they discuss how Jami’s plotted the rest of her book with sticky notes. Then they chat about Sara’s nonfiction book How to Write a Series, which has tips on how to structure a series, what to do when you’re bored with a series, and when to end a series.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Jami and Sara consider who is giving the advice as well as what point that person is in their author career
- Why genre and personality are important aspects to consider when making decisions
- How changes in the publishing industry can be a good thing
- Mindset issues with recovering books and how those mindset issues can hold us back
- The bias we have for new things: the new book, the new series, etc
- Why trying to replicate the success of an outliner might not be possible
- How being afraid of making mistakes can hold us back
Genres discussed include romance and mystery.
Links:
Supercharge Your Story
How to Write a Series
Genres discussed include romance and mystery.
Episode 010 / Sci-fi author, podcaster, teacher, and event organizer J. Thorn joins Jami and Sara this week to discuss creative ways to diversity your author income, podcasting, and what he wishes he’d known about co-writing.
How things have changed in the space of one week! In the intro Jami and Sara talk about the changes social distancing has brought in their lives and how they’re coping with the stress and anxiety of these trying times. They hope everyone is staying safe and healthy.
You can find show notes and links at https://www.wishidknownforwriters.com.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How J. came to creative writing after teaching
- J.’s transition to full-time writing
- What he wishes he’d known about creative writing
- The difference between developmental editing and proofreading
- J.’s dislike of running paid ads and how he runs his business so that he doesn't have to use them
- Why podcasting is better for lead-generation than revenue generation
- Why it’s not too late to get into podcasting
- The downside of completely original ideas
- How being a musician influences J.’s co-writing projects
- J.’s long-running collaboration with Zach Bohannon and what J. wishes he’d known about co-writing
- How J., a self-identifying introvert, runs writing events
- The most difficult aspects of planning author events
- J.’s mistake of quitting his full time job without a financial safety net, and how that turned out to be a good thing
- Changes J. has seen and how he’s adapted to them
- Thinking outside the box to create multiple streams of income
Genres discussed include science fiction, horror, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic.
Links:
AuthorLife.com
On Writing by Stephen King
Episode 009 / Kirsten Oliphant writes clean romance--and lots of other sub-genres. She joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to talk about the genre of clean romance as well as sustainability and “pantsing” books. They also tackle the pros and cons of author success stories.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
In the intro, Jami shared that she’s closing in on her deadline and her book is going to the developmental editor in a few days. Sara’s back from London, where things didn’t go as planned. London Book Fair was cancelled, and she had to return to the US early, which meant she missed the SPF-Live event. The upside was that Sara had plenty of time to see London, had several afternoon teas, and met up with other mystery writers.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Kirsten fell in love with the subgenre of billionaire romance while writing a parody of it
- What audience expectations are in sweet/clean romance
- The mistake of reading only traditionally published books in for genre research
- How Kirsten is able to “pants” a book and write instinctively without an outline
- What Kirsten wishes she’d known about how successful marketing tactics vary between genres
- Finding balance--or tension--in your writing life
- The two questions Kirsten uses to decide if something is a good use of her time
- How to listen to success stories--the benefits and drawbacks of sharing
- Collaboration
- Rebranding a book
- What changes Kirsten has seen in the clean romance genre
- Things that have helped Kirsten be successful, including her focus on email and continuing to read in her genre
Genres discussed include sweet/clean romance, cozy mystery, steamy romance, reverse harem, and bully romance.
Links:
Kirsten’s website: https://createifwriting.com
Kirsten’s podcast for writers: https://createifwriting.com/podcast-and-show-notes/
Podcast on sustainability: https://createifwriting.com/sustaining-your-book-sales-and-yourself/
Podcast on how to listen to success stories - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XJdjrt8Xnc
SPF-Live event digital ticket: https://selfpublishingformula.com/digital
Episode 008 / Renaissance man of the author world David Gaughran decodes Amazon and breaks down Bookbub ads for authors in addition to writing historical fiction and science fiction. He joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to discuss how his mistakes have shaped his decision to reboot his fiction and nonfiction books.
You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Jami and Sara are in the podcast timewarp because they recorded the episode intro early since Sara will be in London (hopefully) when it airs.
Jami’s making progress on her work-in-progress, and Sara was interviewed on Nathan van Coops’ podcast, Book Faces Live. They also talk about how the coronavirus is impacting travel and how it has brought fist bumps and elbow bumps into vogue. Jami mentions The Daily podcast’s recent episode on the topic.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- David’s Irish storytelling heritage and how conversation in the pub is a combat sport in Ireland
- His first mistake of writing “all over the map” in different genres while using the same author name
- The one thing that he wishes he could change
- David’s first big success and how he became an accidental nonfiction author
- Unlearning assumptions related to writing pretty sentences and the value of a good story that resonates with readers
- How Kindle Highlights can give you an insight to what readers value most
- What you can learn from books that are selling well--even if you don’t think they’re well-written
- Assumptions David made about ads and how important it is to question our assumptions
- Number chasing vs. knowing your readers
- David’s biggest gamble when he rebooted both his fiction and nonfiction career
- The value of long-term thinking and creating evergreen systems for your writing and marketing
- How the pressure of going full-time can impact you psychologically
- Why emailing too infrequently is a mistake and how David’s mindset about email has changed
- How David is using what he’s learned from his mistakes to reboot his writing career with pen names and book relaunches
- How to David has become more efficient with his time and finds multiple uses for content
- Writing a series vs. stand-alone books and how the challenges of writing a series surprised him
- The difference between historical fiction in US and UK charts and how David is shifting his writing to meet reader expectations
- How to meet the market halfway in both writing and marketing
- Trends in historical fiction, including orphan/holocost novels and WWII novels
- The importance of having a circle of friends
Genres discussed include nonfiction, historical fiction, science fiction, action/adventure, and literary fiction.
Links:
David Gaughran’s website: https://www.DavidGaughran.com
The Daily podcast: The Coronavirus Goes Global
Book Faces Live podcast: Nathan van Coops' interview with Sara about writing a series and mystery books and plotting
How to Write a Series by Sara Rosett
Newsletter Ninja by Tammi Lebreque
Take Off Your Pants by Libbie Hawker
Murder Bot series by Martha Wells
Episode 007 / Romantic comedy author Pippa Grant joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to chat about starting over with a new pen name as well as collaboration with other authors on a series. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
The alternate title for this episode is “Fun Places and Unusual Places to Record Your Podcast” because Jami had to record the episode from her car in the Starbuck's parking lot. (We're creating a new hashtag for just these sorts of things: #JamiStory.)
Sara’s prepping for a trip to London for SPF-Live, a writer’s conference, and the London Book Fair. She plans to visit as many stately homes/country estates/tea rooms as possible. #research #authorlife
Jami’s feeling rejuvenated. She’s back from a writing retreat where she accomplished a lot and got to hang out with 20 writers.
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- When it’s smart to use a pen names and how starting over with a new pen name gives you freedom
- Pippa’s favorite mistake and what she learned about worldbuilding, including why--even in romance--the villain has to have a comeuppance
- The importance of emphasizing the parts of a book that will appeal to readers when running ads
- How Pippa pivoted and created a new pen name after studying the bestseller charts and analyzing what tropes readers wanted
- Writing fearlessly and how Pippa shuts off the critical voice
- The mistake of chasing the wrong goal
- Psychology of fandom
- Pippa’s collaboration with three authors to create the Bluewater Billionaire series, including the nitty gritty details of plotting and planning the series
- How the group marketed through hashtags to encourage readers to share their stories before the series released
- Pippa’s big gamble of starting a new pen name and the risk of investing money in an unknown quantity
- Pippa’s potential side hustle as a “pun” title whisperer
- How Pippa’s husband helps her in her writing business
Genres discussed include contemporary romance, romantic comedy and cozy mystery.
Links:
Pippa Grant https://pippagrant.com
Jennifer Barnes https://jenniferlynnbarnes.tumblr.com/post/136121504974/fiction-fandom-and-using-the-term-mary-sue-as
Bluewater Billionaires series https://pippagrant.com/bluewater-billionaires/
NINC https://www.NINC.com
Episode 006 / Dani Sanchez, owner of Wildfire Marketing Solutions, joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett this week to talk about common mistakes authors make in publicity and marketing as well as publishing trends. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.
Jami and Sara chat about Sara’s WIP. She’s fixing tiny details that make up the clues and red herrings. It’s slow-going, but has to be done in mystery fiction. Jami talks about giving herself some grace and working on ads. A big thank you for all the positive feedback, nice comments, and reviews on the podcast. It’s much appreciated!
In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:
- How Dani focuses on individual goals for each author and helps authors create strategies that will grow their businesses
- What she wishes authors knew about marketing and public relations
- The difference between a promotion company and a PR/marketing company
- What Dani wishes she’d known about working in the publishing industry
- What she sees authors doing that isn’t getting them results
- Common mistakes she sees authors make in their marketing
- Dani’s advice to help authors protect their brand
- Commonalities she’s seen in successful authors over the long-haul
- Best practices for working with book bloggers and bookstgramers
- Possible upcoming romance trends, including mafia, small town, and sports romance
- How pop culture trends influence book trends
- How combinations of different genres (such as romance and psychological thriller in the case of The Wives) and “shock factor” can generate excitement and buzz
Genres discussed include romantic comedy, contemporary romance, cozy mystery, psychological thriller.
Links:
- Wildfire Marketing Solutions http://www.wildfiremarketingsolutions.com
- 365 Days https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10886166/
- Tarryn Fisher’s The Wives https://books2read.com/u/b55Zn6
Historical romance author Cecelia Mecca joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett. Cecelia shares what she learned when she changed genres and how she now reverse engineers her books before she writes them.
Jami, Sara, and Cecelia discuss:
- How Cecelia transitioned from being an English teacher and a teacher of teachers to writing fiction full-time
- Her mistake involving releasing her prequel novella on Super Bowl Sunday
- The challenge of replicating success
- Ceclia’s love of plotting books and how she wishes she’d read more craft books before writing her first novel
- How important packaging is for your book (cover, title, blurb, trope) and reverse engineering your novel, including considering how to marry what her muse wants her to write with considerations about cover and marketing
- Tips for using free marketing strategies including Facebook Live and Facebook groups (types and timing of posts)
- How to get to know your readers
- An incredibly simple, yet effective tip on how to to be successful on social media
- Assumptions involving transferring from one genre to another
- How Cecelia wishes she’d taken a closer look at the market for vampire books, but then discusses how much she learned from not doing that and how she now reverse engineers her books
- The benefits of focusing narrowly on social media
- How not using a pen name can be a mistake and lead to confused also-boughts on the ebook stores
- Learning not to be so hard on yourself when things don’t as you expect
-
Strategies to reach new readers including being a hybrid author and using print, including hardbacks and large print
Importance of friendships in a writing career and how attending conferences can help you connect with other authors in your genre -
Links/Mentioned:
Cecelia’s website http://ceceliamecca.com - Launching Indie Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/263060221047105/
- Romancing the Beat https://books2read.com/u/mBgGGD
- Rock Your Plot https://books2read.com/u/mYp77P
- Book Faces Live podcast https://nathanvancoops.podbean.com/e/cecelia-and-nathan-compare-favorite-plotting-methods-and-their-strategies-for-structure/
- Podcast deliberate actions for success in Facebook group https://www.amyporterfield.com/2019/10/284/
- Colleen Hoover - collaboration with American Idol https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/6553539
- Smarty Pants podcast on outpost social media channels http://smartypantsbookmarketing.libsyn.com/episode-50-how-to-set-up-pinterest-as-an-outpost-channel
Genres discussed include historical romance, paranormal romance, vampire, Regency, and mystery.
Alternate history and time travel author Nathan Van Coops was a trooper and joined Jami Albight and Sara Rosett despite having a cold. They delve into the joys of being a part-time writer and creating the lifestyle you want as well as tips on mistakes involving doing a royalty share for a Book One and trying to juggle too many things. And, last, they laugh about Jami's lunch choices and geek out about plotting books.
There's a bit of lag in the opening when Sara's talking about the sequel to Knives Out and how Benoit Blanc is a perfect flat-arc character and provides an ideal set-up for a long-running episodic series.
The flu hit Jami's family and interrupted her writing week, but everyone is better and she'd back at the keyboard now.
Nathan, Jami, and Sara discuss:
-Tackling the thorny details of time travel and how dealing with the specifics appealed to fans of the genre
-How Nathan carved a new entrepreneurial path and created a lifestyle that blends art and aviation
-Living the life you want, which for Nathan means being able to wear flip flops to work
-Influence of children’s adventure book, The Neverending Story
-Advantages of being a part-time author: a financial safety net, reduced mental strain, and creative freedom
-Risk evaluation for indie authors
-How not all jobs are “soul-sucking” and you can love traditional employment and be a writer at the same time
-Writing a book in snatches of 15 to 20 minutes
-Why doing a royalty share on a Book One was a mistake
-Why trying to juggle too many things is a mistake
-Mindset and how to keep a healthy attitude
-The benefits of preorders
-Changes in the publishing industry, including pricing higher and how that can help you find new readers
-How understanding his love of adventures stories helps Nathan write satisfying books for his readers
-How finding your overarching brand draws readers to you as an author
-Sara and Nathan geek out about plotting and plotting resources
Genres discussed include time travel, alternate history, romance and mystery.
Links:
- Nathan’s website https://www.nathanvancoops.com
- Nathan’s Book Faces Live group https://www.facebook.com/groups/148998479097782/
- Book Faces Live podcast rss https://nathanvancoops.podbean.com/feed.xml
- The Neverending Story https://books2read.com/u/3G2268
- Big Magic https://books2read.com/u/4XXX8g
- Chris Fox https://www.chrisfoxwrites.com
- Plot & Structure https://books2read.com/u/m0OVky
- Becca Syme Write Better-Faster https://betterfasteracademy.com
Amy Boyles, author of paranormal cozy mysteries with a southern flare, joins Jami Albright and Sara Rosett to talk about her successes and missteps.
Jami and Sara chat about how they’ve been blown away about the response to the podcast and say thanks for all the positive comments, shares, and reviews.
Jami has a boxed set out and Sara just released a new nonfiction book, How to Write a Series.
In the interview with Amy they discuss:
-The definition of paranormal cozy
-Humor in writing
-The line between tropes and stereotypes
-How Amy transitioning from being a full-time pharmacist to a full-time writer
-The inspiration and influence of books, including Little Women and Twilight
-Writing fast
-Writing with kids: consistency and writing around the edges of your life
-Figuring out what you’re good at writing
-Knowing when to stop writing a series--when to cut your losses and move on
-Branding--making your name and covers distinctive and interacting with your readers
-The importance of connecting with other authors
Comment on this episode at WishIdKnownForWriter.com to be eligible to win an hour of free coaching with Jami and Sara’s new nonfiction book, How to Write a Series. Tell us who you’d like us to invite on the podcast and what topics you’d like to learn more about.
Links:
https://amyboylesauthor.com
Genres discussed include paranormal cozy mystery and romance.
Becca Syme, a Gallup-Certified Strengths coach and founder of the Write Better-Faster Academy, joins Jami and Sara to discuss how to discover your strengths as a writer and how to lean into those qualities.
In this episode, Becca Syme, Jami Albright, and Sara Rosett discuss:
-Self-awareness in writing
-Pivoting to write in new genre(s) and finding your perfect genre
-Learning to trust yourself
-Dealing with fear when you’re starting a new project
-Benefits of hearing opposing perspectives
-Using your strengths in your writing life
-Taking the long view when it comes to our books and writing
-How to treat your mistakes as a learning opportunity
-The misstep of writing in a super-niche genre (there might be eunuch werewolves involved in this answer)
-The platform of Radish and what’s currently selling there
-The importance of connecting with other writers
Genres discussed include paranormal romance, romantic comedy, mystery, cozy mystery, and non-fiction.
Links:
Youtube Quitcast Podcast https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqcMMgtLuogKNSbxlwyJ5ug
https://www.rlsyme.com/about/
Sara and Jami interview one another and reveal their deepest, darkest secrets--writing secrets, that is.
They talk about:
-Their first big successes--getting a Bookbub and finishing the first book
-How they overcame tech challenges (hint: Youtube is your friend)
-How not keeping up with changes in the market was a mistake for Sara and how she pivoted and started over in indie publishing
-What Jami learned as a new indie author
-How a mistake can be a good thing
-How Sara learned it’s a mistake to try to cast too wide a net for readers
-The benefits Jami experienced when she held off publishing her first book and took a year to learn and research before release
-The changes Sara’s seen in publishing, including how writers have become more publisher-like in their decisions and the rise of advertising
-How Jami launched her first book with a newsletter audience
Links:
www.JamiAlbright.com
www.SaraRosett.com
Bookbub Partners: https://www.bookbub.com/partners/overview
Genres discussed include: romance, romantic comedy, mystery, cozy mystery, thriller, and classic romantic suspense.
Don’t forget to subscribe!
Welcome to the Wish I’d Known Then podcast for writers. In this episode, indie authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett introduce themselves and chat about:
-
the concept of the show, which is interviewing awesome indie authors to get their take on what’s worked for them as well as what mistakes they’ve made
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their love of podcasts
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who their first guests will be
Subscribe to get the first episodes!