Read and Write with Natasha

Do you want to build a thriving writing career and monetize your content? Tune in as David Mcilroy breaks down the exact strategies he used to grow a massive audience on Medium and Substack. From consistent posting to effective networking, he’s got the blueprint for success—and he’s planning to go full-time by year's end, thanks to his supportive subscriber base.We dive into the nitty-gritty of paywalls, comparing monetization models on Substack and Medium, and offering tips on when and how to charge for your content. Plus, get the scoop on hosting online courses through Thinkific, Gumroad, and Kajabi to expand your income streams.David also opens up about his journey through independent publishing and solopreneurship, including how he landed a deal and navigates the ups and downs of going solo. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable insights for writers and creators.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

Curious about how alcohol shaped American history and continues to influence our lives today?Join us for a compelling conversation with marketing expert and author Ella Parlor as we uncover the untold stories behind America’s relationship with alcohol. From the Prohibition era to today’s complex regulatory landscape, we explore the fascinating history of the 18th and 21st Amendments and their enduring impact on society.Ella shares her unique insights on the controversial "mommy wine culture" and the ethical challenges of alcohol marketing in parenting. We also dive into the creative and challenging journey of writing and publishing her book, High Tolerance, and discuss how social media is reshaping the public image of alcohol.Whether you're a history buff, a concerned parent, or someone interested in the ethics of marketing, this episode is packed with eye-opening discussions and invaluable insights. Don’t miss out on this engaging and informative episode—hit play now!Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

Award-winning children's author Neil Rosen, also known by his whimsical pen name Professor Stork, joins me to share his inspiring journey from a bookish childhood to rediscovering his passion for writing later in life. His latest graphic novel, Mila on Purpose, celebrates friendship and diversity and aims to help children build confidence.We also weigh the pros and cons of each publishing method, from the lengthy process of landing a traditional publisher to the financial and creative freedom of self-publishing. We share practical strategies for parents, from finding books that align with your kids' interests to making reading a shared activity. Don’t miss our discussion on writing series to build an audience, featuring everything from children’s rhyming books about nature to engaging fiction. Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Winter, a French Cajun author whose writing is deeply influenced by his rich cultural heritage and the vibrant history of South Louisiana. His historical fiction, Wake the Devil, is inspired by the notorious X-Men murders of 1918 in New Orleans.Join us as Ryan shares his journey to finding his unique voice, transitioning from imitating literary giants to crafting his own compelling stories.We delve into what sets horror apart, exploring how it uniquely exposes our deepest fears and vulnerabilities.We'll also take a nostalgic trip back to the 80s, recounting the spine-chilling films by directors like Wes Craven and John Carpenter that haunted our childhoods and solidified our fascination with the genre.Don't miss this episode, which will ignite your creativity and give you a deeper appreciation for the genre of horror fiction.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

What happens when war disrupts the creative minds of writers? In this episode, I conversed with Franco-Moroccan-American writer Jordan Elgrably, editor-in-chief of The Markaz Review, where we delved into the intersection of literature and conflict. Here are some of the highlights of our conversation:Middle Eastern writers' anthology: We explore Jordan's latest anthology, Stories from the Center of the World, which showcases the diverse voices of Middle Eastern writers navigating the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape. Arab American Authors in Focus: We highlight the remarkable journey of Omar El-Akkad and other Arab American authors, examining how trauma and resilience shape their narratives.The Editorial Eye: Jordan shares insider tips for aspiring writers, revealing what it takes to make literary submissions stand out in an evolving publishing landscape that's increasingly embracing diverse voices.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that celebrates the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity and the promise of more stories to come.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is shaking up jobs and our creative landscape? Join us as we unpack these changes with bestselling author Matt Witten. In this episode, Matt dives into the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in his latest novel, Killer Story. He shares insights into the evolving challenges of journalism and how AI might just be the next big disruptor.From securing an agent to seeing Leonardo DiCaprio's company adapt his book The Necklace into a movie, Matt takes us through the highs and lows of his publishing journey. We explore his 20-year stint in television and how it influenced his transition back to writing novels.   Whether an AI enthusiast or a budding writer, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and compelling stories you won't want to miss.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

In this episode, I sit down with Deborah Kevin, founder and chief inspiration officer of Highlander Press. We uncover surprising statistics about book sales, discuss the financial intricacies of advances and royalties, and reveal why independent publishers are outpacing traditional ones in today's fast-paced market.From self-publishing challenges to the nuances of hybrid models, Deborah and I explore the full spectrum of publishing options available to authors today. Discover how professional editing and design can catapult self-published authors to success and learn about Highlander Press's unique approach to integrating the best of both traditional and independent publishing. Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

Ever wondered how a book goes from a manuscript to a bestseller? Join me in this episode as I sit down with Elizabeth Briggs, the editorial director at Saqi Books, who gives an exclusive look behind the scenes at one of Europe's most unique publishing houses. Elizabeth shares the rich history of Saqi Books, which evolved from Europe's first Arabic language bookshop, and reveals how they continue to amplify bold and inspiring voices from the Arab and Muslim worlds. Elizabeth also offers a glimpse into her daily routine as a publishing professional in London. From her invigorating cycle commute to the multitude of tasks she juggles, including coordinating with production teams, securing author endorsements, and pitching books to sales teams, she paints a vivid picture of her dynamic role. We  also decode the manuscript submission process and what it takes to get your book noticed. Elizabeth walks us through key industry events like the London Book Fair and Frankfurt, where agents and publishers pitch their next big ideas. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and anyone fascinated by the evolving landscape of global literature.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

 Jordanian author and gender activist Fadi Zaghmout is passionate about the transformative landscape of Arabic science fiction. His novel Heaven on Earth and its sequel portray the prospects of a world free from the clutches of aging and invites reflection on the societal ripples such a future might create. In our conversation, we scrutinize how these boundary-pushing themes are received in the traditionally conservative Arab society and the growing appetite for narratives that dare to chart the unexplored territories of tomorrow.We also tackle the shifts in publishing strategies and the promise of platforms like Amazon KDP for Arabic literature. Don't miss this insightful episode of a rising star in the realm of Arabic literature. Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N

When Mark  Ryall coached his daughter Stephanie in competitive running, he forged a bond far beyond the track. Their story, Run Daughter, Run Father, is not just a training manual – it's a testament to their shared triumphs and  a lifelong passion.  Inspired by my own journey back into running and writing, this episode celebrates the limitless potential for reinvention. If you're lacing up for the first time or starting your first draft, remember - age is just a number.  Join us for a conversation about endurance and expression, where the starting line is always open.Have a comment? Text me!Support the show****************************************************************************➡️ P.S📘 If you love stories with mystery, identity, and a touch of the mystical... You’ll want to read my new novel, Karma Unleashed—a supernatural suburban thriller set between two cultures. 📚 Grab it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH6GZX6N