Episoder

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Have you ever imagined trading a stable career for the unpredictability of writing and publishing? That's exactly what Patti Hall did, transitioning from urban design to becoming a full-time writer and publishing strategist.

    Patti and I dive deep into the kind of personal transformation that makes most people's comfort zones quake. Her journey isn't just a career shift—it's a masterclass in resilience, triggered by her son's diagnosis with gigantism and propelled by an unwavering commitment to storytelling that matters.

    Our conversation takes a candid look at the realities of traditional publishing. And, as we explore the myths surrounding bestseller status, we underscore the importance of writing with a purpose and focusing on genuine connections with specific communities rather than chasing commercial success.

    Buckle up for an episode that's part hilarious writing room confessional, part vulnerable heart-to-heart. We're talking editing battles, narrative vulnerability, and those magical moments when personal story intersects with universal truth.

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    In this episode, I speak with the legendary Jenn Hanson-dePaula about strategies authors are using today to promote their books.

    Learn how to create content that resonates with your target readers and get greater clarity on the vital role of empathy in crafting messages that engage readers across genres—from fiction to nonfiction to poetry to memoir.

    We also unravel the complexities of platforms like Substack and the impact of AI on content creation, offering practical advice for maintaining authenticity while leveraging time-saving new technologies.

    Finally, discover how focusing on building a dedicated core fan base can revolutionize your marketing efforts, rather than chasing after a massive audience.

    With actionable tips and a fresh perspective on the role of algorithms, you'll be inspired to enhance your book marketing strategy and connect more authentically with your audience as we head into 2025!

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

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  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    An episode that celebrates the joys of writing and never-ending search for inspiration, this laughter-filled chat with the incredibly witty Jane Costello, bestselling author of romantic comedies and women's fiction, also features the prep for the release of her upcoming novel (her fifteenth), It's Getting Hot In Here (Zibby Books, Feb 2025).

    Peek behind the curtain into Jane's disciplined yet creative writing world, where structured planning and spontaneous inspiration meet. We reflect on the highs and lows of the publishing world, where timing and market trends often dictate a book's success. Jane's candid reflections on social media book events also bring a fresh perspective on connecting with readers and the creative community.

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Want the insider secrets to creating book events that actually sell books and build superfans? This episode is your masterclass!

    I'm joined by the absolutely magnetic Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast and literary event connoisseur, for a conversation that's packed with actionable insights for authors at every stage. If you've ever wondered how to transform your book events from awkward readings to memorable experiences that drive real connection (and sales!), you'll want to grab your notebook for this one.

    We dive deep into:

    The massive mistakes many authors make at their events (and how to avoid them!)Why the traditional publisher-author relationship is broken (and what to do about it)Traci's genius strategies for building genuine reader relationshipsHow to leverage your unique story and personality to ensure an unforgettable eventsAn author event framework Traci loves for driving book sales and engagement

    Whether you're launching your debut or working on book #10, this episode delivers a blueprint for creating author events that actually move the needle on your author business.

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Amy Wilson, the brilliant co-host of the "What Fresh Hell" podcast and author of Happy to Help: Adventures of a People Pleaser (Jan 2025, Zibby Books), joined me for a fabulous conversation about owning your story through writing.

    We dive right into the real stuff—like what it’s actually like to share personal essays (and how to spill your truth without accidentally blowing up your family’s group chat). Amy opens up about her journey from writing the hilarious chaotic When Did I Get Like This? on parenting to exploring deeper themes, like people-pleasing, that resonate with an audience far beyond parents.

    And for anyone out there staring down an editing deadline or wondering what in the world the publishing gods are up to—Amy shares some hard-earned wisdom. From her writing routines to her secret recipe for mixing humor with “let’s get real” moments, she provides an inside look at what makes her stories connect with so many people.

    So, grab your favorite drink (and maybe one of your new notebooks--I know you have one), and get ready for some relatable insights, laughs, and just the right amount of “you’ve got this” inspiration.

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    What if you could transform a lived experience into a compelling narrative that reads like fiction?

    In this episode, I chat with the talented Sarah Gormley, author of The Order of Things. In a candid discussion about "memoir plus," we explore how memoir can deliver powerful messages while engaging readers with its storytelling.

    The conversation also turned to the intricacies of publishing. We explored the merits of hybrid publishing versus publishing services, with insights into marketing strategies that can elevate an author's reach.

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    From writing the first chapter of The Undercurrent (Zibby Books, Oct 2024) as a standalone piece to fleshing out a full literary suspense novel I can’t put down, Sarah Sawyer has quickly become one of my new favorite authors.

    In this episode of Write the Damn Book Already, we discussed:

    What has most suprised her about the publishing processSarah's view of the editing process (which is one to adopt immediately, if not sooner!)The formidable task of securing blurbs (which even traditionally published authors often have to do themselves)How writing this book has caused her to look at other books and authors differently

    LINKS
    Sarah's debut novel, The Undercurrent
    Sarah’s website: www.sarahsawyerauthor.com
    Sarah’s Instagram: @SarahSawyerAuthor

    WHAT SARAH’S READING
    James by Percival Everett
    Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
    The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
    Swift River by Essie Chambers

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Amazon ads are one of my favorite tools for indie authors to boost book sales and visibility, but they can feel so complicated that it's easy to avoid using them.

    I'm sharing key insights from my 12-week "experiment" with a new campaign for my book, Write the Damn Book Already, including targeting relevant keywords and categories, setting appropriate budgets, and monitoring ad performance to optimize results.

    MENTIONED RESOURCES:

    Original IG post about ads experiment

    Link to blog post detailing setup of this ads campaign

    Link to Publisher Rocket software

    Link to audiobook of Enough: The Simple Path to Everything You Want ($4.99)

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Megan Tady's second novel, Bluebird Day, launches on Dec. 3, 2024 (pre-order now!) In her second appearance on the podcast, we had the most wonderful chat about:

    How book launching is like a salmon run (it's such a great analogy). Strategies for best working with an editor while writing Meg's writing process, from first to final draft, and how it evolved from the first to the second bookThe best part of Meg's publishing journeyMeg's strategies for navigating the “wacky and wild” publishing industry and What she wasn’t at all prepared for when it comes to being an author

    LINKS
    Order your copy of Bluebird Day
    Meg's Instagram: @megtady
    Meg's website: MeganTady.com
    Meg's writing, editing & strategy services: Word Lift
    Meg's first WTDBA podcast interview: Episode 36

    WHAT MEG'S READING NOW
    All Fours by Miranda
    Big in Sweden by Sally Franson
    The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston

    BOOKS MENTIONED

    The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
    Bummer Camp by Ann Garvin


    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Emma Grey is the Australian author of the international bestseller, THE LAST LOVE NOTE, which was both a Book of the Month and Target Book Club pick, and was praised in Oprah Daily as “relatable, hilarious and charming".

    She’s back this November with her new novel, PICTURES OF YOU — a suspense-filled romance about love and control that explores the way a sparkling relationship can morph into darkness and what might happen with a second chance at first love.

    In her second appearance on the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we chatted about Emma's experiences with prologues, her collaborative work with editors (from different countries, no less), and the evolution of her book-writing process. She also reflects on the challenges of writing a second novel after the success of her first, emphasizing the importance of pushing through the "messy first draft."

    CONNECT WITH EMMA

    Emma's website: www.emmagrey.com.au
    Emma's Instagram: instagram.com/emmagreyauthor
    Click here to order The Last Love Note
    Click here to order Pictures of You

    WHAT EMMA'S READING NOW

    The Haters by Robyn Harding
    Tilda is Visible by Jane Tarda

    MY FIRST INTERVIEW WITH EMMA
    Click here to listen to my first conversation with Emma about her debut novel, The Last Love Note.


    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    In this episode, we explore the critical decision of whether to distribute your ebook "wide"—across multiple platforms—or stay exclusive to Amazon through their KDP Select program.

    Going wide means your ebook is available on platforms beyond Amazon, such as Kobo or Google Play, giving you access to a broader audience globally. This approach can increase visibility, particularly in countries where Kindle isn't the dominant e-reading platform.

    On the other hand, exclusivity with Amazon through KDP Select offers perks like participation in Kindle Unlimited, higher royalties in certain regions, and access to exclusive promotional tools. However, this exclusivity comes with restrictions, including a 90-day lock-in period and the inability to sell your ebook elsewhere, even on your own website.

    The right choice depends on your genre, goals, and audience. Romance, mystery, sci-fi, and fantasy often perform well on KDP Select due to the voracious reading habits of their audiences. However, if your readership spans multiple countries or platforms, going wide might be the better option.

    Top questions tackled:

    What does it mean to go wide or stay exclusive to Amazon for ebook distribution?What are the pros and cons of enrolling in Amazon's KDP Select program versus going wide?How should an author decide which distribution strategy is best for their genre, audience, and goals?


    MENTIONED RESOURCES

    Ep 90: Creating Audiobooks with Drew Linsalata

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Until somewhat recently, streamlined pre-orders were only possible for traditionally published authors. Now, indie authors can also benefit from pre-orders as well, helping them with:

    Building Excitement and Engagement: Pre-orders allow authors to generate buzz and excitement around their upcoming book, encouraging readers to take action before the release date.

    Community Building: Offering pre-orders helps authors build and nurture a community by gathering email addresses and establishing a direct connection with readers, which can lead to quicker reviews and word-of-mouth promotion.

    Data Collection: Through pre-orders, authors can collect valuable reader data (like email addresses) that is otherwise inaccessible when books are sold through platforms like Amazon. This data allows authors to maintain a relationship with their readers post-purchase and make future marketing efforts more effective.

    This episode of Write the Damn Book Already discusses not only the benefits and considerations of offering books for pre-order but also the potential hiccups (and how to avoid them!) such as unexpected costs due to Amazon's handling of pre-orders through IngramSpark.

    RESOURCES MENTIONED

    Publish the Damn Book Already self-publishing course - 25% off with code AUTHOR25

    Jane Friedman's Hot Sheet bestseller list

    Pre-Order Packages workshop with Mary Belle

    Follow Mary Belle on Instagram: @mary.belle.books

    Jenn Hanson-dePaula's website (author marketing/PR)

    Follow Jenn Hanson-dePaula on Instagram: @mixtusmedia

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Many indie authors find the idea of creating a publishing house overwhelming. But with the right steps, it becomes both manageable and highly beneficial. Here’s why setting up a publishing house is essential and how to do it.

    First, it’s crucial to understand that forming a publishing house is not about creating a giant company like Amazon. Instead, it's about legally separating your personal and professional assets. This separation is vital as an author, because it protects your personal finances from any potential legal issues that may arise.

    While many creatives shy away from the business aspects of publishing, treating your book as a business can help you reach a broader audience. This means embracing some business tasks (even those you might not enjoy, like accounting. Just me?).

    Setting up a publishing house may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than it appears. The key is to create a legal entity, like an LLC, to protect your assets, which isn't nearly as complicated or expensive as it used to be. You can often set up an LLC yourself or use services like LegalZoom for additional support.

    You don’t need a complex infrastructure to start a publishing house. A simple logo for your book’s spine and a business bank account are sufficient. Today, many online banking options make it easy to set up a no-fee, no-minimum business account without visiting a physical bank. There’s also no need for an elaborate office setup or expensive branding packages.

    The challenge often comes when authors overcomplicate this step, perhaps assuming they need an extensive branding package, a physical office space, or expensive accounting software. But none of this is necessary.

    It’s a worthwhile investment for protecting your assets and managing your book sales professionally. For a detailed guide on this process, including how to create a logo and manage business essentials, refer to the third module of "Publish the Damn Book Already," which walks you through the necessary steps without overwhelming you with unnecessary details, ensuring you can focus on what you do best: writing.

    RESOURCES MENTIONED:

    Episode 1 of publishing series: WTH is an ISBN

    Publish the Damn Book Already self-publishing course

    Wave accounting: www.waveapps.com/accounting

    What's in a (Title) Change? (Why I changed the name of my self-publishing course, a

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    🎙️ Feeling Overwhelmed Writing Your Nonfiction or Memoir? This Episode is For You!

    Do you feel like you have multiple books' worth of material? Are you wrestling with imposter syndrome or struggling to organize a mountain of thoughts?

    My work with authors typically focuses on two key genres: transformative nonfiction and inspirational memoir (yes, I made up these terms).

    Transformative Nonfiction aims to guide the reader through a specific journey. It's infused with personal stories that help the reader relate and feel connected to the author.

    Inspirational Memoir, on the other hand, shares the author’s personal experiences to inspire and resonate with readers, but in a way where the author is unattached to how (or when) the reader is inspired (or whether they're inspired at all!).

    🚀 Feeling stuck?

    Start by identifying your core message and the first step in your journey.

    Remember, it’s about sharing the steps of your story, not prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution. By focusing on your unique path and experiences, you can create a relatable and impactful narrative without the pressure of being seen as "the ultimate expert."

    💡 Tune in to hear my tips on overcoming self-doubt, structuring your content, and finding peace in sharing your personal story. This episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with greater confidence and clarity!

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Click here to check out the Publish A Profitable Book / Publish the Damn Book Already course (currently 25% off with code AUTHOR25).

    Click here to access Kindlepreneur's free barcode generator tool.

    Understanding the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is crucial for indie authors. But new authors often wonder what the heck it is and feel a bit "silly" asking!

    In short, the ISBN is a unique identifier for books, similar to the UPC for products. It allows books to be easily tracked and purchased globally and enables indie authors' work to be more easily discovered by a larger audience, including libraries, bookstores, and online retailers.

    But still, new authors are left with questions such as:

    1. Why do I have to have an ISBN?
    2. Where do I get them (and how much will they cost?)
    3. Should use a free one from Amazon/KDP?
    4. Do I only need one for each book?
    5. Does an ISBN provide copyright protection?

    This episode clears your questions up!

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Mary Jones' book, The Goodbye Process (July 30, 2024, Zibby Books), is, in four words, hard to put down. Her raw, vivid descriptions of characters and experiences alike quickly pierced my soul and extended my bedtime!

    In this episode, Mary and I discussed her love of the short story form, some (perhaps surprising truths about writing and organizing short stories/essays, thoughts on beta readers, the querying and submission process, and our mutual love of "Days of Our Lives."

    CONNECT WITH MARY

    Book: The Goodbye Process

    Instagram: @maryjoneswriter

    X: @maryfjjones

    Threads: @maryjoneswriter

    Website: www.maryjoneswriter.com

    WHAT MARY'S READING

    All Fours by Miranda July

    MENTIONS

    I Miss You When I Blink by Mary Laura Philpott

    You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith

    Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    I've recently had a key realization about book writing, especially when it comes to writing memoir and non-fiction.

    Many times, people think the writing process will allow them to quickly (and easily) unlock or unravel buried feelings or insights. But this misconception sets an unrealistic expectation and creates potential roadblocks.

    As is the case with therapy (ask me how I know), there’s no set timeline for completing a book, and the process is often more complex and time-consuming than anticipated.

    So here's my $0.02 on how to best navigate the unexpected detours that often arise while writing a book you'll be incredibly proud to release to the world.

    CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOOK WRITERS COLLECTIVE

    ***

    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Gail Priest is the author of five books (including a trilogy). Her latest, Soul Dancing, was released on April 2024 through Red Adept Publishing.

    In this episode of Write the Damn Book Already, Gail shares her process for writing using techniques like mind mapping to discover new story elements. We also discuss her approach to marketing her books through social media and pitching her work, even though, like so many of us, she sometimes finds outreach daunting.

    CONNECT WITH GAIL

    Instagram: @gailpriest_author

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGailPriest

    Website: gailpriest.com/


    GAIL'S BOOKS

    Soul Dancing

    Eastern Shore Shorts

    Annie Crow Knoll: The Complete Collection:

    WHAT GAIL'S READING NOW

    A Very Crowded House by Kelly Elizabeth Huston

    Of Lies and Honey by Donna Norman-Carbone

    When the World Goes Quiet by Gian Sardar

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    Drew Linsalata has been my go-to for years when it comes to audiobooks and podcasts as well as any "How do I get the most bang for my buck?" questions when it comes to tech hardware.

    In this episode of Write the Damn Book Already, he helps dissect the why, when, and how of audiobook creation.

    Topics include:

    Gear setup (for under $70)The popular mic everyone thinks they should use (but shouldn’t)What device to read your book from for best flow and qualityRecommended audio editing software (that’s free!)The truth about the cost of producing an audiobook as well as expected earnings (advertised numbers are a bit misleading)How to determine if it’s “worth it” to create an audiobook The biggest misconceptions authors have about audiobooks

    CONNECT WITH DREW
    The Anxious Truth: A Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Panic, Anxiety, and Agoraphobia

    Seven Percent Slower: A Simple Trick for Moving Past Anxiety and Stress: The Anxious Truth: Anxiety Education and Support


    An Anxiety Story: How I Recovered from Anxiety, Panic, and Agoraphobia

    Drew’s podcast: The Anxious Truth

    CREATE CAPTIVATING AUDIOBOOKS: A PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN WORKSHOP
    Click here to learn more and sign up

    MENTIONS

    Samantha Garcia's audiobook: Regenerative Business: How to Align Your Business with Nature for More Abundance, Fulfillment, and Impact

    Episode 40: How to sell 2589 Books in 30 Hours (with Sam Garcia)

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

  • Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

    In the latest episode of Write the Damn Book Already, Joselyn Takacs and I discussed her first novel, Peace Oysters (Zibby Books, 6/25/2024).

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Her writing process (and the system she and her adviser had for keeping her consistent)Free writing versus stream-of-consciousness writing The fun way she’s including the book’s theme in her upcoming book eventsJoselyn's top tricks for getting through writer’s blockHow writing ahead can help authors figure out the book’s trajectory


    ABOUT JOSELYN

    Joselyn Takacs holds a PhD in Creative Writing and Literature from the University of Southern California and an MFA in Fiction from Johns Hopkins University. Her fiction has appeared in Gulf Coast, Narrative, Tin House, Harvard Review, The Rumpus, DIAGRAM, Columbia: A Journal of Art and Literature, and elsewhere.

    She has published interviews and book reviews in the Los Angeles Review of Books and Entropy. Joselyn has taught writing at the University of Southern California and Johns Hopkins University.

    She lived in New Orleans at the time of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill, and in 2015, she received a grant to record the oral histories of Louisiana oyster farmers in the wake of the environmental disaster. She currently lives in Portland, Oregon.


    CONNECT WITH JOSELYN

    Website: www.joselyntakacs.com/about

    Instagram: @joselyn_takacs

    Purchase a copy of Pearce Oysters


    WHAT JOSELYN'S READING

    Free Love by Tessa Hadley


    BOOK REC OF THE WEEK

    In a Not So Perfect World by Neely Tuba

    Let's get you published!

    PublishAProfitableBook.com/Publish (use code AUTHOR25 for 25% off!)

    MOCKUP SHOTS DEAL

    I've used MockUp shots for years to create attention-grabbing images great for social media.

    It usually costs $207, but they're offering a 60% discount on lifetime access with lifetime updates. It's a great way to get an unheard-of price on a product that will make you money and that you will end up using all the time.

    Click Here for 60% off >>


    Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.

    Available wherever podcasts are available:
    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    YouTube

    Let's Connect!
    Instagram
    Website

    Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

    The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

    To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth