The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg, author of 'Supercommunicators', as he dives into the intricacies of writing successful non-fiction books. He shares tips on crafting compelling book proposals that capture publishers' attention. Duhigg also discusses the art of navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing vulnerability and curiosity. With insights on balancing personal passion with reader expectations, he highlights the power of storytelling in engaging audiences. Plus, learn how AI is reshaping the future of publishing!

In this discussion, Michael Bungay Stanier, bestselling author of *The Coaching Habit* and founder of Box of Crayons, shares insights on building a business ecosystem around non-fiction books. He emphasizes creating multiple income streams and the advantages of hybrid publishing. Michael also delves into the importance of delegation and cultivating professional relationships. Additionally, he reflects on his personal journey from rejection to success, underscoring the role of community and support in an author's development.

Ashling McCarthy is a diverse South African author, artist, and anthropologist whose work challenges cultural stereotypes. In this engaging conversation, she shares how her anthropological background informs her writing, emphasizing the importance of empathy when portraying different cultures. Ashling discusses the unique aspects of self-publishing in South Africa, including the complexities of selling direct and the need for innovative marketing strategies. She also highlights the beauty and struggles within rural communities, stressing the significance of culturally sensitive storytelling.

Tiffany Yates Martin, an editor and author with over 30 years in the publishing industry, shares her insights on navigating the author journey. She emphasizes the importance of intuition in decision-making and the struggle with feedback and rejection. The conversation explores strategies for managing the competing demands of writing while reclaiming creativity. Tiffany also discusses adapting to the evolving publishing landscape, the significance of community support, and the need for resilience in the face of challenges.

Natalie Maclean, a multi-award-winning wine writer and sommelier, shares her journey from corporate life to pursuing her passion for wine. She discusses writing memoirs with rich sensory details, comparing terroir in wine to a writer's voice. Natalie offers strategies for managing online negativity, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in storytelling. She also explores how wine can enhance the reading experience, suggesting creative ideas for book clubs. Her insights highlight the emotional challenges of writing while staying true to oneself.

In this engaging discussion, Leon McAnally, author of A Guide to Dark Attractions in the UK, dives into the intriguing world of dark tourism. He explains the appeal of visiting sites linked to death and tragedy while pondering ethical considerations. Leon shares invaluable insights on self-publishing premium print guidebooks, detailing the challenges of design and image permissions. He also discusses creative marketing strategies, including the power of social media and book signings, making the complex process both fascinating and relatable.

Gin Stephens, a New York Times bestselling author known for her health-related nonfiction, shares insightful tips on writing a second edition of a book. She discusses the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing and the importance of community in marketing. Gin also delves into overcoming misinformation in health topics, using AI tools for promotion, and the need for engaging storytelling. From navigating reader preferences to the challenges of audiobook production, her experiences shine a light on the evolving publishing landscape.

Boris Bacic, a bestselling horror author from Serbia with over 30 works, dives into the evolution of horror subgenres and shares his unique publishing journey. He discusses finding inspiration from personal experiences and the importance of setting. Bacic elaborates on whether ideas suit short stories or novels and explores the various income streams for authors in the genre. He also addresses the impact of platforms like creepypasta on horror narratives and highlights the challenges indie authors face in marketing their work.

Rachel McLean, an award-winning crime author and publisher, shares her journey in scaling her author business after selling over 2 million copies. She discusses the importance of hiring freelancers with diverse skills and balancing writing with business duties. The conversation touches on moving readers from Kindle Unlimited to direct sales and the surge of audiobooks. McLean also explores leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity while maintaining an authentic voice, ultimately emphasizing reader engagement and innovative marketing strategies.

Jim Kukral, a professional speaker and nonfiction self-help author, joins the discussion around hitting 10 million downloads. He shares seven insightful lessons for creatives, emphasizing the importance of starting where you are and improving over time. Building genuine relationships is key, as is establishing boundaries for personal sharing. The episode dives into the role of patronage and the emotional challenges faced by independent creators. Persistence is highlighted as essential for long-term success while enjoying the creative journey remains paramount.