The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Jacob Nordby, an entrepreneur and author of The Creative Cure, shares his insights on unleashing creativity in our lives. He discusses the importance of journaling to overcome mental blocks and how intuition can guide us. Nordby emphasizes embracing failures as stepping stones to growth and the significance of nurturing creative community. Listeners will find practical tips for cultivating creativity amid transitions and ways to re-engage with their artistic selves, making it a transformative discussion for anyone on a creative journey.

In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Luke Richardson shares his experiences transitioning from a teaching career to full-time indie writing, sparked by a transformative trip to India. He explores the essential tropes and reader expectations in action-adventure thrillers, along with how travel can enhance storytelling. Luke also discusses the evolving landscape of book marketing and the role of social media, emphasizing the need for authors to adapt as new platforms emerge.

Oriana Leckert, the head of publishing at Kickstarter and an accomplished author, provides an insightful look into crowdfunding for authors. She discusses various types of Kickstarter campaigns and highlights unique rewards that authors can offer to backers. Oriana reveals common mistakes that lead to failed campaigns and the importance of a pre-launch page. She also emphasizes the need for a visually appealing project page to attract potential funders, ensuring that authors can effectively bring their creative visions to life.

In this engaging conversation, Marissa Meyer, the New York Times bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles and The Happy Writer, shares her insights on maintaining joy in the writing process. She discusses strategies for overcoming writer's block and finishing first drafts. Marissa emphasizes the importance of self-care to prevent burnout and suggests fun research methods. She also explores how to generate new ideas for continued series and the balancing act of writing while managing the business of being an author.

Douglas Smith, a multi-award-winning Canadian author with over 200 short stories published globally, shares invaluable insights on writing and selling short fiction. He emphasizes how honing short stories can elevate your writing in various genres. Smith discusses the importance of understanding different publishing markets, exploring avenues like magazines and anthologies. He also sheds light on rights issues and the nuances of licensing, providing practical strategies for new writers to successfully navigate the evolving landscape of short fiction.

Douglas Vigliotti, an author and poet known for his latest book, *Aristotle for Novelists*, shares fascinating insights on the power of storytelling. He emphasizes that story trumps writing and explores how to craft engaging characters. The conversation touches on the importance of creating compelling complications that keep readers hooked and the intricate balance between creativity and commerce. Vigliotti also discusses authentic marketing strategies that resonate with audiences, shedding light on connecting deeply with readers.

Alicia Wright, an intellectual property lawyer and author under the name Alicia Ellis, dives into the world of AI and copyright. She discusses how generative AI can serve as a brainstorming partner for writers while navigating the complexities of fair use. Alicia highlights the potential for AI to transform audiobook production and emphasizes the importance of smart prompts for quality outputs. She also shares insights on licensing opportunities in the evolving landscape of creative writing, blending technology with artistic expression.

Kevin J. Anderson, a multi-award-winning author with over 190 books to his name, shares his insights on building a sustainable author career. He discusses leveraging technology for more efficient writing, diversifying income streams, and the importance of maintaining an email list. Anderson also highlights the burgeoning world of audio publishing and the role of Kickstarter in supporting independent projects. He emphasizes the need for adaptability and offers practical advice for navigating the shifting landscape of authorship.

Joe Solari, managing director of Author Nation, helps authors succeed by balancing creativity with business. He shares insights on maintaining a sustainable author career and the importance of diversifying income sources. Joe discusses how to navigate social media while achieving business goals and emphasizes the value of live engagements in creative ventures. He also anticipates trends for 2025, including the role of AI in authorship, urging writers to adapt and build meaningful relationships with their audiences for long-term success.

Kristen Tate, an editor and founder of The Blue Garret, shares her expertise on transforming ordinary manuscripts into captivating stories. She discusses essential writing techniques, such as character development and narrative structure, and emphasizes balancing planning with spontaneity. The conversation also addresses the evolving publishing landscape, the importance of sub-rights, and the impact of AI on authorship. Tate highlights the necessity of retaining creative rights and how editing software like ProWritingAid can enhance the writing process.