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    Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

    Welcome to the Wish I'd Known Then podcast. Join authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett as they interview self-published authors about how they found success as well as lessons they've learned. Because being an indie author is about being innovative and creative and learning from your mistakes.
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    Episodes (220)

    J. Thorn on Creative Income Diversification, Podcasting, and Cowriting (Re-air)

    J. Thorn on Creative Income Diversification, Podcasting, and Cowriting (Re-air)

    Episode 138 / We’re going back to the archives this week as we re-air an episode with J. Thorn. Sci-fi author, podcaster, teacher, and event organizer J. Thorn joins us to discuss creative ways to diversify your author income, podcasting, and what he wishes he’d known about co-writing. 

    Intro links:

    Sara’s Kickstarter

    In this podcast episode, you’ll discover:

    • How J. came to creative writing after teaching
    • J.’s transition to full-time writing
    • What he wishes he’d known about creative writing
    • The difference between developmental editing and proofreading
    • J.’s dislike of running paid ads and how he runs his business so that he doesn't have to use them
    • Why podcasting is better for lead-generation than revenue generation
    • Why it’s not too late to get into podcasting
    • The downside of completely original ideas
    • How being a musician influences J.’s co-writing projects
    • J.’s long-running collaboration with Zach Bohannon and what J. wishes he’d known about co-writing
    •  How J., a self-identifying introvert, runs writing events 
    • The most difficult aspects of planning author events
    • J.’s mistake of quitting his full time job without a financial safety net, and how that turned out to be a good thing 
    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Helen Scheuerer on How Writing a Series Contributes to Success and How She Learned to Love her Own Writing Process

    Helen Scheuerer on How Writing a Series Contributes to Success and How She Learned to Love her Own Writing Process

    Episode 137 / Helen Scheuerer, bestselling fantasy, joins us this week to talk about writing a series. We also discuss finding breathing room in your career, reaching out to other authors to develop friendships in the writing community, and work/life balance. 

    Intro links: 

    Author Wheel podcast

    Sara’s Kickstarter

    Show notes:

    • How Helen learned to love her own writing process
    • Why the groundwork of learning the market before writing is so important
    • How Helen reached out to other authors and developed friendships in the writing community
    • How she came to write a book for authors about writing a series
    • Why the book includes tactics for outliners as well as discovery writers
    • Helen’s tips for creating a series bible
    • How Helen outlines her books and plans her series

     

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    www.helenscheuerer.com

    https://helenscheuerer.com/for-authors/

     

    GoFundMe for Jami’s sister:

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Getting Started with Direct Sales for Authors with Morgana Best

    Getting Started with Direct Sales for Authors with Morgana Best

    Episode 136 / Cozy mystery author Morgana Best joins us today to talk about direct sales. We discuss how to get started as well as advanced tactics like SMS marketing and influencer marketing.

     

    Intro links: 

    GoFundMe for Jami’s sister: Joni’s Hospice Journey

    Sara’s Kickstarter

    Show notes:

    Why Morgana looks at mistakes as opportunities for discovery

    What authors should consider before starting direct sales

    Who shouldn’t go all-in with direct sales 

    Why starting slowly is a good thing when it comes to direct sales

    Considerations when it comes to organizing your store

    How authors can us SMS (Text) marketing as well as influencer marketing

    Helpful links:

    Payhip

    Shopify

    Klaviyo

    ShoutCart

    Lulu Express

    Book Vault



    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Morgana’s website

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Vellum for Formatting with Brad West

    Vellum for Formatting with Brad West

    Episode 135 / Brad West, one of the creators of Vellum software, joins us to talk about how authors format their books, both ebook and print, what’s changed in the publishing industry, and unique ways authors are using Vellum. 

    Intro links: 

    Troy Lambert WIKT interview - promotion idea: bookstore giveaway copies

    Free Little Library

    Show notes:

    • Brad shares how he came to work with authors after working at Pixar
    • Why authors don’t need to know every small detail about the formatting software to have beautiful books
    • A common mistake of new authors when it comes to publishing their first book
    • How Vellum expanded from ebook formatting into print formatting
    • How authors are using Vellum to create special editions
    • What’s changed in publishing and what’s stayed the same 

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Vellum website

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Emilia Rose on Subscriptions: How to Connect with Readers and Diversify Your Income

    Emilia Rose on Subscriptions: How to Connect with Readers and Diversify Your Income

    Episode 134 / Do you want to add subscription income to your business? Emilia Rose, USA Today bestselling author of steamy romance, joined Sara to give tips and ideas on how authors can include a recurring income stream in their business models. 

    Intro link: 

    Bookvault.app

    Sara’s Kickstarter

    Show notes:

    • How Emilia uses subscriptions to connect with readers 
    • Why your story isn’t for everyone
    • How writing organically helps Emilia bring out emotions in her characters and in her readers
    • Why going from a one-time payment for content to a subscription is a big mindset shift
    • Why subscription models are great for authors: connections with readers, recurring income, and stability 
    • Tips for getting started with a subscriptions 
    • What to watch out for if you’re thinking of using subscriptions 
    • How to attract people to your subscription– hint: free content and cliffhangers are excellent at pulling readers to your subscriptions
    • Tips to maximize your subscription
    • Ream - Patreon but for fiction authors is coming soon!

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Katlyn Duncan on Rights Revision and Youtube for Authors

    Katlyn Duncan on Rights Revision and Youtube for Authors

    Episode 133 / Jami is flying solo in this week’s interview with Katlyn Duncan, who writes suspense thrillers, young adult fiction, and nonfiction for writers. They discussed the ins and outs of getting your rights back from traditional publishers. As well as Youtube for Authors and ghostwriting.

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Katlyn’s website

    Twitter handle: @katlyn_duncan

    Instagram handle: @authorkatlynduncan

    Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/duncankatlyn/

    Youtube:  youtube.com/katlynduncanauthor

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist

    Jami’s books

    Sara’s books

    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainans

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Kait Nolan on Dealing with Burnout and Writing During Stressful Times (Re-air)

    Kait Nolan on Dealing with Burnout and Writing During Stressful Times (Re-air)

    Episode 132 / This week Jami and Sara are re-airing an early episode with Kait Nolan, who talks about getting through burnout and writing during stressful times--whether that stress is coming from your own personal situation or world events.

    Intro links: 

    Sara’s Kickstarter for her special edition hardcover - sign up to get notified when it goes live

    Morgana Best on selling direct - interview on The Creative Penn Podcast

    Show notes:

    • Tips for marketing a series--grouping books and banking books for a rapid release
    • How expectations about productivity and major upsets in her personal life lead to burnout
    • Why burnout is becoming more common in the writing community 
    • How Kait sets goals to write a certain number of days per month instead of a certain number of words per day
    • Building in some grace into our schedules and adjusting our expectation
    • The tyranny of the “shoulds”
    • Recommendations for writing during trying times
    • How a “just for fun” project can help you when the world is crazy
    • What Kait has discovered isn’t worth her time and effort
    • How Kait went against the prevailing wisdom and didn’t use paid ads. Instead she built a career with paid newsletters and free forms of promos
    • Changes Kait has seen in her genres and her level headed advice on
    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Historical Cozies with Benedict Brown (New Author series)

    Historical Cozies with Benedict Brown (New Author series)

    Episode 131 / Historical cozy author Benedict Brown joins us to talk about writing mysteries, transitioning from one genre to another, and how he learned to lean into the tropes and expectations of the genre. 

    Show notes:

    • How Benedict started writing children’s books and why he shifted to contemporary cozies and then later transitioned to historical cozies set in the 1920s
    • How he researches his historial series
    • How Benedict and his cover artist developed the cover concept for the historical series
    • How he uses first readers and an ARC team for his editing process
    • Why he thinks it healthy to have two contrasting series to work on
    • How “failure” helped set him up for success 

     

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Benedict’s website

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist

    Jami’s books

    Sara’s books

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode (Reair)

    Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode (Reair)

    Episode 130 / It’s back to the archives this week for one of our most popular episodes. Jami and Sara share how they launch a book, covering tactics for low-, medium-, and high-budget launches as well as sharing beau·coup tips about what’s working for book launches right now.

    Intro links: 

    Kickstart Your Book podcast

    Sign up to be notified when Jami’s book about launching comes out

    Show notes:

    • KU or wide - weigh pros and cons of each
    • Price point - consider typical price of genre and goals to pick the best price point (99 cents can generate preorders and sales while a higher price point give you a higher royalty and the option of dropping it for sales later)
    • Preorders - a preorder lets you capture sales and get your sales pages live on the vendors, but some authors won’t do preorders because they feel Amazon doesn’t weight the preorder sales as heavily as purchases/borrows made after the books releases, which may impact rank.
    • Don’t forget the impact of your newsletter to launch 

    Low-cost Launch Tactics for a New Author

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Dark Fantasy Author Kerstin Espinosa Rosero on Bookstraping Your First Book (New Author Series)

    Dark Fantasy Author Kerstin Espinosa Rosero on Bookstraping Your First Book (New Author Series)

    Episode 129 / Dark fantasy author Kerstin Espinosa Rosero joins us to talk about bootstrapping her first book, lessons she’s learned about marketing, and tips on writing fantasy.

    Intro links: 

    Sara’s interview on Behind the Book podcast

    Show notes: 

    • How Kerstin’s art led her to write her first book
    • Her advice for new authors when it comes to marketing
    • How Kerstin found her cover designer
    • How she decides how much backstory and worldbuilding to include in her fantasy books
    • Tips for authors who want to create maps for their books

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Kerstin’s website

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist

    Jami’s books

    Sara’s books

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Lindsay Buroker on Pen Names, Podcasting, and Rapid Release (Reair)

    Lindsay Buroker on Pen Names, Podcasting, and Rapid Release (Reair)

    Episode 128 / We’re headed back to the archives for a fun interview with Lindsay Buroker. Lindsay talks about the benefits and drawbacks of pen names, the advantages of podcasting for writers, and how she writes and releases books into Kindle Unlimited using the rapid release model, then goes wide later. 

    Intro links: 

    Timeshifter app

    Claire’s Kickstaster

    Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: ALBRIGHT22)

    Show notes:

    • The importance of embracing the entrepreneurial mindset when you’re an indie author
    • Advantages of using Patreon before a launch to let wide readers get a book before it goes into KU
    • Why Lindsay is glad she did a writing workshop before she published
    • The benefit of giving your cover artist freedom to be creative
    • Why first-in-series-free book still works
    • Lindsay’s lessons-learned about writing in multiple genres and pen names
    • Advice for writers who want to start a podcast
    • Rapid release and how Lindsay writes the books back-to-back before launching Book One
    • The power of using “open loops” in a series and how it boosts readthrough of a series
    • Focusing on what you’re good at and leaning into that whether it’s writing fast or marketing

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Connecting with Readers and Creating a Community Through Podcasting with Diane Nue

    Connecting with Readers and Creating a Community Through Podcasting with Diane Nue

    Episode 127 / If you’re looking for a way to attract readers that doesn’t involve paid advertising, podcasting might be for you. Podcaster Diane Nue shares how she’s connected with readers through podcasting and the bookstagram community. We also discuss some of the reasons for the enduring appeal of Jane Austen, branding, and super practical things like software recommendations.

    Show notes:

    • How Diane and her co-host, Zan, came up with the concept for The Thing About Austen
    • Why niching down helps you find your audience
    • Diane’s advice for specific gear and podcast editing software
    • Diane shares how she and Zan work together to handle podcast tasks
    • Solo podcasting versus co-hosting
    • How podcast branding can convey the content of the podcast

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    The Thing About Austen podcast

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist

    Jami’s books

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Reair: Understanding Your Motivation to Write with H. Claire Taylor - Plus Using the Enneagram for Character Development

    Reair: Understanding Your Motivation to Write with H. Claire Taylor - Plus Using the Enneagram for Character Development

    Episode 126 / In this re-air episode we discuss expectations, common mistakes, and understanding our motivation to write. Claire is also an expert on applying the Enneagram to story structure. She has a kickstarter preview up for her book Reclaim Your Author Career, which uses the Enneagram to help authors align their careers.

    Intro link: 

    Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: ALBRIGHT22)

    Show notes:

    • Why it’s crucial to know what your story is about so you can “steer the ship” in the direction you need to go and save time on revisions
    • How knowing what you want out of your writing career impacts your expectations and your marketing plans
    • Common mistakes Claire sees as she works with authors
    • How understanding your motivations and needs as a writer helps you set your goals
    • Using tension and power in your writing
    • How Claire uses the Enneagram to help writers discover their character’s motivations and needs
    • Creating flaws that make characters likable

    Claire’s website

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    How to Connect with other Writers Plus Inkers Con Recap

    How to Connect with other Writers Plus Inkers Con Recap

    Episode 125 / Jami and Sara share the tips and ideas they got at Inkers Con then discuss how to connect with writers at in person events as well as how to connect online. 

    Inkers Con digital ticket (affiliate code for discount: JAMI22)

    Show notes:

    Merchandising - Kimbra Swain

    Patreon - Emilia Rose

    Translations - Tanya Anne Crosby

    Get backlist selling and email autoresponders - Elana Johnson

    Audiobooks - Penny Reid

    Finding blue water so we can stand out - Becca Syme

    Are you the decider for your marketing - Becca Syme

    Keywords and A+ Content - Self Publishing with Dale

    TikTok tips  - Ana Huang

    Advertising - Malorie Cooper and Becca Syme



    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Learning to Reverse Engineer a Novel with Cecelia Mecca (Reair)

    Learning to Reverse Engineer a Novel with Cecelia Mecca (Reair)

    Episode 124 /  We’re taking this week off for a summer break, but we’re giving you a quick recap on Inkers Con (it was great!) and then replaying one of our early episodes. Historical romance author Cecelia Mecca what she learned when she changed genres and how she now reverse engineers her books before she writes them.

    Intro links: 

    Sara’s interview with Findaway Voices about writing mysteries, publishing, and audiobooks:  https://youtu.be/RL3lTq0Rix8

    Show notes:

    • Cecelia’s mistake involving releasing her prequel novella on Super Bowl Sunday
    • The challenge of replicating success
    • Ceclia’s love of plotting books and how she wishes she’d read more craft books before writing her first novel
    • How important packaging is for your book (cover, title, blurb, trope) and reverse engineering your novel, including considering how to marry what her muse wants her to write with considerations about cover and marketing
    • Tips for using free marketing strategies including Facebook Live and Facebook groups (types and timing of posts)
    • How to get to know your readers
    • An incredibly simple, yet effective tip on how to to be successful on social media
    • How not using a pen name can be a mistake and lead to confused also-boughts on the ebook stores
    • Learning not to be so hard on yourself when things don’t as you expect
    • Strategies to reach new readers including being a hybrid author and using print, including hardbacks and large print

     

    Links/Mention: 

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Websites for Authors with Mike Stop Continues

    Websites for Authors with Mike Stop Continues

    Episode 123 / Mike Stop Continues, founder of SiteArcade, joins us to talk all the things related to author websites: why you need a website, what should be one it, branding, and the benefits of a press kit for authors.

    Links of interest: 

    Sara will be chatting with Findaway Voices next week Wednesday (June 8th) about mysteries and audiobooks at  11:00 AM (EDT). You can register here: https://app.livestorm.co/findawayvoices/cozy-mystery-with-author-sara-rosett?type=detailed… 

    Show notes:

    • How Mike got started working with writers
    • What Mike wishes authors knew about websites
    • What he sees authors doing that they do because they think they have to, but aren’t producing results
    • The most common mistakes he sees related to author websites
    • Trends in author websites and what he sees for the future of author websites
    • How to use your website to build your list, sell your books, send people to your social platforms
    • What should be in your press kit
    • What’s coming on the horizon in writing and publishing 

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    SiteArcade: Websites for Authors

    Mike's 20Books Vegas Talk, One Day

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Holly Darling on the Power of an Email Welcome Sequence

    Holly Darling on the Power of an Email Welcome Sequence

    Episode 122 / Romance author and email expert Holly Darling joins us to share how we can connect with readers from the moment they opt-in to our emails. There’s so much good info in this episode! We guarantee you’ll come away with so many ways to improve your welcome sequence.

    Show notes:

    • Creative ways to use double opt-in as part of the welcome sequence 
    • What happens in each email inside a welcome sequence
    • How to use the welcome sequence to create engagement
    • What to do if someone doesn't engage
    • How to create a custom experience for your readers inside the welcome sequence
    • Common mistakes authors make with their emails
    • Ideas for lead magnets for new authors without a lot of intellectual property
    • Trends in newsletter marketing including customization, paid newsletters, and video

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Holly’s website: HollyDarlingHQ.com

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    How to Write Diverse Characters with Daniela Romero

    How to Write Diverse Characters with Daniela Romero

    Episode 121 / Daniela Romero, new-adult and paranormal romance author, joins us to talk about why it’s important for readers to have books and characters that reflect their experiences and how authors can write diverse characters. We also delve into Daniela’s principle of having many streams of income, so that if one stream wanes her overall revenue isn’t impacted. She tell us how she’s creating multiple streams of income through merchandise, book boxes, and Pateron.

    Intro links: 

    Inkers Con

    Show notes:

    • How Daniela went from book blogger to author
    • Why she wishes she knew more about story structure and how she learned about it
    • How Daniela uses preorders to increase her production
    • Why she writes diverse characters and her tips on how authors can write diverse characters in their novels in a way that’s satisfying to readers
    • How she uses book boxes, merchandising, and Patreon to create multiple streams of income 
    • What Daniela wishes she’d known about creating a subscription book box
    • Her tips for pricing tiers on Patreon
    • Why she focuses on one big takeaway from the conferences she attends and how that has shaped her business

     

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Daniela’s website: Daniela Rom

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Lisa Suzanne on Pivoting to Rapid Release, Branding, and the Power of Cliffhangers

    Lisa Suzanne on Pivoting to Rapid Release, Branding, and the Power of Cliffhangers

    Episode 120 / Lisa Suzanne, sports romance author, joins us to talk about how a pivot to writing shorter sports romance books, banking them, and releasing rapidly took her career to a new level. We also talk about how she brands her series as well as using cliffhangers to keep readers coming back to a series.  

    Show notes:

    • How Lisa shifted from pantsing to plotting her books
    • The importance of trope in branding
    • Banking books and Lisa’s release schedule 
    • How Lisa brands the covers of her books to create a recognizable look
    • Writing interconnected series
    • Tips on writing cliffhangers
    • The value of persistence 

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Lisa’s website

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist

    Jami’s books

    Sara’s books

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

    Kimbra Swain on Connecting with Your Readers through Books, Merchandise, and Pateron

    Kimbra Swain on Connecting with Your Readers through Books, Merchandise, and Pateron

    Episode 119 / Southern urban fantasy author Kimbra Swain joins us this week to share tips on connecting with your readers and expanding your income streams. Kimbra creates jewelry, book boxes, tumblers, and many other items for her readers. Learn how she uses physical items to deepen her connection with readers and create life-long fans through her books, merchandising, and Pateron.

    Intro links: Kickstarter webinar (affiliate link)

    Inkers Con - June 3-5, Dallas TX

    Show notes:

    • Why you can’t sit still when it comes to marketing your books
    • How Kimbra used reader feedback to learn how to write marketable books
    • How the switch to full-time author impacted Kimbra’s outlook and writing
    • Kimbra’s tips on merchandising to create an extra layer of connection between you and your reader
    • How Kimbra uses Pateron: exclusive serial story, early access to her books and merchandise, and a more personal connection with her

    Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.

    Links: 

    Kimbra’s website: https://www.kimbraswain.com

    The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes 

    Jami’s Launch Plan

    Sara’s Book Release

    Support 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
    Resources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians
    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing