Overflowing Bookshelves

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking about what I call Overflowing Ideas Syndrome. It's when you have so many ideas that it's really hard to commit to one idea and easy to get distracted.This will be a great episode for you if you have a bunch of half-finished manuscripts, but you don't have a completed book!I delve into:Why nothing is wrong with you and how you can reframe this into a strength.Tools that will help you focus your energy on one idea at a time.The importance of tuning in to the book YOU most want to write.What happens when you pay attention to what gives you energy and excites you.Journaling prompts that you can use whenever you need to find clarity about what direction to go in.After listening, I think you'll understand why it's really common to get distracted by shiny new ideas and to abandon projects halfway – and how joining a container of support with a writing community and working with a coach can help you stay accountable to finishing your book.And if you are an entrepreneur who wants to write and publish the book inside your heart, I'd love for you to join me in my Facebook group called Women Entrepreneurs Becoming Best Selling Authors. This free community is the perfect place to share what came up for you with this episode and any goals you have so we can cheer you on – and also to provide a little extra accountability for you, too!

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to share what has helped me write my back cover and my longer book descriptions. I even give an example of the description from my book “Your Book Matters: 52 love notes from my creative heart to yours.”On the surface, writing your book description seems pretty simple…but it is super common to struggle with this task because you need to condense so much into a short space! To write a compelling book description, you need to 1) give the reader a sense of what your book is about; 2) introduce the reader to your own authentic voice and style; 3) sell your book; 4) grab the reader's attention and leave them wanting more!I dive into:The distinction between your book description and your back cover description.Some exercises that are really helpful with taking away the pressure and stress of writing the description of your book.Why I recommend writing your book description before you reach the end of your manuscript.How to grab the reader's attention in your book description.A little trick I use to hone in on how to write to the ideal reader of your book.Check out the back cover description from my latest novel BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME...Emma blames herself when a freak accident at a pool party leaves Hunter, the town's rising track star and her former boyfriend, paralyzed from the waist down. As she struggles with anxiety, loneliness and regret, she begins to obsessively paint portraits of legs and feet—Hunter's legs and feet—and for the first time receives critical acclaim and notice for her artwork.But what started as therapeutic for Emma ends up deepening her guilt. Does creating meaningful art require retreating inward toward self-expression, or striving outward toward recognition—or can it somehow be both?Searching for one whole, authentic identity, Emma grapples with love, ambition, grief, homecoming, and—ultimately—redemption.

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing my own personal experience of coming out of a season of book launching–a topic that comes up a lot with my clients in Thriving Authors Academy.Do you ever wonder how you can:Create a sustainable creative practiceBuild a career as a writerActually get to the finish line of your book… without burning out?My answer: build plenty of self-care into your writing routine.In this episode, I delve into my TOP EIGHT self-care tips for writers. Listen, bookmark, and enjoy! This might be an episode you want to save and come back to when you need to hear it again. I always like to pause and reflect on my self-care practices after a book launch, after I finish a big project, when I hit a milestone in my life like a birthday or anniversary, or even with the change of seasons.You can also download a FREE PDF with all eight of these tips!

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to feature my interview with author and coach Andrea Liebross from her talk, Build Your Belief Plan & Write Your Book, during last year's Thriving Authors Summit.If you've ever had doubts about writing a book and felt yourself holding back, I think this will really resonate.Andrea's found that no matter how good your strategic plan is, it won't succeed without a Belief Plan to counteract your inner Frenemy. This Frenemy pretends to be your friend but holds you back by keeping you "safe." Andrea will show you how to shift from these limiting beliefs to liberating truths, empowering you to turn your vision of writing a book into reality.About Andrea: Andrea Liebross is a business and life coach specializing in working with unapologetically ambitious women entrepreneurs from a variety of industries. A speaker and host of the Time to Level Up podcast, Andrea guides her clients to combine Big Thinking with solid systems that work together to unleash their success and find the freedom of time, money, and energy they crave. She is excited about the release of her book She Thinks Big: The Female Entrepreneur's Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary. Connect with her on IG @andrea.liebross.coachingI have seen time and time again – how writing a book and claiming your authority by becoming an author opens up incredible new doors and opportunities and brings in a whole new level of thriving in your business.But I get it! Before you become a thriving author… you need to actually write your dang book, right?That's why I put together THIS year's virtual summit – The Write Your Book Summit!!! I want you to write your book because your book matters! There's still time to register and join us! Find all the details and register for free at: bit.ly/writeyourbooksummit

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to talk with author Maureen Wise about her newest cozy mystery in her Succulent Sleuth series, which she writes under her pen name Iris March!If you've wondered how you can intentionally incorporate your values and things you care about into not just the overarching themes of your book, but also in little ways – like through characters, settings and scenes – I think you'll get a lot out of this episode!She shares:A solution for writing about events you've never experienced.Her process for writing mystery and incorporating plot twists.The types of characters make her put down books and not finish them.What makes writing fun for her.Maureen also gives us a sneak peek at what she is sharing about at my upcoming Write Your Book Summit. In her talk, How to Save the Planet AND Write Your Book, she'll share ideas on how to normalize eco-minded characters and ways your writing can inspire people to spend time in nature, along with greener habits for writers. You'll also be able to get her free gift: 25 Ways To Show (Don't Tell) That Your Characters Have an Environmental Mindset. Sign up for the free summit at https://bit.ly/writeyourbooksummit.About Maureen: Maureen Wise has worked in the sustainability field her entire career. She is an author of the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery Series and a hiking devotional. Wise has worked as a sustainability consultant, in higher education sustainability, in stream restoration, and has taught classes at the college level on environmental topics. Connect with her on IG @searchingformysteries

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to share my conversation with author Kay Ross who has released books in multiple genres! Her contemporary romance A WORK IN PROGRESS came out earlier this year and her debut fantasy novel WHISPER was released in 2024.If you're interested in writing in more than one genre, you'll be really inspired to hear about her journey adjusting to writing in different genres.She shares:Why it's so important to protect why you write.The writing techniques she's tried and her specific outlining process.How switching to write in a different genre felt like a palate cleanser.Advice for what to do when you get writing advice that distracts or depresses you.How writing fits into her daily life and what makes writing easier and more fun for her.I think you'll really enjoy hearing about her inspiration and creative process!About the author: Kay loves stories so much that she can't just write in only one genre. You can find her fantasy works under the name Kay Ross, and her romance is under the name K.A. Ross. When she's not at work, she's finding new stories, discussing old stories, or writing her own. If she's ever not thinking about stories, she's either trying not to be too invested in sports or climbing up a mountain so she can run down it. She may live in Utah, but she says that she considers any open space with a view to be home. https://www.authorkayross.com

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to spotlight two wonderful clients who went through this past round of Thriving Authors Academy. Both of these women, Rachel Surls and Yogani Singh, finished the drafts of their books during our time together! So, so proud of them! Listen in as they talk about their experiences being part of Thriving Authors Academy. You'll hear them reflect on things like what caused them to sign up for the program, what surprised them about the program and what they most got out of it. I hope this is helpful for you, whether you're thinking about joining Thriving Authors Academy, or whether you're working through your book project on your own. They have a lot of wisdom to share around overcoming challenges, setting up writing routines and the importance of finding community and support throughout the process of writing a book.Rachel shares how joining Thriving Authors Academy helped her create a solid, sustainable writing routine and write the entire draft of her novel in six months -- something she never thought she could do!Yogani shares how joining Thriving Authors Academy helped her embrace her creativity, own her identity as a writer, establish a consistent writing routine and finish the entire draft of her novel in six months -- something she never dreamed possible!The doors are OPEN for the next round of Thriving Authors Academy! Will you join us? Come write your book these next six months! Claim your spot at www.thrivingauthorsacademy.com

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm diving into two common objections that I hear over and over from the women who are considering joining Thriving Authors Academy. These objections might resonate with you, too, so I wanted to talk about them and pose some questions for you to think about.If you're feeling resistant to committing to write your book, this episode will help you figure out if now is the right time to jump in AND how you can guarantee that this investment is going to pay off.After listening to the episode, if you're still wondering “Can I really do this?” – let's hop on a call and we can talk through it together. There's no pressure and you're not wasting my time. During our call I'll be a mirror for you, reflecting back to you the truth that you are sharing, so that you are able to go after your dream of becoming a published author in whatever is the best way for you to do that.AND if now is the time – and you are ready to go all in to write your book – register by March 28th & get a BONUS Book Breakthrough 1:1 60-minute Intensive ($499 value) so that you can get personal support around wherever you are stuck on your book & can make the most of the Thriving Authors Academy when it starts April 5th! Find more details at ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the timeline of drafting, editing and submitting (and editing and submitting again) that led to finally getting a publication deal for my new novel BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME.It has been quite a long journey filled with ups and downs to get here! And I think it's really important to hear the real stories behind others' success. In fact, many times books aren't published in the order in which the writer wrote them (which has certainly been true for me!)In this episode you'll hear:What inspired the idea for this story 12 years ago.How I played around with the structure, setting and POV.Ways I took feedback to make my book better while staying true to myself and my vision for the book.What I feared would happen if I made any big changes to the book.The discouragement after making it to an acquisitions meeting at a big publisher but not getting an offer… and how I was able to learn from that experience and later get a publication deal with my wonderful publisher Owl Hollow Press.The process of working with amazing editors to get the book to the next level, which helped me grow so much as a writer.So even if it's a long journey to get YOUR book out into the world, who knows what's around the next corner. Just keep moving forward, find that next stepping stone and don't give up on yourself. You never know what opportunities and excitement are waiting for you!BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME is available now and recently won the 2024 Indies Today Book Award for Best Teen Contemporary! I am so thrilled and honored by this news, and am eternally grateful to the team at Owl Hollow Press for bringing the best version of my book to life, and to everyone who has supported and spread the word about this story I poured my heart into for twelve years.P.S. If you decide you want to take the reins (and timeline) into your own hands and self-publish your book — but you don't want to worry about getting all the moving pieces coordinated and getting your book up on Amazon and Ingram Spark — you're in luck. I have a Book Publishing Package where I can handle that all for you, in addition to editing and cover/interior design. Just reach out!

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm diving into all the moving pieces involved in self-publishing and giving you a checklist of what needs to get done before your book hits the shelves. By following this timeline, you'll give yourself enough time so that it's not a stressful process, but instead, it's a really fun and fulfilling and exciting process!I share:What you need to have done first, before moving your book into the production timeline.When to choose your cover designer and your interior book designer and what's involved in that process.Why to consider having a book launch team and how you can involve them.The importance of pre-orders and early reviews – along with ideas for pre-order bonuses.Considerations for how you're going to showcase your book.After listening, if you decide you don't want to worry about getting all the moving pieces coordinated and getting your book up on Amazon, you're in luck. I have a Book Publishing Package where I can handle that all for you. Just reach out!>> Here's the PDF

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to feature my conversation with Emily Tamayo Maher. She shares how to overcome any block with the creative path down the chakras.Emily teaches an approach to creativity that is four-thousand-years-old but most people don't know about it! You'll discover realms of your imagination you didn't even know existed, eliminate blocks that stifle your best work and learn audience growth strategies used by spiritual leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi.Her insight was a huge hit during the Thriving Authors Summit so I can't wait for you to listen!About Emily: Emily Tamayo Maher is a book coach and best-selling author in women's spirituality. She helps aspiring writers turn their own life-changing stories into books that capture the depth and significance of their experiences. Her clients have written memoirs, personal development, self-help, and fiction. As a consummate adventurer and expatriate, she's made her life in Bogotá, Colombia with her husband Mauricio and son Martín. Connect with her on IG @ emily.tamayo.maher

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to talk about deciding when to share your book with others and what the overall editing process looks like.Listen in to find out details like: The different stages of editing and which order to do them in. An analogy that my creative writing professor at USC shared that has stuck with me. The importance of hiring a qualified professional editor, and how to find the ideal editor for YOU. How to ensure you get the feedback that you really need to hear from others. And what to do when you get feedback that doesn't resonate with you.When I recorded this episode I was in the trenches working on the edits to my books so I think that you'll get a lot of value out of the insights I'm sharing. If you could use support around the drafting or editing process or anywhere along your book writing journey, I would love to connect. I offer 60-minute 1-on-1 calls where you can pick my brain with questions about your book (or multiple books!), and get my personalized expert guidance to help you move forward in your writing career. Let me help you get un-stuck so that you can write and publish your dream book that grows your audience, grows your business, and grows your legacy.

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing my top three tips that will really help if writing a book is a big goal that you have for 2025! Sometimes a couple weeks into the new year reality hits and we start to feel in a slump, so I'm talking about specific and practical steps to keep going and get to the finish line of your book. Even if you don't feel like you have much time, energy, or bandwidth for writing your book this year, don't despair! This episode is for you!  I'm sharing: My little secret project that I've been working on! How to connect with your characters and your book in a very intentional and purposeful way. What to focus on when you are feeling stuck around the bigger questions and structure of your book. I think you'll be inspired by how you can rejuvenate your writing in 2025! And if you're looking for a jump start into writing your book in 2025, join Your Book Roadmap where you'll get all the best things from my coaching in a small container – accountability, motivation, inspiration and individualized attention in a small community of other women writers who are also working on their books. By the end of our eight weeks together you'll have the momentum to carry you through to continue your book. It's a small group with limited spots so grab yours today at dallaswoodburn.com. Resources mentioned: Checklist for an amazing writing session Discovery call Your Book Roadmap program

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking with my wonderful friend Greta Woolley about her incredible book “S.O.S.: Survival Guide for Teachers, Old and New”. I was honored to be able to support her in writing this book over the course of my 8-week writing program Your Book Roadmap. It was really so beautiful and incredible for me to witness and journey with her as this book poured out of her! Greta shares: - How she knew she was ready to write her book and how it wasn't the spectacular moment she thought it would be. - The challenges she went through during her writing process and what kept her going. - Her favorite writing exercise to implement when she was worrying about her book. - What she feels and how she's different now that her book is out in the world. I think you'll be inspired by this conversation and what you can do when you allow yourself to be supported along your writing journey. About Greta: Greta Woolley is a behavior specialist at Miles Elementary, where she walks alongside students, families, and educators to create needs-fulfilling environments that positively support academic achievement while growing students' social and emotional competence. She has spent the past 35 years working as a front-line teacher in the trenches for both general and exceptional student education settings, as a District Trainer, ESE Specialist, Instructional Mentor, and Site-Based Behavior Specialist. Woolley examines the relationship between your “head and your heart” with the firm belief that they must be synchronized for maximum learning to occur. She also models the power of self-examination and reflection necessary for teachers to always remain in an upward trajectory of growth and improvement. She lives in Tampa, Florida with her husband Chris and two daughters, Julia and Jaclyn. Connect with her on Instagram @themindfulmentor_ Join Your Book Roadmap for the next round that starts February 3, 2025, and by the end of our eight weeks together you'll truly see yourself as an author. You'll have the first chapter of your book DONE and all the momentum you need to continue! It's a small group with limited spots so grab yours today at https://www.dallaswoodburn.com.

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain around what I do as a book coach and sharing three reasons why having a book coach is a game-changer in getting your book written. You'll hear about: The hardest part of writing your book and how I will help you move through it. The amazing shifts that happen when you have clarity on your writing project. Who the biggest enemy is when it comes to writing a book and how I support my clients with this. How my program will set you up for continued success and why I structured it the way I did. I hope this episode gives you a sense of what a book coach is, what I do with my clients and how a book coach can really help you move forward in your journey. And remember, your book is a whole new beginning in many ways. It's the first step of a really exciting new chapter for yourself, for your business, for your authority and your expertise. It creates so many ripples and you have no idea how far those ripples will go!Ready to see what ripples your book creates? Join my program, Your Book Roadmap, and by the end of our eight weeks together you'll truly see yourself as an author. You'll have the first chapter of your book DONE and all the momentum you need to continue! It's a small group with limited spots so grab yours today at https://www.dallaswoodburn.com.

In this encore presentation of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I share what I do to really soak up the final hours of one year and look ahead to the next one. I don't know about you, but New Year's Eve just might be my favorite day of the whole year! But I know that a lot of people have different feelings coming up and lots of ‘shoulds' in their brain - I should have done more of this. I should have done more of that. In some ways, those can be helpful signals!! Listen in as I chat about: How to decide what things to delegate or take off your to-do list. What we can do to keep our big ambitions from causing us to burn out. The one thing you can do to become a better writer in the new year. What I'm proud of myself for and celebrating! You'll also hear the four questions that I ask myself every New Year's Eve to really help me celebrate, focus, regroup, and set my intentions for the year ahead. Download the free PDF with these exact questions listed out and see what comes up for YOU! Have a happy New Year celebrating! Here's to an amazing, creative and beautiful 2025 – the perfect year to write your book! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I share a little love note from my heart to yours. I also reflect on my daughter's namesake, my Grandma Auden, and how so many of us have no idea how far our legacies extend, the ripples that we create, the ways that we touch other people's lives. I touch on:  Why being a book coach is so important to me. How I'm trying to show my children the power of building a life around my creative energy.  The huge shift that happens when we start to put ourselves, put our joy, put our creativity first in our lives. What feedback I received from people in my Facebook community and on my newsletter list that helped me create a new program. And if you're looking to write a book as part of your legacy, let's make 2025 the year it happens! You can grab YOUR BOOK MATTERS: 52 love notes from my creative heart to yours, to help you write the book inside your heart. Part reflective journal, part motivational cheerleader, part accountability guide, YOUR BOOK MATTERS (available on Amazon) will give you a little burst of inspiration every week of the year, so that you can feel supported as you go through the natural ups and downs of the creative process. 

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I address the common misconception that writing a book will take a lot of time – time away from your business and other money making actions that seem more urgent. Spoiler alert: I think that the opposite is true! I believe that writing your book is one of the biggest gifts to your business and one of the best things you can do to increase efficiency and productivity and save time in your business. You'll hear me share reasons and examples why I think this, including: How to avoid spending all our time putting out fires of day-to-day business and client tasks. The simple way writing a book allows you to schedule your CEO time on a consistent basis and actually stay committed to it. The mindset shifts that I and my clients have experienced that have helped us to grow into the next level in life and business. The importance of creating an enduring content bank and the strategy I use for organizing content so it's easy to find and keep track of. After listening I think you'll agree that writing a book is the most efficient time-saving gift for your business! And if you want to end the year by nourishing your creativity, sign up for

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I share three stories from my own writing life of ways that gratitude has helped me. Gratitude has been the number one thing that has helped me sustain my writing career! Leaning into gratitude in all different seasons has brought feelings of purpose, contentment, excitement and joy. From my journey I'm sharing:  How a gratitude practice I began back in high school was the seed that began my podcast The ways gratitude allowed me to shift my mindset and perspective  What allowed me to manifest my childhood dream The importance of figuring out the essential gratitude you have for your writing project Tune into this week's episode to hear ways you can incorporate gratitude into your writing and life, wherever you are along the journey. And if you want to end the year by nourishing your creativity, sign up for

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing a sneak peek of the curriculum from week 7 of Thriving Authors Academy about how to boost your writing power. Beyond my mentorship and the community in Thriving Authors Academy, you also receive video lessons and a printed workbook where I distill down the most essential lessons about writing, editing, publishing and marketing your book! So today you'll get to hear a bit of my teaching style! I'm diving into: What is scene vs. what is summary. Finding your strengths and developing your natural gifts as a writer. How you can really hook your reader and grab their attention. The counterintuitive way to make your story more relatable to all readers. How to write a book that sticks with your reader long after they've turned the final page. What would it mean for YOUR writing life to have a weekly video lesson just like this delivered straight to your inbox every week? Along with a printed workbook that you can follow along with and actually write out all of these exercises to help you not only write your book, but write the best book possible? Then I would love to invite you to join me in Thriving Authors Academy. I'll help you feel inspired and empowered throughout the creative process, from first seed of an idea to finished manuscript… and then polished manuscript… and then beautiful published book with your name on the cover. This round goes from October 8 to March 29, 2025. Find out more at www.ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking about ways to create a writing routine that actually fits into your life – even if this is a busy season for you and things are hectic. If writing is something that you keep telling yourself you're going to carve out time to do, but it just seems to always slip away with other more urgent tasks that take up your time, then this episode is for you! I share: The benefits to blocking even 10 -15 minute increments of writing in your calendar. What aspects of your life to consider when creating a writing routine. The first step to take to create your new writing habit. Ideas and examples that clients – and myself – have found success with to make writing time something to look forward to rather than it feeling like just another task. I'm excited for you to experience the joy and ease that a writing routine can bring and the incredible progress that you can make to really move forward on your book! >> If you're ready to commit to writing your book, join me in the next round of Thriving Authors Academy that starts October 8th! Find more details at ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com or send me a message. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to share my conversation with an amazing author and dear friend of mine, Jessica Booth, whose second novel A PICTURE PERFECT SUMMER just came out. She shares: How being a huge reader inspires her to write. The modifications she made to the timeline for her second book based on lessons she learned the first time around. How she's built a community of book lovers and the benefits of authentic engagement. What she did to gain momentum before launch day. Insight into what interconnected standalone novels are and plans for her next novel. I think you'll love Jessica's advice and perspective – as a busy mom of four who has a day job and runs a Bookstagram account – especially if you've ever wondered how you'll find the time to write. >> If you're ready to commit to writing your book, join me in the next round of Thriving Authors Academy that starts October 8th! Find more details at ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com or send me a message.  About Jessica: Jessica is a lifelong reader and writer. She earned a bachelor's degree in communications and professional writing before making a career in journalism and editing. Jessica has always dreamt of writing a book, and her love for novels spurred her into becoming an avid bookstagrammer. She loves books that make people happy. Although she grew up in North Louisiana, Jessica now resides in Southwestern Ohio with her husband, pack of rowdy children, and a couple of hounds. They love to spend their time together visiting indie bookstores, or outside digging up worms and transforming piles of sticks into castles. Follow her at @readbelievelove and https://jessicaboothauthor.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing about some new routines in my life due to some big (fun!) transitions in my family, and how I'm able to continue making progress with my writing. If you crave more structure around your writing routine – or are finding yourself resisting your writing time – I think you'll find this episode helpful.  Beyond creating a nurturing and sustainable writing routine, in this episode I also dig into a topic that's been coming up with clients and in other conversations recently. If you've ever wondered, “Am I ready to write my book?” then tune in as I talk about how the limiting beliefs holding us back around our books can give us big insights about our lives and businesses. You'll also hear the shifts and reframes that my clients and I find helpful and empowering as we pour ourselves into our work. As you go through the process of writing your book, you'll get clarity around your business and your life's work. The stories, teachings and concepts you share through your book will change your readers' lives. And, if you're a business owner too, your book is just the beginning of how readers will want to work with you!  >> If you're ready to commit to writing your book, join me in the next round of Thriving Authors Academy that starts October 8th! Find more details at ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com or send me a message.  Resources mentioned: Writing Routine Checklist Episode 153: The 2 Biggest Objections I Hear --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing my own personal experience of coming out of a season of book launching–a topic that comes up a lot with my clients in Thriving Authors Academy. Do you ever wonder how you can: Create a sustainable creative practice Build a career as a writer Actually get to the finish line of your book … without burning out? My answer: build plenty of self-care into your writing routine. In this episode, I delve into my TOP EIGHT self-care tips for writers. Listen, bookmark, and enjoy! This might be an episode you want to save and come back to when you need to hear it again. I always like to pause and reflect on my self-care practices after a book launch, after I finish a big project, when I hit a milestone in my life like a birthday or anniversary, or even with the change of seasons. You can also download a FREE PDF with all eight of these tips! ‍>> Is your heart calling to write your book, and you are yearning to be part of my Thriving Authors Academy, but the financial investment is a barrier for you? I am joyfully offering one scholarship for Thriving Authors Academy, and the application is NOW OPEN! Get all the details and apply here: https://bit.ly/TAAScholarship

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to share my conversation with my client and dear friend Olive Mazerolle, whose memoir Dancing With the Clouds was just published. And Olive's book is actually our pick for August's Thriving Authors Book Club! I hope you'll join us later this month to meet Olive and chat about her book.I'm so proud of Olive for writing this brave and beautiful book, which she worked on throughout her time in my Thriving Authors Academy! It's been just such an honor to journey with her and support her through the book-birthing experience – and in this podcast episode, she shares a bit about what her experience going through the program was like.Olive also shares: When she knew there was a book inside of her that she was meant to write. How the process of writing can be a gift to others. Why she decided to sign up for Thriving Authors Academy and her biggest takeaways from being part of it. The most intimidating part of birthing her memoir and what gave her the confidence to go forward. >> If you found this conversation insightful, make sure you grab Olive's book here and sign up for the Thriving Authors Book Club at http://bit.ly/thrivingauthorsbookclub! Then mark your calendar for Wednesday, August 28th at 10a.m. Pacific Time! We always have so much fun during these gatherings when we chat about the book and to hear from the author about their writing & publishing experience. About Olive: Olive Mazerolle grew up in a small fishing village called Baie Sainte-Anne on the most easterly point of New Brunswick. As a civilian employee, Olive gave thirty-five years of her life to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. At the end of her career, after experiencing both personal and professional traumas, she found herself diagnosed with moderate-to-severe PTSD. Through years of seeking the psychological help she needed, she finally understood that her traumas had led her to Post Traumatic Growth (PTG). For Olive, PTG was transformative and brought the realization that she had actually grown after adversity. She turned towards altruism, opened up to new experiences, became spiritually mature and embraced gratitude for the life she now lives, saying, “Without these challenges, I may not be the person I am proud to be today.” Her only hope for this, her first book, is that it can help others. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm giving you a glimpse of last year's Thriving Authors Summit in the hopes you'll be inspired to join us for THIS year's Thriving Authors Summit, a free virtual event happening worldwide August 12-16. Come join the fun!! You can register for free at www.thrivingauthorssummit.com. Once you register, get your notebooks ready & pencils sharpened, because you are going to be so inspired and learn a TON from the 25 amazing speakers I have brought together to share their wisdom & expertise with you.  This “taste of the summit” episode features my conversation with Kim Argetsinger, who shared so many beautiful gems during her summit talk “The Mindset of Taking Up Space & Sharing Your Work.”  I especially think you'll enjoy this conversation if you're ready to break free from the myth of perfectionism and stop waiting until your work is “ready” to share it. Kim has learned a lot as a successful business coach – plus her career as an actress for over 10 years in Hollywood, booking a dozen commercials and just as many indie films – and she is graciously sharing her nuggets of wisdom with us! You'll want to hear the powerful mindset trick and mantra that she uses, so that you can let go and not obsess after you've hit publish. >> If you found this conversation insightful, make sure you sign up for the third-annual Thriving Authors Summit. It's a completely free virtual five-day summit that I am putting together straight from my heart to yours, happening from August 12-16. I'm talking with experts about everything from overcoming imposter syndrome, to effectively structuring your book, to developing your brand as an author, and much more! Register at thrivingauthorssummit.com for all of the updates and juicy goodness related to this year's Thriving Authors Summit!About Kim: Kim Argetsinger is a mindset coach and business mentor with a mission to help you create your version of success and make more money doing what you love. Using her coaching framework of clarity, mindset, strategy and action, Kim helps her clients tap into their unique edge and define and own their role as a CEO to run their business like a business to set themselves up with sustainable, recurring revenue for show-stopping six and seven-figure results. Connect with her on Instagram at @kimargetsinger --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm giving you a glimpse of last year's Thriving Authors Summit in the hopes you'll be inspired to join us for THIS year's Thriving Authors Summit, a free virtual event happening worldwide August 12-16. Come join the fun!! You can register for free at www.thrivingauthorssummit.com. Once you register, get your notebooks ready & pencils sharpened, because you are going to be so inspired and learn a TON from the 25 amazing speakers I have brought together to share their wisdom & expertise with you.  This “taste of the summit” episode features my conversation with Jennifer Espinosa-Goswami, who shared so many beautiful gems during her summit talk “Become an In Demand Podcast Guest as an Author.”  I especially think you'll enjoy this conversation if you're looking to gain more visibility for yourself and your book! Jenn shares: Ways to become a sought-after podcast guest. Why writing makes you an excellent speaker. How to develop talking points from your book. Tips on reaching out to podcast hosts with a perfect pitch! >> If you found this conversation insightful, make sure you sign up for the third-annual Thriving Authors Summit. It's a completely free virtual five-day summit that I am putting together straight from my heart to yours, happening from August 12-16. I'm talking with experts about everything from overcoming imposter syndrome, to effectively structuring your book, to developing your brand as an author, and much more! Register at thrivingauthorssummit.com for all of the updates and juicy goodness related to this year's Thriving Authors Summit! About Jenn: Jenn Espinosa-Goswami is an ICF-certified holistic coach at Weightless LLC who helps small businesses and authors leverage their expertise and sell books through public speaking. A Coach of the Year finalist from International Association of Women, Jenn is an international speaker who has been featured on Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, Women's Health, and numerous podcasts. Jenn lives in Minneapolis with her husband, two daughters, Chiweenie and leopard gecko. Connect with her on Instagram at @jennspingo --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm giving you my best tips for a successful, fun, and fabulous book event! Coming off two recent book launches and a joint book event with my dad (whose debut novel, The Butterfly Tree, came out earlier this year) at Timbre Books in Ventura, CA, I have a lot to share! You'll hear ideas around mindset and practical strategies, including: How to make it as easy as possible for bookstores to partner with you. The difference between a book signing and a book event. My favorite format for book events and how to prepare. Logistics that are important to work out with the bookstore before the event. Ideas to spread the word about the event to make it as successful as possible. A list of what to bring the day of your event. I hope these tips inspire you to get out there so readers can celebrate you and your beautiful book – in a way that allows you to soak in this special memory and truly enjoy your book event. Here's the link I mentioned I'd share: Episode 137: Tips for Your Author Photo Shoot. And also, make sure to grab the pdf with all the tips here: Tips for a fantastic book event.pdf --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, it was such a treat to talk with author Keely Parrack whose young adult thriller 10 HOURS TO GO and her latest picture book HOW STARLING GOT HIS SPECKLES coincidentally came out on the same day this past February! I especially think you'll enjoy this conversation if you are someone who is interested in writing in multiple genres! Keely shares: What it's like to transition between writing young adult novels and picture books. How she gets the ideas for her thrillers and characters. The different timelines that writing her novels took, ranging from 10 years to less than a year – and how that translated into different energy within each story. What she finds makes the whole writing journey worthwhile. It was really fun to hear about her writing process and how life has influenced her stories! About Keely:Keely Parrack is the author of Young Adult thrillers, DON'T LET IN THE COLD, 10 HOURS TO GO and picture books, HOW STARLING GOT HIS SPECKLES, MORNING, SUNSHINE! She came from the UK to the USA twenty years ago, and liked it so much she's still here, doing what she loves - writing young adult novels, poetry, and picture books, motivating kids to love reading and to be confident creative writers. Keely lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband and son. Follow her on IG @keelyinkster at or https://keelyparrack.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm doing something I've never done before: reading you an excerpt of one of my novels! After receiving a bunch of listener requests for more details about my new novel Before & After You & Me (which also happens to be this month's pick for the Thriving Authors Book Club) I decided it would be fun to give you Chapter One, straight from my voice and my heart. So grab your earbuds and prepare to meet my main character Emma on the day that changes her life forever. Thank you so much for your support and interest in my writing – it means the world to me to share my books with you! If you do grab a copy for yourself, for a friend, for a teen you know, or even for a Little Free Library – please let me know! I'd love to send you a few small book goodies as a way to say thank you.

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, it was exciting to talk with Judith Lindbergh about her new historical fiction novel, AKMARAL (and it's so fun that we shared a publication date of May 7th!)  I learned a ton about historical research in our conversation, and her passion for the project comes through so deeply.  Judith also shared: How she began her journey as a writer and what led her to focus on stories drawn from ancient history. What she noticed happening when she didn't allow for the creative and unexpected in her writing. How she was able to nurture and sustain her creativity over a long period of time and the changes she experienced in the publishing industry over that time. What inspired her to start her creative writing community and how it grew over time. I think you'll really enjoy this conversation no matter where you are on your writing journey!And if you are looking to move further along on your journey – or just get started – join me and a small community of like-minded women this summer in Your Book Roadmap! Bring your book to life and truly see yourself as an author. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/yourbookroadmapAbout Judith: Judith Lindbergh's new novel, AKMARAL, about a nomad woman warrior on the Central Asian steppes in the 5th c. BCE, published by Regal House Publishing on May 7, 2024. Her debut novel, THE THRALL'S TALE, about three women in the first Viking Age settlement in Greenland, was a Booksense (IndieBound) Pick, a Borders Original Voices Selection and praised by Pulitzer Prize winners Geraldine Brooks and Robert Olen Butler. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including in Newsweek, Zibby Magazine, Next Avenue, Writer's Digest, Edible Jersey, Literary Mama, Archaeology Magazine, Other Voices, and UP HERE: The North at the Center of the World published by University of Washington Press. She also contributed to the Smithsonian Institution's exhibition Vikings: The Norse Atlantic Saga and was an expert commentator on the History Channel's documentary series MANKIND: The Story of All of Us. Judith is the Founder/Director of The Writers Circle, a New Jersey-based creative writing center where she regularly teaches aspiring and accomplished writers from ages 8-80. Learn more at https://judithlindbergh.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain around what I do as a book coach and sharing three reasons why having a book coach is a game-changer in getting your book written. You'll hear about: The hardest part of writing your book and how I will help you move through it. The amazing shifts that happen when you have clarity on your writing project. Who the biggest enemy is when it comes to writing a book and how I support my clients with this. How my new program will set you up for continued success and why I structured it the way I did. I hope this episode gives you a sense of what a book coach is, what I do with my clients and how a book coach can really help you move forward in your journey. And remember, your book is a whole new beginning in many ways. It's the first step of a really exciting new chapter for yourself, for your business, for your authority and your expertise. It creates so many ripples and you have no idea how far those ripples will go!Ready to see what ripples your book creates? Join my new program, Your Book Roadmap, and by the end of our eight weeks together you'll truly see yourself as an author. You'll have the first chapter of your book DONE and all the momentum you need to continue! It's a small group with limited spots so grab yours today at https://www.dallaswoodburn.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing a conversation that I had on Instagram Live with my friend Tara K. Ross, who is an amazing author and podcast host. She read an early copy of my book BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME, which is now officially available, and we chatted a few days before publication to talk about my book. We talk about: The journey from first draft to publication. What inside this book stemmed from real life. The inspiration behind the characters. What genres the book falls into. Why I chose to tell this story in a very unique structure. We also talked about the process of getting feedback and choosing what to integrate and what to let go of. I think you'll find that piece helpful as you journey through your creative projects!And if you struggle to find time to work on your writing or are inspired to carve out time to get back to a story you started years ago, join me May 28-30 for my FREE CHALLENGE "Clear the Way to Write" that will help you *finally* make time to write. Three days. Three simple action steps. Big-time shifts in your writing and creative life. Register now at http://bit.ly/clearthewaytowriteAbout Tara: Tara K. Ross lives with her husband, two daughters, and rescued fur-babies in the artisanal town of Eden Mills, Ontario. She works as a school speech-language pathologist and mentors new and emerging creatives. When Tara is not writing or reading, you can find her rock climbing the Ontario escarpment, interviewing authors for The Hope Prose Podcast, or blogging at www.tarakross.com. FADE TO WHITE is her debut novel. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm excited to share what has helped me write my back cover and my longer book descriptions. I even give an example of the description from my book that came out in December called “Your Book Matters: 52 love notes from my creative heart to yours.” On the surface, writing your book description seems pretty simple…but it is super common to struggle with this task because you need to condense so much into a short space! To write a compelling book description, you need to 1) give the reader a sense of what your book is about; 2) introduce the reader to your own authentic voice and style; 3) sell your book; 4) grab the reader's attention and leave them wanting more! I dive into: The distinction between your book description and your back cover description. Some exercises that are really helpful with taking away the pressure and stress of writing the description of your book. Why I recommend writing your book description before you reach the end of your manuscript. How to grab the reader's attention in your book description. A little trick I use to hone in on how to write to the ideal reader of your book. Check out the back cover description from my new novel BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME, coming May 7th from @OwlHollowPress & now available for pre-order!! #linkinbioEmma blames herself when a freak accident at a pool party leaves Hunter, the town's rising track star and her former boyfriend, paralyzed from the waist down. As she struggles with anxiety, loneliness and regret, she begins to obsessively paint portraits of legs and feet—Hunter's legs and feet—and for the first time receives critical acclaim and notice for her artwork. But what started as therapeutic for Emma ends up deepening her guilt. Does creating meaningful art require retreating inward toward self-expression, or striving outward toward recognition—or can it somehow be both? Searching for one whole, authentic identity, Emma grapples with love, ambition, grief, homecoming, and—ultimately—redemption. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking with money mentor and writing coach Katy Almstrom about writing a better money story – something especially important for us entrepreneurs and creatives! Ready to reach your money goals? Or feel like you're not a numbers person? This is such an encouraging episode to listen to!Katy shares insights on what entrepreneurs need to know to manage their money in each season of business, not only so you can plan ahead but so you can build a healthy relationship with money. She also provides practical ideas to simplify your money habits and create more consistency with irregular income. And pssst: so much of what Katy talks about parallels the writing journey! So be prepared to be inspired with tips to implement in your creative life, too!Speaking of writing and money… I'm hosting a writing contest with cash prizes! Inspired by my novel Before and After You and Me that comes out May 7th, the prompt is to write about a time that split your life into "before" and "after." This could have been a huge, life-altering event, or it could have been something small that changed your internal landscape. It could be beautiful or painful, joyful or devastating, or any combination of emotion. It could have been something you noticed at the time, or only recognized looking back, years later. Find the complete details here: https://bit.ly/beforeafterwritingcontestAbout Katy: Katy is a leading money mentor and wealth coach, a teacher and speaker who works with ambitious women who are ready to steward their money in their business and life by creating a sustainable strategy, simplify their process, and build limitless confidence in their money habits and behaviors. With over a decade of experience in teaching and coaching combined with her own debt-free entrepreneurial journey and simplified life, Katy provides a unique service for her clients to help them slow down, map out their own joyful wealth-building journey, and create a life that has WAY less stress around money. Connect with her on Instagram at @katy_almstrom --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking with nonfiction book coach and editor Danielle Anderson about how to map out a transformative reader journey—all the way from the timeline to major scenes, to themes and reader desires. She explains: The five essential elements crucial to structuring your book, especially if it's a memoir. What desires to tap into that will attract readers who resonate with the journey. Ways you can play with timeline and examples of the different shapes it can take. How to know what scenes really need to be amplified and where to use backstory. This episode will help you weave a captivating story that will have a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of your readers. And I encourage you to flex that writing muscle and enter the writing contest that I'm hosting! It's inspired by my novel Before and After You and Me that comes out May 7th. The prompt is to write about a time that split your life into "before" and "after." This could have been a huge, life-altering event, or it could have been something small that changed your internal landscape. It could be beautiful or painful, joyful or devastating, or any combination of emotion. It could have been something you noticed at the time, or only recognized looking back, years later. Find the complete details here: https://bit.ly/beforeafterwritingcontest About Danielle: Danielle Anderson is a trained nonfiction book coach and editor, bringing over thirteen years of writing and publishing experience to help passionate writers amplify their story, voice, and message. She is the founder of Ink Worthy Books, an editorial and publication services company where they believe everyone has a story worth telling, and every story has the power to change the world. Connect with Danielle on IG at inkworthybooks --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing my best tips for entering writing contests!  Including: How to approach entering contests from a place of freedom, joy and non-attachment. Ways to move past the doubts you have about your work so that you can go for it anyway. When the best time to celebrate is! Ideas for how to keep track of the contests you enter.  What you need to know before you enter the contest. I hope that this information gets you excited to enter writing contents in a way that feels good!!And I encourage you to flex that writing muscle and enter the writing contest that I'm hosting! It's inspired by my novel Before and After You and Me that comes out May 7th. The prompt is to write about a time that split your life into "before" and "after." This could have been a huge, life-altering event, or it could have been something small that changed your internal landscape. It could be beautiful or painful, joyful or devastating, or any combination of emotion. It could have been something you noticed at the time, or only recognized looking back, years later. Find the complete details here: https://bit.ly/beforeafterwritingcontest --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking with my wonderful friend Greta Woolley about her incredible book “S.O.S.: Survival Guide for Teachers, Old and New”. I was honored to be able to support her in writing this book over the course of my 8-week writing program Your Book Roadmap. It was really so beautiful and incredible for me to witness and journey with her as this book poured out of her! Greta shares: How she knew she was ready to write her book and how it wasn't the spectacular moment she thought it would be. The challenges she went through during her writing process and what kept her going. Her favorite writing exercise to implement when she was worrying about her book. What she feels and how she's different now that her book is out in the world. I think you'll be inspired by this conversation and what you can do when you allow yourself to be supported along your writing journey. About Greta:Greta Woolley is a behavior specialist at Miles Elementary, where she walks alongside students, families, and educators to create needs-fulfilling environments that positively support academic achievement while growing students' social and emotional competence. She has spent the past 35 years working as a front-line teacher in the trenches for both general and exceptional student education settings, as a District Trainer, ESE Specialist, Instructional Mentor, and Site-Based Behavior Specialist. Woolley examines the relationship between your “head and your heart” with the firm belief that they must be synchronized for maximum learning to occur. She also models the power of self-examination and reflection necessary for teachers to always remain in an upward trajectory of growth and improvement. She lives in Tampa, Florida with her husband Chris and two daughters, Julia and Jaclyn. Connect with her on Instagram @themindfulmentor_ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm diving into two common objections that I hear over and over from the women who are considering joining Thriving Authors Academy. These objections might resonate with you, too, so I wanted to talk about them and pose some questions for you to think about. If you're feeling resistant to committing to write your book, this episode will help you figure out if now is the right time to jump in AND how you can guarantee that this investment is going to pay off. After listening to the episode, if you're still wondering “Can I really do this?” – let's hop on a call and we can talk through it together. There's no pressure and you're not wasting my time. During our call I'll be a mirror for you, reflecting back to you the truth that you are sharing, so that you are able to go after your dream of becoming a published author in whatever is the best way for you to do that. AND if now is the time – and you are ready to go all in to write your book – register by March 29th & get a BONUS Book Breakthrough 1:1 60-minute Intensive ($499 value) so that you can get personal support around wherever you are stuck on your book & can make the most of the Thriving Authors Academy when it starts April 8th! Find more details at ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm talking with Amy Michelle Carpenter, publisher of Monster Ivy Publishing and author of several science fiction books. I love that she's able to come at this conversation from both the publisher's side and also from the author's side. Amy shares: Her thoughts about what publishers love to see authors do in their query letters and social posts. The various steps publishers take to help authors get a book from manuscript to published book on the shelf – and how they create buzz to make it a success. A glimpse inside stages of editing that happen once you sign a contract. How you can set yourself up for success when approaching publishers. I think you'll gain so much insight about how you can be the best partner possible when working with a publisher! >> If this episode inspired you to get your writing in front of more readers, enter my Before & After Writing Contest!! You could win $100 and publication of your work here on my IG and in my newsletter that reaches thousands of readers. Here's the prompt: Write about a time that split your life into "before" and "after." This could have been a huge, life-altering event, or it could have been something small that changed your internal landscape. Deadline: 11:59pm PT on May 7th. Enter at http://bit.ly/beforeafterwritingcontest About Amy: Amy Michelle Carpenter is the publisher of Monster Ivy Publishing, a company of award-winning, bestselling book titles. Monster Ivy emphasizes "edgy, clean" fiction with a PG13 or less rating. The Kiss List was filmed as a movie by Marvista starring Megan Suri (Never Have I Ever) and Parminder Nagra (ER). In her personal life, Michelle received her Masters from Western Colorado University where she studied directly under NYT bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson, and she is the author of several YA science fiction books. Connect with Amy on Instagram at @monsterivypublishing --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm recapping the highlights and key  takeaways from the Revamp Your Writing Routine Challenge that I hosted in my free Facebook group, Women Entrepreneurs Becoming Best-Selling Authors, last year. We've also just gone through the challenge again this past week!! The Facebook group is full of heart centered writers sharing resources and supporting each other and I would be thrilled if you joined us! The recap includes: Tips for claiming your writing space. Steps to take when you need a reset of your writing routine. Ways to help your brain shift into writing time. Ideas from other writers and so much more! After listening I think you'll agree, it's not just about writing your book to check it off your list, but really wanting to enjoy that experience of writing your book – and it can be such a transformational process! If you enjoyed our week together last year or our most recent week of the Revamp Your Writing Routine Challenge, or enjoyed listening to this recap, I think that Thriving Authors Academy would be such a wonderful fit for you. The momentum that we built this week and the sense of community – being supported, inspired and not being alone – is such an integral part of the Thriving Authors Academy. Find more details at www.ThrivingAuthorsAcademy.com and send me a message to join the waitlist! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, it was so wonderful to talk with writer Leigh Shulman who shared so many beautiful gems during her summit talk “Why Rejection is Your Best Friend.” And because rejection is something that EVERY writer experiences, I think it's important to highlight a couple mindset shifts that she brought up, including: How rejection can actually be a positive force in your life.  Ways to strengthen your mindset so rejection doesn't hurt (as much!) A reframe that can open new opportunities and help you learn the purpose of your work. Leigh's insights are so powerful. While she understands it doesn't feel good to be rejected, she shared, “There's a difference between ‘I'm disappointed' and ‘I'm no good.'”  If this episode inspired you to approach your writing with renewed bravery, I'd love you to join my “Revamp Your Writing Routine” FREE 5-day challenge that starts Monday, February 26th. I'll be giving little tips and action steps every day to help you create the perfect, energizing, supportive writing routine for YOU. You deserve a writing practice you can do consistently and with joy! Sign up to join me at http://bit.ly/revampwritingroutine About Leigh:  Leigh Shulman is a writer and mentor living in Argentina. She founded the Inspired Writer Community for women writers to success through mentorship and mindset coaching. Her international writing retreats and website are among The Write Life's top resources for writers. Her work appears in Guernica, The Washington Post, Longreads among others. Connect with her on Instagram at @theleighshulman --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the timeline of drafting, editing and submitting (and editing and submitting again) that led to finally getting a publication deal for my new novel BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME. It has been quite a long journey filled with ups and downs to get here! And I think it's really important to hear the real stories behind others' success. In fact, many times books aren't published in the order in which the writer wrote them (which has certainly been true for me!) In this episode you'll hear: What inspired the idea for this story 12 years ago. How I played around with the structure, setting and POV. Ways I took feedback to make my book better while staying true to myself and my vision for the book. What I feared would happen if I made any big changes to the book. The discouragement after making it to an acquisitions meeting at a big publisher but not getting an offer… and how I was able to learn from that experience and later get a publication deal with my wonderful publisher Owl Hollow Press. The process of working with amazing editors to get the book to the next level, which helped me grow so much as a writer. So even if it's a long journey to get YOUR book out into the world, who knows what's around the next corner. Just keep moving forward, find that next stepping stone and don't give up on yourself. You never know what opportunities and excitement are waiting for you! BEFORE & AFTER YOU & ME is available for preorder now – just search Dallas Woodburn on Barnes and Noble or Amazon!!! Publication date is officially May 7th! And I'd love you to join us in the Thriving Authors Book Club, a virtual monthly book club where you not only get to read incredible new books filled with heart and wisdom, you also get to have a Q&A with the author and peek behind-the-scenes into their author journey! Sign up here: https://mailchi.mp/552eb3b1cf96/bookclubOur February book is The Story That Made Us Stronger by Maureen Wise (pen name Iris March). Learn more about Maureen (and her other wonderful books) at her website. And you can listen to my interview with Maureen on the Thriving Authors Podcast here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, it was such a delight to talk with Cambria Williams about her debut novel, The Befallen, and her writing journey.  If you are working on a novel of your own and maybe you are in the querying trenches or maybe you're in the muddy middle of your book, I think you will find Cambria's story inspiring and filled with hope to remind you to keep going. She shares: What got her into writing in the first place. How a text about writing a practice novel gave her momentum and allowed the words to just pour out of her. The reason she changed her novel from a single point of view to featuring two different perspectives. The rewards that can come from being okay with the word no. About Cambria:  Cambria Williams believes that storytelling is a collective experience that is both limitless and timeless in its transformative nature. Cambria writes fantasy fiction that emphasizes the magic of hope. She is the author of THE BEFALLEN, her debut dark fantasy novel, released in August 2023. She loves traveling, reading, and taking walks with her husband and dog. Cambria has a Master of Fine Arts in Writing and lives in Utah. To learn more about Cambria, find her on Instagram, Facebook, or her website: cambriawilliams.com And if you are an entrepreneur who wants to write and publish the book inside your heart, I'd love for you to join me in my free Facebook group Women Entrepreneurs Becoming Best Selling Authors. We discuss the podcast episodes, I host free challenges and you may even meet your new writing partner to swap pages with! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing the replay from our first Thriving Authors Book Club meeting. It was so wonderful to be together, chat about Your Book Matters and why OUR books matter and create our vision boards! I'm so excited for this virtual monthly book club where you not only get to read incredible new books filled with heart and wisdom, you also get to have a Q&A with the author and peek behind-the-scenes into their author journey! Each month, we'll be spotlighting a book published by a current or former client. Read the book, invite your friends, and join us for the virtual Zoom book club date! To kick things off, for January we read MY new book “YOUR BOOK MATTERS: 52 love notes from my creative heart to yours” to give you an extra boost of encouragement to leap into YOUR creative projects this new year! P.S. If you have a vision board to share or just want to connect with other women who have a book in their hearts, join us in the Women Entrepreneurs Becoming Best-Selling Authors Facebook group! Our February book is The Story That Made Us Stronger by Maureen Wise (pen name Iris March). Learn more about Maureen (and her other wonderful books) at her website. And you can listen to my interview with Maureen on the Thriving Authors Podcast here. Mark your calendar for Friday, February 23rd from noon-1pm PT and join us for the February meeting! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this replay of a solo episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing straight from my heart to yours. I talk about three important ways you can invest in your writing AND six reasons you should do so – not later, but NOW. (Spoiler alert: you deserve it. You deserve to be a writer, pursuing the projects in your heart. And when you pour into yourself, you have so much more capacity to pour into others around you.) I've compiled all six inspiring reasons into a pretty PDF you can print out and hang at your desk for those days you need an extra reminder of why you matter and your writing matters. ⁠Click here to download it⁠! And, if you need a plan and someone (me!) to guide you to unlock your AUTHORity, take the first step towards becoming a published author and register for Your Book Roadmap today. You'll have your first chapter D-O-N-E by the end of March! Find all the ⁠details at dallaswoodburn.com/your-book-roadmap-an-8-week-program-to-unlock-your-authority --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm thrilled to be joined by MJ Fievre, a woman who wears so many hats in the writing world! She's an editor, a publisher, a coordinator for the Miami Book Fair, and an author of multiple genres! She shares when she first fell in love with writing as well as her writing journey and in our conversation she also dives into: The specific things that all publishers want to see. What to do even before you start reaching out to publishers. Why you don't have to wait until you have a book out to start your writing career – and what you can do in the meantime.  The benefit of having a writing community. The role authenticity plays when connecting with acquisition editors. After listening I think you'll feel empowered to begin building your audience and brave enough to lean into your authenticity. About MJ: Born in the vibrant city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, M.J. Fievre moved to the United States in 2002, carrying with her an unquenchable thirst for storytelling. She's the brain and the heart behind the best-selling series Badass Black Girl, empowering many to embrace their identities fearlessly. As a writing coach, she helps others write their way through trauma, build community and create social change. She works with veterans, disenfranchised youth, cancer patients and survivors, victims of domestic and sexual violence, minorities, the elderly, those with chronic illness or going through transition, and any underserved population in need of writing as a form of therapy—even if they don't realize that they need writing or therapy. M.J. can also be found shaping narratives at Mango Publishing, where she is a senior editor, and fostering the literary culture in her role as a program coordinator for the Miami Book Fair.If you need a plan and someone (me!) to guide you to unlock your AUTHORity, take the first step towards becoming a published author and register for Your Book Roadmap today. You'll have your first chapter D-O-N-E by the end of March! Find all the details HERE. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm diving into all the moving pieces involved in self-publishing and giving you a checklist of what needs to get done before your book hits the shelves.  By following this timeline, you'll give yourself enough time so that it's not a stressful process, but instead, it's a really fun and fulfilling and exciting process! I share: What you need to have done first, before moving your book into the production timeline. When to choose your cover designer and your interior book designer and what's involved in that process. Why to consider having a book launch team and how you can involve them. The importance of pre-orders and early reviews – along with ideas for pre-order bonuses. Considerations for how you're going to showcase your book. After listening, if you decide you don't want to worry about getting all the moving pieces coordinated and getting your book up on Amazon, you're in luck. I have a Book Publishing Package where I can handle that all for you. Just reach out! And I'm excited for the new virtual book club, Thriving Authors Book Club, where every month we're going to focus on a wonderful book written by one of my clients or myself. For January we will be reading YOUR BOOK MATTERS. Message me for details because I'd love for you to join us! >> Here's the PDF

In this episode of the Thriving Authors Podcast, It was such a joy to talk with author Susan Ito, whose captivating memoir I Would Meet You Anywhere came out a few months ago. If you're curious about the differences between writing a memoir and writing fiction that is based loosely on real life, I think Susan's insights will be incredibly useful to you. She shared: The ways that her book evolved over the years, beginning as her MFA thesis. A comment comparing her to Frank McCourt that left her upset and indignant early on in her writing project. How she had to trick herself to keep writing her book. The benefit of working with a small academic publisher. When she knew it was finally time to release her book into the world. I loved hearing her share about what finally got her to commit to a deadline after decades of working on her book! If you need a plan and someone (me!) to guide you to unlock your AUTHORity, take the first step towards becoming a published author and register for Your Book Roadmap today. You'll have your first chapter D-O-N-E by the end of March! Find all the details HERE. About Susan: Susan Ito is the author of the memoir, I Would Meet You Anywhere, out from the Ohio State University Press in November 2023. She co-edited the literary anthology A Ghost At Heart's Edge: Stories & Poems of Adoption. Her work has appeared in The Writer, Growing Up Asian American, Choice, Hip Mama, Literary Mama, Catapult, Hyphen,The Bellevue Literary Review, and elsewhere.  Her theatrical adaption of Untold, stories of reproductive stigma, was produced at Brava Theater. She is a member of the Writers' Grotto, and teaches at the Mills College campus of Northeastern University and Bay Path University. She is a co-organizer of Rooted and Written, a writing workshop for writers of color. Connect with her on Instagram @thesusanito. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In today's encore presentation of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I share what I do to really soak up the final hours of one year and look ahead to the next one. I don't know about you, but New Year's Eve just might be my favorite day of the whole year! But I know that a lot of people have different feelings coming up and lots of ‘shoulds' in their brain - I should have done more of this. I should have done more of that. In some ways, those can be helpful signals!! Listen in as I chat about: How to decide what things to delegate or take off your to-do list. What we can do to keep our big ambitions from causing us to burn out. The one thing you can do to become a better writer in the new year. What I'm proud of myself for and celebrating. You'll also hear the four questions that I ask myself every New Year's Eve to really help me celebrate, focus, regroup, and set my intentions for the year ahead. Download the free PDF with these exact questions listed out and see what comes up for YOU! And if you're looking to write a book in 2024, grab your spot in my program, Your Book Roadmap! It's open for enrollment now and if you register before January 19th you get $100 off!! Find all the details HERE. Have a happy New Year celebrating! Here's to an amazing, creative and beautiful 2024! Listen at www.thrivingauthorspodcast.com or wherever you get your podcasts. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support

In this encore presentation of the Thriving Authors Podcast, I'm sharing a little love note from my heart to yours. I'm also reflecting on my daughter's namesake, my Grandma Auden, and how so many of us have no idea how far our legacies extend, the ripples that we create, the ways that we touch other people's lives. I touch on:  Why being a book coach is so important to me. How I'm trying to show my children the power of building a life around my creative energy.  The huge shift that happens when we start to put ourselves, put our joy, put our creativity first in our lives. What feedback I received from people in my Facebook community and on my newsletter list that helped me create a new program. And if you're looking to write a book as part of your legacy, I hope you're as excited as I am to hear me explain my program called Your Book Roadmap! It is open for enrollment and the 8-week program starts February 5. It will just be a small group with limited spots.So if you need a plan and someone (me!) to guide you so that you can really see yourself as an author – and have the first chapter of your book DONE – then grab your spot! Register before January 19th so you get $100 off. Find all the details HERE. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dallas-woodburn/support