Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

Episode 172 / Women’s fiction author, Rachel Hanna shares about writing women’s fiction and branching out into direct sales using Shopify and Klaviyo. Author website: www.RachelHannaAuthor.com💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportMore links: The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastJami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplanJami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help UkrainiansSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

How do you balance writing, motherhood, and finding joy in your craft? Today, we had the pleasure of chatting with the talented Belinda Kroll, a cozy fantasy writer who's mastered the art of the joyful side hustle. Belinda shares her journey from vanity press publishing to indie success, and how she's cultivated a thriving newsletter and community along the way.Discover Belinda's efficient writing process that keeps her joy intact, and learn how her current lifestyle influences her writing and fits in with her busy life. We also explore her journey of utilizing Canva Pro to create a content calendar on Instagram and compose for TikTok, maximizing her social media presence to market her work to readers. Join us as we dive into the world of cozy fantasy and paranormal elements, examining the rules and distinctions within the genre. Belinda shares her experience building a community on Patreon, the importance of setting expectations, and her all-in-one planner for Discovery Writers. Don't miss this insightful conversation with the brilliant Belinda Kroll!Author website: https://worderella.com/links💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportThanks to our industry sponsor, Vellum. You can build, style, and preview your book, then purchase when you’re ready to publish. tryvellum.com/wishSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 170 /  Fantasy and sci-fi author Jamie Davis joins us to share insights on author branding, diversifying income, plus the best and worst advice he’d been given. Find out how Jamie reaches his core readers and stays engaged with his audience, while also branching out into diversifying his income streams. Learn about promoting Kickstarter with additional content, and why failure can be a necessary step for growth.We also talk about his upcoming Kickstarter, selling direct through his WooCommerce shop on his website, and how he plans to add subscriptions to his author business.Author website: 💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportJamie Davis website:  https://jamiedavisbooks.comJamie Davis Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/podmedic/createdSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 169 / Historical mystery author SarahWoodbury shares how she researches and writes her novels set in medieval Wales. We also delve into writing a long series, the power of a free first in series book, and creating Youtube videos for readers.💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportShow highlights:Indie publishing, the stigma around it, its benefits and challengesChallenges in finding a cover artist with the desired flexibilityThe freedom and possibilities in writing seriesThe mistake of focusing on a small number of books and not continuing to produce contentThe importance of accuracy in historical fiction and the thrill of researchCreation of video content for a Youtube channel based on a map of 500 places to be visitedSarah's focus on presenting interesting facts and stories while her husband handles the video productionThe challenge of being the face of the YouTube channel and the passion for storytellingThe importance of consistency in writing every daySarah Woodbury: https://www.sarahwoodbury.com/More links: The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastJami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplanJami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainianshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharingSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 168 / Jami Albright and Sara Rosett discuss how to create compelling characters. We look at the pilot episode of Ted Lasso and delve into why the characters of Rebecca and Ted are fascinating and how the writers made them well-rounded characters. Special supporter event: chat with H. Claire Taylor on May 28th. Watch for info in your private RSS feed. 💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportTime stamps:[00:01:32] Sara attended the Subscription for Authors (https://subscriptionsforauthors.com/) summit and learned about different subscription models, including the tactic of giving every tier the same thing.[00:07:15] How the first episode of Ted Lasso introduces Rebecca and Ted and contrasts their personalities through action, small details, and dialog [00:14:19] Hints about backstory without info dump[00:16:10] Ted Lasso is a flat arc character who evolves in Season 2. The show is an intriguing concept that blends both flat arc and robust character arc[00:30:51] Flipping a trope is attractive to people readers[00:32:26] Using a “train wreck” scenario and underdog trope, and how Rebecca’s actions create sympathy for Ted[00:39:41] How the reveal of Ted’s problems in his marriage and separation from his son compounds our desire to see Ted do well[00:41:20] How Roy’s interactions with Phoebe soften his character[00:44:55] Unlikable characters can be fascinating and pull in readers. Examples: House, Snape, Agatha Raisin[00:46:02] Using the same techniques to make villains three-dimensional [00:50:47] Gradual change in characters is effective and easily noticed by readersSave the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://books2read.com/u/mVKoJJHow to Write a Series by Sara Rosett: https://books2read.com/howtowriteaseriesSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 167 / Is it time to hire an author assistant? Jenna Lee answers our questions about outsourcing, work/life balance, NDAs, and so much more. 💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportHighlights:Jenna’s background as an author and how it helps her as an author assistantHow to know when to outsourceHow to decide what tasks to outsourceHow to interview of an assistantTips for giving feedback to a team memberDealing with fear of handing off tasks to someone elseTips for an author to build a team to support themKey things to look out for when outsourcingCommonalities in writers who have been successful over the long haulTimestamps:[00:10:25] Jenna Lee is an author and owner of The Daring Press. She started off as an author and had success with their first book, a reverse harem paranormal romance.[00:16:51] To get support for your author business, make a list of tasks and identify what you love and dislike doing. Outsource tasks you dislike, and create a job application for the person you need, considering their personality and strengths. Conduct a video interview to ensure they are the right fit.[00:20:55] Set up processes and systems before bringing in a new team member to ensure a smooth start; trial period of the first month involves establishing communication, apps, and tasks; regularly check in to ensure the person is doing a satisfactory job.[00:23:57] Focus on one thing at a time for success rather than overwhelming yourself with multiple “shoulds.”[00:28:53] Managing workload to avoid burnout and mistakes when hiring help for your author business. [00:35:49] Meeting on Zoom is important to assess fit and skills. Ask thought-provoking questions and consider sample tasks.[00:41:10] Setting work hours and communication boundaries with clients and team members to manage expectations and avoid emergencies in non-life-saving industries.Links:Daring Press: www.thedaringpress.comJenna Lee’s books https://jennalee.biz/product-category/books/Morgana Best’s class on Building a Shopify Store:Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 166 / From testing out book covers to using spreadsheets to track release dates, Romantic comedy author Deanna Roy shares her tried and tested marketing strategies for self-publishing success. But it's not all about marketing tactics–Deanna also shares her personal story of finding success in the ever-changing world of publishing and the importance of finding a supportive community of fellow authors.Intro:Jami’s author consulting: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportShow notes:From 350 rejections to self-publishing successAdvice to new authors: publish a short story firstLessons learned about marketing: books that appeal to warm vs. cold audiencesHow Deanna conducts a cover test for each book Tactics to keep income up during emotionally trying timesImposter syndrome Indie author JJ. Knight's journey into traditional publishingExploring a new genre with women's fiction and the benefits of “hobby books”Using retailer recommendation engines to maximize book salesAuthor website: http://www.deannaroy.comJ.J.Knight.comReadlaughSwoon.comOther mentions:Julia Kent on the Emotional Needs of Readers https://wishidknownforwriters.com/julia-kent-on-the-emotional-needs-of-readers-writing-ahead-and-opportunities-in-audio/How Pippa Grant Revolutionized her Writing Career with a New Pen Namehttps://wishidknownforwriters.com/how-pippa-grant-revolutionized-her-writing-career-with-a-new-pen-name/More links: The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastJami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/launchplanJami’s books httpSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 165 / Thriller writer Amanda Traylor shares:The challenges of writing commercial fictionHow she shifted from romance to thrillers with romantic subplots and why that genre is a better fit for herHow she licensed a thriller series to a publisher then got the rights revertedWriting as a parent of a young childIntro link: Greta and Megan’s kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/authorwheel/preparingtowriteTimestamps:[00:17:40] Marketing success varies due to individual circumstance and timely changes in the industry. Best practices may not work for everyone, and it's important to remain patient and pivot to new methods when necessary.[00:20:31] Amanda reflects on her past assumptions about her craft and the publishing industry. She learned that having education in the area was not enough.[00:24:05] The publishing industry is a hard business and rejection is common. To succeed, you must divorce yourself from the outcome and be willing to learn and grow from mistakes.[00:26:28] Write what you want, but it may not sell. Don't assume you are your audience, and be willing to make changes to appeal to them. Follow established tropes to succeed.[00:28:29] Amanda advises writers to be open-minded towards feedback and marketability of their work.[00:29:58] Amanda transitioned from young adult romance to romantic suspense, where she enjoyed playing with tropes. She focused on the mystery/thriller aspect while still including a romantic subplot.[00:36:15]Amanda signed over her crime thriller series to a publisher but ultimately took the rights back due to lack of marketing success. The experience was a good learning opportunity and the split was amicable.[00:43:39] Amanda took a year off  due to lack of help during pandemic.[00:45:27] Amanda shares her struggle with balancing motherhood and writing but finds success in separating her time and being present in the moment. She also learned to write on the go, utilizing time during her child's preschool commute to dictate words into her phone.[00:38:44] Networking with fellow writers and publishing professionals is crucial for support, understanding, and career advancement.💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAmanda Traylor website: www.amandatraylor.comSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 164 / We delve into writing craft this week with mystery author and podcaster John Gaspard, who shares how to use filmmaking techniques in novel writing. We also discuss finding unique aspects of our lives and using them in our books. We also cover some practical tips like the importance of eliminating unnecessary details between scenes and chapters, as well as cutting the last sentence or two of a scene, a technique recommended by Aaron Sorkin.John also shared how he uses existing content to create podcasts for readers. Links: Save the date: Written Word Media series: What We Wish We’d Known About Publishing With Sara Rosett and Jami Albright (April 27th, 2023 at 12:00pm ET): https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/speaker-series/Show notes: Timestamps:[00:00:52] Writing Veteran Transitions to Fiction Novelist[00:09:04] Don't encourage friends and family to buy[00:11:32] Author Buys Back Rights From Publisher: Success Story[00:19:17] Shifting Perceptions of Traditional Publishing vs Self-Publishing[00:21:27] The Popcorn Principles: Filmmaking Techniques for Writing"[00:23:33] Exploit Your Unique Perspective in Filmmaking[00:27:12] Maximize Impact: Lessons on Scene Structure[00:32:44] Leveling up: Revealing Character and Backstory through Dialog[00:36:38] Podcasting Chapters of Your Novel[00:42:31] The Timeless Podcast: Evergreen Content Author website: https://www.albertsbridgebooks.com💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 163 / Dark reverse harem romance author Angel Lawson shares the importance of understanding and applying tropes and universal fantasy concepts in her angsty novels of atonement. Angel describes past struggles with burnout and anxiety, and how she navigated through it. We also talk about co-writing, Kickstarter, consistency, and how bookplates and stickers helped her build a loyal fanbase. 💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode!Subscriptions for Authors Summit 2023Written Word Media series: What We Wish We’d Known About Publishing With Sara Rosett and Jami AlbrightTimestamps:[00:58] From Fanfiction to Indie Author Success Story[07:08] Overcoming Anxiety and Creativity Burnout[16:56] Learning to Write with Instinct and Trope[21:47] Creating Dark, Trauma-Filled Romance Novels[29:55] Building a loyal fanbase[36:36] Genre Switch Proves Costly[41:37] Learning to Stay in Your Lane as an Author[50:19] Co-writers push genre boundaries with dark romance[53:03]Co-Writing Success[57:22] Readers Love for Free Bookplates and KickstarterAngel Lawson’s websiteAngel Lawson’s consultingMore links:The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodesJami’s Launch PlanJami’s booksSara’s booksResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help UkrainiansSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing