Own Your Unique Words with Janeen Ippolito

In this conversation, I explore the themes of seriousness versus silliness in science fiction and fantasy, using the TV show Andor as a focal point.I discuss how the show's gritty realism contrasts with traditional world-building elements, questioning the critique biases that favor serious, “realistic” narratives over creative ones.The conversation also delves into the balance of light and dark moments in storytelling, advocating for a more nuanced approach to fiction that embraces both depth and levity.Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Paid subscribers also get unfiltered bonus episodes covering an array of current events (plus, they can choose episode topics). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I get real about book cover designs and when it's time to make a change. While your first book cover might feel like an important statement about your work, the truth is: you're not married to it!Over time, things change. Your brand may evolve, the market shifts, and sometimes, what worked at first no longer resonates with your audience. Publishers have been rebranding and redesigning covers for years—and so can you. I break down the importance of being flexible and strategic with your cover, especially when you need to appeal to fresh audiences or shift your creative direction.Join me as I dive into my own cover redesign journey - including fiction and nonfiction books - and shares tips on how to know when it's time for a change and how to make it work for you!Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Paid subscribers also get unfiltered bonus episodes covering an array of current events (plus, they can choose episode topics). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, special guest Sue A. Fairchild and I discuss the essential aspects of starting and running a successful editing business. We explore the importance of understanding one's purpose in editing, the necessary investments in education and time, and the critical questions aspiring editors should ask themselves. The discussion also covers identifying specific editing skills, determining pricing and speed, and the significance of building strong relationships with authors. If you want to learn how to start (or restart) an editing business, or just want to peek behind the curtain, this episode is for you.Bio: Sue A. Fairchild has been helping new and established authors perfect their stories for over ten years and has spoken at numerous conferences in a variety of writing and publishing topics. In 2024, Sue traditionally published two Christian Contemporary novels, one of which, Changing Tides, won honorable mention in the AWSA Golden Scrolls awards. In addition to helping independent authors publish their books, Sue also works for Elk Lake Publishing Inc. and is the faculty coordinator of the St. Davids Christian Writers' Conference. Learn more about Sue on her website sueafairchild.wordpress.com.Links to books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B01MXI4R92Subscribe to Sue's newsletter for writers that includes industry insights, writing and editing tips, and answers to most asked questions and receive a free guide to editing and publishing your novel. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, I discuss the challenges and strategies for authors navigating collaborative writing projects, such as anthologies and multi-author series. I emphasize the importance of maintaining a unique voice while adhering to project parameters and goals. The discussion includes practical tips for authors to set their own objectives, understand the expectations of collaborative projects, and utilize the 'same and different' method to create compelling stories that resonate with readers. This is a great episode for how to write in multi author series and how to write for anthologies.Prefer to read? Click the transcript button the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Paid subscribers also get unfiltered bonus episodes covering an array of current events (plus, they can choose episode topics). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

Join Laura L. Zimmerman and me in this livestream as we explore the intricate world of dystopian fiction, discuss the themes and elements that define the genre, and shamelessly discuss all things Hunger Games.We discuss what draws readers to dystopian fiction, how allegories are key to creating memorable stories, and the need for compelling secondary genres to make a story sing.And then we also discuss our favorite Hunger Games characters and why Sunrise on the Reaping gutted us in the best way possible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Author Culture Podcast, I discuss the complexities of using allegories in storytellingI emphasize the importance of understanding the power and potential pitfalls of allegories, the implications of casting choices in TV and movie adaptations, and the need for care to respect authorial intent. Plus, my examples are the latest Snow White adaptation and the rumors about Aslan's voice actor being female - so some hot takes are included here in my usual sane, healthy, and facts-first perspective.The conversation highlights how allegories can shape narratives and provoke diverse interpretations, urging writers to balance their use with quality storytelling. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In last week's episode, I helped you walk through a quarterly pruning.In this one, it's time to share about mine!Includes how Substack is going, updates on her latest work in progress (and how you can learn from my mistake), what's happening with my world building series, and what's been on my reading stack.Tune in and let's hang out!Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

So it's the end of the first quarter in 2025. How are those goals? Knocking them out of the park? Felt like you got knocked around instead? Either way, this episode is for you to help you assess what you planned, what actually happened, and what to do next. By reflecting on what works and what doesn't, us authors can streamline our efforts and find a balance between our author goals and having an actual life outside of them (while still finding success).Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Thanks for reading Author Culture! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this engaging livestream conversation, H.L. Burke (Heidi) and I explore the intricacies of writing superhero fiction, discussing the implications of superpowers, the role of government, and the moral dilemmas faced by characters. We delve into the unique challenges of marketing superhero stories, the importance of character development, and the dynamics of building a dedicated audience. The discussion also highlights the upcoming anthologies featuring new voices in the superhero genre, emphasizing community engagement and creativity.Click here to support the Kickstarter for the DOSA anthologies II and III (and get really spiffy special edition copies!)Check out H.L. Burke on Substack.Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast that I create to help scifi and fantasy authors just like you. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus current event episodes, live chat, and Q&A). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

Just read books in your genre, and you'll “get it.” Right? Sometimes it's not so easy - but I'm here with my secret sauce tips to make doing genre research a simple and (and even fun) process. I cover methods for selecting books for research, analyzing genre elements such as tropes, character arcs, and world-building, and the crucial phrase I always ask myself when figuring out what makes a book genre really work.Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast that I do to help scifi and fantasy authors just like you. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus current event episodes, live chat, and can request topics). Get full access to Author Culture at authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, I explore the shifting landscape of world building in science fiction and fantasy, including a comparison of simpler world building in romantasy with the enduring appeal of complex world building in other subgenres. I also offer some marketing thoughts on the increasing reader divide between complex and simple world building. Plus, how author preferences can shift between one or the other.Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video. Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast & publication - I do this to help you! Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus episodes, live chat, and request topics). Get full access to Author Culture at authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, I break down my 6 key factors when evaluating which book events I sign up for every year.Bonus: I also dig into how to do book events when managing limited energy levels (and a budget).This episode includes:-Why high foot traffic does not guarantee sales-Evaluating the theme and guests of the event for potential connections-What to consider when looking at event costs-Recovery time for long book eventsPlus, why new authors might want to hold off on big ticket events. Whether you're a newbie or a veteran, this episode has some fresh ideas for you.Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Just FYI - I'm offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Paid subscribers get 1-2 additional episodes per month focused on current events or Q&A, plus the ability to request episodes and submit questions for Q&A.Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever! Get full access to Author Culture at authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, I discuss the recent changes in Amazon's Kindle ebook policies, addressing the concerns raised by readers and authors alike. I emphasize the importance of understanding the nature of digital ownership and licensing, the cultural implications of these changes, and offer practical advice for both readers and authors navigating this evolving landscape. The conversation aims to clarify misconceptions and equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about this new shift from Kindle. Source Materials:Original Video from CriminOllyArticle from The VergeArticle from Tech RadarCan You Own An Ebook? - NYU Journal of Intellectual Property and Entertainment LawResearch Copyright Law for YourselfWant More Current Events Posts? I'm offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever! Get full access to Author Culture at authorculture.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito explores the age-old debate of night owls versus early birds in the context of creativity and productivity. She shares her personal experiences of balancing a demanding schedule while nurturing her creative side. Janeen emphasizes the importance of finding a rhythm that works for each individual, acknowledging that sleep patterns and productivity can vary greatly. She encourages listeners to embrace their unique creative seasons and to prioritize rest and self-care, ultimately advocating for a personalized approach to creativity.TakeawaysCreativity can thrive at any time of dayPersonal experiences shape our creative processesFinding your rhythm is key to productivitySleep patterns vary - embrace what works for youDon't let societal pressures dictate your scheduleNaps can be beneficial for night owlsRest is essential for long-term creativity

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito emphasizes the significance of world building in science fiction and fantasy writing. She encourages authors to embrace the joy of creating unique worlds and to remember the importance of this aspect in their narratives. Ippolito discusses the challenges that come with writing in these genres, highlighting the extra work involved in developing cultures and settings. She also shares personal insights on maintaining excitement and balance in storytelling, urging writers to reconnect with the joy of their creative process.TakeawaysWorld building is a crucial element in storytelling.Authors should enjoy the process of creating their worlds.Science fiction and fantasy genres require more effort in world building.World building can convey messages in a subtle way.It's important to maintain excitement about your story world.Authors can lose sight of their passion when focused on deadlines.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito shares her predictions for the publishing industry in 2025, focusing on the impact of AI, the rise of personal branding, the evolution of direct sales, and the changing dynamics of author communities. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking amidst information overload, the need for authors to establish their unique identities, and the challenges of managing profit margins in a competitive market. Ippolito also discusses the implications of tribalism in literature and the potential shifts in publishing models. Takeaways -AI will become more prevalent in publishing-Personal branding will rise as a counter to AI-Direct sales will become more decentralized and competitive-Content inclusion and exclusion will shape author communities-Profit margins will be harder to maintain-Short-term collaborations may replace traditional publishing models

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito reflects on the challenges and expectations that come with the New Year, particularly for authors. She discusses the importance of evaluating one's progress and setting realistic goals, emphasizing the need for a personalized creative calendar that aligns with individual rhythms. Janeen also shares her strategies for streamlining content creation and managing social media presence, encouraging listeners to let go of unnecessary pressures and focus on what truly matters in their author journey.takeawaysThe New Year can bring mixed feelings of accomplishment and disappointment.It's important to evaluate what truly matters in your author life.Creating a personalized creative calendar can alleviate pressure.Sometimes doing less can lead to greater productivity.Self-reflection is key to understanding your goals and ambitions.Letting go of certain expectations can be liberating.Consistency in content creation is more important than perfection.Social media presence should align with your personal goals.Don't be afraid to try new things, even if they didn't work before.Focus on what matters to you and your creative journey.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito discusses the critical role of theme and message in storytelling. She emphasizes that understanding and effectively communicating these elements can significantly enhance a book's connection with readers. The discussion covers the definitions of theme and message, their importance in narrative structure, and practical tips for authors to identify and convey these concepts in their writing. Janeen also highlights the value of beta readers in the editing process and the impact of reader expectations on theme and message communication.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito shares her personal journey through the challenges of writing, emphasizing the importance of humility, faith, and patience. She discusses the struggles of completing her latest book, the lessons learned in waiting for inspiration, and the significance of trusting God throughout the creative process. Janeen encourages writers to embrace both the joys and difficulties of storytelling, reminding them that their worth is not tied to their work but to their faith.

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito discusses the intricate relationship between world building and genre in science fiction and fantasy writing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding genre definitions, cultural influences, and reader expectations. The conversation provides practical tips for authors on how to navigate the complexities of genre research and effectively connect with their target audience.• World building is essential for defining genre in speculative fiction.• Genres are influenced by cultural factors, including economic needs and reader expectations.• Readers of sci-fi and fantasy particularly seek immersive world building.• Understanding genre requires reading widely within the genre and its subgenres.• Successful authors can provide insights into genre-specific tropes and expectations.• Engaging with reader communities can reveal what audiences expect from a genre.• Trial and error is a natural part of the genre research process.• Authors can influence genre evolution through innovative storytelling.• Crossover effects from other media can shape genre trends.• The choice of genre and its elements ultimately lies with the author.

In this episode of the Author Culture Podcast, Janeen Ippolito explores the balance between writing faster and writing better. She discusses the importance of understanding one's writing process, the trade-offs involved in increasing word count, and practical tips for enhancing writing speed without sacrificing quality. Plus, why your word count speed might just come down to font choice.Writing faster doesn't always mean writing better.It's essential to assess if increasing word count really matters to you.Quality can suffer when focusing solely on speed.Understanding your genre can help set realistic writing goals.Creating a writing process that works for you is crucial.Using community-based incentives can boost your writing productivity.Font choice can influence your writing speed.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito explores the pivotal questions authors face regarding the significance of their work. She emphasizes the importance of asking not just why their writing matters, but whether it matters at all. Through personal anecdotes and insights, she encourages authors to confront uncomfortable truths about their motivations and the changing landscape of the publishing industry. The discussion highlights the necessity of self-discovery, adaptability, and finding deeper reasons for pursuing a writing career beyond financial gain.Every author questions if their work matters at some point.Asking 'does it matter?' is crucial for author longevity.Change is hard, but necessary for growth in the author journey.The publishing industry is chaotic and requires adaptability.You are allowed to shift your focus and priorities as an author.Self-discovery is key to understanding your motivations.It's okay to let go of projects that no longer resonate with you.

Hey there! In this episode I share some of my recent (and not-so-recent) experiences with pivoting my focus and what that means going forward. I'm going to be closing down some things (this podcast is staying), shifting over others, and stepping into some areas that have been really on my heart lately. This is going to be a new, highly consolidated focus that I'm super-excited about - and of course, I'm sharing how you can take a look at your priorities and make solid adjustments as well.Includes:The pros and cons of the Author Elevate brandGiving yourself permission to move onThe importance of balancing mental loadsFiguring out how to human professionally with other humansWhat the next steps are!

*waves* Hey there! Anyone feeling data and info overload? I'm right there with you!And in this quick episode I offer an alternative to getting lost in the analytics, likes, subscribes, and all the rest. Learn one crucial tip for sifting through all the info, and how to prioritize your goals and health to keep author life sustainable.It's time to reclaim your confidence and clarity. See you in the episode!  

Want to do your writing and marketing easier, faster, and better? It's time to create a process you love for author success–and I'm here to help you start right now! Don't miss this episode of the Author Elevate podcast as I share some tips to research your process and narrow it down to something that works for your unique brain. Includes awesome word-nerding (vocabulary appreciation), one essential acronym, and how to adapt what others are doing to your own process!

Welcome back to the Author Elevate podcast! Are you ready for a few changes? We promise they're good ones!Learn what cool things are on the horizon and our theme for this season.In this episode:-four changes I'm making to level up this podcast (and keep myself sane)-the highly underrated secret of successful authors-plus, find out more about the direction the Author Elevate Podcast & YouTube Channel will be taking this season and beyond!

Have you tried to write every day–and can't, because of life? Do you want to push forward in your author biz but keep dealing with setbacks? Author and YouTuber Tiffany Grant has a boatload of encouragement, tips, and inspiration in this latest episode! And she also shares about running a successful Kickstarter with her debut novel! Includes epic conversations like: -Why she decided to run a Kickstarter on her debut book (and what she learned) -Adapting author business to handle overstimulation and depression -Coping techniques for when you have to keep going - and when to just stop -How having a unique brain and difficulties can help develop writing ability and empathy -plus, favorite words are the topic in this week's random question!

Are you ready to finish your next book? How about the next one…and the next one? Author E.J. Kitchens brings all the best tips for how to overcome writer's block on this episode! And she's offering a free guide with even more tips for eliminating writers block (check out the YouTube Channel for the link). Includes epic conversations like: -Elizabeth's unexpected journey to authorship (she didn't enjoy writing) -how focusing on the details can elevate your whole story -the three R's for recovering from writer's block -how writing in layers can alleviate creative pressure -plus, Elizabeth answers the random question about…story tourism!

Does author life sometimes make you feel like screaming? What if laughter is a better option? Special guest A.C. Williams shares all about approaching hard author life curveballs and situations with humor. Includes epic conversations like: -how mishaps with her latest release taught her resilience (...again…haha) -the importance of letting go of control and accepting that some things are out of our hands -finding laughter and lightness in difficult circumstances can help us persevere. -surrounding yourself with a supportive community -practice gratitude and focus on the good (without denying the hardships and difficulties) -plus, which of her characters she would NOT want as a caregiver if she was sick

Struggling to write short stories? Or maybe you just want some fresh writing inspiration? We've got you covered with great tips on how to intuitively write short stories that connect with larger series. My special guest H.L. Burke (author of many books, winner of awards, adorer of cats) shares her top tips on writing short stories! Includes epic conversations like: -how she's used short stories to connect with readers across three difference series -ideas for writing short stories based on what's fun for the larger story'verse -key things to avoid when writing short stories within a larger universe -why superheroes and cats are amazing

What if you have the contract, you do the promotion, you put on your best marketing hat - and then things fizzle anyway? Or worse, your publishing house closes? My guest K. Michele Moseley has been through all of this and more, and she shares her wisdom on recovering from burnout and reclaiming creative joy in this episode. Includes epic conversations like: -how Michele found fresh creativity in being a tattoo artist -what brings her to the page each day -embracing the process of writing - not just the product -publishing as another art form to be done with excellence -playing Netflix roulette with her husband -not letting external pressures define success

Can faith-based sword and sorcery books, body horror romance, gifted illustrator, successful CEO of Realm Makers, and chronic conditions all go together? Yup, if you're the amazing Rebecca P. Minor, who I have the honor of interviewing in this latest podcast episode! We dive into world building from a Christian worldview, exploring new genres, balancing business and creative life, the importance of cats and rats, and much more. Also, for weekly videos (vs. sporadic podcast episodes), please check out the Author Elevate YouTube Channel.

It's a new year–and a new start with new goals for Author Elevate! Which includes some moves to new places and new angles (let's see how often I can fit “new” into these show notes, haha). In this episode I dive into my most recent experience with streamlining my process, including analyzing habits, trying to be everywhere, and dealing with chronic conditions. Tune in for my exclusive tips on transitions, growth, and how to move into the next season well. Plus, where you can find me next!

It's a new year–and a new start with new goals for Author Elevate! Which includes some moves to new places and new angles (let's see how often I can fit “new” into these show notes, haha). In this episode I dive into my most recent experience with streamlining my process, including analyzing habits, trying to be everywhere, and dealing with chronic conditions. Tune in for my exclusive tips on transitions, growth, and how to move into the next season well. Plus, where you can find me next!

Want exclusive, secret sauce questions for identifying your ideal readers? What about incorporating theme into your story? How about bumping up your series read-through? Janeen Ippolito tackles all of this and more in this info-packed episode of the Author Elevate Podcast, where she answers a pile of your questions. Plus, she dares to make some predictions for 2024 (and then of course, invites you to use according to your unique goals). Sit down and get ready to take notes in this value-packed final episode of 2023!

Want exclusive, secret sauce questions for identifying your ideal readers? What about incorporating theme into your story? How about bumping up your series read-through? Janeen Ippolito tackles all of this and more in this info-packed episode of the Author Elevate Podcast, where she answers a pile of your questions. Plus, she dares to make some predictions for 2024 (and then of course, invites you to use according to your unique goals). Sit down and get ready to take notes in this value-packed final episode of 2023!

Have loads of story ideas? Want to get at least a few of them written? Then you'll need to get solid with writing first drafts! In this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast Janeen tackles three essentials for saving time when writing the first draft of your story. Plus, how to handle writing around busy holiday seasons.

Have loads of story ideas? Want to get at least a few of them written? Then you'll need to get solid with writing first drafts! In this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast Janeen tackles three essentials for saving time when writing the first draft of your story. Plus, how to handle writing around busy holiday seasons.

Talk about your book all the time. No, in fact, never talk about your book, because that's salesy. No, wait - “write to market” so you don't waste your time. Sound familiar? Janeen Ippolito tackles 5 Common Book Marketing Myths in this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast. Includes what marketing really is, why asking is a powerful tool, and the importance of mastering your motivation. Plus, the difference between “sales” and “salesy”. Tune in for this myth-busting episode!

Talk about your book all the time. No, in fact, never talk about your book, because that's salesy. No, wait - “write to market” so you don't waste your time. Sound familiar? Janeen Ippolito tackles 5 Common Book Marketing Myths in this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast. Includes what marketing really is, why asking is a powerful tool, and the importance of mastering your motivation. Plus, the difference between “sales” and “salesy”. Tune in for this myth-busting episode!

Feel like your chronic conditions have stacked the deck against your author success? Overwhelmed by life and challenges–and wondering if achieving your goals is even possible? Be encouraged and equipped by this interview with bestselling fantasy author W.R. Gingell, who lives with multiple chronic conditions and keeps going onward. Includes time organization strategies, how she includes characters with chronic illnesses in stories, and when to just stop and rest. Plus, what inspired her current urban fantasy series and why the answer to the random question is ALWAYS “dragon.” 

Feel like your chronic conditions have stacked the deck against your author success? Overwhelmed by life and challenges–and wondering if achieving your goals is even possible? Be encouraged and equipped by this interview with bestselling fantasy author W.R. Gingell, who lives with multiple chronic conditions and keeps going onward. Includes time organization strategies, how she includes characters with chronic illnesses in stories, and when to just stop and rest. Plus, what inspired her current urban fantasy series and why the answer to the random question is ALWAYS “dragon.” 

Calling all authors of middle grade fiction! Or potential authors. Or people who read middle grade fiction–or have kids who read it. Check out this episode with Janeen Ippolito and award winning middle grade author JJ Johnson. Includes how JJ started writing about plastic dinos and living snot, some pitfalls to avoid when writing for middle grade, and how he grew his platform and sales during the pandemic. Plus, what makes JJ a marketing rebel, and how he gets away with it.

Calling all authors of middle grade fiction! Or potential authors. Or people who read middle grade fiction–or have kids who read it. Check out this episode with Janeen Ippolito and award winning middle grade author JJ Johnson. Includes how JJ started writing about plastic dinos and living snot, some pitfalls to avoid when writing for middle grade, and how he grew his platform and sales during the pandemic. Plus, what makes JJ a marketing rebel, and how he gets away with it.

What happens when you get personal with your writing–but then also want to sell it? Is it possible to write through your joy or grief, and make it marketable? Join host Janeen Ippolito and guest author and writing coach Sharon Hughson as they discuss personal inspiration and vulnerability in storytelling. Includes how to navigate using experiences you walked through with others, how to deal with negative reviews of vulnerable stories, and how to separate your internal processing from the message you want to communicate to readers. Plus, Sharon gives a very equine answer to the episode's 1 Random Question. 

What happens when you get personal with your writing–but then also want to sell it? Is it possible to write through your joy or grief, and make it marketable? Join host Janeen Ippolito and guest author and writing coach Sharon Hughson as they discuss personal inspiration and vulnerability in storytelling. Includes how to navigate using experiences you walked through with others, how to deal with negative reviews of vulnerable stories, and how to separate your internal processing from the message you want to communicate to readers. Plus, Sharon gives a very equine answer to the episode's 1 Random Question. 

Overwhelmed with author life? Not sure how to keep going? Janeen Ippolito shares some of our secret sauce tips for a sustainable author career in this episode of the Author Elevate podcast. Includes one essential investment to make, one skill experienced authors have mastered, and why we at Author Elevate keep harping on goals (hint: they really do matter). Plus, we discuss how to prep (and when to avoid) Black Friday promotions for your book.

Overwhelmed with author life? Not sure how to keep going? Janeen Ippolito shares some of our secret sauce tips for a sustainable author career in this episode of the Author Elevate podcast. Includes one essential investment to make, one skill experienced authors have mastered, and why we at Author Elevate keep harping on goals (hint: they really do matter). Plus, we discuss how to prep (and when to avoid) Black Friday promotions for your book.

Want to attract raving fans to your story? What about positive reviews and excited endorsements? We've got you covered in this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast. Janeen Ippolito dives into what story elements readers rave about, why your book ending is crucial, and why sometimes it has nothing to do with your writing. Plus, in Our Take we discuss NaNoWriMo - good reasons to do it, and good reasons to skip!

Want to attract raving fans to your story? What about positive reviews and excited endorsements? We've got you covered in this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast. Janeen Ippolito dives into what story elements readers rave about, why your book ending is crucial, and why sometimes it has nothing to do with your writing. Plus, in Our Take we discuss NaNoWriMo - good reasons to do it, and good reasons to skip!

Thought you knew your protagonist and had everything planned out–and then they just stopped talking to you? Or maybe you were all ready to explore your story with your protagonist but they're just not showing up? We're talking all about rogue protagonists and how to bring them in line in this episode of the Author Elevate Podcast. Join Janeen as she discusses five ways protagonists go rogue and offers many tips on how to get them on track. Plus, she dives into the pros and cons of direct sales.