Your epic hosts Janeen and Amy tackle these oft-heard writing terms in this helpful episode. Learn how tropes can help you connect with your readers, what genre expectations have to do with spaghetti, and why cliches aren’t really something to worry about. Plus, we share one easy tip for book sales, and get our Drift on with Pacific Rim geekishness.

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Ready to grow your audience? Already doing it, but want a boost? Amy and Janeen have you covered in this episode. We discuss five ways to grow your audience, from branding insight to data collection tips. Plus, we discuss audience building as a beginner or experienced author, and a possible upswing in the saga of a certain book distributor’s return policy. Tune in for all the awesome details!

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Ever wonder if it really is easier now–or harder? We have all the encouragement for you! Janeen and Amy talk about changes in the publishing industry in the last 15-20 years. Includes why publishing is easier (and harder) now, editors vs. editing software, and how to focus on what works for you. Plus, what Spiderman has to do with all of this.

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 starting off in your author life–or in that awkward adolescence? We have all the encouragement for you! Janeen and Amy share their personal then/now stories as professional authors and publishers, with loads of tips (and mistakes you can avoid). Plus, we look at the difference between genre mash-ups and trope combos–and how you can use that love for genre smashing to sell more books (potato chips are mentioned, but not directly involved).  Don't forget to subscribe. :-)  Check out the website: http://www.authorelevate.comSupport us on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/authorelevate Mentioned in this episode: -K-Lytics: https://k-lytics.com/-Publisher Rocket: https://publisherrocket.com/-The Marvelous Misfits - Janeen’s Reader Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/168444147251310 Go forth and be awesome!

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Amy and Janeen talk book awards, contest judging, and those oh-so-popular videos in this market-tastic episode. We take a deep dive into the book contest arena, including what book awards are meant to do (hint: it isn’t traumatize authors), why you can’t “lose” a book award, and how to give yourself the best chance for winning. Plus, we discuss how to handle the current “all the videos” social media trend (even if you hate being on camera).

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Janeen and guest host H.L. Burke talk superheroes and super storytelling in this epic episode. Learn how to choose superpowers, which tropes work well (and which don’t), and how to apply info to non-superhero genres. Plus we discuss group self-publishing and finishing up book series.

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Get revved for your summer writers conference with this episode! Amy and Janeen discuss goals, comfy + professional clothes, and the importance of taking time to breathe. Plus, why certain book graphics are so effective and why "pivot" is THE word for a successful author.

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Own Your Unique Words is back for Season 2, and we’ve gotten a makeover! Welcome to Author Elevate, your weekly podcast for the best tips, advice, and encouragement to level up your author biz. We’re talking about new features, a new cohost, and one industry tip you absolutely need (hint: we say it in “large, friendly letters”).

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Want to start offering author services alongside your books? Or have you done so, but seen zero results? Special guest Katie Phillips and I have you covered in this biz-tastic episode. Learn how to balance author services with books, top reasons NOT to offer author services, and our mistakes from our first offers. Plus, Katie answers the flavorful random question of the day.

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Dealing with an unlikable character? Unsure whether to redeem them? What about characters that your readers love, but you don’t? Author and book coach A.C. Williams comes aboard to discuss all things unlikable characters. Learn what Pride & Prejudice, Doctor Who, and The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles get right about characterization. Plus, we discuss Hallmark “bad boys” and our favorite Doctors. You don't want to miss this episode!

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