The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

April Rinne, a futurist, professional speaker, and bestselling author of 'Flux: 8 Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change,' dives into embracing change in various aspects of life. She explores the 'flux mindset'—how to thrive amidst uncertainty and adapt career strategies. Rinne discusses the integration of AI in authorship, focusing on the future of audiobooks and copyright challenges. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating a portfolio career that leverages diverse experiences, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace change actively.

Abi Pollakoff, an award-winning poet and editor, shares her insights on the intersection of poetry and prose. She emphasizes how poetic techniques like line breaks and punctuation can enhance prose writing. The conversation dives into the emotional power of poetry, the significance of page layout, and the nuances of performance in spoken word. Pollakoff also discusses the impact of community engagement on a writer's journey and the challenges poets face in the modern literary landscape.

Pia Leichter, an award-winning creative director and founder of Kollektiv Studio, dives into the transformative power of creative courage. She discusses how to navigate life's shifts, turning personal evolution into art. Listeners will learn about the significance of immersive research, the cyclical nature of creativity, and the balance between productivity and rest. Pia emphasizes the importance of community support in overcoming self-doubt and encourages everyone to reclaim their creative power—proving that life itself is indeed the biggest art project!

Dr. Rebecca White, an award-winning entrepreneur and author, shares her transformative journey from small-town roots to creative success. She discusses her 'See, Do, Repeat' framework, emphasizing optimism in entrepreneurship. Tips on overcoming fear of judgment in publishing and the importance of community support are highlighted. The conversation also touches on leveraging AI in audio publishing while retaining creative control. White's insights on navigating the evolving landscapes of writing and self-publishing provide actionable steps for aspiring authors.

Derek Slaton, author of the extensive Dead America zombie series, shares insights on leveraging YouTube and podcasting to boost audiobook revenue. He discusses innovative strategies like using AI for book creation and the importance of personalizing marketing approaches. Derek emphasizes the role of community engagement and effective audience feedback. The conversation highlights unique world-building techniques inspired by personal experiences and the financial benefits of treating audiobooks as podcast episodes, all while keeping creative integrity intact.

Tara Cremin, Director of Kobo Writing Life, shares her expertise on indie publishing and ebook distribution. She explores the evolution of self-publishing and details how Kobo Plus offers indie authors flexible subscription options. Tara discusses strategic pricing and promotional tactics to maximize earnings from ebooks and audiobooks. Additionally, she highlights the importance of curated recommendations and how Kobo’s innovative features enhance reader engagement. Practical insights make this a must-listen for aspiring authors!

What’s the difference between telling a story on screen and on the page? How does indie film production overlap with indie publishing—and what can writers learn from the world of filmmaking? Why might a producer choose creative freedom over big studio deals, and what does that mean when it comes to book marketing? Gretchen McGowan […] The post Writing Memoir From A Life In Film With Gretchen McGowan first appeared on The Creative Penn.

Discover innovative book marketing strategies that blend audio, video, and text for a successful launch. Dive into the thrilling first chapters of 'Death Valley,' narrated by an AI voice clone. Explore the transformative solitude of the desert through the eyes of protagonist Casey Thornton, as she navigates the beauty and danger of her new life. Delve into the dynamics of staff and celebrity guests at a luxury resort, revealing the complexities behind glamour. Experience a thought-provoking discussion on balancing safety with adventure in an exhilarating desert setting.

T.D. Donnelly, author of the thriller 'The Year of the Rabbit' and a seasoned screenwriter known for hits like 'Sahara' and 'Conan the Barbarian,' shares his insights on the writing journey. He explores the differences between screenwriting and novel writing, tackling industry challenges like ownership and creative control. Donnelly also discusses marketing strategies for screenplays and the allure of special edition books, alongside the transformative role of AI in publishing. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their creative projects and explore the evolving landscape of storytelling.

Kristopher Jansma, an award-winning author known for his insightful work on literary fiction, discusses transforming rough drafts into polished novels. He emphasizes the dangers of comparing initial versions to finished masterpieces and dismantles myths around the concept of genius. The conversation also addresses the emotional toll of publishing and the importance of perseverance in overcoming creative barriers. Jansma shares personal anecdotes, reminding writers that struggles are a path to growth and success.