The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Kick off 2025 with fresh goals as the speaker reflects on creative ambitions and personal milestones. Expect enlightening discussions on 'leverage' to maximize resources while planning book launches and innovative marketing strategies. Exciting projects like 'Blood Vintage' and a desert-themed novel are on the horizon. The speaker's diverse approach to fitness contrasts with traditional methods, inviting listeners to consider their own ambitions. It’s a motivational mix of creativity, personal growth, and accountability for the new year!

Reflecting on the past year, the discussion centers on the inspiring journey of creative goals and unexpected achievements. Highlights include the ambitious 'Spear of Destiny' project and the complexities of creating a nonfiction book on English Gothic cathedrals. Personal growth is emphasized through new challenges, travel experiences, and the role of AI in their writing process. The importance of health, financial updates, and community engagement round out the conversation, encouraging listeners to set their own creative aspirations for the upcoming year.

Discover how to conquer overwhelm by focusing on your 'circle of influence' while balancing creativity and self-care. Learn the importance of nurturing a personal creative space, free from public pressures, and strategies to maintain creativity in challenging times. Hear insights on author branding using AI tools, along with practical tips for nonfiction writing. Embrace the urgency of making meaningful contributions to your craft as you reflect on your priorities and goals for the future.

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.