Ariel Curry, a writer, editor, and book coach, shares her insights on the ‘hungry author’ mindset essential for nonfiction success. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your audience and creating a robust book map. Ariel discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and leveraging AI for marketing and cover design. Discover practical strategies for pitching your work and building a strong author platform beyond social media. Dive into the complexities of nonfiction and learn how to navigate these challenges with a resilient mindset.

Dave Cohen, an award-winning BBC comedy writer known for shows like Horrible Histories, shares his insights on incorporating humor into all genres. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from TV writing to self-publishing novels and why comedy is vital for writers. Cohen emphasizes the balance between originality and clichés in humor, as well as the importance of perseverance in storytelling. He also reflects on the role of community in marketing books and the joy of engaging readers through laughter.

Mark Lefebvre, an expert in reader engagement and selling books at events, shares invaluable insights on making genuine connections at live signings. He discusses the importance of technology and the right mindset in boosting sales. Highlighting the benefits of in-person interactions, Mark offers practical strategies to overcome marketing challenges and embrace AI as a tool rather than a threat. Listeners will discover how fostering authentic relationships can lead to long-term success in the ever-evolving publishing landscape.

Sacha Black, a full-time author entrepreneur known for her spicy sapphic fantasy romance under the pen name Ruby Roe, shares her journey and insights. She discusses the challenges of pivoting genres and the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Sacha reveals innovative marketing strategies, including leveraging TikTok for growth. She highlights the evolution of audiobooks with AI technology, emphasizing how authors can adapt to changing business models. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to creative freedom and balanced well-being in the author world.

Joanna Penn, an award-winning, New York Times bestselling author and podcaster, shares insights from her 13-year journey as an author entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of pivoting your author brand, the role of AI in enhancing creativity, and embracing community support through platforms like Patreon. Joanna reveals how a small paywall has positively impacted her mental health and discusses prioritizing physical fitness, especially for women post-menopause. Join her as she reflects on growth, creativity, and the joy of creating beautiful books.

Guy Windsor, an expert on self-publishing and medieval swordsmanship, discusses creating effective training manuals for physical skills. He emphasizes the importance of targeting true fans for sustainable income and shares insights on broadening author offerings. The conversation touches on balancing freedom and creativity in the writing journey and highlights innovative marketing strategies for indie authors. Windsor also delves into the dynamics of AI and creativity, stressing the need for a tailored approach to audience engagement in the evolving landscape of self-publishing.

David Viergutz, a disabled army and law enforcement veteran turned horror author, dives into strategies for selling fiction beyond just storytelling. He emphasizes the power of personal passions in writing and highlights the shift towards direct sales models, including engaging readers through physical letters. The discussion also covers innovative approaches to marketing, the impact of AI on writing, and the importance of maintaining cultural accuracy in storytelling. Tune in for insights on transforming creative passions into successful ventures!

AD Wilk, an accomplished German author of over 30 books, discusses the intricacies of self-publishing in Germany. She emphasizes the importance of overcoming limiting beliefs to unlock creative potential and the unique challenges indie authors face. Wilk also shares insights on navigating the German book market, touching on reader preferences and effective marketing strategies. Additionally, she reflects on the transformative power of authenticity and the significance of community engagement in building a successful author career.

Larry Kasanoff, a creative powerhouse behind hits like Mortal Kombat and Terminator 2, discusses the delicate balance between creativity and business in writing and filmmaking. He shares insights on accessing a ‘touch of madness’ to fuel creativity and emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s voice in the face of industry pressures. Kasanoff also provides tips for authors looking to pitch their works for film and explores how a playful attitude can enhance the creative process. Finally, he reflects on the rapid timelines of book publishing compared to the film industry.

Thad McIlroy, an expert in the intersection of AI and publishing, delves into the current landscape of generative AI in the publishing industry. He discusses why AI tools are controversial yet essential for traditional publishers. The conversation highlights how these advancements can enhance creativity and streamline processes, from editorial tasks to audiobook production. McIlroy also emphasizes the importance of adapting to these technologies while maintaining the unique voices of authors, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of publishing.