Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

Episode 229 / Learn about the four basic types of relationship arcs from freelance developmental editor and writing writing instructor, September C. Fawkes. Discover how mapping arcs can define the direction and evolution of your characters' relationships and create a dynamic, zigzag narrative. 💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:The four types of relationships arcs with examples from across genresHow to use external factors, internal conflicts, and the right antagonistic forces to create believable relationship challengesHow to apply relationship arcs to multi-book seriesRelationship arc variationsHow to use tropes to label relationship arcsSponsor: Xero Accounting Software (See script) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-hvFLrOc069GSjMc8vRwQX9nVE6LasBWwqATt8XxLLU/edit Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastLinks:https://www.septembercfawkes.com/https://www.septembercfawkes.com/2022/10/the-4-basic-types-of-relationship-arcs.htmlInkers con links:Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 CODE: SARA24Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/1 CODE:JAMI24Send 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

Episode 228 / Kemper Donovan is the host of the All About Agatha podcast and author of The Busy Body, a USA Today bestseller on launch earlier this year. Kemper shares tips for querying and how podcasting about Agatha Christie helped him connect with mystery authors and also provided a built-in audience for his book. 💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:Tuning out the noise and finding your own writing process and voiceBenefits of podcasting: social interaction with less stress than social media, audience building, and connection with other authors and readersTips for finding agents and querying and insight into traditional publishingHow Kemper drew on Agatha Christie’s influenceNavigating writing, promotion, and self-doubt as an authorLinks:http://www.kemperdonovan.comKemper Donovan Books - Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100095414958480/Twitter: https://twitter.com/allaboutthedame?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutagatha/Sara’s 1920s mystery, Murder Among the Pyramids, direct sales launch: https://sararosettbooks.com/collections/lady-travelerSend 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

Episode 227 / Liz Long shares her journey of embracing her own uniqueness, particularly in relation to ADHD and finding peace and growth after personal loss. Quick note: the language in this episode isn’t as family-friendly as our usual G/PG episodes, so just be aware of that. 💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:How mental health advocacy intersects with Liz Long's writing careerApproaching social media through the lens of helping peopleLiz’s late in life ADHD diagnosisDrafting tips and and Liz’s personalized coping mechanismsOvercoming self-doubt as well as finding and using your inner voiceHow naming concepts de-stigmatizes mental health and starts conversationsLinks:https://lizlongwrites.comJami on Romance Writer’s Therapy Podcast: https://pod.link/1595202492/episode/870c1827d8f5d5268f51f6a752c230a5Send 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

Episode 226 / Author, musician, and marketer, Paul Indigo shares insights on seeking validation, embracing our voice, and the unconventional use of an Excel spreadsheet for writing and marketing. If you’ve tried all the writing software and haven’t found one that works for you, perhaps your answer is a spreadsheet!💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:The power of authenticity and vulnerability in fiction writing Reader feedback as validation Why the “vein of truth” must run through both your book and your marketingHaving the confidence to trust in your voiceTips on using a spreadsheet to write a bookHow a spreadsheet allows you to see the structure or visitual tapestry of a book The interconnectedness of writing and music, which are both forms of artistic expression driven by emotion and structureLinks:paulindigo.comBookfunnel as an ads landing page: https://blog.bookfunnel.com/2024/katie-cross-bookfunnel-as-a-landing-page/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

Episode 225 / Megan Vernon, author of over 40 romance novels, joins us to talk about starting over after a difficult experience of being publicly criticized. We talk about the need to give ourselves grace and the importance of a supportive community for navigating the ups and downs of a writing career. Megan shares about her creation of the Mojo Dojo Casa House, a supportive space for published authors and shares her insights into ghostwriting. 💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:The importance of not rushing to judgment on social mediaMegan’s reflecting on self-doubt and overcoming imposter syndromeAds: Turning aversion into appreciationHandling backlash How ghostwriting led to new opportunities and recovery for MeganMegan’s supportive writers' group for authors getting back into writingLinks:www.maganvernon.comInkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024Affiliate links: Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/Discount codes: JAMI24 or SARA24Send 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

Episode 224 / Kate Johnson is the co-founder of Zory, an interactive reading app that merges the depth found in fiction with the choose-your-path-style plotlines of narrative video games. Kate shares details about Zory and craft tips about GMC as well as the All Is Lost moment. Plus we talk about trends in genre blending, and what Kate sees coming in the publishing industry. 💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics:Adaptation of existing books for fiction appsCustomizable and immersive reading experience through story loops and endings tailored to each individualPredictions and trends in the publishing industryLegal considerations in international contractsSetting boundaries and saying no to reduce stress and increase meaningImportance of goal, motivation, and conflict in writingSponsor: Xero Accounting Software Use discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off Xero subscription for 3 months. Link: https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastLinks:Zory.appDiscord: https://discord.gg/CXwKCvQVInkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024Affiliate links:Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 CODE: SARA24Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/14 CODE:JAMI24Send 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

Episode 223 / Do you like to discover the plot as you write? Do you get bored if you know where the story is going? Then a skeleton draft might be what you need.Paranormal and gothic romance author Steffanie Holmes joins us to talk about how discovery writers can use a skeleton draft to get their ideas down on paper and avoid writer’s block. We also talk about rebranding, Kickstarter tips for authors outside the US, and bust some publishing myths. 🥊💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics: Introduction to Skeleton DraftingWhy Stephanie shifted away from dark romance to her Nevermore Bookshop series, which features a magical bookstore and a blind heroine who teams up with famous literary villains to solve mysteriesHow Stephanie found success with skeleton drafting, not rigid outlinesUsing TikTok for market researchHow she rebranded her seriesPartnering for order fulfillment to reduce shipping costs and increase salesCreating a unique fan experience for achieving successLinks:www.steffanieholmes.comhttps://www.rageagainstthemanuscript.com/skeletondraftcourseInkers Con Digital conference: July 20th – August 2nd 2024Affiliate links:Sara: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 CODE: SARA24Jami: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/14 CODE:JAMI24Ep 161 - Nell Goddin on How Direct Sales Helped Revive her Author Business https://wishidknownforwriters.com/161-2/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

Episode 222 / Jessica Renwich, who writes fantasy and horror for kids ages 9-12, joined us to share her experience as an indie middle grade author.She has terrific insights on approaching schools for author visits and the impact of creating whimsical and fun content to appeal to young readers.  In addition to discussing how marketing middle grade books differs from marketing adult books, we also get into the things that often hold us back: perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and dealing with rejection. And also the lure of magical chickens! 🐓💙 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! Get access to the backlist of exclusive supporter episodes, the private slack group, and a shoutout on a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support⭐ Episode Sponsor: Xero Accounting SoftwareUse discount code WISHIDKNOWNTHEN20 and get 20% off a Xero subscription for 3 months. https://www.xero.com/us/?utm_source=WishIdKnownThen&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=customer%20podcastTopics: Jessica’s experience with the middle grade market: 95% of her sales are print booksWhy Jessia focuses on creating spooky and whimsical books for middle grade and how she layers in themes like strong maintaining strong friendshipsJessica’s recommendations for school visits: how and when to approach schools, her media package, and how she handles direct sales at schoolsDealing with impostor syndrome and perfectionismHow Jessica uses targeted ads and book blurbs that focus on themes, which help her market to parents, teachers, and librarianThe influence of awards on book legitimacy and author credibility in children’s literature Links: www.jessicarenwickauthor.com✨ Inkers Con digital conference: https://inkerscon.com/2024-digital-conference/ref/32 (Affiliate link)Use JAMI24 or SARA24 and get $50 off registration! 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

Episode 221 / Looking to grow a community around your books? Romance author Amy Pine shares how she and her co-hosts created a podcast and built a vibrant community around Korean dramas. We also dive into craft book recommendations, beat sheets, and combining tropes in unexpected ways.💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportTopics:The importance of celebrating achievementsBenefits of beat sheets, Save the Cat, and Save the Cat Writes a Novel for creating a story framework The influence of Korean dramas on Amy’s writing and how she infuses Kdrama-inspired elements into her booksHow Amy and her co-hosts have nurtured the Afternoona Delight podcast Patreon, creating a supportive communityTips on starting a podcast and navigating audio editing challenges Juggling a community, writing, day jobs, and family responsibilitiesLinks:https://www.ajpine.com/https://www.afternoonadelight.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

Episode 220 /  KimBoo York joins us to share how to embrace flexibility and spontaneity in your writing process through discovery writing. Whether you thrive on outlining or prefer a more free-flowing approach, there are different techniques to suit your writing style.💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode. https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportTopics:What discovery writing is and how it’s different from free association writingMisconceptions about discovery writingIncorporating spontaneity and intuition in our writing routines Common mistakes authors make around discovery writingTechniques to get started with discovery writingReverse outlining as a problem-solving toolLeveraging different formats for diversificationLinks:https://houseofyork.info https://houseofyork.info/1mwcWIKT Episode 189: KimBoo York on Writing Serials and Trusting your Intuition https://wishidknownforwriters.com/189-2/Cozy article on Reedsy: https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-write-a-cozy-mystery/Send us a Text: Did you have a  character or plot twist that surprised you as you were writing? Be sure to include your name in your text! 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