Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

279 / Ember Scott, multi-genre author (also writing as MJ Caan), shares his journey from the medical field to full-time indie author and unpacks how he successfully transitioned across genres and managed his author IP. Finding and trusting your author voiceHow audience expectations shape the writing processWhy it's okay not to master every platform and the importance of playing to your strengthsSelling a backlist to a traditional publisher How Ember transitioned to thrillers and how he found his subgenreHow and why Ember handed over his self-published titles for longevity and peace of mindA great listen for indie authors looking to future-proof their career and learn how to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing industry.💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:https://mjcaan.comEstate Planning For Authors: Your Final Letter by M. L. Buckman: Estate Planning for Authors eBook by M. L. Buchman Goodreads changes: https://www.goodreads.com/blog/show/2984-introducing-our-new-logo-and-more-ways-we-continue-to-improve-goodreadsSend 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-podcast

278 / Stephanie Farris, bestselling romance author, pivoted between genres and platforms, and found her stride with short, market-savvy romance fiction. She shares how she moved from traditional publishing to indie success and details her approach to writing both steamy and sweet romance, with a deep dive into writing successful short "insta-love" romances.Finding your writing voice, and why it's more important than nailing craft rulesHow she’s embraced her ability to write fastStephanie’s advice for writing in the sweet/clean/wholesome categoryWriting one-hour romances—practical tips for writing and marketing short, high-heat books in Amazon’s “short reads” categoryHow Stephanie uses dictation to get her drafts done at the same time she gets her steps for the dayIf you’re looking to adapt, find your niche, and thrive in shifting markets, this is a great episode for you! 💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:https://lilahhart.com/https://www.stephaniefaris.com/How To Get More Book Reviews With Joe Walters: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2025/07/14/how-to-get-more-book-reviews-with-joe-walters/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-podcast

277 / Alyssa Archer, longtime indie author and editor, shares how she blended editing, writing, and community-building to create a sustainable, meaningful writing life.Navigating a career shift from fiction writing to editing and nonfiction projects, including the story behind her work on the Book of Birth. The challenges and gifts of living and working with ADHD, from late diagnosisPractical steps to find and connect with other writers to create community This episode is a fantastic listen for indie authors and creatives looking for honest insights about career pivots, building a supportive writing community, and rethinking productivity.💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:Book of Birth: https://www.newlifebirthservices.com/the-book-of-birthMystery Birthday Club: https://dashboard.bookfunnel.com/bundles/board/pecvzbq4nlSend 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-podcast

276 / Ryder O’Malley, gay romance author cover designer, shares his path from art to indie publishing and the lessons learned along the way. He unpacks redefining success as an author, developing an authentic writing voice, and treating writing as a true business.Moving the goalposts on success and learning to celebrate winsThe realities of marketing your books and understanding your audienceNavigating the transition from day job to full-time author and the emotional aftermathIt’s a great listen for anyone struggling with defining success, balancing art with business, or figuring out how to sustain a creative career in indie publishing.Plus look for the supporter greenroom chat about covers. 💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:www.authorryderomalley.comwww.covervillain.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-podcast

275 / Nicholas Harvey, adventure, suspense, and thriller novelist and digital nomad, shares his journey from race car driver and motorsports professional to full-time author. He discusses how his unique background shapes his storytelling, the challenges of writing female protagonists, and navigating the ever-evolving indie publishing landscape.Transitioning from a racing career to writingHow his motorsports background fuels his creative processLessons learned about genre, marketingWhat he wishes he’d known before launching his first seriesRealities of digital nomad lifeManaging collaborations💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:https://www.harveybooks.comhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Harvey/author/B077W5KDV3Two Authors’ Podcast: https://pod.link/1671876768Send 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-podcast

274 / We’ve had a month-long break and are back with a catch-up chat about what’s been going on with our writing and our lives, including ADHD and productivity, juggling creative projects, and book launches. Sara: special edition pre-production and timelines, launching on her direct storeJami: ADHA update, drafting a new novel, ads💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:SaraRosettBooks.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-podcast

Ep 273 / Trixie Silvertale joins us to discuss resilience and adaptability in business. Trixie shared how a personal tragedy shifted her writing and publishing and resulted in her leveraging her backlist. Plus keeping a long series fresh, and writing interesting small town settings.Topics:Trixie’s dictation process, which involves roller skates 🛼Dealing with tragedy and loss, and how Trixie shifted away from rapid release to making the most of her backlist through repurposing her IPAllowing yourself to have a bad dayDeciding on spin-offs vs. new seriesTranslationsBalances humor, suspense, and paranormal elements💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:Spark Story Summit with Sara’s interview: https://sparktostory-summit.heysummit.com/?ac=gG5Wyq2k (Affiliate link) The 2025 Inkers Con Digital Conference:  June 7–20 https://inkerscon.com/2025-digital-conference (Affiliate Link) Use Discount code: JAMI25https://trixiesilvertale.comFollow Trixie’s Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/trixiesilvertaleFollow Trixie on BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/trixie-silvertaleTrixie’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trixiesilvertale/Ep 140: New Author Series: Trixie Silvertale on Secret Pen Names https://wishidknownforwriters.com/140-2/Send us a text📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThenSupport 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-podcast

Episode 272 / Andi Arndt joins us to discuss audiobook narration, including tips for finding and working with a narrator, how to write with narration in mind, and audiobook trends. Topics:How Andi preps to narrate a bookMistakes authors make when it comes to picking narratorsTips for writing with narration in mindBenefits of  having a long-term relationship with a narrator or production companyTrends in audiobook production, including duets and multicast productionsThe impact of AI on audiobooks💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:andiarndt.comNarrator.lifeLyricaudiobooks.comSpark Story Summit: https://sparktostory-summit.heysummit.com/?ac=gG5Wyq2k (Affiliate link)Tara’s gofundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-tara-sivecs-battle-against-breast-cancerSend us a text📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThenSupport 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-podcast

Episode 271 / Jennifer Marchman, who combines historical fiction and time travel in her books, joins us to discuss embracing your own writing process, dealing with the constant changes in publishing, and the importance of community in the indie author space. Topics:Writing time travel historical fictionInfluence of Texas history and OutlanderPersonal writing process and habitsSetting realistic writing and publishing goalsFounding Austin Indie Authors group💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:www.jennifermarchman.comInkers Con: https://inkerscon.com/2025-digital-conference Discount code: JAMI (Affiliate link)Send us a text📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThenSupport 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-podcast

Episode 270 / Katy Cocking is multi-passionate creative who found the advice to “stay in her lane” constricting and to a writing-adjacent career, selling cozy subscription boxes, which combines the knowledge from her publishing background with her activator and ideation strengths.  Topics:Transition from author to book box businessDefining personal and financial successHow Katy built and audience through giveaways and adsChallenges with physical product shippingAdvice for authors creating one-time boxes💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportAccess to backlist of exclusive supporter episodesPrivate slack groupShoutout on a future episode. 📥 Send us a Text Message ⚡Links:https://www.cozybookscorner.comDiscount code: WISH20Send us a text📌 Send us your favorite moments and lessons learned for our 300th episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/WishIdKnownThenSupport 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-podcast